The best ranch campgrounds near Marion, North Carolina

Resting at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Marion blends small-town comfort with big-time nature. Close proximity to Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest make the town a popular basecamp year-round. Take a day trip less than thirty minutes from Marion to Lake James State Park. It has over 150 miles of shoreline with beaches, boat ramps, Blue Ridge Mountain views, and lakefront tent and paddle-in campsites. Or stay in town and camp in a cabin rental at Pisgah National Forest, which provides half a million acres of scenic outlooks, tree-covered trails, and iconic waterfalls. East of Marion, South Mountains State Park has RV campsites that can fit trailers and accommodate horses, diverse trails, and multiple creeks—all of which make it a perfect place for paddling, biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

98% (745)

Top-rated campgrounds near Marion

Resting at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Marion blends small-town comfort with big-time nature. Close proximity to Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest make the town a popular basecamp year-round. Take a day trip less than thirty minutes from Marion to Lake James State Park. It has over 150 miles of shoreline with beaches, boat ramps, Blue Ridge Mountain views, and lakefront tent and paddle-in campsites. Or stay in town and camp in a cabin rental at Pisgah National Forest, which provides half a million acres of scenic outlooks, tree-covered trails, and iconic waterfalls. East of Marion, South Mountains State Park has RV campsites that can fit trailers and accommodate horses, diverse trails, and multiple creeks—all of which make it a perfect place for paddling, biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

98% (745)

Top-rated campgrounds near Marion

1. Enchanting 2-Acre Asheville Oasis

85%

(37)

30mi from Marion · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging

Discover a serene 2-acre retreat adorned with vibrant roses, red orchids, and the melodies of hummingbirds and bluebirds. Perfectly blending natural beauty and functionality, this property features: -Main House: A welcoming residence paired with a lower-level beauty salon, a hub for pampering and social gatherings. -Charming Cabin: With a chapel-style front room, it's the ideal venue for makeover parties, beer tastings, surprise celebrations, and more. -Tiny Sunset Condo: Cozy accommodations for two with breathtaking mountain views and unforgettable Asheville sunsets. -Outdoor Spaces: Relax by the fire pit, swing with a loved one, or entertain across multiple patios surrounded by lush gardens. This property is perfect for living, hosting, and creating lasting memories. A rare gem in the heart of Western NC! 🌸✨

2. Neal Creek Camping Sites

100%

(267)

46mi from Marion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Neal Creek Primitive camping by the creek is located on private property. The two large campsites are approximately 300 feet apart and are located right beside the running creek. Plenty of shaded area's. We have a 6-8 person tent available to rent as well! Learn more about this land: We are only 1/2 a mile from the Interstate 85. So bring your tents, campers or your small RV and come and setup down by the babbling creek. If you don't have or own a tent, we have a large 6-8 person tent available for a small rental fee too. Build a nice fire in the fire pit. The firewood and kindling is provided. The campsites are semi-wooded areas with plenty of shade. They are very large private, peaceful and quiet sites.  View the stars at night, play in the creek during the day or if you are into biking or hiking, go to the Overmountain Victory trail located about 15 minutes away and enjoy the 6.7 mile loop around Lake Whelchel right off I-85. Local attractions: Biking, Hiking, Climbing and Horse trails - Kings Mtn National Park, Kings Mtn State Park, Crowder's Mtn State Park, Overmountain Victory Trail Segment - Lake Whelchel. Two Kings Casino is just a 10 minute trip right up Interstate - 85, exit 5 Convenient stores/restaurants within minutes from site.

