96% (353) • 34 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Murphy
Critter Camp
1. Critter Camp
91%
(179)
47mi from Murphy · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
I wanted to let everyone know , we lost our serval, Foose in February, he was 22 years old, he will be missed ... I loved him his whole life. We still have horses and and a few smaller rescues , including 5 dogs.
We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for
quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place.
We have 1 rescued horses and a donkey. Sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 5 dogs , 2 house cats.
We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge(with shows and go karts) andTownsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours.
We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and
less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance.
Our sites offer toilets, potable water and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$28
/ night
Twin Valley Horse Ranch
2. Twin Valley Horse Ranch
98%
(133)
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
Owls Nest Private RV and Campground
3. Owls Nest Private RV and Campground
98%
(54)
35mi from Murphy · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Property Description:
I promise you the best camping experience in North Georgia. Minutes from Helen Ga in the Sautee Nacoochee Valley.
Many hiking and biking trails 256 acres of protected wildlife conservation all inside a safe and secured private gated residence. Located 10 min from Helen Georgia and beautiful Lake Burton.
Key Features:
Private Lake: Enjoy the serenity of our private lake, perfect for fishing and canoeing. World Class Fishing on site with trophy size large mouth Bass and Brim and World class fly fishing just minutes away. Each campsite has table chairs fire pit and is spaciously designed for privacy and the ultimate camping experience
5 star showers and bathrooms are one of the many benefits to choosing this location. very nice bathrooms and showers shared kitchen and library office available wifi and handicap accessible sites.
Campfire Nights: Relax by the campfire and roast marshmallows. Firewood is provided at low cost. please do not bring your own firewood as we must protect this land from outside bugs and critters that come from a far
Flexible Stays: Book your stay for up to 14 days to accommodate your needs.
Accessibility: We offer handicap-accessible sites to ensure everyone can enjoy the outdoors.
Primitive Camping as well as electric and water sites are available.
Stay Connected: Stay connected with our free Wi-Fi.
Convenient Parking: Ample parking is available for all guests and you can park right next to where you set up your tent or camper.
Unforgettable Experiences await and that is my goal as your host to provide you with the best camping experience of your life. I truly mean it. I get great joy out of sharing this magnificent property with nature loves and family and individual campers
Nature Walks: Explore the stunning trails surrounding the campground.
Stargazing: Marvel at the breathtaking night sky, far from city lights.
Picnicking: Enjoy a leisurely picnic by the lake.
Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as deer and birds
best bird watching in Georgia. American bald eagle family lives on site.
Book your stay today and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$51
/ night
Owl Creek Farm Resort
4. Owl Creek Farm Resort
3.9mi from Murphy · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Owl Creek Farm Resort
A Peaceful, Family-Friendly Nature Retreat
Welcome to Owl Creek Farm, a quiet, off-grid homestead nestled in the mountains near the Nantahala National Forest.
Our land offers a rare mix of peace, simplicity, and gentle life: a 1,300-foot natural creek, forest paths, open clearings, fruit trees, and free-roaming farm animals. It’s a place where nature sets the pace and guests of all ages can truly relax.
Owl Creek is family-friendly, but not exclusively for families. We welcome families with children, couples and solo travelers, groups, vanlifers, overlanders, self-contained RV travelers, and nature lovers seeking quiet and authenticity.
We offer primitive campsites for tents, vans, and small RVs. There are no hookups, encouraging intentional, low-impact stays. Guests must be self-sufficient and respectful of the land, animals, and other campers.
You’ll have access to a thoughtfully designed primitive overland camp that combines simplicity, comfort, and shared community spaces while staying fully immersed in nature. Guests can use a large covered living area designed for gathering, resting, or taking shelter during rain. The teepee on site has a 28-foot diameter, providing protection from weather and serving as an ideal space for relaxing, reading, socializing, or slowing down together.
Shared facilities and outdoor amenities include outdoor kitchens, outdoor showers, a bathhouse, barbecue area, fire pit, and a game room.
Guests appreciate the calm, safe, and respectful atmosphere, creek access for relaxation or supervised play, open space to explore, read, rest, or simply be, dark skies, birdsong, and true quiet at night, as well as a homestead environment rooted in care and stewardship.
