The best tiny homes near Murphy

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

98% (182) 17 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Murphy

SoulShine Forest

1. SoulShine Forest

100%
(12)
18mi from Murphy · 2 sites
Imagine a place in nature where you can connect with simplicity, have a peaceful conversation with bliss and relax in an enveloping forest of calm. Imagine Bohemian Elegance Kissed by Nature! Feel yourself enveloped in Tranquility. The entire property is approximately 9 acres and with lots of trees — plenty of fresh oxygen and wildlife running through during the day and night. There are other unique Air B & B separate rentals peppered throughout the property (an Airstream w/ it’s own private deck nestled amongst the trees, a Lotus Belle Yurt and huge private deck placed on its own private lil hilltop, and a 3 story main house 5 1/2 acres away). Unique, Happy, Peaceful, Clean, Serene spaces to unwind, chill, relax, and enjoy a beautiful time in Nature. By design ...we focused on creating a tranquil, elegant space touched by Bohemian vibes that allows you to simply retreat from the “noise” in life and in our minds.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$160
 / night
Luxurious Couples Getaway-Reboot!

2. Luxurious Couples Getaway-Reboot!

100%
(12)
22mi from Murphy · 2 sites
Welcome to White Oak Reserve. Located just 7-9 minutes from Blue Ridge Escape to the perfect couples’ retreat, where romance meets adventure in the heart of North Georgia! Your mornings? Start your day with the soothing symphony of chirping birds and crisp mountain air. Savor coffee from the French press on the private deck, surrounded by rolling hills and hardwood trees. Then, immerse yourself in the luxury of a private hot tub or indulge in a magical outdoor rain shower under the stars. Your evenings? Pure bliss. Cozy up by the indoor fireplace or gather around the wood-burning fire pit. For an unforgettable movie night, enjoy the oversized projector screen with surround sound and wireless streaming. Feeling creative? Craft your own gourmet pizza with the grill-top pizza oven. White Oak Reserve offers easy, year-round access—no 4x4 required! Explore breathtaking mountain views just steps away or drive to nearby wineries, hiking trails, and the must-visit Mercier Orchard. Inside, enjoy thoughtful details like a sumptuous king bed, natural wood-plank ceilings, blackout blinds for undisturbed rest, and spa-inspired toiletries. The kitchen is Moroccan-inspired and perfect for light cooking, featuring all the essentials to make your stay seamless. Additional Highlights: Private Outdoor Space: Relax in nature with luxury amenities designed for ultimate privacy. Stargazing & Wildlife: Gaze at a star-studded sky as crickets provide an evening serenade. Modern Convenience: High-speed internet supports work or play, and you’re minutes from dining, shopping, and seasonal festivals. Whether you're enjoying the sunrise on the deck, exploring mountain trails, or unwinding in the hot tub, White Oak Reserve is your sanctuary to Relax, Refresh & Reconnect. Important Notes Hot Tub: Freshly cleaned after each stay. Allow 8 plus hours to heat fully. Outdoor Rain Showers: Available seasonally (off during freezing temperatures). Pet-Friendly: One pet under 40 lbs. allowed with fee; please disclose during booking. Fire Pit: Bring your own firewood and starters. Check-Out: Simple safety tasks will be shared before departure. Book now to experience a serene escape blending nature's beauty with modern luxury—your unforgettable mountain retreat awaits! *PIZZA
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$207
 / night
The Heart Center

3. The Heart Center

98%
(223)
26mi from Murphy · 10 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
Tiny Home Way

4. Tiny Home Way

100%
(22)
27mi from Murphy · 6 sites
Porcini is a tiny home near a trickling creek in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Located back in the woods down a long winding mountain road, you'll find all the conveniences of home. If you aren't a camping person but want a little adventure such as climbing a ladder to bed, this is the place for you. * Hot tub * Outdoor fire pit * Wireless internet * Full kitchen * Streaming TV * Pet friendly: $75 fee per pet * Heated mattress pad in winter * Large deck space with a Charcoal grill
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$80
 / night
Glamp Camps North Carolina