3. Blue Ridge Ranch

99%

(214)

45mi from Marion · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

Blue Ridge Ranch, established in December of 2020, is located on 440 acres nestled between two mountain ridges in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The property features an established pasture, mountain ridges, barns, and a homestead. In addition, the ranch is home to five ponds (some stocked and one trophy), more than a mile of trout streams, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Together, they provide the perfect foundation for the establishment of farming, livestock, camping, and community events. All profits of Blue Ridge Ranch go to Hope for His Children, Inc., a 501(c)(3) that conducts youth camps at the ranch. Tours of the ranch are available for $10/person and includes interaction with some farm animals. We pride ourselves in doing everything possible to help our guests have a great experience. We offer coffee during morning hours in our farm store! We are sorry, but we are not able to allow guests to bring ATV's and motorcycles to operate on the property. There are many acres of hay that we must protect and our agritourism insurer does not allow guests to operate ATV's and motorcycles on property.

4. Teague Mountain Farm

22mi from Marion · 2 sites · Lodging

Teague Mountain Farm borders the Pisgah National Forest. It is only a mile from the Linville Gorge Wilderness and Blue Ridge Parkway. Trails for hiking and horseback riding into the Pisgah are accessible from the property. Enjoy 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains; and, a beautiful view looking over Lost Cove towards Grandfather Mountain.

5. The Sanctuary at RockHouseFarm

98%

(62)

21mi from Marion · 1 site · Tent

Escape to a wild, 400-acre mountain and two river property beside Pisgah National Forest in western North Carolina. Our land offers direct access to two rivers—Wilson’s Creek( a scenic River Act member) and the Johns River soon to be a scenic river —along with freshwater springs , hardwood forests, and miles of private hiking trails that can be walked . Wildlife, water, and mountain air make this a peaceful retreat into nature. With a multitude of activities , like one mile away across the road, you'll find Brown Mountain Beach Access—a favorite stop for the motorcycle and RV crowd. For hiking enthusiasts, the Table Rock trailhead is less than 5 miles away, Sitting Bear up Hwy 181 less than 12 miles and so much more like the blue ridge parkway etc . Our farm is a perfect spot for cooling off, relaxing, or using as a launch point for exploring the wild region that so closely surrounds us. Please note that Wilson’s Creek Gorge is closed for Summer 2025, but you’ll still have all our private creek and river access on the farm property. Campsite Details: Your campsite includes a wooden tent platform (~12’ x 24’) with steps, a fire pit and grilling area, four chairs, a round dining table, a water hose, and four electrical outlets. A newly built outhouse is just steps away. Tent Platform Use: Additional $8 per night, payable upon arrival A Frame under construction. Firewood: Not provided, but available for a fee by prior arrangement with owner Dogs: Welcome if well-managed and leashed when needed Parties or Gatherings: Not permitted without advance approval and paid arrangements Swim, rock-hop, or sunbathe along our private riverbanks. Kayak routes end on the property, and secluded spots for stargazing or just sitting with the sounds of the forest are everywhere. Whether you're here for adventure or deep quiet, this is a wild mountain stay where nature leads.

6. Overland Camping for 4!

96%

(25)

45mi from Marion · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

The majority of our 440 acres is timber with established trails, but we are also a working farm and we have five ponds and a trout stream throughout the property. We offer tours to guests for $10 per person and we love to introduce you to our farm animals. We provide coffee in our camp store mornings and we offer a community bonfire on Saturday evenings. It's important to us to make sure our guests have the best experience possible!

7. Blue Ridge Camping

100%

(126)

18mi from Marion · 10 sites · Tents

Get away from the crowds. On 300 beautiful acres once operated as a children's summer adventure camp, this property has a house with a dormitory style bathroom for camper use. There are 3 primitive campsites, 2 cottages, and a horse sanctuary. The campsites are spaced out around the property for privacy. Ask about bathroom use depending on the season. 4WD or AWD is recommended for all sites due to 1/2 mile gravel road and then completely off road for a short distance. Or, if you are bringing 2WD, there is plenty of parking and then walk to your campsite. We don't recommend trying to bring large RV's due to the access. We have not had a problem with Black Bears on the property. Help us keep it that way. Do not store or keep food in your tent. Don't sleep with food. Keep in mind bears are omnivores much like us. They eat mostly plants but also eat meat. For more info on bear safety, visit www.bearwise.org Winter camping is encouraged with free firewood. However, you will probably need to park on the gravel and walk to your campsite to limit soil erosion of the off-road trail. Pets are welcome only at some sites, but please please let us know you are bringing them and they will need to be leashed due to other animals. A large part of the property is forest with hiking trails, creeks, and wildlife. You can see wildflowers and lightning bugs in season along with deer, turkey, and horses. And all of our spots have a great view of the sky! We're not far from the Bare Dark Sky Observatory. The grass horse arena and the pond were originally built for the summer camp. The pond is stocked with bass and bluegill and has a chorus of bullfrogs in summer. The arena is flat and has a long range mountain view all the way to Mt. Mitchell (highest peak east of the Mississippi). There are also a meadow spot encircled by trees.

