99% (10K) • 588 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Lure
Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch
1. Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch
99%
(1516)
43mi from Lake Lure · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Voted #1 in NC and Top 50 in the USA!! We are a Mangalitsa farm in The Smoky Mountains of western NC. The entire property is oriented toward private farmland views, a half mile of river and surrounding mountains. It's really quite remarkable to be so accessible yet feel so remote! Come swim, fish, cook and play!
PLEASE NOTE, our rate is based on the number of vehicles in your group. The first vehicle is included in the nightly rate and admits 4 campers. WE CHARGE FOR ADDITIONAL CARS. The charge will be added to your booking once you select the number of vehicles at checkout.
Please note that each additional car admits four campers. For EXAMPLE, 2 cars = 8 campers total. If you only have two cars but more than eight people, YOU MUST select the "Extra Person" Extra for each night they are camping. Please select these extras at checkout. If you have questions about this PLEASE message me prior to booking.
Our 95-acre farm was once owned by the Davis family who predominantly raised dairy cattle. We now raise the wooly Mangalitsa pig and sell to the best chefs and restaurants. We sell our pork at the farm too!
All of our campsites are next to running water except the two hilltop sites.
Two porta-potties are on the farm and private porta-potties are available for rent. Groups of eight or more are required to rent a porta potty should you not bring your own toilet system with you. We do not allow the use of our small wooded areas as toilets. No porta potties are provided b/tw Dec 15 and March 15
Please contact us in advance regarding paying for firewood ($7/5 pieces), dogs ($15 each), day vehicle visitors ($30), private farm tour ($15/person) and/or a private porta potty ($120). thank you!
Quiet hours are from 10pm to 9am.
Checking in before 5 pm is requested. Later times may be available with prior arrangements. Our farm is very dark and navigating at night is difficult. Contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. LIMITED CHECK-INS AFTER DARK.
We are 1 mile off of I 40, 17 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 15 min. to Maggie Valley, 10 min to the Elk at Cataloochee, 25 min to Cataloochee ski area, 10 min to Lake Junaluska and 15 min to downtown Waynesville. Asheville is 20 miles to our East.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$51
/ night
Indian Creek Rental's Mountain Camp
2. Indian Creek Rental's Mountain Camp
99%
(305)
45mi from Lake Lure · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to Nature at Indian Creek Rentals
Looking for a peaceful mountain retreat? Our secluded campsites in the heart of Western North Carolina offer the perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind under the stars.
We’re Clayton & Tiffany, owners of Indian Creek Rentals, LLC—a unique property featuring vacation homes, a mini farm, and miles of private hiking trails (approx. 2 miles), all accessible right from camp!
We now offer two campsites and one unique camper stay, all with access to a shared bathhouse and outdoor Wi-Fi.
Campsite & Camper Options
🔥 Site 1: Mountain Shine Camp Trailer – A one-of-a-kind, converted horse trailer with a queen bed, stocked essentials, and a cozy setup. Offers privacy, yet still close to Site 2.
🏕 Site 2: Mountain View Site – Features a hot tub and a covered shed, so you can relax and stay dry no matter the weather.
🌲 Site 3: Primitive Forest Site – A true off-grid experience deep in the woods, complete with a picnic table and firepit
🌟Group Camping Option– Booking Site 1 & Site 2 together is perfect for group camping! We can also accommodate an additional RV for an extra charge.
Good to Know
✔ Pack in/Pack out – No dumpsters on-site, so please take your trash with you.
✔ Private hiking trails – Explore 2 miles of scenic trails straight from camp.
✔ Mini farm on-site – Say hello to our friendly animals!
Whether you’re looking for a cozy camper stay, a hot tub under the stars, or a rustic primitive site, Indian Creek Rentals has the perfect spot for your next adventure.
**Happy Camping!**
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$42
/ night
Quiet Troublesome Gap
3. Quiet Troublesome Gap
99%
(99)
43mi from Lake Lure · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
My parents bought the 120 acre property in the 1960s. I started clearing and building the campsite in 2019.
Watch the sun rise on one side of Troublesome Gap and watch it set on the other side. There is a circle drive for 2 teardrop / squaredrop or pop up campers and plenty of spots to pitch tents. There are also great spots to hang your hammock.