This is not a party campground. Owl Creek is a place for slowing down, reconnecting, and sharing space with consideration for others—children and adults alike. If you’re looking for a grounded, welcoming camping experience where nature, peace, and respect come first, Owl Creek Farm is happy to host you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$17
/ night
Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground
5. Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground
96%
(26)
38mi from Murphy · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Private end of road property in the Cowee Valley of Franklin NC, which is the first resupply stop along the Appalachian Trail through the Smoky Mountains. Cowee Valley is a gorgeous scenic valley with farmland and winding roads and mountains on all sides. Idyllic drive in with plenty of cows grazing, deer and wild turkey running around and amazing sunsets.
Cowee Campground has newly been made into a campground, previously undeveloped. We have left most of it undisturbed to maintain the natural and peaceful nature vibes. This land is a short distance off the main roads and small/private. All tent sites are in the shaded forest and RV hookups are just a few steps away with hardwoods filling out and providing partial shade. It's a quiet area with the sounds of nature and leaves rustling. We hope you'll appreciate and enjoy the beauty and tranquility as much as we do. If you want to car/truck camp without hookups we have space for that too. Just let us know.
We have a beautiful 4 bathroom bathhouse, with ADA shower and another bathroom with clawfoot tub/shower and private back deck. 2 large firepits with Andirondack chairs and a separate picnic table and grill area. There is a large communal Yoga/Event deck and covered Bar/Hangout area beneath - hammock, bar top, darts and it's own firepit as well. Plus Corn hole and Horseshoe pits for your enjoyment.
For weekly or monthly RV reservations, please contact 828-371-8471. Weekly RV rates are $325.00 and Monthly are $750.00 Also available for Retreat or Event rental.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Walnut Hollow Ranch
6. Walnut Hollow Ranch
99%
(72)
8.3mi from Murphy · 19 sites · 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.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$65
/ night
Sunset Ranch–A Vaca W/ Your Horses
7. Sunset Ranch–A Vaca W/ Your Horses
27mi from Murphy · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Sunset Ranch is located in Reliance, TN set along the edge of a gently flowing creek, this covered RV site offers a rare combination of convenience, comfort, and outdoor beauty. The roofed structure provides welcome protection from sun and rain, while full hookups—including electric, septic, and water—make extended stays easy and worry-free. Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee with the sound of the creek or unwinding after a day of exploring, this site creates a relaxing home base in a scenic setting.
A unique highlight of this property is the ability to travel and stay with your horses (extra add on for horses). With space to accommodate horse trailers and nearby facilities, equestrians can comfortably set up camp and enjoy easy access to local riding opportunities. Several nearby trail systems and backcountry routes make it simple to haul out for day rides, trail exploration, and leisurely rides through scenic countryside, creek crossings, and wooded paths.
The surrounding area is rich with recreation and adventure. Spend your days fishing, tubing, or wading in nearby creeks and rivers, or explore the region’s abundant hiking and nature trails that wind through forests and rolling hills. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the easy access to kayaking, rafting, and fly fishing, while cyclists and runners can enjoy quiet country roads and scenic routes. Wildlife viewing is a daily pleasure, with birds, deer, and other native species frequently passing through the area.
For those who enjoy a slower pace, the area offers peaceful spots to picnic, relax, and take in the natural surroundings. Local towns are just a short drive away, offering charming shops, restaurants, and seasonal events that reflect the character of the region. Whether you’re traveling with horses, seeking outdoor adventure, or simply looking for a tranquil escape by the creek, this covered RV site provides the ideal setting to enjoy it all.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
96% (353) • 34 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Murphy
Critter Camp
1. Critter Camp
91%
(179)
47mi from Murphy · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
I wanted to let everyone know , we lost our serval, Foose in February, he was 22 years old, he will be missed ... I loved him his whole life. We still have horses and and a few smaller rescues , including 5 dogs.
We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for
quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place.
We have 1 rescued horses and a donkey. Sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 5 dogs , 2 house cats.