8. Triple J Farm and Campground

100%

(9)

35mi from Marion · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Camp down by the creek at our private campground. Pan for gold or rock hound for gems in over 1/2 mile of pristine North Carolina creek. Outdoor shower and bathroom facility available. Bring all your camping gear, tents and headlamps for a fun adventure in the woods.

9. Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

100%

(200)

48mi from Marion · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

This no ordinary campground. Pause is an adventure that will feel like you are exploring your own private mountain nature reserve. Aramesh is 120 acres of Blue Ridge heaven with something for every wilderness adventure seeker: unmatched mountain views, lush old growth forests, babbling brooks, and miles of trails for all skill levels. The property starts at 3700 ft altitude, with summit at 4500 ft on the Glades mountain ridge. We have only a few campsites on the vast property, so the wind in the trees and birds will be all you hear. Come and stay with us and be renewed! IMPORTANT: 4WD or AWD is required to access our property. There is a sometimes steep and windy gravel road into Pause. Please make sure your vehicle has 4WD or AWD before you book. Campsites: They are 3/4-1/4 mile from the entrance. Some are accessible by 4WD. There may be some vigorous hiking involved, but the views are worth it. The pads are various sizes. Let us know what the needs of your party are and we can help you choose from the available spots. We also have several more remote “off-menu” sites for those seeking a backpacking adventure - ask for more information if your are interested. Hiking: There are several miles of trails on the property. They range from an easy slope to very strenuous. The entire property is fenced so you won't easily get lost. Your climbing efforts will be amply rewarded by stunning views, especially at sunset. Trail maps are available upon request. On-Site Amenities: we provide a clean porta-potty and running water that is spring fed. We ask that you follow "Leave-No-Trace" procedures during your stay. Off-Site Amenities: If you choose to explore the area : we are a 10 minute drive from I-40 Exit 24. Asheville is 45 minutes away; Waynesville is 25 minutes away. Presnell's Grocery (highly recommended, family-owned store that sells locally farmed products) is 10 minutes away from the property entrance. The Ingles supermarket in Canton is a 15 minute drive. You will find every kind of fast food in that area. There are also several excellent local dining options in Canton, Clyde, and Waynesville which we are happy to recommend to you by request.

10. 3 Springs Camping

100%

(2)

38mi from Marion · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Small Gypsy Vanner, organic farm, bird sanctuary in the foothills of the Appalachians nestled in on Little King Creek with 3 gorgeous springs running fresh water to the creek from our mountain with 3 hollars. Boy it's a mouthful, but there's a great outhouse built for a king, outdoor shower, picnic area and creekside beaches to wash the world away and relax.

11. Campsites at Shipley Farms

100%

(7)

42mi from Marion · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Visit this 150+ year old working cattle farm with sites ranging from primitive campsites by the fire, to luxury tents with air conditioning and plumbing. The historic family farm still raises Appalachian Grown pasture raised beef, with a farm store onsite. See the website (shipleyfarmsbeef.com) for the farm store and for booking tours and cattle feeding experiences

12. The Green River Ranch

33mi from Marion · 1 site · Tent, RV

Enjoy a peaceful stay on the banks of the Green River with private river access and unbeatable proximity to adventure. This dry hookup RV site offers a secluded riverside escape right at the trailhead for the Green River Game Lands—perfect for paddlers, hikers, and nature lovers looking to unplug and explore.

