The best forest glamping 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.

98% (1.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Murphy

1. Twin Valley Horse Ranch

98%
(131)
48mi from Murphy · 5 sites · Lodging
My late husband and myself bought the property in 1983 and it was all just overgrown land!We worked, cleared, built horse shelters/barns, cabins, cut trails, built the outdoor chapel for our wedding and of course fenced it all in for the horses! Started sharing with guests in 1993, so we have met so many amazing folks from all over the world!  Pass thru our gate into another world and leave all your worries and tensions behind. We are all about getting back to what is real -- nature, animals/horses and each other. Complete privacy!There are many mountain trails leaving right from our property! Lots to explore. You can even hike to the outdoor chapel with the pretty view of the Chilhowee Mountain range.  It is a short hike to the barn area for those who want to spend time rubbing the pot belly pigs' tummy, walk the mini horses, groom the love bug~Junebug (donkey), pet horses, cuddle with bunnies and feed chickens!  Every morning and night we set a time for all those who want to become involved with the care/feeding of petting animals and horses! 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$48
 / night

3. Your Toccoa River Cove!

97%
(297)
21mi from Murphy · 3 sites · Lodging
The Cove consists of 12 acres with a tributary stream and spring fed ponds less than a half mile from the Toccoa River. It was originally the water source for the surrounding properties prior to the city installing a water system. It is completely private and unspoiled nature, with about a mile of walking trails throughout. The Mountaintop is a 3 acre high elevation site bordering 140 acres of undisturbed woods and is also very close to the Toccoa River. Fantastic location yet very private for base camp to access the many activities in this area, or enjoy the Toccoa River. It is the only campground in Fannin County limited to only one group at a time. Each site includes 2 access points to the Toccoa River. The Gibbs Drive community river access lot has a charcoal grill, picnic table, boat launch, swimming rock and fire pit with chairs. The Toccoa River Forest community river access lot has a big boat ramp. The river is controlled flow and usually at low water from dawn to about 2 pm, ideal for fishing or swimming/wading/boulder bopping. The River release schedule is available online at the website TVA.gov. The River has swift current when the dam is opened for release, usually daily. This property is conveniently located in Mineral Bluff, Georgia 30559, just 4 miles off the 4-lane highway (Highway 515/76) and just a short drive to Blue Ridge, Georgia; Blairsville, Georgia; Murphy, North Carolina, McCaysville, Georgia and Copper Hill, Tennessee. It is a paved road drive all the way to the entrance. It is located just a few miles from the center of downtown Blue Ridge with art galleries, many restaurants, brew pubs, shopping, the Blue Ridge Brewing Company, Mercier Orchard, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, and more! The Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad runs most of the year from Blue Ridge to McCaysville, right along the Toccoa River. The campsites are equally close to downtown McCaysville, Ga. /Copper Hill, TN. You are a short drive from Lake Blue Ridge, the Chattahoochee National Forest, Brasstown Bald and many hiking trails, such as the Aska adventure area, the Appalachian Trail, the Benton McCaye Trail, and trails in the Big Frog wilderness area, Cohutta wilderness area (largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi) the Rich Mountain wilderness area and the Project Chimps hiking trails. The Ocoee River whitewater center with the Olympic kayak rapids and the world class mountain biking trails are less than 20 minutes away. Hiking, biking, fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, tubing, boating, swimming, zip lines -- oh my!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night

7. Mountain Creek Rest

99%
(265)
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, also on a large site! It does not have hook ups, power, or running water. You get there on a gravel road with 2wd as long as your car has 5.5" of clearance. (google your car) Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic campsite for 2! There is a new, 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 is provided for you instead of using your tent!!! Leave your tent and the set-up at home! There is also room for a 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 unique, private, and very romantic! Diamondstone, Heartstone, and Islandsite feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility 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
from 
$44
 / night

9. Blue Ridge Basecamp

99%
(159)
25mi from Murphy · 22 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
from 
$29
 / night