Camp where my family camps. My parents bought the property in the 1960s and we have camped up here, hiked, hunted, and cut firewood many weekends. We decided to share the property so you can enjoy camping up here too!
The property is in a remote location where you can enjoy the wildlife and the cooler temps in the summer. You'll have 3 acres all to yourself. The closest grocery store is an hour away but the Trust General Store with a restaurant and gas approximately is 7 miles away. There is also a burger joint (Dave's 209) on the way to the Trust General Store.
This camping site is in a remote area and the nearest neighbor about 1/2 mile away. Max Patch is about 25 minutes away and features beautiful hiking.
The quaint town of Marshall is about 30 minutes away. Asheville is about an hour away.
The campsite is easily accessible from Baltimore Branch Road. However Baltimore Brand Road (public road) is steep in places and we don't recommend an RV bigger than a popup camper. If you are pulling a trailer you'll really want to consider having 4wd. If you aren't used to driving on steep dirt mountain roads, you may want to bring your 4wd vehicle.
If you have a 2wd vehicle, then you'll want to come to the site via Big Pine Road. This route will take you through Walnut, NC
We also provide a porta-a-john for your convenience.
This is a campsite where have the whole 3.5 acre property to yourself. You are surrounded by properties that vary from 40 acres to over a hundred acres. We just want you to have a great time and bring home great stories. It seems like every visitor to Troublesome Gap has a great story. Come camp with us and build your own story.
Important Note: Water is only available on the site from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Otherwise you'll need to bring your own water.
There is a camera on the property. It faces the gate (and away from the campsite).
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$48
/ night
Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly
4. Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly
99%
(97)
39mi from Lake Lure · 5 sites · Lodging
(HELP IN PLANNING THE BEST HIKES IN WESTERN NC (SUNRISE, SUNSET, 6000FT PEAKS, BIRD WATCHING, ETC! INCLUDED)
Escape to the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains at our unique retreat in Bakersville, NC. Nestled on over 60 private acres amid some of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi—including nearby Mount Mitchell (6,684 ft)—our five distinctive arched cabins offer the perfect blend of modern comfort, privacy, and breathtaking views.
Each fully equipped cabin is a cozy tiny home featuring:
A comfortable queen bedroom
Private full bathroom with shower
Well-appointed kitchenette (sink, microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and essentials)
Spacious living area with sofa and Roku smart TV
Step outside to your private deck with a bubbling hot tub—ideal for stargazing or soaking in panoramic mountain vistas. Gather around your personal campfire pit (firewood provided) for cozy evenings under the clear Appalachian skies. Cabins are thoughtfully spaced for romantic seclusion while close enough to share the magic with friends or family.
Adventure awaits right on the property with miles of private hiking trails winding through forested ridges and scenic overlooks. As local hiking experts, we're passionate about guiding you to the best trails—easy strolls, moderate paths, or challenging hikes reaching elevations over 6,000 feet on the iconic Appalachian Trail (just minutes away at Carver's Gap or Roan Mountain).
Explore nearby gems like the sparkling North Toe River for fishing or tubing, world-famous Mitchell County gem mines, and the stunning Roan Mountain balds (famous for June rhododendron blooms). Our historic land adds a touch of intrigue—once part of the area's colorful past.
Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, outdoor adventure, or peaceful relaxation, our arched cabins provide an unforgettable mountain escape. Book your slice of Blue Ridge paradise today!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$112
/ night
Harmony Glen
5. Harmony Glen
98%
(183)
49mi from Lake Lure · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
My property has supported families for several generations. From a small farm with typical livestock and vegetable gardens to a tree seedling nursery to hiking trails to cattle grazing in the fields, it has served its owners well. During the 1940's and early '50's, the Argura Post Office was located on the porch of my house. I have the original cancellation stamp. My husband is deceased, and I am hosting campers to meet people who love to camp as much as we did. My photo is with my dog Mollie.