5. Glamp Camps North Carolina

100%
(6)
6.1mi from Murphy · 4 sites
The Hilda House | Cozy Tiny Home Glamping Retreat in Murphy, NC Escape to The Hilda House, a charming 192 sq ft tiny home glamping retreat in Murphy, North Carolina. This cozy tiny house offers the perfect blend of rustic mountain charm and modern comforts, making it an ideal getaway for couples, solo travelers, and outdoor adventurers. Inside the tiny home, you’ll enjoy all the comforts of a larger space including a queen-sized bed, smart TV, WiFi, heat/air, full-size shower, and flushing toilet. Start your mornings slowly with a cup of coffee on the spacious front deck overlooking the woods, where you can soak in the quiet mountain air and watch nature wake up around you. The Hilda House is centrally located near Murphy, NC and just a short drive to Blue Ridge, GA and Hiawassee, GA, making it the perfect home base for exploring the mountains of Western North Carolina and North Georgia. Outdoor lovers will find endless adventure nearby, including: • Whitewater rafting, kayaking, and tubing on the Nantahala and Hiawassee Rivers • Scenic hiking trails and waterfalls throughout the Appalachian Mountains • Boating and fishing on Lake Hiwassee and Lake Chatuge • Exploring the charming shops, restaurants, breweries, and cafes in downtown Murphy and Blue Ridge. After a full day of adventure, return to the property to relax by the fire pit under the stars and enjoy the peaceful wooded setting. Whether you’re looking for a romantic tiny house getaway, glamping retreat, or cozy mountain escape, The Hilda House offers a unique and memorable stay in Murphy, North Carolina.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$117
 / night
Tranquil Mountain View Stargazing

6. Tranquil Mountain View Stargazing

8.8mi from Murphy · 1 site
Come relax at the Carriage House at Saddle Ridge!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$95
 / night
Tusquittee Hideaway

7. Tusquittee Hideaway

100%
(1)
15mi from Murphy · 1 site
Listen to the sound of rushing Tusquittee Creek below from this private, mountaintop 11.7-acre tract located in stunning Tusquittee Valley, near downtown Hayesville and just 10 minutes from Lake Chatuge. Enjoy gorgeous 360-degree mountain and valley views from your secluded perch. A gated entrance off a county-paved road leads you 0.3 miles up a newly graveled drive to a mountaintop campsite that’s perfectly level and freshly sown with grass. A 200-amp electrical panel with 50/30-amp RV receptacles and a 120V outlet is in place, along with a potable water tank. If you’re pulling a trailer or camper, 4WD is required — the road has been newly graded and graveled but is steep in certain sections. Nearby attractions include historic downtown Hayesville, Lake Chatuge, Lake Nantahala, the 22-mile Chunky Gal Trail, Tusquittee Mountain Range, Fires Creek Recreation Area, Standing Indian Mountain, and the Upper Nantahala River.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$250
 / night
Red Bird Ridge Lakefront Tiny House

8. Red Bird Ridge Lakefront Tiny House

100%
(2)
17mi from Murphy · 1 site
Learn more about this land:You'll love your escape to this cozy tiny house nestled into the woods on a lakefront lot on scenic Lake Chatuge. The Tiny House on Wheels has 2 queen bed lofts, and a futon that makes a 3rd queen bed. Swim from the dock, rent a boat, or launch your own at one of 2 nearby TVA ramps. Relax around the lakefront fire pit, or on the AMAZING and huge screened in porch. Downtown Hayesville is just minutes away, as are many hiking and mountain biking trails at Fire's Creek or Jackrabbit Park.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$175
 / night
Toccoa River Cabin

9. Toccoa River Cabin

25mi from Murphy · 1 site
Toccoa River Cabin is the perfect place to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. With direct access to the Toccoa River, you can spend the day fishing to your heart’s content. A hot shower and TV await you in the evening, while a compact but well-stocked kitchen provides everything you need to prepare a meal. A true paradise for the avid fisherman—or anyone looking to relax and reconnect with nature.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$88
 / night
Nantahala Spiritual Retreat

10. Nantahala Spiritual Retreat

83%
(3)
26mi from Murphy · 2 sites
Nantahala Spiritual Retreat is located in the Great Smoky Mountains near trails for hiking, rafting. The Yogi House at Nantahala Spiritual Retreat is a tiny home in nature in the Great Smoky Mountains. While the house is very small, it has all the amenities for a comfortable stay. A 10 x 12 deck in front of the house has plenty of room for yoga, relaxation, meditation, reading and writing, while listening to the sounds of the nearby creek. While there is no internet at the house, there is internet a short walk away, as well as 4G available at the top of the mountain on the 22 acres of NSR.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
Clucking Kramer Homestead