15. Winding Stair Campground

99%
(198)
27mi from Murphy · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Winding Stair Campground sits at an elevation of 3,380 feet, next to the headwaters of the Nantahala River and is surrounded by national forest and undeveloped private land trusts. The stunning mountain views in a remote tucked-away setting make our farm a perfect getaway! Just a 15-minute scenic drive from Franklin in North Carolina, easily accessible off Hwy 64, our campground offers a chance to enjoy nature without being far away from the public amenities of a small but well-equipped town. A few features about our property: - Working farm: Campers are welcome to meet our Icelandic sheep and take a self-guided tour of our farm, along designated pathways. - Security: The campground and farm are fenced in on three sides with the river being the fourth boundary. Personal code to the entrance gate will be given at check in. - Bath House: The restored bathhouse is split into boys’ and girls’ sides. Each side has 2 private showers, 4 flushing toilets, sinks, hot water, and gas heat. - Community Pavilion: The Pavilion is a large 40x30 ft. open sided structure overlooking the Nantahala River. It has an ample fireplace, running water sink, counter space, couches, and table with benches. - Pack Room: Where the adventure begins! A cozy hub where all guests get local information, view maps, and grab some local seasonal groceries. Also available to all campers are washing sinks with hot water, toaster oven and microwave. - Communication: Or rather, lack thereof! There's no cell service on the property so it's a great time to get away from it all. There is limited Wi-Fi available near the Pack Room and an emergency landline available. - Charging: Traveling in an electric vehicle? Recharge for free at our dedicated EV 50amp outlet when you stay at any of our sites. First come, first served. Want to know more about the history of the property? Visit the 'Our Story' section on our website. Learn more about this land:
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$55
 / night

16. Forestry Treat, Blue Ridge

89%
(37)
18mi from Murphy · 1 site · Lodging
Learn more about this land: Cabin is a 10 x12 with a porch across the front. Sit on the porch and listen to the breeze thru the tree leaves and birds chirping and owls hooting. There are 2 lofts for sleeping and a futon. Small area with coffee pot and fridge. Enjoy your meals either inside cabin or outside at the picnic table. There is no running water in the cabin. No cooking in the cabin, but toast or roast your meal at small fire pit near cabin and picnic table. A full bathroom is available in the basement of nearby home with a private entrance. There is unmarked hiking in the surrounding state forrest. With in a 30 min drive, you will find access to the Appalachian trail, lake Blueridge, toccoa river for paddling, Serenberry Winery. There is potable water available. Only fires allowed in fire pit near the cabin. This is the woods, we must be super cautious. Thank you. Bring your own towels and sleeping bag/ linens. There is room to pitch a tent near firepit if you wish.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

17. Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites

90%
(48)
20mi from Murphy · 13 sites · Tents, Lodging
We just retired from Active Duty Air Force! My ancestors have owned the land our NC cabins sit on since 1836. In fact, my mother grew up there after my Grandfather returned from WWII when there was no electricity and the outhouse was a bench over the creek. I grew up hiking the mountains with my brothers and our BB guns and my Uncle Frank at our family reunions. In 2005 he deeded us a parcel of land and we built our first cabin - Smawlie. We love to come to the cabin and Hike the trails on our own property, and of course, the world famous ones that join them, namely the Bartram and the Appalachian Trails. As you explore the lake, the trails, the rivers, and the mountain roads you'll see why our ancestors settled here. In 2018 - we bought the remainder of Uncle Frank's land - and in his honor built our second cabin - Frank's Landing. Also in that year I started managing my brother Bill's cabin. When we were stationed in Alaska for 6 heavenly years - we purchased a remote parcel of property and have slowly begun to develop it. We just completed building our cabin there. Thanks for reading this little tid bit about us. We love to explore the mountains and are excited to share our cabins with you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