I hike with a group weekly and can make hiking suggestions as well as fishing suggestions. Harmony Glen is a wonderful place!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$28
/ night
99% (10K) • 588 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Lure
Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch
1. Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch
99%
(1516)
43mi from Lake Lure · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Voted #1 in NC and Top 50 in the USA!! We are a Mangalitsa farm in The Smoky Mountains of western NC. The entire property is oriented toward private farmland views, a half mile of river and surrounding mountains. It's really quite remarkable to be so accessible yet feel so remote! Come swim, fish, cook and play!
PLEASE NOTE, our rate is based on the number of vehicles in your group. The first vehicle is included in the nightly rate and admits 4 campers. WE CHARGE FOR ADDITIONAL CARS. The charge will be added to your booking once you select the number of vehicles at checkout.
Please note that each additional car admits four campers. For EXAMPLE, 2 cars = 8 campers total. If you only have two cars but more than eight people, YOU MUST select the "Extra Person" Extra for each night they are camping. Please select these extras at checkout. If you have questions about this PLEASE message me prior to booking.
Our 95-acre farm was once owned by the Davis family who predominantly raised dairy cattle. We now raise the wooly Mangalitsa pig and sell to the best chefs and restaurants. We sell our pork at the farm too!
All of our campsites are next to running water except the two hilltop sites.
Two porta-potties are on the farm and private porta-potties are available for rent. Groups of eight or more are required to rent a porta potty should you not bring your own toilet system with you. We do not allow the use of our small wooded areas as toilets. No porta potties are provided b/tw Dec 15 and March 15
Please contact us in advance regarding paying for firewood ($7/5 pieces), dogs ($15 each), day vehicle visitors ($30), private farm tour ($15/person) and/or a private porta potty ($120). thank you!
Quiet hours are from 10pm to 9am.
Checking in before 5 pm is requested. Later times may be available with prior arrangements. Our farm is very dark and navigating at night is difficult. Contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. LIMITED CHECK-INS AFTER DARK.
We are 1 mile off of I 40, 17 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 15 min. to Maggie Valley, 10 min to the Elk at Cataloochee, 25 min to Cataloochee ski area, 10 min to Lake Junaluska and 15 min to downtown Waynesville. Asheville is 20 miles to our East.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$51
/ night
Indian Creek Rental's Mountain Camp
2. Indian Creek Rental's Mountain Camp
99%
(305)
45mi from Lake Lure · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to Nature at Indian Creek Rentals
Looking for a peaceful mountain retreat? Our secluded campsites in the heart of Western North Carolina offer the perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind under the stars.
We’re Clayton & Tiffany, owners of Indian Creek Rentals, LLC—a unique property featuring vacation homes, a mini farm, and miles of private hiking trails (approx. 2 miles), all accessible right from camp!
We now offer two campsites and one unique camper stay, all with access to a shared bathhouse and outdoor Wi-Fi.
Campsite & Camper Options
🔥 Site 1: Mountain Shine Camp Trailer – A one-of-a-kind, converted horse trailer with a queen bed, stocked essentials, and a cozy setup. Offers privacy, yet still close to Site 2.
🏕 Site 2: Mountain View Site – Features a hot tub and a covered shed, so you can relax and stay dry no matter the weather.
🌲 Site 3: Primitive Forest Site – A true off-grid experience deep in the woods, complete with a picnic table and firepit
🌟Group Camping Option– Booking Site 1 & Site 2 together is perfect for group camping! We can also accommodate an additional RV for an extra charge.
Good to Know
✔ Pack in/Pack out – No dumpsters on-site, so please take your trash with you.
✔ Private hiking trails – Explore 2 miles of scenic trails straight from camp.
✔ Mini farm on-site – Say hello to our friendly animals!
Whether you’re looking for a cozy camper stay, a hot tub under the stars, or a rustic primitive site, Indian Creek Rentals has the perfect spot for your next adventure.
**Happy Camping!**
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$42
/ night
Quiet Troublesome Gap
3. Quiet Troublesome Gap
99%
(99)
43mi from Lake Lure · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
My parents bought the 120 acre property in the 1960s. I started clearing and building the campsite in 2019.
Watch the sun rise on one side of Troublesome Gap and watch it set on the other side. There is a circle drive for 2 teardrop / squaredrop or pop up campers and plenty of spots to pitch tents. There are also great spots to hang your hammock.
