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Camping near Murphy

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The Appalachian Trail passes through Murphy, giving hikers a tremendous opportunity to traverse one of the more challenging legs of the iconic trail or hit Lake Hiwassee for fishing, boating, and swimming. The trail also passes through Nantahala National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, immersing campers in awe-inspiring forests of eastern hemlock, northern red oak, and yellow poplar. From full-service RV parks and comfortable mountain cabins to peaceful, off-grid backcountry campsites, the Murphy area promises a great camping escape for nature lovers.

97% (7.8K) 4,069 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Murphy

Life On The Vine

1. Life On The Vine

97%
(18)
5mi from Murphy · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Valley River Vineyards was established in 1997 by the late Bill and Brenda Stalcup Reece. The property has been in Brenda's family for over 100 years. The family owned and operated vineyards produces Old World and Northern Grapes. Wine is produced and bottled in their winery. The 32 acer property has a elongated pond with Martins Creek thru the vineyards. There are picnic areas along with RV hook ups and Tent Camping. A quiet and serene place to enjoy a weekend get away and a day drinkers paradise. Learn more about this land: "Camping In The Vines" is 4 miles from the small town of Murphy NC.  Tranquil bright star nights, campfire, wildlife watching and walking trails from the vineyards to the hill tops.  Wildflowers surround you while enjoying a glass of wine beside the cold running waters of Martins Creek. Primitive camping, RV power hook up, outside bathroom w/ sinks, indoor shower w/ hot-water, picnic tables, fire wood and garbage cans available.  Just a place to sit back and let the world go by for a little while.
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Glamping at the Chapel

