The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina

Looking for a camping getaway near Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina with your furry friend? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 4600 options specifically catering to pets, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. And with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $8, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Need some recommendations? Check out these top campsites with rave reviews: Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews), Pisgah Forest Mountain Meadows (266 reviews), and Chattooga Belle Farm Lakeside (266 reviews). Enjoy amenities like toilets, potable water, and trash facilities, and engage in popular activities such as exploring historic sites, climbing, and wildlife watching. Start planning your pet-friendly camping adventure now!

97% (8.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Santeetlah

Looking for a camping getaway near Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina with your furry friend? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 4600 options specifically catering to pets, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. And with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $8, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Need some recommendations? Check out these top campsites with rave reviews: Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews), Pisgah Forest Mountain Meadows (266 reviews), and Chattooga Belle Farm Lakeside (266 reviews). Enjoy amenities like toilets, potable water, and trash facilities, and engage in popular activities such as exploring historic sites, climbing, and wildlife watching. Start planning your pet-friendly camping adventure now!

97% (8.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Santeetlah

1. Tiny Home Way

100%

(19)

46mi from Lake Santeetlah · 6 sites · Lodging

Porcini is a tiny home near a trickling creek in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Located back in the woods down a long winding mountain road, you'll find all the conveniences of home. If you aren't a camping person but want a little adventure such as climbing a ladder to bed, this is the place for you. * Hot tub * Outdoor fire pit * Wireless internet * Full kitchen * Streaming TV * Pet friendly: $75 fee per pet * Heated mattress pad in winter * Large deck space with a Charcoal grill

2. Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

98%

(90)

40mi from Lake Santeetlah · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

If you love the outdoors, our authentic yurts and improved campsites have it all. This peaceful mountain is located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, on a 108-acre eco-forestry private reserve. Nestled up to 2 national forests, in The Land of 150 Waterfalls, local activities are abundant. Our outdoor experience offers complete, private access to guests only, with fishing, tubing, kayaking, and hiking activities on the property. A rugged 9-hole disc golf trail encourages exploration of your private mountain. Our yurts provide large fire pits, exquisite views from their ample porches, hugging you with a warm, peaceful welcome home from a day full of activities. Our yurts are nicely appointed with a queen-size bed, mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee pot. The detached 144 sq ft shared bath house provides all the facilities, as well as towels and basic bathing necessities for yurt stays only. Lie on the heated mattress pad with soft linens and watch the stars sail across the clear dome as you drift off to sleep to dream of the day's adventures. Nestled up to the Great Smoky Mountains National park, this property is unique in everything it offers. Riverside on the renowned fly fishing river, the Tuckasegee River, or ridge top on Cullowhee Mountain, elevation 3850'. There are improved camp sites, yurts, or free range camping and hiking. The views are spectacular, wherever you decide to locate on the property. We implement " Leave no trace" rules and welcome respectful 4wd access to the mountain. All walks of life love the outdoors... The outdoors is here, Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

3. Winding Stair Campground

99%

(198)

26mi from Lake Santeetlah · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Winding Stair Campground sits at an elevation of 3,380 feet, next to the headwaters of the Nantahala River and is surrounded by national forest and undeveloped private land trusts. The stunning mountain views in a remote tucked-away setting make our farm a perfect getaway! Just a 15-minute scenic drive from Franklin in North Carolina, easily accessible off Hwy 64, our campground offers a chance to enjoy nature without being far away from the public amenities of a small but well-equipped town. A few features about our property: - Working farm: Campers are welcome to meet our Icelandic sheep and take a self-guided tour of our farm, along designated pathways. - Security: The campground and farm are fenced in on three sides with the river being the fourth boundary. Personal code to the entrance gate will be given at check in. - Bath House: The restored bathhouse is split into boys’ and girls’ sides. Each side has 2 private showers, 4 flushing toilets, sinks, hot water, and gas heat. - Community Pavilion: The Pavilion is a large 40x30 ft. open sided structure overlooking the Nantahala River. It has an ample fireplace, running water sink, counter space, couches, and table with benches. - Pack Room: Where the adventure begins! A cozy hub where all guests get local information, view maps, and grab some local seasonal groceries. Also available to all campers are washing sinks with hot water, toaster oven and microwave. - Communication: Or rather, lack thereof! There's no cell service on the property so it's a great time to get away from it all. There is limited Wi-Fi available near the Pack Room and an emergency landline available. - Charging: Traveling in an electric vehicle? Recharge for free at our dedicated EV 50amp outlet when you stay at any of our sites. First come, first served. Want to know more about the history of the property? Visit the 'Our Story' section on our website. Learn more about this land:

4. Mountain View Escape at River Vista

100%

(1)