13. Oak Creek Horse Farm

96%

(108)

38mi from Marion · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Horse farm with lots of space for you and your family! Used to be a dairy farm from 1860 to 1970. Plenty of space, beautiful sunset. You will be surrounded by horses. 5-10 min to restaurants and stores. 5-10 min to swimming and hiking. 20 min to Kings Mountains. 30 min to South Mountains. 20 min to Tryon Equestian Center.  Site 1,2 and 4: full hookup 50A, water and sewer. Site 3: full hookup 30A, water and sewer. Site 1 and 2 are about 100ft apart, site 3 is about 200ft from site 1 and 2, so there is plenty of space.

14. Root Cellar Tiny House

100%

(10)

27mi from Marion · 1 site · Lodging

This 1890's farm was many things in times long ago! It acted as a working Tobacco Farm, a country store and was known to have the purest spring in the region by the indians and mountain men! It also has a dark past complete with murder and moonshine! For a full history check out this book, Red Hill. The untold story of the Whitson Brothers and the Murder of Kit Byrd. The short version of the story: The farm also acted as a country store that was also a front for moonshine. The Whitson Brothers who owned our farm had a deal with Kit Byrd;  a mountaineer from "on the mountain" who had a knack for making good shine. It ultimately was the death of him at the hands of the 3 Whitson Brothers. This murder years later led to the death of a large percentage of the population in this small NC Mtn town. Learn more about this land:On a mountain by a river in a true "holler". This 1890's historic tobacco farm features our Root Cellar Tiny House, perfect for 2-4 people.  Full over Full Bunk Bed, Wifi,  AC/heater, tiny fridge,  small coffee maker, one car parking in front for easy access. Includes a covered porch, RV toilet & sink, outdoor heated shower, outdoor fire pit & covered kitchen for cooking.  Space includes 2 person tent site making the tiny suitable to sleep 6. Stay includes $20 adventure trip credit with NC Outdoor Adventures.The spaceThe Root Cellar Tiny House is sitting above Whitson Branch surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is a little over 100 yards to the Toe River and one of the areas last remaining walking wood suspension bridges.This is our quiet space that we want to share with you. Our slice of heaven. Please keep that in mind and respect it. Throw trash away, don't leave out food or trash or you might wake to a big bear treat! Slow down when driving into the holler!Help us help our environment! The toilets and outdoor showers have been carefully planned out to be environmentally conscious, with special consideration to our creeks that drain into the Toe River. The "outhouse/camp" toilet has instructions so please read it and also has a foot pump hand cleaning sink beside it. The shower is an instant hot water shower heated by propane. While this space is not winterized it has some insulation and a propane heater. The Tiny can be rented during the winter for $68 a night good Nov-March.Guest accessGuests' space is a tiny house with a covered porch, attached bathroom, shower, covered outdoor kitchen, and one 2 person tent site. The tent site is best used April-October unless you have proper winter camping equipment.Looking for adventure...look no further it is right outside your door, literally. Use your $20 adventure credit onsite with NCOA: whitewater, tubing, rock climbing and more. A few of the river activities end or begin a short walk from the Root Cellar House. You can also purchase hiking/river essentials at the Tiny Hike Shop. Important notes:*Linens for bedding provided but we ask that you please bring your own bath towels and use biodegradable soaps like Bronners Soap (available for purchase at the Adventure Outpost on-site).*rooms are cleaned every three days unless someone requests otherwise for an additional charge. *Please drive slow as we have a hound dog and cats that run around as do some neighbors. Deer are everywhere, drive carefully. It is super curvy and steep with no guard rails. RVs or large trucks can not get down our road or through the one-car train tunnel to the river!!! No turnaround.* Sorry farm stay not pets allowed. We have a very protective cat (only towards other animals not people).Any questions for the host?