Camp where my family camps. My parents bought the property in the 1960s and we have camped up here, hiked, hunted, and cut firewood many weekends. We decided to share the property so you can enjoy camping up here too!
The property is in a remote location where you can enjoy the wildlife and the cooler temps in the summer. You'll have 3 acres all to yourself. The closest grocery store is an hour away but the Trust General Store with a restaurant and gas approximately is 7 miles away. There is also a burger joint (Dave's 209) on the way to the Trust General Store.
This camping site is in a remote area and the nearest neighbor about 1/2 mile away. Max Patch is about 25 minutes away and features beautiful hiking.
The quaint town of Marshall is about 30 minutes away. Asheville is about an hour away.
The campsite is easily accessible from Baltimore Branch Road. However Baltimore Brand Road (public road) is steep in places and we don't recommend an RV bigger than a popup camper. If you are pulling a trailer you'll really want to consider having 4wd. If you aren't used to driving on steep dirt mountain roads, you may want to bring your 4wd vehicle.
If you have a 2wd vehicle, then you'll want to come to the site via Big Pine Road. This route will take you through Walnut, NC
We also provide a porta-a-john for your convenience.
This is a campsite where have the whole 3.5 acre property to yourself. You are surrounded by properties that vary from 40 acres to over a hundred acres. We just want you to have a great time and bring home great stories. It seems like every visitor to Troublesome Gap has a great story. Come camp with us and build your own story.
Important Note: Water is only available on the site from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Otherwise you'll need to bring your own water.
There is a camera on the property. It faces the gate (and away from the campsite).
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$48
/ night
Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly
4. Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly
99%
(97)
39mi from Lake Lure · 5 sites · Lodging
(HELP IN PLANNING THE BEST HIKES IN WESTERN NC (SUNRISE, SUNSET, 6000FT PEAKS, BIRD WATCHING, ETC! INCLUDED)
Escape to the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains at our unique retreat in Bakersville, NC. Nestled on over 60 private acres amid some of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi—including nearby Mount Mitchell (6,684 ft)—our five distinctive arched cabins offer the perfect blend of modern comfort, privacy, and breathtaking views.
Each fully equipped cabin is a cozy tiny home featuring:
A comfortable queen bedroom
Private full bathroom with shower
Well-appointed kitchenette (sink, microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and essentials)
Spacious living area with sofa and Roku smart TV
Step outside to your private deck with a bubbling hot tub—ideal for stargazing or soaking in panoramic mountain vistas. Gather around your personal campfire pit (firewood provided) for cozy evenings under the clear Appalachian skies. Cabins are thoughtfully spaced for romantic seclusion while close enough to share the magic with friends or family.
Adventure awaits right on the property with miles of private hiking trails winding through forested ridges and scenic overlooks. As local hiking experts, we're passionate about guiding you to the best trails—easy strolls, moderate paths, or challenging hikes reaching elevations over 6,000 feet on the iconic Appalachian Trail (just minutes away at Carver's Gap or Roan Mountain).
Explore nearby gems like the sparkling North Toe River for fishing or tubing, world-famous Mitchell County gem mines, and the stunning Roan Mountain balds (famous for June rhododendron blooms). Our historic land adds a touch of intrigue—once part of the area's colorful past.
Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, outdoor adventure, or peaceful relaxation, our arched cabins provide an unforgettable mountain escape. Book your slice of Blue Ridge paradise today!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$112
/ night
Harmony Glen
5. Harmony Glen
98%
(183)
49mi from Lake Lure · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
My property has supported families for several generations. From a small farm with typical livestock and vegetable gardens to a tree seedling nursery to hiking trails to cattle grazing in the fields, it has served its owners well. During the 1940's and early '50's, the Argura Post Office was located on the porch of my house. I have the original cancellation stamp. My husband is deceased, and I am hosting campers to meet people who love to camp as much as we did. My photo is with my dog Mollie.
I hike with a group weekly and can make hiking suggestions as well as fishing suggestions. Harmony Glen is a wonderful place!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$28
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
C
Christopher
2 weeks ago
34 ft travel trailer
I had an amazing time at this site. So peaceful and beautiful. The customer service was on point. She was very polite and helpful. This is a site I would definitely recommend and come back to. Thank you
See more
M
Maggie
3 weeks ago
Tent
The site was clean and spacious. With no leaves on the trees in the winter, we had a lovely view of the mountains and the sunset in the evening from the hot tub. The bath house was a short distance away and was heated, which was great after the hot tub. The stars at night were fantastic! The hosts were helpful and responsive. Highly recommend this spot!