38mi from Lake Santeetlah · 1 site · RV

Welcome to your home away from home at our RV pull-through site in the scenic River Vista RV Park in Dillard, Georgia. Our spacious site offers full hookups (water, sewer, and 50/30 amp electric), making it ideal for both short-term and long-term stays. The site is easily accessible, accommodating rigs of all sizes, and is conveniently located near park amenities, including a heated indoor pool, outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and community fireplace. Amenities: • Full hookups (water, sewer, and 50/30 amp electric) • Cable TV • Picnic table • Pet-friendly environment • Laundry facilities and clean bathhouses About River Vista RV Park: Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, River Vista RV Park offers a peaceful getaway with stunning mountain views. The park is known for its friendly atmosphere, excellent facilities, and easy access to outdoor adventures. Explore the Area: Things to Do 1. Tallulah Gorge State Park (12 miles) Hike along breathtaking trails and witness the stunning views of Tallulah Gorge, a 1,000-foot-deep canyon with six waterfalls. For the adventurous, there’s also a suspension bridge and opportunities for rock climbing. 2. Black Rock Mountain State Park (6 miles) The highest state park in Georgia offers panoramic mountain views, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers. 3. Highlands, North Carolina (9 miles) A charming mountain town just across the border, offering upscale shopping, dining, and scenic waterfall hikes like Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. 4. Helen, Georgia (45 miles) Experience the charm of an Alpine village with unique shops, German-inspired cuisine, and tubing along the Chattahoochee River. Helen is a great spot for family fun and festivals year-round. 5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (50 miles) Explore America’s most-visited national park with miles of scenic hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking landscapes. 6. Clayton, Georgia (5 miles) This nearby town offers local boutiques, farm-to-table dining, and outdoor adventures.

5. Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

98%

(54)

47mi from Lake Santeetlah · 30 sites · Tents, RVs

Property Description: I promise you the best camping experience in North Georgia. Minutes from Helen Ga in the Sautee Nacoochee Valley. Many hiking and biking trails 256 acres of protected wildlife conservation all inside a safe and secured private gated residence. Located 10 min from Helen Georgia and beautiful Lake Burton. Key Features: Private Lake: Enjoy the serenity of our private lake, perfect for fishing and canoeing. World Class Fishing on site with trophy size large mouth Bass and Brim and World class fly fishing just minutes away. Each campsite has table chairs fire pit and is spaciously designed for privacy and the ultimate camping experience 5 star showers and bathrooms are one of the many benefits to choosing this location. very nice bathrooms and showers shared kitchen and library office available wifi and handicap accessible sites. Campfire Nights: Relax by the campfire and roast marshmallows. Firewood is provided at low cost. please do not bring your own firewood as we must protect this land from outside bugs and critters that come from a far Flexible Stays: Book your stay for up to 14 days to accommodate your needs. Accessibility: We offer handicap-accessible sites to ensure everyone can enjoy the outdoors. Primitive Camping as well as electric and water sites are available. Stay Connected: Stay connected with our free Wi-Fi. Convenient Parking: Ample parking is available for all guests and you can park right next to where you set up your tent or camper. Unforgettable Experiences await and that is my goal as your host to provide you with the best camping experience of your life. I truly mean it. I get great joy out of sharing this magnificent property with nature loves and family and individual campers Nature Walks: Explore the stunning trails surrounding the campground. Stargazing: Marvel at the breathtaking night sky, far from city lights. Picnicking: Enjoy a leisurely picnic by the lake. Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as deer and birds best bird watching in Georgia. American bald eagle family lives on site. Book your stay today and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Public campgrounds near Lake Santeetlah

Tsali trailhead about 1/10th mile from campground.

100%

(8)

Tsali Recreation Area

16mi from Lake Santeetlah · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nantahala National Forest

92%

(6)

Standing Indian Campground

27mi from Lake Santeetlah · 80 sites · Tents, RVs · in Nantahala National Forest

100%

(2)

Sandy Bottoms Campground

33mi from Lake Santeetlah · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Tate Branch Campground

33mi from Lake Santeetlah · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

100%

(5)

Tallulah River Campground

35mi from Lake Santeetlah · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

K

Kurtis

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Friendly staff and clean showers! Will definitely be back.

N

Naoki

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Awesome experience again! Host checked on us frequently and very accommodating. Will be back again definitely!

J

Jason

November 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Winding Stair Campground

We camped at Brass Camp it is above Johnsonville and the Glass House site. Nice plot to camp 3500 elevation, it’s level, had moss growing to cushion the ground. We had a 12ft 4 season tent with a 12ft rain fly we used as a porch and it fight just right with a lot of land left in front. You are next to a local road but traffic is pretty sparse. The Farm is really something , and is a working farm it has all the noises from the roaster to the donkey and ducks, it was pleasant to sit and listen. Amenities are very taken care of, bathhouse was great with hot showers and toilets , the Camp store was great with the kitchen sink area to wash up the dishes and potable water to refill your tanks. Stacey was great with our order for a pallet of wood making sure it was taken care of and onsite, I would have liked to take Greg up on visiting the farm and taking a look at the Mill they have onsite but stormy weather and snow held us back. We will return!

J

Julia

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

I would definitely recommend Destination Outdoors! Matt is an awesome host, and he has created an amazing spot. The yurts are super comfy and the bathroom is great!

