The best dog-friendly RV parks near Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina

Take Indian Lakes Scenic Byway to the heart of Santeetlah Lake, where crystal blue waters and tree-covered hills cover the landscape. Explore the lake with a boat rental from Santeetlah Marina, which offers pontoon boats, ski boats, and kayaks, or enjoy a day under the sun at a local beach. Lakeside camping, cabin rentals, and RV campsites in town welcome campers year-round. Many campgrounds throughout the area offer standard sites, full hookups, fire pits, and more. Natural attractions, like Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Cheoah Point Recreation Area, make camping near Lake Santeetlah a trip to remember.

96% (6.8K) • 571 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Santeetlah

Take Indian Lakes Scenic Byway to the heart of Santeetlah Lake, where crystal blue waters and tree-covered hills cover the landscape. Explore the lake with a boat rental from Santeetlah Marina, which offers pontoon boats, ski boats, and kayaks, or enjoy a day under the sun at a local beach. Lakeside camping, cabin rentals, and RV campsites in town welcome campers year-round. Many campgrounds throughout the area offer standard sites, full hookups, fire pits, and more. Natural attractions, like Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Cheoah Point Recreation Area, make camping near Lake Santeetlah a trip to remember.

96% (6.8K) • 571 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Santeetlah

1. Indigo Eagle Sanctuary

91%

(383)

41mi from Lake Santeetlah · 28 sites · Tents, RVs

Indigo Eagle Sanctuary is an incredible place to experience the abundance of nature in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Our Sanctuary features two main areas: Mountain Tops, or Creekside sites. Immerse yourself in beauty and adventure, with waterfalls, a rushing creek, fishing, and camping. Our creek properties include the Creekside Cabin, and Waterfall Haven (multiple camping site options, with their own areas by the creek). Guests have room to explore the mossy wonderland along Hornbuckle Creek, take a dip in a swimming hole, take an adventure and follow a rough trail (at your own risk) to another waterfall, accessed across the creek, or just kick back and relax. (Note to guests: Trail has not been maintained since last year. Go at your own risk.) Our mountaintop options include Eagle’s Nest and Songbird Campsites. These two sites provide breathtaking, long-range mountain views and epic sunsets. They are great for quick get-aways, with ease of access to main roads/highways. Indigo Eagle Sanctuary Sites are located within a few miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Cherokee Reservation (museum, shops, dining) and Maggie Valley, a quaint mountain town with more shops, food, and entertainment. Nearest grocery stores are Ingles in Waynesville, or Food Lion in Cherokee. The popular Asheville is about a 50minute drive from our Sanctuary. Plenty to explore here, while being able to unplug and unwind. *Disclaimer The creekside camping involves a road that will require vehicle clearance in order to access campsites. 4wd is not required but adequate vehicle clearance will be necessary as we have received damages from storms.

2. Creekside Bliss

97%

(74)

32mi from Lake Santeetlah · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

We have a 10-acre homestead and would like to share the beauty of the North Georgia Mountains with fellow campers. Please note: we are a farm and have roosters....sorry for the noise but we love our animals. :) We have a clean toilet house. It is located between campsites 3 and 4. Within a couple miles of our property there is mountain biking, hiking, lake access of swimming and boating. Bring your kayak to enjoy seeing Lake Nottely! We live on the property, and it is a working homestead. We have chickens (roosters too). We ask that you keep your dogs *at your camp site at all times* (we have had camper's dogs run through the field at us and scare us to pieces and we'd rather not experience that again! lol) Want to get a workout in? We have a gym on the property, Confidence Training and Fitness. If you would like to join a one-hour class, check out our extras for more details and how to sign up. We would love to workout with you! Enjoy the sounds of the creek and put your tent on level land. We have firepits at each camp site. Firewood is available for purchase, just send us a message. We can deliver to your campsite. We also have tables and chairs for rent. Need something else? Let us know, we want you to have the best, memorable stay ever! Just an FYI that cell service can be a little spotty, sorry about that! Gotta love mountain life! We hope you will choose our property and enjoy your stay!

3. Dogwood Daze

87%

(87)

30mi from Lake Santeetlah · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Nestled beautifully on an old tobacco farm, you will find peace as you sit under one of the many dogwoods that are on the property. Enjoy looking up and gazing at the open skies or chasing the magical fireflies. Choose your spot on the rolling hills and enjoy a walk by the creek. The property is located 10 minutes to downtown Cherokee, 12 minutes to downtown Bryson City, and 15 minutes to downtown Sylva. Check out event calendars for these areas or find your next hiking or river adventure located here and in the surrounding areas. Come and enjoy your nights at Dogwood Daze.Learn more about this land:Stars, fireflies, nature. Set up where you choose. Rolling hills, creek, walking trail, group fire, and close to great outdoor adventures. Porta-john and well Spigot water is available. .