2. Glamping at the Chapel

100%
(10)
6.4mi from Murphy · 1 site
Secluded 48 acres in Murphy (about 16 minutes to downtown). Near: John C. Campbell Folk School (about 12 minutes away); Nantahala River (about 35 minutes away). Friendly dog and cat (they live at my house, but may come to the chapel for a visit). Roam the property and swim in the spring fed pond. If you are a camper or want to try "camping," then you will love "glamping" ("glamorous camping") at the chapel! Read more about "glamping" and the chapel's features below. The space My vision is that my property (which I've named "Kingdom Come") would be a place of rest, retreat, and enjoyment for others. I am going to build a few cabins for lodging, but my first major project was building a chapel, so that it would be the centerpiece and heartbeat: a place for reflection, meditation, and prayer. I built the chapel myself (with my own hands, and the hands of a couple of friends). As I work on building the cabins, I have decided to use the chapel as a glamping site (better than using it as a "divine" storage building!). My mother was an artist and when she died I ended up with a lot of her artwork. Some of her paintings now fill the chapel. They also fill the space, I hope, with her grace and love and creativity. The chapel features beautiful timber frame construction. As to "glamping" . . . there is no running water/plumbing, but you'll have all the fresh water you need for showers, drinking, etc. Limited electricity for running the kitchen appliances. No AC, of course, but the fan will keep it comfortable in warm weather. As to cold weather, the chapel has an electric heater that keeps it fairly comfortable in cold weather: not blazing hot, but comfortable, unless it gets VERY cold; then, the heater just takes off some of the chill. Zinus Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 6 Inch mattresses are very comfortable! Using the outdoor solar/camp shower is wonderful. The privy is clean and well-ventilated. Appliances: fan; toaster oven; microwave oven; coffee maker; and, small micro-fridge. Lighting is provided by four rechargeable lanterns. Screens on the windows and door to keep the bugs at bay. Outdoor deck features comfortable Adirondack chairs, a Weber charcoal grill, and a fire pit for campfires. I'll provide you with wood (on a donation basis . . . pay what you like) campfires. Matches and paper provided, too, to help get the fire started. The play area offers opportunities limited only by your imagination. Sunbathing? Stargazing? Badminton and Bocce balls provided if you want to play! AT THE CHAPEL YOU WILL BE PROVIDED WITH: Towels and wash clothes Sheets, pillow cases and blankets Coffee filters Salt and Pepper Soap for washing Dinnerware (including knives, forks, and spoons) for four Paper plates and disposable knives, forks, and spoons Toilet paper Paper towels Plenty of water for drinking, washing, and bathing YOU MAY WISH TO BRING: Charcoal, if you want to use the grill Learn more about this land: Secluded 48 acres in Murphy (about 16 minutes to downtown). Near: John C. Campbell Folk School (about 12 minutes away); Nantahala River (about 35 minutes away). Friendly dog and cat (they live at my house, but may come to the chapel for a visit). Roam the property, swim in the spring fed pond, play badminton or horseshoes, or just lounge on the deck. If you are a camper or want to try "camping," then you will love "glamping" ("glamorous camping") at the chapel! Read more about "glamping" and the chapel's features below. My vision is that my property (which I've named "Kingdom Come") would be a place of rest, retreat, and enjoyment for others. I am going to build a few cabins for lodging, but my first major project was building a chapel, so that it would be the centerpiece and heartbeat: a place for reflection, meditation, and prayer. I built the chapel myself (with my own hands, and the hands of a couple of friends). As I work on building the cabins, I have decided to use the chapel as a glamping site (better than using it as a "divine" storage building!).My mother was an artist and when she died I ended up with a lot of her artwork. Some of her paintings now fill the chapel. They also fill the space, I hope, with her grace and love and creativity. The chapel features beautiful timber frame construction. As to "glamping" . . . there is no running water/plumbing, but you'll have all the fresh water you need for showers, drinking, etc. Limited electricity for running the kitchen appliances.No AC, of course, but the fan will keep it comfortable in warm weather. As to cold weather, the chapel has an electric heater that keeps it fairly comfortable in cold weather: not blazing hot, but comfortable, unless it gets VERY cold; then, the heater just takes off some of the chill.  Four (4) beds with Zinus Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 6 Inch mattresses are very comfortable!  Using the outdoor solar/camp shower is wonderful. The privy is clean and well-ventilated.Appliances: fan; toaster oven; microwave oven; coffee maker; and, small micro-fridge. Lighting is provided by four rechargeable lanterns. Screens on the windows and door to keep the bugs at bay. Outdoor deck features comfortable Adirondack chairs, a Weber charcoal grill, and a fire pit for campfires. There is firewood available for you on a donation basis. Matches and paper provided, too, to help get the fire started. The play area offers opportunities limited only by your imagination. Sunbathing? Stargazing? Badminton and Bocce balls provided if you want to play! WOOD-FIRED SAUNA We also offer an experiential upgrade to your stay if you want to bask in a traditional Finnish wood-fired sauna complete with plunges into our cool pond between rounds. Please contact us and we will send you more details on the sauna rates. If you desire to book the sauna during your stay , we will light the fire and have it toasty hot for your sweat. We will gladly walk you through a traditional Finnish ritual and what to expect. AT THE CHAPEL YOU WILL BE PROVIDED WITH:  Towels and wash clothes  Sheets, pillow cases and blankets  Coffee filters  Salt and Pepper  Soap for washing  Dinnerware (including knives, forks, and spoons) for four  Paper plates and disposable knives, forks, and spoons  Toilet paper  Paper towels  Plenty of water for drinking, washing, and bathing  YOU MAY WISH TO BRING:  Charcoal, if you want to use the grill  Swimming towels.
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Walnut Hollow Ranch

