Camping near Murphy

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.

96% (8.5K) • 4,136 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Murphy

Barnett Old Tobacco Farm

1. Barnett Old Tobacco Farm

100%

(79)

3.3mi from Murphy · 1 site

Our Old Tobacco Farm has been in the family for generations, hence "Barnett Road". Currently we just grow organic veggies in our high tunnel greenhouse and the old tobacco fields now are used for hay production and a safe haven for a large herd of deer. Learn more about this land: This site is gravel and level. It is in front of a babbling small creek. The site is private with robust wifi, water and 30 amp electric. The site is 40 feet in length but could probably work also for up to 50'. Slideouts are fine. There is a picnic table, gas grill, chairs and a firepit beside the site. We live on an 18 acre farm. We recently discovered the joy of traveling the US in an Airstream. When we came home after 6000+ miles, because some of our favorite sites were non-traditional ones, we decided to add a site on our farm. Enjoy the dark skies and quietness of the country. We are 10 minutes from downtown Murphy. There is only a small area of gravel which is the actual site. Everything else to get here is paved.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Life On The Vine

2. Life On The Vine

98%

(23)

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Walnut Hollow Ranch

3. Walnut Hollow Ranch

98%

(46)

8.3mi from Murphy · 5 sites

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.

Pets

Full hookups

Nantahala National Forest

4. Nantahala National Forest

94%

(74)

National forest 28mi from Murphy · 438 sites

Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Cherokee National Forest

5. Cherokee National Forest

96%

(51)

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%

(63)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Creekside Bliss

7. Creekside Bliss

95%

(73)

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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Work for stay option available!

8. Work for stay option available!

96%

(42)

11mi from Murphy · 1 site · Tent, RV

If you would like to work for your stay and help clear autumn olive, please send a message. Directions: 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). 34'58'45.1"N 83'52'49.7"W 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.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

9. Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

99%

(1042)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

10. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

96%

(70)

National forest 21mi from Murphy · 557 sites

Visit the Georgian gateway to the Appalachian Trail.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Vogel State Park

11. Vogel State Park

94%

(17)

State park 23mi from Murphy · 39 sites

Georgia’s second-oldest state park is home to some of the state’s most scenic landscapes.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

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.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

The Property at Mull Valley

14. The Property at Mull Valley

98%

(29)

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.

Pets

Full hookups

Candy Mountain Goat Farm

15. Candy Mountain Goat Farm

96%

(237)

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 is coming to an end and fall is rapidly approaching. Our temperatures range in the 80s during the daytime and cool 60s at night. While we have seven sites available, we close it after a maximum of four are booked on a given day. 🐐 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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping

16. Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping

97%

(83)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Mountain Creek Rest

17. Mountain Creek Rest

100%

(326)

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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

The Cove at Dick Branch

18. The Cove at Dick Branch

96%

(26)

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.

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

Rest And Relax Retreat

19. Rest And Relax Retreat

100%

(60)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Salty Pines Hideaway

20. Salty Pines Hideaway

98%

(29)

17mi from Murphy · 4 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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

The best family-friendly campsites near Murphy

Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

99%

(1042)

12mi from Murphy · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Candy Mountain Goat Farm

96%

(237)

14mi from Murphy · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Mountain Creek Rest

100%

(326)

15mi from Murphy · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Magical Mountain Resorts

99%

(212)

19mi from Murphy · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Five gravel, flat RV sites with electric and water, by a trout creek and dump site on property! Tiny homes on property, hammocks, fire pit and more. 30 minutes away from Lake Chatuge, local brewing companies, local shopping, wine tasting, local artist displays and Marinas on the lake. Hiking, fishing

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Blue Ridge Basecamp

99%

(187)

25mi from Murphy · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Forested 15 acre lot with a beautiful grassy meadow, and a meandering stream with shallow spots to cool off in on a hot day. We have a meadow by the creek with first come first served tent spots. Pitch your tent anywhere you like and relax the day away. We also offer 6 fully stocked campers and 4 RV sites for rent. Please see each site for all the details! ALL RV/camper sites have FULL hookups with 20/30/50 amp, water and septic. There is fresh drinking water, on site garbage, picnic tables, firepits, firewood for purchase and a well-maintained porta-john. Porta John is only available March 1 - November 1. We are just minutes away from Nantahala Lake, Nantahala River, and the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy nearby white-water rafting, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, kayaking, ziplines and more. If you're not up for cooking there is a local restaurant on the lake 5 minutes away, as well as the Nantahala Outdoor Center a quick 20-minute drive.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Shaded Creek RV Hookups

98%

(57)

25mi from Murphy · 3 sites

(4) RV sites with full Hookups (High-speed internet, City water, Electric, and Sewer) Shaded creek access. All site's have check valves on the water hookup (Site #1 is underground). (2) 30 amp sites (2) 50 amp sites No vehicle age restrictions for campers or RV's. High speed internet, no cell service on property, WiFi calling only. Head left out of the driveway and park at the Presbyterian church about 1 mile away to make phone calls and receive texts. If you turn right from the drive way you will have to drive 12 miles before you will get a signal. Creek access with a fire pit (shared with other campers). Pets Welcome. Family Host onsite. 1/4 mile driveway loop allows easy access to property with larger campers and trailers. Enjoy the 360 degree view of the mountains around the property. 4 Miles from the town of Tellico Plains, Tellico Bakery (Closed Sunday and Monday), Big Bear Tubing, and Cherahala Skyway access (Leads to NC, Indian Boundary Lake, Tellico River, Bald River Falls [NOW OPEN!!!]), 25 min from Citico Creek [No fishing Thurs/Friday for Citico and Tellico River, stocked weekly] Day stamp trout stamp required in addition to license.