4. Cozy Creekside Camping

41mi from Lake Santeetlah · 1 site · RV

LOT ONLY, with full hookups This cozy creekside lot is perfect for your next outdoor camping adventure—just bring your own RV, travel trailer, pop-up, or other RVIA-certified camper. Most of the photos were taken in January, but in spring, summer, and fall this lovely shaded campsite feels secluded and serene, while still offering all the comforts of home. The site includes creekside posts for hanging a hammock and a fireside hanging-chair post. It is located near the pool, bathhouse, laundry facilities, and a small playground. The lot is located in a gated campground with many amenities, including two seasonal pools, a coin-operated laundromat, a game room, an exercise facility, and a seasonal restaurant. You are also welcome to book this lot through the campground’s main office, but my Hipcamp listing is cheaper. Other things to note Pets are welcome. However, please be aware there is a $10 non-refundable pet fee, paid upon check-in through the campground office, to cover the cost of the pet waste stations throughout the park. This fee is charged by the campground and is not included in the rental price paid through Hipcamp. Please let me know if you plan to bring any pets, and I will share the campground’s pet policy information.

5. RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

98%

(69)

32mi from Lake Santeetlah · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

RV site with water hookup just outside the gate to our property. We have 35+ acres full of hiking trails, stocked pond, party barn with hot water, firepit, lawn games. Site is convienent on an almost flat gravel road and located just off Rt 441 in Whittier, NC. One mile off Cherokee reservation, 2 miles to Harrah's Casino and 5 miles from Oconaluftee Visitor Center, The entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

My recommended must see/ dine at for the area!
I also recommend downloading the Alltrails App :-)

Cherokee (10 minutes away):
-Smokemont Riding Stables (old church and fresh water spring there as well)
-Oconulftee River Trail and Farm Museum (elk sightings)
-Mingus Mill
-Kephart Prong Trail (old CCC camp, foot logs to bear shelter)
-Mingo Falls
-Oconulftee River tubing
-Cherokee Museum
-Harrah's Cherokee Casino
-Native Brews Tap & Grill
-Peters Pancakes

Bryson City (12 minutes away):
-Road to Nowhere (tunnel and trails)
-Deep Creek (three waterfalls & tubing)
-Downtown Shopping
-Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
-Darnell Farm (Great produce and events such as hayrides, free fishing, playground)
-NOC (Nantahala River has many rafting services, ziplines, etc)
-Anthony's Restaurant
-BCO (Bryson City Outdoors)
-Mountain Layers Brewery
-Red Chef Food Truck
-Big Laurel Food Truck
-Iron Wok
-Jimmy Mac's Restaurant

Sylva (15 minutes away):
-Commercial shopping such as Walmart
-Innovation Brewery
-Balsam Falls Brewery
-Creekside Oyster House
-the Paper Mill Lounge

Dillsboro: RNR Rivers and Rails restaurant
-GPS map route to: Cullowhee, Cashier's, Highlands, Franklin, Whittier (45 minute driving loop with MANY amazing trails, views, and waterfalls along the way such as Panthertown Valley, Dry Falls and Bridal Falls)

R

Riley

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Dogwood Daze

Simple and easy to find, great place to stop in and rest for the night

R

Rob

December 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Dogwood Daze

Perfect for what I needed. Just a place to camp for the night on the longer trip.

M

Max

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Dogwood Daze

Nice spot to set up a tent even with a last minute booking. Good parking and access to facilities.

J

Jessica

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Indigo Eagle Sanctuary

We had no issues booking this campsite last minute, and while there was no communication from the owner during our stay, everything went smoothly and we had an amazing weekend. The location can be a bit tricky to find, so be sure to follow the directions provided in your booking. The site itself is large, private, and offers a breathtaking view of the smoky mountains. Since it faces west, the sunsets are absolutely phenomenal! The campsite includes a fire pit, a wooden swing, a large teepee structure, and a small toilet shed — all decently maintained. We didn’t see any bears during our stay, but we did hang our food in a nearby tree just to be safe. Overall, it was a peaceful and scenic getaway — we’d definitely stay here again and have already been recommending it to friends!

Joni

October 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

Great site, and great location! The host was prompt with communicating. Very peaceful and quiet campsite. We really enjoyed the trip and hope to make it back.