We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge(with shows and go karts) andTownsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours.
We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and
less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance.
Our sites offer toilets, potable water and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$28
/ night
Twin Valley Horse Ranch
2. Twin Valley Horse Ranch
98%
(133)
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
Owls Nest Private RV and Campground
3. Owls Nest Private RV and Campground
98%
(54)
35mi from Murphy · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Property Description:
I promise you the best camping experience in North Georgia. Minutes from Helen Ga in the Sautee Nacoochee Valley.
Many hiking and biking trails 256 acres of protected wildlife conservation all inside a safe and secured private gated residence. Located 10 min from Helen Georgia and beautiful Lake Burton.
Key Features:
Private Lake: Enjoy the serenity of our private lake, perfect for fishing and canoeing. World Class Fishing on site with trophy size large mouth Bass and Brim and World class fly fishing just minutes away. Each campsite has table chairs fire pit and is spaciously designed for privacy and the ultimate camping experience
5 star showers and bathrooms are one of the many benefits to choosing this location. very nice bathrooms and showers shared kitchen and library office available wifi and handicap accessible sites.
Campfire Nights: Relax by the campfire and roast marshmallows. Firewood is provided at low cost. please do not bring your own firewood as we must protect this land from outside bugs and critters that come from a far
Flexible Stays: Book your stay for up to 14 days to accommodate your needs.
Accessibility: We offer handicap-accessible sites to ensure everyone can enjoy the outdoors.
Primitive Camping as well as electric and water sites are available.
Stay Connected: Stay connected with our free Wi-Fi.
Convenient Parking: Ample parking is available for all guests and you can park right next to where you set up your tent or camper.
Unforgettable Experiences await and that is my goal as your host to provide you with the best camping experience of your life. I truly mean it. I get great joy out of sharing this magnificent property with nature loves and family and individual campers
Nature Walks: Explore the stunning trails surrounding the campground.
Stargazing: Marvel at the breathtaking night sky, far from city lights.
Picnicking: Enjoy a leisurely picnic by the lake.
Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as deer and birds
best bird watching in Georgia. American bald eagle family lives on site.
Book your stay today and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$51
/ night
Owl Creek Farm Resort
4. Owl Creek Farm Resort
3.9mi from Murphy · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Owl Creek Farm Resort
A Peaceful, Family-Friendly Nature Retreat
Welcome to Owl Creek Farm, a quiet, off-grid homestead nestled in the mountains near the Nantahala National Forest.
Our land offers a rare mix of peace, simplicity, and gentle life: a 1,300-foot natural creek, forest paths, open clearings, fruit trees, and free-roaming farm animals. It’s a place where nature sets the pace and guests of all ages can truly relax.
Owl Creek is family-friendly, but not exclusively for families. We welcome families with children, couples and solo travelers, groups, vanlifers, overlanders, self-contained RV travelers, and nature lovers seeking quiet and authenticity.
We offer primitive campsites for tents, vans, and small RVs. There are no hookups, encouraging intentional, low-impact stays. Guests must be self-sufficient and respectful of the land, animals, and other campers.
You’ll have access to a thoughtfully designed primitive overland camp that combines simplicity, comfort, and shared community spaces while staying fully immersed in nature. Guests can use a large covered living area designed for gathering, resting, or taking shelter during rain. The teepee on site has a 28-foot diameter, providing protection from weather and serving as an ideal space for relaxing, reading, socializing, or slowing down together.
Shared facilities and outdoor amenities include outdoor kitchens, outdoor showers, a bathhouse, barbecue area, fire pit, and a game room.
Guests appreciate the calm, safe, and respectful atmosphere, creek access for relaxation or supervised play, open space to explore, read, rest, or simply be, dark skies, birdsong, and true quiet at night, as well as a homestead environment rooted in care and stewardship.
This is not a party campground. Owl Creek is a place for slowing down, reconnecting, and sharing space with consideration for others—children and adults alike. If you’re looking for a grounded, welcoming camping experience where nature, peace, and respect come first, Owl Creek Farm is happy to host you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$17
/ night
Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground
5. Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground
96%
(26)
38mi from Murphy · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Private end of road property in the Cowee Valley of Franklin NC, which is the first resupply stop along the Appalachian Trail through the Smoky Mountains. Cowee Valley is a gorgeous scenic valley with farmland and winding roads and mountains on all sides. Idyllic drive in with plenty of cows grazing, deer and wild turkey running around and amazing sunsets.