15. Bull Run RV Park

44mi from Marion · 1 site · Tent, RV

Bull Run RV Park is a Full Hook Up (FHU) park. Scenic views on this 112 acre ranch. We are conveniently located 20 min from I-85, 5 min from Hwy 74 and 10 min from Two Kings Casino. Our Park is nestled along the Wolfbranch Creek and Longbranch Creek. We have hiking and mountain biking trails your enjoyment and exercise as well as pickleball/ basketball courts. Each of our sites is complete with 45 x 15 concrete pads with attached 8 x 8 patio. County water and city sewer at each site along with 50, 30 and 20 amp service. Our park has a full bathhouse with separate and private shower / toilets for men and women. We offer overnight stays as well as weekend / weeklong stays and extended stays. Check out the Bull Run RV Park, you will be glad you did.

16. Imagine Equus Farm

100%

(6)

33mi from Marion · 2 sites · Lodging

I first saw this property in 2009 and fell in love with it. The property is gorgeous and the land has a magical feel. Situated in the foothills of the Blueridge Mountains we are in horse and wine county! The area is also part of the isothermal belt so the weather is always better than the rest of the South or the Mountains. The land is about 1/2 pastures and the remainder are beautiful forests with trails, creeks and even our own waterfall. The animals and equines living here make the place even more special. Learn more about this land: Tiny home cabin on 28 acre horse farm with creeks, woods, and incredible pasture views. Your cabin is set in a grove of pine trees with gorgeous views from your deck and inside the home. We are in the horse and wine country of Polk County. There are 5 wineries within minutes. We are 7 miles from the new and fabulous Tryon International Equestrian Center. We are just over 20 minutes to Saluda with awesome kayaking and tubing on the Green River, hiking, biking and ziplining too. We are excited to add that we now are part of the Art of the Horse tour through Our Carolina Foothills!  Imagine Equus Farm are the new proud owners of Mil Flores, a beautiful horse painted by artist Mary Tolles.  Mil Flores now adorns the front of the farm!   The cabin has 1 queen sized bedroom and 1 bath, plus a full kitchen, living room and dining area. You will have all of the comforts when you are inside with wifi, cable TV, a mini-split for heat and air conditioning, a fireplace and a dishwasher. We keep the cabins stocked with everything you will need for your perfect getaway. We feature high in beds and 100% organic cotton sheets. The cabins are new and stylishly designed. The property is private and quiet. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a home base for TIEC horse shows, wine tastings or a quiet retreat. You will see miniature donkeys, horses, goats and even a steer roaming the pastures from your cabin. We want your time here to be wonderful, so we have strived to create a peaceful oasis.

Camper favorites near Marion

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

3 Springs Camping

100%

(2)

38mi from Marion · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Small Gypsy Vanner, organic farm, bird sanctuary in the foothills of the Appalachians nestled in on Little King Creek with 3 gorgeous springs running fresh water to the creek from our mountain with 3 hollars. Boy it's a mouthful, but there's a great outhouse built for a king, outdoor shower, picnic area and creekside beaches to wash the world away and relax.

Campsites at Shipley Farms

100%

(7)

42mi from Marion · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Visit this 150+ year old working cattle farm with sites ranging from primitive campsites by the fire, to luxury tents with air conditioning and plumbing. The historic family farm still raises Appalachian Grown pasture raised beef, with a farm store onsite. See the website (shipleyfarmsbeef.com) for the farm store and for booking tours and cattle feeding experiences

The Green River Ranch

33mi from Marion · 1 site · Tent, RV

Enjoy a peaceful stay on the banks of the Green River with private river access and unbeatable proximity to adventure. This dry hookup RV site offers a secluded riverside escape right at the trailhead for the Green River Game Lands—perfect for paddlers, hikers, and nature lovers looking to unplug and explore.