3. Walnut Hollow Ranch

99%
(72)
8.3mi from Murphy · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Walnut Hollow Ranch sits in the Nantahala Mountain Region of the Great Smoky Mountains. The 155 acre farm is a horseshoe shaped cove with Wiggin's Top at its crown. The land consists of 67 acres of cattle pastures, 5 ponds and 3-5 miles of hiking trails. The forest consists of lowland pines, poplar, dogwood, hickory and walnut trees. The upland consists of oaks, poplar and other hardwoods. Wildlife abounds at Walnut Hollow Ranch. Our residents include: wild turkeys, white tail deer, red fox, red tail hawks, bluebirds, finches and many others. Passerby's include: wood and mallard ducks, blue and white herons, river otters, black bear, bobcat, coyote and migratory birds.The ponds include: big mouth bass, small mouth bass and brim.
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Full hookups
Nantahala National Forest

4. Nantahala National Forest

95%
(73)
National forest 28mi from Murphy · 438 sites
Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.
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Cherokee National Forest

5. Cherokee National Forest

96%
(49)
National forest 148mi from Murphy · 625 sites
Follow us to Tennessee and dive into the grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest! It’s filled to the brim with scenic forested trails, rushing rivers, and rainbow trout. During the day you can go rafting, and at night you can bask yourself in moonshine (of various sorts) and brush up on your constellations. If you are in pursuit of some Appalachian Mountain bliss, this is the right place to start. Don’t forget your camera, you're going to want to show these vistas off!
West Preserve

6. West Preserve

99%
(59)
9.9mi from Murphy · 33 sites · Tents, Lodging
West Preserve is located on a family farm of approximately 100 acres. You will see mountains,rolling hills and water. This farm has been untouched until recently.The Briar and The Bloom are brand new structures waiting for you to enjoy.Water Tubing is available at West Tubing Company.
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Creekside Bliss

7. Creekside Bliss

96%
(82)
11mi from Murphy · 2 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 and animals....sorry for the noise but we love our animals. :) Also please note we are a working farm and there are electric fences. As you drive in, you will see a self-serve Farm Stand. We can bring your first load of firewood (if you order any) to your site, if you need more, you can get it at our Farm Stand, but if you would like us to deliver more - just let us know, we want to be accommodating to you. Also available are fresh eggs and other produce! When you drive into the property to access your site, please drive straight to the field along the grassy pathway. 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 crowing too, sometimes in early hours - sorry about that). 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) 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. We have farm fresh eggs! They are unwashed so no refrigeration needed. 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! Please contact Tim with any questions!
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LGBTQ+ friendly! Everyone welcome!

8. LGBTQ+ friendly! Everyone welcome!

96%
(40)
11mi from Murphy · 1 site · Tent, RV
We have owned this property since 2005. The pond is a favorite place of ours and we would love to share it with you!! We live just up the mountain are here for you via text if you need anything at all during your stay with us. The pond is in the middle of about a 4 acre area that is totally forested & makes a great place to get away from the madness of life & get into nature. Our street ends in a cul-de-sac, minimizing traffic in the area, but the spot is right along a street. You will be able to see & hear cars going by the site. On the other hand, it is also right along a deer path & just this morning I saw 2 does & a baby walking through the site. There is a resident hawk & a gaggle of turkeys that live in the area in addition to pileated woodpeckers & all sorts of other birds. Come check it out and please let us know if you have any questions. Learn more about this land: We would love to have you at the Pond at Dogwood Acres. Our pond is just a little pond, but it is full of life and makes for a cozy little campsite. You will be the only ones camping here. There is a long parking spot suitable for cars/SUVs/trucks and even a trailer or pop up.  There are hiking trails leading into the woods at the right side of the end of the drive. Feel free to enjoy them. We are surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest and here in Towns County we are 80% National Forest. Lake Chatuge is close by (less than 10 minutes) in Hiawassee has 132 miles of shoreline. The Appalachian Trail weaves all through the area and you can get to numerous access points for the AT within about 30 minutes. There are a many waterfalls throughout our area within about a 30 minute drive as well. The closest is Cupid Falls just behind Young Harris College. Fire's Creek in Hayesville is a favorite spot. Otherwise you can head towards Vogel State Park and find many more.  Head north on state road 66 heading out of Young Harris towards Warne, North Carolina. Travel almost 4 miles passing 339 and then make a right on Brasstown Lane. If you see mile marker 4 or get to Warne, you passed it. Once you turn onto Brasstown Lane it will be on the right side. Coming from North Carolina head south on 66 out of Warne and make a left onto Brasstown Lane. We are about 1 mile south of the North Carolina state line. We are somewhat in the middle of Blairsville (GA), Hiawassee (GA) and Hayeville (NC).  Not far from us is the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC and just a bit further is Murphy, NC.  34'58'45.1"N 83'52'49.7"W On a larger scale, we are right in the middle of and about 2 hours from Atlanta, Asheville and Chattanooga. Any questions? Let us know!  Note- this campsite is on a residential street. Our street has a cul-de-sac and does not have much traffic, but there are houses in the vicinity of the campsite.
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Picnic table
Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

9. Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

99%
(1130)
12mi from Murphy · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Private property bordering Nantahala National Forest on Little Snowbird Creek in Robbinsville, NC. 16mi from Lake Santeelah, about 10mi from the Cherohala Skyway. MUST HAVE 4X4 OR AWD VEHICLE TO ACCESS MOUTAINTOP CAMPSITES. Property damage fee of $100 for 2WD vehicles not adhering to rule. 2WD vehicles must camp creekside, sites 1-6. NO AXES, HATCHETS, MACHETES ALLOWED ON THE PROPERTY. NO NAILS IN THE TREES TO HANG THINGS. It damages the tree and causes them to die. Keep pets on a leash, especially if they like to roam or have any aggressive behavior. Spacious camping lots, and great trout fishing along little snowbird creek which is on private property. Fishing privileges are actually written into property owners' deed on the purchase of land. Views that can bring a tear to a glass eye and relaxing sounds of the creek can be heard from anywhere on the property. Hundreds of Hiking trails in the area, many just a short distance from the property. Please be respectful of others' property and no trespassing signs. It’s a gravel mountain road the last several miles to the property and like driving through an enchanted forest. The secluded location, peaceful and breathtaking views make this place a must-see adventure.
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Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

10. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

96%
(69)
National forest 21mi from Murphy · 557 sites
Visit the Georgian gateway to the Appalachian Trail.
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Electrical hookup
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Vogel State Park

11. Vogel State Park

100%
(16)
State park 23mi from Murphy · 39 sites
Georgia’s second-oldest state park is home to some of the state’s most scenic landscapes.
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Moccasin Creek State Park

12. Moccasin Creek State Park

100%
(2)
State park 30mi from Murphy · 2 sites
Plentiful docking facilities, a gorgeous lake and adjacent trout hatchery create an angler's heaven.
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Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park

13. Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park

88%
(4)
State park 31mi from Murphy · 55 sites
Discover the thrill of Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park.
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The Property at Mull Valley

14. The Property at Mull Valley

98%
(27)
12mi from Murphy · 1 site
Experience an exclusive retreat on our family's pristine 6-acre mountain estate, nestled in the awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Mountains. Here, you'll discover unmatched tranquility as the sole guest on our secluded and peaceful mountain 3 site RV getaway, complete with 30 and 50 Amp power, water, and sewer hookups for your RV. Embark on an adventure down our private half-mile hiking trail leading to a picturesque creek, or simply relax on our spacious deck, unwind in a hammock, enjoy card games in our charming pavilion, and end your day with captivating stories around the welcoming fire pit complete with complimentary firewood. Conveniently located in the heart of the Aska adventure area, situated between the vibrant destinations of Blue Ridge, Blairsville, and Murphy, NC, we offer the convenience of being 20 minutes or less from some of the best shopping, dining and outdoor adventure North Georgia has to offer.
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Full hookups
Candy Mountain Goat Farm