Cowee Campground has newly been made into a campground, previously undeveloped. We have left most of it undisturbed to maintain the natural and peaceful nature vibes. This land is a short distance off the main roads and small/private. All tent sites are in the shaded forest and RV hookups are just a few steps away with hardwoods filling out and providing partial shade. It's a quiet area with the sounds of nature and leaves rustling. We hope you'll appreciate and enjoy the beauty and tranquility as much as we do. If you want to car/truck camp without hookups we have space for that too. Just let us know.
We have a beautiful 4 bathroom bathhouse, with ADA shower and another bathroom with clawfoot tub/shower and private back deck. 2 large firepits with Andirondack chairs and a separate picnic table and grill area. There is a large communal Yoga/Event deck and covered Bar/Hangout area beneath - hammock, bar top, darts and it's own firepit as well. Plus Corn hole and Horseshoe pits for your enjoyment.
For weekly or monthly RV reservations, please contact 828-371-8471. Weekly RV rates are $325.00 and Monthly are $750.00 Also available for Retreat or Event rental.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Walnut Hollow Ranch
6. Walnut Hollow Ranch
99%
(72)
8.3mi from Murphy · 19 sites · 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.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$65
/ night
Sunset Ranch–A Vaca W/ Your Horses
7. Sunset Ranch–A Vaca W/ Your Horses
27mi from Murphy · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Sunset Ranch is located in Reliance, TN set along the edge of a gently flowing creek, this covered RV site offers a rare combination of convenience, comfort, and outdoor beauty. The roofed structure provides welcome protection from sun and rain, while full hookups—including electric, septic, and water—make extended stays easy and worry-free. Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee with the sound of the creek or unwinding after a day of exploring, this site creates a relaxing home base in a scenic setting.
A unique highlight of this property is the ability to travel and stay with your horses (extra add on for horses). With space to accommodate horse trailers and nearby facilities, equestrians can comfortably set up camp and enjoy easy access to local riding opportunities. Several nearby trail systems and backcountry routes make it simple to haul out for day rides, trail exploration, and leisurely rides through scenic countryside, creek crossings, and wooded paths.
The surrounding area is rich with recreation and adventure. Spend your days fishing, tubing, or wading in nearby creeks and rivers, or explore the region’s abundant hiking and nature trails that wind through forests and rolling hills. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the easy access to kayaking, rafting, and fly fishing, while cyclists and runners can enjoy quiet country roads and scenic routes. Wildlife viewing is a daily pleasure, with birds, deer, and other native species frequently passing through the area.
For those who enjoy a slower pace, the area offers peaceful spots to picnic, relax, and take in the natural surroundings. Local towns are just a short drive away, offering charming shops, restaurants, and seasonal events that reflect the character of the region. Whether you’re traveling with horses, seeking outdoor adventure, or simply looking for a tranquil escape by the creek, this covered RV site provides the ideal setting to enjoy it all.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jeremy
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Twin Valley Horse Ranch
Had a great time, Janice was the nicest host. The land was magnificent, we didn't have time to explore many trails or fish in the pond. However, we will be returning to more fully experience the ranch.
See moreR
Ryan
November 2025
With pets
Awesome experience. It was our kids first time camping. They loved the animals and learning how to work with the mini horses. Janice and Jaden are phenomenal hosts and teachers.
See more
K
Kathryn
November 2025
21 ft travel trailer
Cowee is the best campground we’ve ever been to - and we’ve been to a lot all up and down the east coast. Tanya has clearly designed this campground to every last detail with an aesthetic hand. From the campsites themselves and their views, to the public spaces, conveniences of a laundry room to bathrooms which look like bathrooms out of a camp beautiful magazine. And Tanya is absolutely fabulous - responsive and very caring. We are definitely coming back!