18. Little Barn Cabin At Fowl Territory

100%
(16)
49mi from Murphy · 1 site · Lodging
Cabin is located 6 miles from I 75 Tennessee exit 49 about midway between Knoxville and Chattanooga. The cabin sleeps four. Bedding is provided for one double bed, one single bed, and a cot. Kitchen includes stove, fridge, microwave, coffee maker, toaster and basic cookware and utensils. Coffee, cooking oil, salt and pepper are stocked. We have plenty of room to park a trailer or turn around a boat you travel with. Several access sites on the Tennessee and Hiwassee Rivers are nearby. Chickamauga Lake section of the Tennessee River is accessible within 15 minutes and is one of the best bass fishing lakes in the US. Several waterfalls are in easy driving distance as well as the Lost Sea, the largest underground lake in the USA. On the property activities could include, harvesting seasonal fruits and vegetables, gathering eggs, foraging for mushrooms, hiking in 17 wooded acres, or building a campfire.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$70
 / night

20. The Heart Center

98%
(223)
26mi from Murphy · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Heart Center sits on 30 acres of beautiful forest land and it is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest.  The place is an old school site that was literally left to be buried by the forest, until I came along and decided to fix it up, and create a holistic sanctuary for people wishing to get away from it all. A place where one can heal, contemplate, re-energize, and relax in a quiet and pristine environment. Feel secluded enough to experience your own inner stillness; and, yet, connected enough to enjoy many beautiful area attractions that are just minutes away such as: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Fontana Dam and the Appalachian Trail, 20 Mile Ranger Station, Cherohala Skyway, and Santeetlah Lake!The Heart Center is about love, unity, harmony, joy and re-connecting with ourselves, others, and Mother Nature. At the Heart Center, we take special interest in providing our guests with a uniquely peaceful, positive, comfortable, and relaxing experience! Whether you are laying on a hammock, walking the labyrinth, or just sitting on the deck taking in the sights and sounds, we want you to enjoy. 
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

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.

98% (1.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Murphy

1. Twin Valley Horse Ranch

98%
(131)
48mi from Murphy · 5 sites · Lodging
My late husband and myself bought the property in 1983 and it was all just overgrown land!We worked, cleared, built horse shelters/barns, cabins, cut trails, built the outdoor chapel for our wedding and of course fenced it all in for the horses! Started sharing with guests in 1993, so we have met so many amazing folks from all over the world!  Pass thru our gate into another world and leave all your worries and tensions behind. We are all about getting back to what is real -- nature, animals/horses and each other. Complete privacy!There are many mountain trails leaving right from our property! Lots to explore. You can even hike to the outdoor chapel with the pretty view of the Chilhowee Mountain range.  It is a short hike to the barn area for those who want to spend time rubbing the pot belly pigs' tummy, walk the mini horses, groom the love bug~Junebug (donkey), pet horses, cuddle with bunnies and feed chickens!  Every morning and night we set a time for all those who want to become involved with the care/feeding of petting animals and horses! 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$48
 / night