15. Candy Mountain Goat Farm

97%
(269)
14mi from Murphy · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Play with our friendly goats - we have 10 babies (kids) ready to be held! Welcome to our six-acre, solar-powered goat farm — a quiet slice of mountain paradise that feels worlds away from the noise, yet sits minutes from adventure in the Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains. Summer at the farm means lots of baby goats (kids) who love to be held and cuddled. We have six recent newborns and another five on the way. 🐐 The Farm Experience * Feed and play with our friendly goats * Relax by the grass-covered brook * Gather around our large communal fire pit * Walk our loop and spring trails * Enjoy our petting area and farm activities * Small zipline for extra fun * Saturday outdoor movies (available upon request) This is peaceful, unplugged mountain living — with just enough amenities to stay comfortable. 🏕 Campsites & RV Pads * Two custom-built RV pads * 15-amp and 30-amp service * Water hookups included * Several grass tent sites * Picnic tables, grills, and personal fire pits * Overlooking a small brook * Forest-shaded, park-like setting Whether you’re traveling by RV, van, or tent, each site offers privacy and natural beauty. 💻 High-Speed Internet (Yes, Really) We provide Starlink Business internet across the entire property. * 300–500 Mbps download * 20–30 Mbps upload * Low latency * Reliable coverage throughout the farm Perfect for remote workers, van lifers, or anyone who wants to answer emails from the top of a mountain. 🏞 Nearby Adventure Within a short drive you’ll find: * Hiking trails & waterfalls * Lakes & swimming holes * Tubing & whitewater rafting * Boating & fishing * Mountain towns & seasonal festivals * Adventure when you want it. Tranquility when you don’t.
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Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping

16. Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping

97%
(78)
15mi from Murphy · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
All sites are on the valley river surrounded by mountain views. Close to the Dragon Tail, Trail of Tears, and the North Georgia / Tennessee border. Zip lining, white water rafting, fishing, hiking, and biking are all nearby. Enjoys stunning views, the sound of the river, and plenty of other outdoor activities around. Two separate bathhouses are available with 2 full bathrooms in each and a laundry room is also available.
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Full hookups
Mountain Creek Rest

17. Mountain Creek Rest

100%
(294)
15mi from Murphy · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Mountain Creek Rest is a rural, creek side get-a-way in the mountains with 2 beautiful, huge, tent sites and a mini-cabin! Bring your kids & dog! (Registering pets in the "Extras" portion of your registration is required.) It does not have hook ups, power, or running water. You get there on a gravel road with 2wd. 5.5" of clearance is recommended. (google your car) Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic campsite for 2! There is a large tent pad if you have children! The Diamondstone site is also a unique, beautiful, one-of-a-kind site! It has a beautiful, furnished, shelter cabin which is provided for you instead of using your tent!!! Leave your tent and tent set-up at home! There is room for your tent and your children out front, right beside the creek! Islandsite is an equally beautiful tent site ideally for two, but the 10x12 platform can accommodate a 6-man tent, best for 2 adults and a couple of kids! You won't want to leave, but if you do there are many recreational opportunities in the area such as hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, and more! Stays of 6 days or more get a big discount! Enjoy the fresh, cooler mountain air, and the beautiful, settings! Heartstone is located on a modestly pitched, terraced slope where a divided mountain stream, the tumbling Squally Creek rejoins itself! The sunlight filters down through the forest canopy providing a warm, inviting glow!! There is a 9'-6" x 10' wooden tent platform, and if needed a new, larger tent pad! Islandsite is located at the top of the island where the tumbling Squally Creek divides! Access is provided by the 40' long fallen tree bridge! Islandsite is amazing and very unique! Diamondstone, Heartstone, and Islandsite all feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility. They are all within a short walk from your private parking! Enjoy evenings at the new fire pit area with benches overlooking the fire pit and creek! Explore the island on the 400' island trail, or go downstream to a nice pool for dipping! Contact me for discounts when staying more than 6 nights! The gravel road is uneven, and 5.5" of clearance is recommended. Extra guests are an available option! The property is spacious and there is parking for a second vehicle nearby if needed!
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The Cove at Dick Branch