Oak Creek Horse Farm

96%

(108)

38mi from Marion · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Horse farm with lots of space for you and your family! Used to be a dairy farm from 1860 to 1970. Plenty of space, beautiful sunset. You will be surrounded by horses. 5-10 min to restaurants and stores. 5-10 min to swimming and hiking. 20 min to Kings Mountains. 30 min to South Mountains. 20 min to Tryon Equestian Center.  Site 1,2 and 4: full hookup 50A, water and sewer. Site 3: full hookup 30A, water and sewer. Site 1 and 2 are about 100ft apart, site 3 is about 200ft from site 1 and 2, so there is plenty of space.

Root Cellar Tiny House

100%

(10)

27mi from Marion · 1 site · Lodging

This 1890's farm was many things in times long ago! It acted as a working Tobacco Farm, a country store and was known to have the purest spring in the region by the indians and mountain men! It also has a dark past complete with murder and moonshine! For a full history check out this book, Red Hill. The untold story of the Whitson Brothers and the Murder of Kit Byrd. The short version of the story: The farm also acted as a country store that was also a front for moonshine. The Whitson Brothers who owned our farm had a deal with Kit Byrd;  a mountaineer from "on the mountain" who had a knack for making good shine. It ultimately was the death of him at the hands of the 3 Whitson Brothers. This murder years later led to the death of a large percentage of the population in this small NC Mtn town. Learn more about this land:On a mountain by a river in a true "holler". This 1890's historic tobacco farm features our Root Cellar Tiny House, perfect for 2-4 people.  Full over Full Bunk Bed, Wifi,  AC/heater, tiny fridge,  small coffee maker, one car parking in front for easy access. Includes a covered porch, RV toilet & sink, outdoor heated shower, outdoor fire pit & covered kitchen for cooking.  Space includes 2 person tent site making the tiny suitable to sleep 6. Stay includes $20 adventure trip credit with NC Outdoor Adventures.The spaceThe Root Cellar Tiny House is sitting above Whitson Branch surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is a little over 100 yards to the Toe River and one of the areas last remaining walking wood suspension bridges.This is our quiet space that we want to share with you. Our slice of heaven. Please keep that in mind and respect it. Throw trash away, don't leave out food or trash or you might wake to a big bear treat! Slow down when driving into the holler!Help us help our environment! The toilets and outdoor showers have been carefully planned out to be environmentally conscious, with special consideration to our creeks that drain into the Toe River. The "outhouse/camp" toilet has instructions so please read it and also has a foot pump hand cleaning sink beside it. The shower is an instant hot water shower heated by propane. While this space is not winterized it has some insulation and a propane heater. The Tiny can be rented during the winter for $68 a night good Nov-March.Guest accessGuests' space is a tiny house with a covered porch, attached bathroom, shower, covered outdoor kitchen, and one 2 person tent site. The tent site is best used April-October unless you have proper winter camping equipment.Looking for adventure...look no further it is right outside your door, literally. Use your $20 adventure credit onsite with NCOA: whitewater, tubing, rock climbing and more. A few of the river activities end or begin a short walk from the Root Cellar House. You can also purchase hiking/river essentials at the Tiny Hike Shop. Important notes:*Linens for bedding provided but we ask that you please bring your own bath towels and use biodegradable soaps like Bronners Soap (available for purchase at the Adventure Outpost on-site).*rooms are cleaned every three days unless someone requests otherwise for an additional charge. *Please drive slow as we have a hound dog and cats that run around as do some neighbors. Deer are everywhere, drive carefully. It is super curvy and steep with no guard rails. RVs or large trucks can not get down our road or through the one-car train tunnel to the river!!! No turnaround.* Sorry farm stay not pets allowed. We have a very protective cat (only towards other animals not people).Any questions for the host?

Bull Run RV Park

44mi from Marion · 1 site · Tent, RV

Bull Run RV Park is a Full Hook Up (FHU) park. Scenic views on this 112 acre ranch. We are conveniently located 20 min from I-85, 5 min from Hwy 74 and 10 min from Two Kings Casino. Our Park is nestled along the Wolfbranch Creek and Longbranch Creek. We have hiking and mountain biking trails your enjoyment and exercise as well as pickleball/ basketball courts. Each of our sites is complete with 45 x 15 concrete pads with attached 8 x 8 patio. County water and city sewer at each site along with 50, 30 and 20 amp service. Our park has a full bathhouse with separate and private shower / toilets for men and women. We offer overnight stays as well as weekend / weeklong stays and extended stays. Check out the Bull Run RV Park, you will be glad you did.