E

Eric

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Dogwood Daze

I enjoyed camping on this property .The price and location are a big plus . The water pump works great . The fire wood burns well . The dogs and neighborhood were charming . The sloped lot makes setting up a tent a challenge so do it carefully . The shower stall was a great place to use my buckets of water to wash myself . It might work sometimes ?

D

Dana

October 2025

38 ft fifth wheel

3 nights at RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

Wonderful spot for a quiet weekend! We throughly enjoyed being in such a private spot. The hosts were great!

L

Leah

September 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

Private and quiet. Fun property to explore. We enjoyed relaxing, hiking and fishing on the private tucked away property.

P

Preacher

August 2025

38 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

Did fish the pond. Cough some fish. Very peaceful. Close to everything

Deb

August 2025

17 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

Hiking trails were pretty. It was very private, and quiet. Our dog could run in an area very close to where we camped (off leash) It is close to Cherokee reservation and the Oconaluftee river, village, Tuckaseegee River, for rafting and gambling, (if you like to do that). WE had a peaceful, quiet time.

J

Jonathan

July 2025

Tent

1 night at RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

Great location. Easy to find, full hookups, beautiful pond, and not in a big concrete camp ground!!!

Tabitha

July 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

Was exactly as described. Hidden gem but easy to access and close to stores and the Cherokee Reservation. Very quiet, secluded, will stay here again!! Thank you!!

J

Jack

July 2025

45 ft Class A

With pets

4 nights at RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

We had a great 3 day stay at this Hipcamp. The pull though space is huge, and can accommodate any size rig, with toad. We enjoyed exploring the nearby area, Cherokee, Bryson City, etc.

Marcus

June 2025

25 ft pop-up camper

9 nights at RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

Beautiful spot with hook ups great location Would totally come back again

Maurie

June 2025

31 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

Would definitely recommend if you’re looking for privacy and shade. We enjoy being more secluded and this was a perfect spot for just that. Hosts were very responsive as well

S

Santiago

May 2025

30 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

Great location and solitude. Good hookups. No complaints

G

Garry

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Dogwood Daze

The owners were personable and the site was neat and clean. Nice having the shower available.

C

Chris

April 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Indigo Eagle Sanctuary

Beautiful view windy but awesome highly recommend

Peter

April 2025

11 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Dogwood Daze

Dogwood Daze was a beautiful spot to stay in our truck camper for the night! We live in rural Appalachia so we felt right at home with the roosters crowing in the morning. If you're not used to it, bring earplugs! Had everything we needed for a great price.

Spencer

April 2025

25 ft campervan

2 nights at RV w hookups 35 acres hike & fish

We had a great time here. It was quite and secluded. There are 3 cabins on the property, but they're spread out enough to where you're not right up next to each other. They have plenty of walking trails on the property, as well as a private pond with a canoe and fish. My little boy caught his first fish here.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best dog-friendly RV parks near Lake Santeetlah guide

Where to go

Nantahala National Forest

North Carolina’s fourth largest forest, Nantahala National Forest features 531,286 acres of lush landscape, including the Appalachian summit of Lone Bald, deep gorges, and shaded valleys. Grab a map and explore the many waterfalls flowing through the park, as well. Campgrounds tucked between trees offer tent and RV campsites with access to nearby waters and hiking trails. Some campsites are also outfitted with full hookups and restrooms while other dispersed spots among backcountry hideouts lead to epic camping memories.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Gather the gear for Great Smoky Mountains National Park to explore ancient mountains, old growth forests, and waterfalls. A short 30-minute drive from Lake Santeetlah, campers can settle into frontcountry and backcountry campsites, group camps, horse campsites, and cabin rentals. Many are equipped with fire rings with grates and picnic tables, but there are no hookups or showers available. Then enjoy the streams and waterfalls of the Deep Creek area on a paddleboat, hike, or bike trip through the park. Historians will love Cataloochee Valley’s 19th and 20th century buildings, along with Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill.

Cheoah Point Recreation Area

A short drive from Lake Santeetlah brings campers to Cheoah Point Recreation Area, a peninsula just north of Lake Santeetlah. Operated by the U.S. Forest Service, Cheoah Point features well-maintained campgrounds for tents and RVs with beautiful views and hiking trails—including access to the Appalachian Trail. Full hookups, fire pits, grills, picnic areas, and shower facilities create cozy camping in this nature nook. Reservations are a must for this highly sought after spot.

When to go

Lake Santeetlah’s subtropical temperatures provide warm summers and mild winters for enjoyable camping year-round. The height of summer heat arrives in July, with temperatures reaching an average of 88°F. Summer is perfect for visiting the lake and exploring Nantahala’s waterfalls. Winter cools things down with temperatures in the 50s. In January, temperatures can drop below freezing overnight.