See more
M
Montana
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We loved our weekend at Troublesome Gap! The drive up (by itself) is gorgeous, and being able to see the sunrise and sunset from the site is amazing. The general store is worth the visit, and you can’t beat the milkshakes at Dave’s.
Montie was really great with communication and I’ll definitely be back! I
See more
M
Maggie
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Indian Creek Rental's Mountain Camp
We had a lovely time staying at the mountain shine camper!! The camper was sooo cozy and plenty warm with temps in the 30s at night. The heated bathhouse was a very close walk from the camper and had a shower and toilet. We had a wonderful view of the mountains and the sunset with no leaves on the trees. The stars were stunning at night too. The camper had running water, a single stovetop, and a little grill outside, all of which we used for meals. The hosts were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. Plenty of awesome hiking spots nearby. Highly recommended staying here! We will be back!
See more
J
Jazzie
December 2025
With pets
Me and my boyfriend visited the Blue House for a short vacation and we had a fantastic time! We only live an hour away from the area, but we needed to get away to something new with our dog and cat.
Kevin made sure we had everything we would need and more. The house was extremely clean at our arrival, the hot tub was already set so we didn’t have to wait for it to warm up, and the WiFi worked absolutely great, being that deep in the mountains! You are absolutely set with everything you would need!
We had a problem with our AC unit early in the morning, and Kevin answered our issue immediately and talked us through fixing it over the phone. We were also fortunate to meet him in person and got to know more about him, and he was interested in us as well which felt nice!
If you’re looking for a private get away, or to introduce your dog to new smells, this is the perfect spot to visit! Absolutely no complaints, and we can’t wait to come back in the summer!
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P
Peter
December 2025
39 ft toy hauler
Fantastic site with a fantastic host. The property is exactly as described and pictured. Great location close to town and the interstate but you would never know it! If you are looking for peace and relaxation then look no further. I managed to get my 39’ fifth wheel into the knoll spot. It’s tight but can be done. Do not pass up on camping here!
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M
Molly
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly
The cabin was very easy to get to and get into, clean, comfortable and well appointed. You really had the conveniences of home, while still feeling completely remote. Hot tub is great, sunset is better, and if you luck out and get a clear night like we did, the stars were breathtaking. Would recommend.
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M
Megan
December 2025
21 ft travel trailer
Beautiful and serene space. Located 5 mins from the highway but tucked away in a perfect spot for optimal privacy, great views & a ton of space. My fiancé proposed to me right at the top of our campsite with the beautiful mountain views and river flowing in the back ground. This beautiful spot will always be a special place for us! Very kind and accommodating hosts as well. Farm animals to walk around and see. Definitely will be back!
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J
Joseph
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Catherine and Rick were super nice! We arrived late and they were still willing to accommodate us without any problem. The place is comfortable, quiet, and a really great spot to relax. Highly recommended!
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Michael
November 2025
Tent
With pets
We are frequent campers and this was our first Hipcamp booking. It has ruined us for all future campsites because it set the bar so high!
My wife and I spent Thanksgiving (3 nights) here. This was an amazing property. We stayed in the camping/sheltered site with a HOT TUB !!, amazing views, fire ring, power. Everything we needed for enjoyable cold weather camping. And that heated bath house!!! Unreal, the detail and amenities. Second to none. The on property hiking was so enjoyable. Take a walk to Day Dreamer’s rock. Such a magical experience. We are already trying to find time to bring back the rest of the family. I can not recommend this site enough. We are looking forward to future trips to Indian Creek.
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B
Billy
November 2025
29 ft travel trailer
With kids
Had a great time at harmony Glenn was very quite and peaceful, it was a little tight for my 29ft travel trailer I was kind of skeptical if I was going to fit when I first pulled in but turned out to be a great site.