Imagine Equus Farm

100%

(6)

33mi from Marion · 2 sites · Lodging

I first saw this property in 2009 and fell in love with it. The property is gorgeous and the land has a magical feel. Situated in the foothills of the Blueridge Mountains we are in horse and wine county! The area is also part of the isothermal belt so the weather is always better than the rest of the South or the Mountains. The land is about 1/2 pastures and the remainder are beautiful forests with trails, creeks and even our own waterfall. The animals and equines living here make the place even more special. Learn more about this land: Tiny home cabin on 28 acre horse farm with creeks, woods, and incredible pasture views. Your cabin is set in a grove of pine trees with gorgeous views from your deck and inside the home. We are in the horse and wine country of Polk County. There are 5 wineries within minutes. We are 7 miles from the new and fabulous Tryon International Equestrian Center. We are just over 20 minutes to Saluda with awesome kayaking and tubing on the Green River, hiking, biking and ziplining too. We are excited to add that we now are part of the Art of the Horse tour through Our Carolina Foothills!  Imagine Equus Farm are the new proud owners of Mil Flores, a beautiful horse painted by artist Mary Tolles.  Mil Flores now adorns the front of the farm!   The cabin has 1 queen sized bedroom and 1 bath, plus a full kitchen, living room and dining area. You will have all of the comforts when you are inside with wifi, cable TV, a mini-split for heat and air conditioning, a fireplace and a dishwasher. We keep the cabins stocked with everything you will need for your perfect getaway. We feature high in beds and 100% organic cotton sheets. The cabins are new and stylishly designed. The property is private and quiet. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a home base for TIEC horse shows, wine tastings or a quiet retreat. You will see miniature donkeys, horses, goats and even a steer roaming the pastures from your cabin. We want your time here to be wonderful, so we have strived to create a peaceful oasis.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

K

Katie

November 2025

15 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

This is an absolutely beautiful campsite. The hosts are very accommodating and give great directions. We also love seeing the horses.

B

Billy

November 2025

29 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Overland Camping for 4!

Had a great time at Blue Ridge Ranch will definitely be back again, Staff was great, site was well maintained

A

Amy

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blue Ridge Camping

The site has beautiful views. It is private even though the house is right up the hill you can’t see it over a berm. It was a bonus to have access to a bathroom toilet and hot shower. It is a bit of steep walk up to it but still nice to have. We saw deer and heard owls. Would definitely go again. Thank you Rebecca!

K

Kristen

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Sanctuary at RockHouseFarm

Camping at Edward’s was quiet lots of beautiful land! Great for remote camping with hiking nearby! Directions We’re clear on how to get to the camping site. Bath house was clean and well stocked up!

B

Brittney

November 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

The land was beautiful and private. Definitely a relaxing visit.

J

Joshua

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Sanctuary at RockHouseFarm

Beautiful land that is private but in a great location for the area. Host is very nice, my wife and I will definitely be back!

C

Chase

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Blue Ridge Camping

Rebecca was wonderful, and the space was convenient and cool. The pond spot was very nice.

B

Benjamin

November 2025

17 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Campsites at Shipley Farms

Amazing campsite! Very private with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. We camped during early winter, so you could just make out a couple houses and a secondary road in the distance. Hosts are extremely accommodating and very friendly. Farm store is a must visit. Watauga County Rec Center is about 15 minutes away and offers a daily “shower pass” for $5.