3. Your Toccoa River Cove!

97%
(297)
21mi from Murphy · 3 sites · Lodging
The Cove consists of 12 acres with a tributary stream and spring fed ponds less than a half mile from the Toccoa River. It was originally the water source for the surrounding properties prior to the city installing a water system. It is completely private and unspoiled nature, with about a mile of walking trails throughout. The Mountaintop is a 3 acre high elevation site bordering 140 acres of undisturbed woods and is also very close to the Toccoa River. Fantastic location yet very private for base camp to access the many activities in this area, or enjoy the Toccoa River. It is the only campground in Fannin County limited to only one group at a time. Each site includes 2 access points to the Toccoa River. The Gibbs Drive community river access lot has a charcoal grill, picnic table, boat launch, swimming rock and fire pit with chairs. The Toccoa River Forest community river access lot has a big boat ramp. The river is controlled flow and usually at low water from dawn to about 2 pm, ideal for fishing or swimming/wading/boulder bopping. The River release schedule is available online at the website TVA.gov. The River has swift current when the dam is opened for release, usually daily. This property is conveniently located in Mineral Bluff, Georgia 30559, just 4 miles off the 4-lane highway (Highway 515/76) and just a short drive to Blue Ridge, Georgia; Blairsville, Georgia; Murphy, North Carolina, McCaysville, Georgia and Copper Hill, Tennessee. It is a paved road drive all the way to the entrance. It is located just a few miles from the center of downtown Blue Ridge with art galleries, many restaurants, brew pubs, shopping, the Blue Ridge Brewing Company, Mercier Orchard, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, and more! The Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad runs most of the year from Blue Ridge to McCaysville, right along the Toccoa River. The campsites are equally close to downtown McCaysville, Ga. /Copper Hill, TN. You are a short drive from Lake Blue Ridge, the Chattahoochee National Forest, Brasstown Bald and many hiking trails, such as the Aska adventure area, the Appalachian Trail, the Benton McCaye Trail, and trails in the Big Frog wilderness area, Cohutta wilderness area (largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi) the Rich Mountain wilderness area and the Project Chimps hiking trails. The Ocoee River whitewater center with the Olympic kayak rapids and the world class mountain biking trails are less than 20 minutes away. Hiking, biking, fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, tubing, boating, swimming, zip lines -- oh my!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night

7. Mountain Creek Rest

99%
(265)
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, also on a large site! It does not have hook ups, power, or running water. You get there on a gravel road with 2wd as long as your car has 5.5" of clearance. (google your car) Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic campsite for 2! There is a new, 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 is provided for you instead of using your tent!!! Leave your tent and the set-up at home! There is also room for a 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 unique, private, and very romantic! Diamondstone, Heartstone, and Islandsite feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility 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
from 
$44
 / night

9. Blue Ridge Basecamp

99%
(159)
25mi from Murphy · 22 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
from 
$29
 / night

15. Winding Stair Campground

99%
(198)
27mi from Murphy · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Winding Stair Campground sits at an elevation of 3,380 feet, next to the headwaters of the Nantahala River and is surrounded by national forest and undeveloped private land trusts. The stunning mountain views in a remote tucked-away setting make our farm a perfect getaway! Just a 15-minute scenic drive from Franklin in North Carolina, easily accessible off Hwy 64, our campground offers a chance to enjoy nature without being far away from the public amenities of a small but well-equipped town. A few features about our property: - Working farm: Campers are welcome to meet our Icelandic sheep and take a self-guided tour of our farm, along designated pathways. - Security: The campground and farm are fenced in on three sides with the river being the fourth boundary. Personal code to the entrance gate will be given at check in. - Bath House: The restored bathhouse is split into boys’ and girls’ sides. Each side has 2 private showers, 4 flushing toilets, sinks, hot water, and gas heat. - Community Pavilion: The Pavilion is a large 40x30 ft. open sided structure overlooking the Nantahala River. It has an ample fireplace, running water sink, counter space, couches, and table with benches. - Pack Room: Where the adventure begins! A cozy hub where all guests get local information, view maps, and grab some local seasonal groceries. Also available to all campers are washing sinks with hot water, toaster oven and microwave. - Communication: Or rather, lack thereof! There's no cell service on the property so it's a great time to get away from it all. There is limited Wi-Fi available near the Pack Room and an emergency landline available. - Charging: Traveling in an electric vehicle? Recharge for free at our dedicated EV 50amp outlet when you stay at any of our sites. First come, first served. Want to know more about the history of the property? Visit the 'Our Story' section on our website. Learn more about this land:
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$55
 / night