Zachary

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Beautiful property! Lots of space at the sites. William and his crew were very nice, welcoming and accommodating! We will definitely be back

C

Chris

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Winding Stair Campground

Wonderful host, excellent views, nice bath facilities. I plan to return…

Conference center provides showers bathrooms shelter and fully kitchen refrigerator microwave bbq grills etc

L

Lida

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Beautiful property! We had a wonderful time. Would definitely stay again!

G

Greg

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Nice property if you can get the campsite down at the lake

C

Christina

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Winding Stair Campground

Winding Stair Farm is the perfect campground, bar none. Lovingly and diligently cared for, the campgrounds are beautiful and all amenities a person might need are readily accessible, but it's still easy to feel like you're "a world away."

A

Anna

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Winding Stair Campground

We absolutely LOVED Winding Stair Campground, and will definitely be back. Each camp site is totally unique, and they're spaced out enough so that you have tons of privacy and room to spread out. Doesn't feel over crowded in the slightest, even when there are other campers on the property. The view from Brass camp was stunning, and we loved watching the sunsets over the mountains. Also appreciated having our pre-purchased pallet of wood waiting for us at our site when we arrived. The walk to the bath house was so easy, and WOW what a clean, thoughtful bath house. The showers were hot and spacious, and we appreciated the lovely shampoo + soap. The camp provisions store is awesome. We were able to take advantage daily for ice, which was so convenient! Also purchased some of the local, farm fresh eggs, which were delicious for breakfast, and brought home some of the grits made directly on the farm! There's plenty of frozen meat in the freezer, complimentary coffee to enjoy on the porch, and even blankets and water jugs to borrow. They've thought of everything for ease and comfort. We loved walks to the river, and checking out all the farm animals. Plus, the fact that it's gated made us feel extra safe. Perfectly situated for day hikes or trips to surrounding towns. So much love has gone into this property, and we felt it ten fold! Thanks for an amazing stay. We'll see you next time <3

T

Tamera

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

I loved tent camping at Owl’s Nest Campground. Stephen and Kord were super helpful getting us settled in. We had a beautiful lake front spot. We hiked around the lake and enjoyed some fishing. Great place to camp!

M

Mariah

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Had a great time tent camping right on the lake! Great fishing experience and overall just a great weekend away! Had to leave alittle early due to rain but all in all would definitely recommend! Nice clean place!

A

Art

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Winding Stair Campground

The site was quiet with great power and working table options. Also great to have sink for dishes and clean up. This is the second visit in 3 months. I highly recommend.

Mandy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

Had such a peaceful night at this campsite. A little pricey but worth it for a perfect camping night during peak season

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

We loved camping here. Kids had so much fun fishing and using the canoe. Thanks so much.

N

Naoki

October 2025

3 nights at Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Excellent site, with great views and plenty of fish to catch. Bathroom and shower is clean. It’s my son’s favorite site now

R

Ryan

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Winding Stair Campground

We had an outstanding visit to the River House - everything at the house & at Winding Stairs is extremely well thought out & made our stay & experience wonderful. Pictures & words don’t do it justice. Thank you to Robyn & staff!

This primitive, riverside site is budget friendly and sits right next to our community areas. This site includes 2 Adirondack chairs, picnic table, and a smokless Breeo firepit with grilling outpost. Firewood bundles are available for purchase at the camp store.
Fly fishing (catch and release only) is allowed on the river within the campground borders.

k

katie & jon

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Winding Stair Campground

Fantastic place where primitive meets glamping. Gorgeous views, relaxing waterfront. Bathrooms clean.

C

Cody

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

My wife and I just left White Owl Campground in Sautee Nacoochee Valley, and it’s a flawless five-star escape—hands down the best! Hosted by the amazing William, this private 256-acre farm, just 10 minutes from Helen, Georgia, and Lake Burton, offers unmatched seclusion in a gated wildlife haven. Perfect for our Oktoberfest trips, it’s a quiet retreat after the festival buzz. The trails for hiking and biking wind through lush, protected forests, teeming with wildlife, all in blissful solitude. Our private site featured a spacious setup with a picnic table, chairs, and a fire pit—roasting marshmallows with provided firewood was pure joy (no need to bring your own!). The on-site reservoir was a fishing dream, with world-class bass and brim, plus great canoeing, all in serene silence. William’s hospitality shone—warm, helpful, and unobtrusive. Handicap-accessible sites, 5-star showers, a shared kitchen, library, office, and on-site Wi-Fi made it inclusive and convenient. After lake days, we hit Cottage House Restaurant in Cleveland for a phenomenal brunch—crispy fried chicken, cornbread, and peach cobbler, served with Southern charm at great prices. White Owl is camping perfection: private, peaceful, and flawlessly executed. We’re already planning our return!

C

Chris

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Owls Nest Private RV and Campground

Friendly host. There is wifi and full cell service. Nice views, caught multiple bass in the pond. They check in on you if you need anything. Bathrooms and showers very clean. 15 mins form helen nice mountain roads and views.