A

Abigail

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

Our family of 4 had an absolutely amazing time here at Lijahs garden. It was a perfect view yet close to porta potty and park king place. Great for little ones too! We also got to love on the beautiful horses thanks to Ms Jesi ❤️ How great is our God to make such a breathtaking view for us to enjoy with Him 🙏🏽❤️

R

Robert

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Neal Creek Camping Sites

Great host checked on us in the beginning and made sure we had wood for a fire .That's right wood who eles does that .no one .Great job on That. there camp ground had a swing and clean area .fire ring and running creek .Will be back

stephanie

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

So beautiful and such a special place, this land is a true gem! As stated, be absolutely sure your vehicle has 4 wheel drive (I rented a truck specifically for this trip and it DID NOT have 4WD like the rental company told me it did) Extra grateful for Jill & Fara for sending their friend to help my tow truck driver extract me from the hill. Please do not make the same mistake I did, especially after heavy rain the hill to the top camps (Zimbo/Lijahs Garden) can become very slick and muddy.

k

kaylie

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Neal Creek Camping Sites

Our stay at the site was lovely! Our only issue was wet firewood but other than that we had an amazing time :))

Rusty

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blue Ridge Camping

The arena site was perfect. Incredible sunset views. Campsite was easy to access and flat. Becky was incredible kind and helpful. Will 100% be back soon.

Andre

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Neal Creek Camping Sites

I love staying at David's place. It's always neat and clean and David is a pleasant host.

F

Forest

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

We loved camping & eloping at Lijah’s Ridge. What a beautiful, scenic spot. We look forward to returning again and again. Thank you! 😊

L

Lindi

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

Great, clean campsites with beautiful panoramic views of the mountains. An amazing getaway , several acres, not crowded with people. The host was great and very good at communication! Can’t wait for my next opportunity to go back!

M

Makenna

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Campsites at Shipley Farms

Quiet place to camp close to downtown boone! Fire pit was great to use, and stars were great :)

j

julie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Neal Creek Camping Sites

Great spot and super convenient to I-85. The spot is a great size, private, and bucolic. David is great at communication. Definitely recommend!!

J

Jenna

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

Incredible views, absolutely beautiful. So peaceful and quiet. We stumbled upon the horses while hiking the trails and it was so magical. Love this spot

Z

Zoe

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blue Ridge Camping

Great location! Really enjoyed how private it was

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch camping near Marion guide

Where to go

Lake James State Park

Northeast of Marion on the border of Pisgah National Forest, Lake James State Park features sandy beaches, rugged forestry, and two on-site campgrounds. Lake James’ campgrounds offer tent-only accommodations with backpacking areas and paddle-in campsites. All frontcountry campsites include a firepit, picnic table, and 12x12 tent pad with access to potable water faucets, toilets, and hot showers. After a night in nature, check out the park’s boat rentals for a day out on the water or hike along Mill's Creek Trail for Blue Ridge Mountain views.

Pisgah National Forest

Less than an hour from Marion, forested peaks, rivers, and waterfalls await in Pisgah National Forest. The forest maintains multiple campgrounds, cabin rentals, dispersed districts, and horse-friendly campsites, many of which include full hookups, drinking water, dump stations, and showers. Pisgah is also home to over 200 waterfalls, Blue Ridge Mountains, and gem and mining caves in Emerald Village, where visitors can take a unique black-light tour of the cavernous depths. Campers can also consider the rugged terrain and valleys of Linville Gorge Wilderness area for more challenging trails and mountain climbing.

South Mountains State Park

South Mountains State Park has two access points for campers: Clever Creek and Jacob Fork. As the largest state park in North Carolina, South Mountains is renowned for its 18-mile mountain-bike loop, an 80-ft waterfall, and 40 miles of hiking trails reaching elevations up to 3,000 feet. On-site camping facilities for tents, RVs, trailers, and horses are available at the Jacob Fork access. All campsites come with firepits, picnic tables, and access to showers—a few provide electric hookups, as well.

When to go

Marion’s warm summers and mild winters attract campers year-round. With sun-filled summer skies and temperatures reaching the mid 80s to low 90s, campers can spend warm days by the beach and out on the water from late June to early September. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing overnight, making cold-weather camping gear essential for winter camping.