16. Forestry Treat, Blue Ridge

89%
(37)
18mi from Murphy · 1 site · Lodging
Learn more about this land: Cabin is a 10 x12 with a porch across the front. Sit on the porch and listen to the breeze thru the tree leaves and birds chirping and owls hooting. There are 2 lofts for sleeping and a futon. Small area with coffee pot and fridge. Enjoy your meals either inside cabin or outside at the picnic table. There is no running water in the cabin. No cooking in the cabin, but toast or roast your meal at small fire pit near cabin and picnic table. A full bathroom is available in the basement of nearby home with a private entrance. There is unmarked hiking in the surrounding state forrest. With in a 30 min drive, you will find access to the Appalachian trail, lake Blueridge, toccoa river for paddling, Serenberry Winery. There is potable water available. Only fires allowed in fire pit near the cabin. This is the woods, we must be super cautious. Thank you. Bring your own towels and sleeping bag/ linens. There is room to pitch a tent near firepit if you wish.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

17. Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites

90%
(48)
20mi from Murphy · 13 sites · Tents, Lodging
We just retired from Active Duty Air Force! My ancestors have owned the land our NC cabins sit on since 1836. In fact, my mother grew up there after my Grandfather returned from WWII when there was no electricity and the outhouse was a bench over the creek. I grew up hiking the mountains with my brothers and our BB guns and my Uncle Frank at our family reunions. In 2005 he deeded us a parcel of land and we built our first cabin - Smawlie. We love to come to the cabin and Hike the trails on our own property, and of course, the world famous ones that join them, namely the Bartram and the Appalachian Trails. As you explore the lake, the trails, the rivers, and the mountain roads you'll see why our ancestors settled here. In 2018 - we bought the remainder of Uncle Frank's land - and in his honor built our second cabin - Frank's Landing. Also in that year I started managing my brother Bill's cabin. When we were stationed in Alaska for 6 heavenly years - we purchased a remote parcel of property and have slowly begun to develop it. We just completed building our cabin there. Thanks for reading this little tid bit about us. We love to explore the mountains and are excited to share our cabins with you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

18. Little Barn Cabin At Fowl Territory

100%
(16)
49mi from Murphy · 1 site · Lodging
Cabin is located 6 miles from I 75 Tennessee exit 49 about midway between Knoxville and Chattanooga. The cabin sleeps four. Bedding is provided for one double bed, one single bed, and a cot. Kitchen includes stove, fridge, microwave, coffee maker, toaster and basic cookware and utensils. Coffee, cooking oil, salt and pepper are stocked. We have plenty of room to park a trailer or turn around a boat you travel with. Several access sites on the Tennessee and Hiwassee Rivers are nearby. Chickamauga Lake section of the Tennessee River is accessible within 15 minutes and is one of the best bass fishing lakes in the US. Several waterfalls are in easy driving distance as well as the Lost Sea, the largest underground lake in the USA. On the property activities could include, harvesting seasonal fruits and vegetables, gathering eggs, foraging for mushrooms, hiking in 17 wooded acres, or building a campfire.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$70
 / night

20. The Heart Center

98%
(223)
26mi from Murphy · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Heart Center sits on 30 acres of beautiful forest land and it is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest.  The place is an old school site that was literally left to be buried by the forest, until I came along and decided to fix it up, and create a holistic sanctuary for people wishing to get away from it all. A place where one can heal, contemplate, re-energize, and relax in a quiet and pristine environment. Feel secluded enough to experience your own inner stillness; and, yet, connected enough to enjoy many beautiful area attractions that are just minutes away such as: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Fontana Dam and the Appalachian Trail, 20 Mile Ranger Station, Cherohala Skyway, and Santeetlah Lake!The Heart Center is about love, unity, harmony, joy and re-connecting with ourselves, others, and Mother Nature. At the Heart Center, we take special interest in providing our guests with a uniquely peaceful, positive, comfortable, and relaxing experience! Whether you are laying on a hammock, walking the labyrinth, or just sitting on the deck taking in the sights and sounds, we want you to enjoy. 
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night

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

The best forest glamping near Murphy 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.