18. The Cove at Dick Branch

96%
(25)
15mi from Murphy · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
The Cove at Dick Branch is a trails focused mountain side campground. Horse stalls and pasture available on request. The property is secluded and away from traffic noise but not difficult to get to. Everyone who sees the property comments on its beautiful grounds. The mountain rises above the camp sites with hiking trails leading directly from your site.
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Full hookups
Rest And Relax Retreat

19. Rest And Relax Retreat

100%
(49)
16mi from Murphy · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Come enjoy your relaxation space along the banks of Hothouse Creek. Site is on 27 beautiful acres with flowing water, hiking trails, nature, and stargazing. You have access to our indoor common house space with two full bathrooms with showers and air conditioned hang out den with couches. Every site comes equipped with: -Hammock along the creek -Smokeless fire pit -Six-foot picnic bench -Pop-up canopy -Zero gravity chair (additional chairs available for $5 each) -Charcoal Grill -Plenty of space to set up your own tent and gear The property is very quiet and private and a convenient 15 minute drive away from activities/ grocery/ supplies/ restaurant/ shopping in Blue Ridge or McCaysville/Copperhill. Amazing for stargazing- we have open sky and any exterior lights are red to maximize night vision. We have three nice goats that would love to meet and play with you in addition to the fireflies, deer, hummingbirds, cardinals, hawks, rabbits, squirrels, foxes, and bats for viewing. There is a 1/3 mile track in the pasture for walking and a 1/2 mile mountain trail up to the ridge summit. Near world class river rafting, fishing, hiking, and tubing in the Smoky Mountains.
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Salty Pines Hideaway

20. Salty Pines Hideaway

97%
(16)
17mi from Murphy · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Salty Pines, a peaceful 14-acre getaway tucked between the Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers in the quiet mountains of Turtletown, Tennessee. Nestled on the edge of a 450-acre working farm, Salty Pines sits where the wild things are — open skies, clean air, and the kind of quiet you can actually feel. What began as a simple dream between three best friends has grown into a hand-built retreat for campers seeking space, privacy, and a true connection to the outdoors. We’re three longtime friends from different islands who bought this land to create a place where people can unplug, breathe, and return to simple living. Every campsite, trail, and fire pit on this property was built by us—no contractors, no big companies; just hard work, good music, and a love for the outdoors. In town for a white water rafting trip? Stay with us and receive a discounted trip at one of the largest and most established outfitters on the Ocoee River! Message us after you book your stay, and we will get you hooked up! Only 20 minutes from the property! Want more than glamping? We've partnered with local outfitters to offer exclusive discounts to our guests! Including whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River, zip lining through the Cherokee National Forest canopy, scenic horseback rides, and mountain biking adventures! After booking send us a message and we will get you hooked up! Enjoy our outdoor shower fed by rainwater and spring water with hot water after a long day of outdoor fun! Also have an outhouse on site. Building this property from the ground up, will have a bathhouse and showers this fall of 2026! When you’re ready to venture off the property, you’ve got everything you need within a short drive. The Thirsty Turtle Beer Garden is just 5 minutes away, is our go-to spot for cold beer and a solid bite after a day on the river. About 10 minutes out you’ll find Tammy’s for ice cream (trust us, you’ll want it), and Kick Start for ice, fuel, and any supplies you forgot to pack. Salty Pines hits peak season twice a year — and fall might be the better-kept secret. Sitting right where Tennessee, Georgia, and North Carolina meet, our 14 acres between the Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers turn into a front-row seat for some of the best leaf-peeping in the Southeast every October. The Ocoee River Gorge and the nearby Cherohala Skyway both light up gold, red, and rust, while our off-grid yurts and tent sites give you cooler nights, quieter trails, and a fire ring that finally makes sense again. Whether you're planning a dedicated fall foliage trip or just want camping near Cherokee National Forest during peak color, Salty Pines puts you in the middle of it — not driving in for the day, but staying in it. Contact us directly for group rates and events! :) Sharing Salty Pines with travelers is a dream come true for us, and we’re grateful to have you here!
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Murphy camping guide