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K
Kasia and Devin
November 2025
With pets
We traveled as a family of 4 and two dogs and we had a wonderful time at Ocean Blue cabin. Exceptional host and cabin was amazing. We had everything and more to has such a great time. Hiking trail on the property was perfect for our young kids. We took it twice and met friendly cows on top of the hill. Hot tub was a perfect spot for after hike and evening watching the stars! We will definitely come back and bring friends with us!
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J
Jeanlu
November 2025
23 ft Class C
With pets
No other words than absolutely beautiful!! Great hosts and great location! Try and ask for the bacon!
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A
An-Mei
November 2025
Tent
With pets
This was by far the best camping experience I have ever had! Catherine and Rick are such great hosts. They are very responsive and create a great experience and atmosphere. The views are stunning and the farm animals add so much to the experience! My husband and I will definitely be coming back 😊.
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L
Liz
November 2025
Tent
Camping with Catherine was a pleasure from start to finish! I love the story of the land. I appreciated her tour and I am so grateful for her hospitality. It was a wonderful experience!
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Jeremy
November 2025
Tent
We loved this place. It is absolutely beautiful. Sites are spaced out. We camped by the river which made going to sleep easy. We will definitely be back.
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O
Owen
November 2025
Tent
Don't think, just book. The beauty of this place is what drew me to it. The kindness, and warmth June brings to this place is what makes you stay. Quite a magical stay, with the sweetest dogs and beautiful grounds to explore. Placed perfectly to explore surrounding hikes and waterfalls. June is an excellent host with a wealth of information about the area and history behind her place. If you're looking for somewhere quiet, clean, with excellent stargazing, book it.
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J
JEREMY
November 2025
With pets
My wife and I loved staying in the Green cabin. The fire pit and hot tub were the best. The cabin was great. The bed was comfortable. The shower had good hot water. The first night we made steaks over a campfire with baked potatoes from the air fryer. The second night we made hot dogs and roasted marshmallows on the campfire. It was a beautiful drive from Knoxville. It was about as close to perfect as you can get. Thank you for the firewood, and thank you for having us.
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Dawn
November 2025
16 ft travel trailer
Group trip
AMAZING and SPECIAL! The farm is on beautiful land and Catherine and Rick are very dedicated to keeping it authentic and gorgeous. Catherine was very welcoming upon arrival and gave us a great overview of the farm. And the animals were a wonderful bonus!
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S
Summer
November 2025
With pets
Beautiful spot! Everything was there that you need. Loved the full size hot tub.
See more
The best star host camping near Lake Lure guide
Where to go
Chimney Rock State Park
Look no further than Chimney Rock State Park for some of the best mountain scenery in all of North Carolina. The eponymous Chimney Rock granite monolith towers 315 feet above the forest. Take the hidden elevator up 26 stories, or ascend 500 steps to reach a humbling, panoramic view of Hickory Nut Gorge below and the forest all around. Hike further to Exclamation Point, the park’s highest peak. Tent sites, RV camping, and cabin camping options are all nearby.
Pisgah National Forest
Named the first National Forest in the eastern United States back in 1916, Pisgah National Forest includes over half a million acres of hardwood forest. Streams cutting through the forest provide great trout fishing, and the whitewater rivers are perfect for thrill-seeking rafters. High mountain peaks and deep gorges create an outdoor playground for rock climbers and mountain bikers. Ascend Richland Balsam, the 6,410-foot peak—among the highest in the eastern United States. Camping options range from primitive tenting to full-service RV parks.
Lake Lure Beach and Water Park
For some family fun away from the forest, pack the bathing suits and head over to Lake Lure Beach and Water Park. Owned by the Town of Lake Lure and managed by a private company, the beach and water park are open from March through September. There’s a large covered picnic shelter on the 100 yards of sandy beach, plus several individual picnic tables. Both kids and the young at heart will love the water slide and water games. The beach is easily accessible from any of the nearby campgrounds.
When to go
Camping near Lake Lure is most popular during summer, when the weather is warm and sunny. Average daytime highs are around 85°F, so it’s the best time for families to hit up the beach and enjoy water activities. Spring and fall are also terrific times to visit with milder weather. Lake Lure Flowering Bridge is particularly impressive in the spring, with blooms beginning in late March, while North Carolina’s fall foliage is second to none.