See more
N
Naoki
November 2025
Tent
With kids
Awesome experience again! Host checked on us frequently and very accommodating.
Will be back again definitely!
See more
Lindsey
November 2025
16 ft car
I had such a peaceful time at Kimber’s farm. I really enjoyed seeing the horse and donkey while it still felt relaxing and quiet. Close enough to some touristy stuff but also felt adequately tucked away.
See more
Darlene
October 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With pets
The host was very cordial and kind. She has a great deal of property there and had several other people come during the weekend however we were able to pull our travel trailer in a fenced area which allowed us to let our dog run free, which we greatly appreciated. This was the first hip camp we had ever stayed in and it worked out really well for us because it gave us the opportunity to be right in the middle of the things we wanted to see and do like Cade‘s Cove Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
She was actually hosting I believe a community scavenger hunt on our property and the other campers participated and had a good time with it. My husband and I just stayed within our little area because we’ve just recently gotten married and wanted our time.
See more
L
Lida
October 2025
Tent
Beautiful property! We had a wonderful time. Would definitely stay again!
See more
G
Greg
October 2025
Tent
Nice property if you can get the campsite down at the lake
See more
R
Rebekah
October 2025
Tent
We enjoyed our time here. The showers and bathrooms were clean and great. There were plenty of places to sit down to eat or enjoy the fire. We would come back.
See more
M
Mariah
October 2025
Tent
Had a great time tent camping right on the lake! Great fishing experience and overall just a great weekend away! Had to leave alittle early due to rain but all in all would definitely recommend! Nice clean place!
See moreM
Madison
October 2025
With pets
What an amazing experience! A slice of Heaven and Janice is so great and explains everything upon arrival. I will be back many more times!
See more
Douglas
October 2025
24 ft Class B
With pets
We had an enjoyable time at the campground. I have a van camper class B and site 6 is plenty large enough. The restrooms and showers are very nice and clean. The deck and area under are very nice place to relax and party or just enjoy the outdoors.
See moreS
Stephanie
October 2025
Tent
We loved camping here. Kids had so much fun fishing and using the canoe. Thanks so much.
See more
N
Naoki
October 2025
3 nights at Owls Nest Private RV and Campground
Excellent site, with great views and plenty of fish to catch.
Bathroom and shower is clean.
It’s my son’s favorite site now
See more
Amy
October 2025
Tent
With kids
I honestly can’t say enough good about Tanya and her property! She was incredibly kind and quick to respond to any questions we had. You can tell a lot of thought and love has gone into this campground. It was the perfect mix for my boyfriend (who likes to rough it) and me and my daughter who prefer more of a glamping vibe . Best of both worlds and then some! The gem mine on the property was really great too. We extended our stay because we enjoyed being there so much. We will be back and tell all our friends about this place. :)
See more
C
Chris
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
Friendly host. There is wifi and full cell service. Nice views, caught multiple bass in the pond. They check in on you if you need anything. Bathrooms and showers very clean. 15 mins form helen nice mountain roads and views.
See more
C
C
October 2025
Tent
This is a well maintained campground at a beautiful location. The tent sites are in the woods and offer the feeling of a remote camping experience. But this has all the amenities of a well-appointed campground, including a shower house thoughtfully designed and built using reclaimed materials. As others have said, it’s like no campground shower house you’ve ever seen - more like private bathrooms at a lodge. The adjoining gem mine is a fun way to spend a few hours. Tanya is a welcoming host. Her creativity and vision has made this a really special place.
See moreD
DeAnna
September 2025
Tent
The camp was very nice! We had an awesome stay! William was wonderful and made sure we had everything we needed. It was really nice to have the shower and fridge too!
See more
S
Seth
September 2025
Tent
With kids
The Cowee campground was perfect for a quick overnight tent trip with my family. The location and scenery are top notch. The bath house was new and clean - even better than pictured. My kids enjoyed all the open space to explore the property. WiFi on the property and power outlets in the bathrooms were nice creature comforts for the family. Tanya responded quickly to any questions through the Hipcamp app. We’ll definitely be back - highly recommended!
See more
M
Mckenzie
September 2025
The best ranch camping 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.