Where to go

Lake Hiwassee

With almost 180 miles of shoreline surrounding its over 6,000 acres, Lake Hiwassee connects with Appalachia Lake and Lake Chatuge to form the Chain of Lakes. Surrounded by a peaceful mountain setting, the lakes are a popular destination for water activities like water skiing, swimming, and kayaking. Anglers can drop lines for striped bass, yellow perch, and bluegill. Family-friendly RV parks in the area feature back-in and pull-through campsites with water, electricity, and dump stations. Rustic tent camping spots offer a quieter escape with nearby potable water on tap.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Attracting millions of visitors every year, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is about 60 miles northeast of Murphy. Stunning mountain scenery with dense forest covers over 500,000 acres, where hikers especially enjoy the 850 miles of trails crisscrossing the park, including a climb up Mount LeConte, the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River. Look for such diverse wildlife as bobcats, foxes, woodchucks, white-tailed deer, and bats. Tent, RV, and group campsites offer fire rings, flush toilets, drinking water, dump stations, and full hookups for electricity. For more of an escape, permitted backcountry camping is available.

Nantahala National Forest

Similar in size to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Nantahala National Forest spans over 800 square miles and is the largest of four national forests in North Carolina. The name derives from Cherokee, meaning “Land of the Noonday Sun.” With vast changes in elevation, from 1,200 feet along the Hiwassee River to 5,800 feet at Lone Bald, Nantahala boasts breathtaking waterfalls that are especially impressive in spring. Campgrounds in the area range from backcountry to full-service, many of which feature picnic areas, drinking water, toilets, and showers—some have boat ramps.

When to go

Although summer is peak camping season in North Carolina, thanks to long days and warm weather, the fall months may be preferable for some Hipcampers. Fall foliage in the Murphy area creates a picturesque landscape of oranges, yellows, and reds. The cooler weather can make for more pleasant hikes, too. Summer draws the biggest crowds, so be sure to book campsites early. Spring is another noteworthy time of year to visit, not only for the milder weather but also because the melting snow creates more dramatic waterfalls while blooming wildflowers deliver a colorful backdrop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lake Hiwassee, Appalachia Lake, and Lake Chatuge offer water skiing, swimming, and kayaking. Anglers can also fish for striped bass, yellow perch, and bluegill. Family-friendly RV parks in the area feature back-in and pull-through campsites with water, electricity, and dump stations. Rustic tent camping spots offer a quieter escape with nearby potable water on tap. You can also explore different options for camping near Murphy on Hipcamp.

The Appalachian Trail passes through Murphy, giving hikers a tremendous opportunity to traverse one of the more challenging legs of the iconic trail or hit Lake Hiwassee for fishing, boating, and swimming. The trail also passes through Nantahala National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, immersing campers in awe-inspiring forests of eastern hemlock, northern red oak, and yellow poplar. From full-service RV parks and comfortable mountain cabins to peaceful, off-grid backcountry campsites, the Murphy area promises a great camping escape for nature lovers. You can also explore different options for camping near Murphy on Hipcamp.

Although summer is peak camping season in North Carolina, thanks to long days and warm weather, the fall months may be preferable for some campers. Fall foliage in the Murphy area creates a picturesque landscape of oranges, yellows, and reds. The cooler weather can make for more pleasant hikes, too. Summer draws the biggest crowds, so be sure to book campsites early. Spring is another noteworthy time of year to visit, not only for the milder weather but also because the melting snow creates more dramatic waterfalls while blooming wildflowers deliver a colorful backdrop.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Murphy, NC trips