Pets

Full hookups

The best dog-friendly campsites near Murphy

Barnett Old Tobacco Farm

100%

(79)

3.3mi from Murphy · 1 site

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Life On The Vine

98%

(23)

5mi from Murphy · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Walnut Hollow Ranch

98%

(46)

8.3mi from Murphy · 5 sites

Pets

Full hookups

West Preserve

99%

(63)

9.9mi from Murphy · 33 sites · Tents, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Creekside Bliss

95%

(73)

11mi from Murphy · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Work for stay option available!

96%

(42)

11mi from Murphy · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Christopher

5 days ago

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The Cove at Dick Branch

Really peaceful and scenic location, close enough to lots of hiking areas, etc. The host was incredibly nice and helpful getting us newbies settled in safely.

Scott

5 days ago

Weekend Trip to Salty Pines Hideaway

Always a great place to stay, I'm looking forward to their continued growth and additional amenities. Great place to get away from it all.

Jack

5 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rest And Relax Retreat

Awesome stay here. Place was well laid out, quiet, peaceful and a great overall stay.

Savannah

5 days ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rest And Relax Retreat

We loved staying at the rest and relax retreat! The property was beautiful and the host Ralph was kind and responsive to everything we needed! We loved meeting the sweet goats and dogs on the property and going on the short hike up the ridge! Everything on the property was easy to access including the lounge which was always keep clean and stocked with coffee! We will definitely be back!

Mark

6 days ago

37 ft travel trailer

2 nights at The Cove at Dick Branch

The site was great. Exactly as described. It was nice to have our own fire ring. Beautiful views looking up at the mountain.

Caroline

6 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Rest And Relax Retreat

Ralph was an excellent host, showing us around the campgrounds and helping us turn around when we got lost. The campsite itself had everything we needed and we were even provided with firewood! The bathroom/common area were super clean. I would absolutely recommend anyone for this place for long-term/short term stay!

Lauren

6 days ago

Tent

2 nights at Rest And Relax Retreat

Ralph is an excellent host and the property is beautiful and well kept! Sleeping next to the creek is so peaceful ❤️ We got in a little late, Ralph helped with directions, he provided us with lanterns to help us set up camp in the dark, and he had a fire already set and ready to light in our fire pit. Common house with the bathrooms was immaculate and a nice amenity. I would recommend this stay to anyone who enjoys a good camping experience in an area with plenty of great hiking and other things to do 😊

joshua

1 week ago

Tent

2 nights at Rest And Relax Retreat

The site was amazing, we had a blast, the facility was clean, the host was amazing and quick to responde. If we needed anything he was quick to bring it to our site, can't wait to go back

Picnic table and tent pad area. Brian has a string of USB lights set up that you can plug into a USB port.

Dan

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mountain Creek Rest

Had a wonderful time!

Ana

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountain Creek Rest

Had the BEST time despite the crazy rain, and getting there after sunset. Brian’s directions are incredibly detailed and accurate. Tracking your distance using the odometer was super helpful. Didn’t have an issue getting there in my Ford Fusion- just made sure to take it slow and steady. You can tell he really cares for the campsite and the nature around him! So thankful for Brian and this place. Can’t wait to visit again ❤️

Carey

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Mountain Creek Rest

We LOVED our stay at this gorgeous cabin! My girlfriend and I loved sitting by the creek together and enjoying connecting with nature. The cabin offered a rustic way to camp that was a bit more than just tent camping. Us and the dogs loved it!!

Amanda

1 week ago

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Babbling Brook RV Site

Wonderful spot!

Elizabeth

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Mountain Creek Rest

What an amazing place! Brian is an amazing host, both for sharing his geographical wealth and for the way he cares for campers. We could not have had a better stay and are already planning our next trip back. Definitely recommend the Island Trail. 100000/10 stay!!

alayna

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

Book now! So peaceful falling asleep by the river and the host was very kind, especially towards my baby dog!

lucas

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

About my 3rd time staying here. Mountain top campsites are great.

Sue-Ellen

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Magical Mountain Resorts

This place is a true gem—we absolutely loved our stay!

George

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

The camp site right on the river was excellent. We greatly enjoyed our time. Site 3 was nice as it has a few more trees which helped break the rain. The amenities of the camping toilet and privacy tent were nice and everything was clean. Just a tip these sites are as advertised. They are beautifully secluded so come prepared with everything you need. There wont be an quick trips to town for the weary.

This view never disappoints! What an amazing place to camp!

Andrew

2 weeks ago

13 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

As always we had a great stay at little snowbird! Couldn’t be any happier with this beautiful campsite year after year!

Meghan

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to West Preserve

We enjoyed camping at West Preserve and plan to revisit this campsite next time we’re in the area.

Laura

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to SoulShine Forest

We stayed for a weekend to relax and disconnect from real life and boy did we!! The space is wonderfully maintained, the hosts are super easy going and communicative, and we loved the site that the tent is on! The property has multiple cute accommodations on it, but each feels private and unique. We will definitely be back and recommending to friends!!

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.

Top camping destinations around Murphy

Pisgah National Forest

110 campgrounds

Nantahala National Forest

116 campgrounds

Woodfin

527 campgrounds

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

106 campgrounds

Asheville

514 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular water activities near Murphy?

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.

What are some attractions for nature lovers near Murphy?

What are the best times of year to visit Murphy for camping?

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.