11. Clucking Kramer Homestead

100%
(4)
49mi from Murphy · 2 sites
Our family started vacationing in Tennessee years ago. From the very first time we stayed in mountains we knew we had to make it our home. After years of dreaming we took a huge leap of faith and sold our house in Illinois, packed up everything we owned into a moving truck, and headed south. No jobs, no plans, and everything we knew in the rearview mirror. We landed in Knoxville for a bit while we figured out where we were going to work because paying bills is a necessary evil and started house hunting. We stumbled across this property totally on accident. Turns out it was exactly what we were looking for! My husband dreamed of living in a cabin and I dreamed of hosting guests. Here we have the best of both worlds! We are travelers ourselves and have stayed in so many unique placed all over the country. Wanderers by heart we have met so many lovely people and are excited to meet like minded travelers <3 This property was slightly abused before we found it and is a work in progress but aren't we all that way? The previous owners harvested the trees so it is our goal to bring the property back to its original beauty. You will see us buzzing around planting trees, wildflowers, veggies, and fruit whenever time and weather allows. We are fortunate to be about to share this journey with others and I cannot wait to meet you!Learn more about this land:Gnomaste y'all! Welcome to our little piece of paradise! Located perfectly between Knoxville and Chattanooga this little cottage gives you access to everything the area has to offer. There is so much hiking, boating, fishing, etc nearby it is impossible to list it all. Enjoy the rural setting with gorgeous sunrises/sunsets along with the amazing night sky! All are welcome we can't wait to meet you!Special discounts offered to local artisans and those working outages. Message us for details :)
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$78
 / 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% (182) 17 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Murphy

SoulShine Forest

1. SoulShine Forest

100%
(12)
18mi from Murphy · 2 sites
Imagine a place in nature where you can connect with simplicity, have a peaceful conversation with bliss and relax in an enveloping forest of calm. Imagine Bohemian Elegance Kissed by Nature! Feel yourself enveloped in Tranquility. The entire property is approximately 9 acres and with lots of trees — plenty of fresh oxygen and wildlife running through during the day and night. There are other unique Air B & B separate rentals peppered throughout the property (an Airstream w/ it’s own private deck nestled amongst the trees, a Lotus Belle Yurt and huge private deck placed on its own private lil hilltop, and a 3 story main house 5 1/2 acres away). Unique, Happy, Peaceful, Clean, Serene spaces to unwind, chill, relax, and enjoy a beautiful time in Nature. By design ...we focused on creating a tranquil, elegant space touched by Bohemian vibes that allows you to simply retreat from the “noise” in life and in our minds.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$160
 / night
Luxurious Couples Getaway-Reboot!

2. Luxurious Couples Getaway-Reboot!

100%
(12)
22mi from Murphy · 2 sites
Welcome to White Oak Reserve. Located just 7-9 minutes from Blue Ridge Escape to the perfect couples’ retreat, where romance meets adventure in the heart of North Georgia! Your mornings? Start your day with the soothing symphony of chirping birds and crisp mountain air. Savor coffee from the French press on the private deck, surrounded by rolling hills and hardwood trees. Then, immerse yourself in the luxury of a private hot tub or indulge in a magical outdoor rain shower under the stars. Your evenings? Pure bliss. Cozy up by the indoor fireplace or gather around the wood-burning fire pit. For an unforgettable movie night, enjoy the oversized projector screen with surround sound and wireless streaming. Feeling creative? Craft your own gourmet pizza with the grill-top pizza oven. White Oak Reserve offers easy, year-round access—no 4x4 required! Explore breathtaking mountain views just steps away or drive to nearby wineries, hiking trails, and the must-visit Mercier Orchard. Inside, enjoy thoughtful details like a sumptuous king bed, natural wood-plank ceilings, blackout blinds for undisturbed rest, and spa-inspired toiletries. The kitchen is Moroccan-inspired and perfect for light cooking, featuring all the essentials to make your stay seamless. Additional Highlights: Private Outdoor Space: Relax in nature with luxury amenities designed for ultimate privacy. Stargazing & Wildlife: Gaze at a star-studded sky as crickets provide an evening serenade. Modern Convenience: High-speed internet supports work or play, and you’re minutes from dining, shopping, and seasonal festivals. Whether you're enjoying the sunrise on the deck, exploring mountain trails, or unwinding in the hot tub, White Oak Reserve is your sanctuary to Relax, Refresh & Reconnect. Important Notes Hot Tub: Freshly cleaned after each stay. Allow 8 plus hours to heat fully. Outdoor Rain Showers: Available seasonally (off during freezing temperatures). Pet-Friendly: One pet under 40 lbs. allowed with fee; please disclose during booking. Fire Pit: Bring your own firewood and starters. Check-Out: Simple safety tasks will be shared before departure. Book now to experience a serene escape blending nature's beauty with modern luxury—your unforgettable mountain retreat awaits! *PIZZA
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$207
 / night
The Heart Center

3. The Heart Center

98%
(223)
26mi from Murphy · 10 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
Tiny Home Way

4. Tiny Home Way

100%
(22)
27mi from Murphy · 6 sites
Porcini is a tiny home near a trickling creek in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Located back in the woods down a long winding mountain road, you'll find all the conveniences of home. If you aren't a camping person but want a little adventure such as climbing a ladder to bed, this is the place for you. * Hot tub * Outdoor fire pit * Wireless internet * Full kitchen * Streaming TV * Pet friendly: $75 fee per pet * Heated mattress pad in winter * Large deck space with a Charcoal grill
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$80
 / night
Glamp Camps North Carolina

5. Glamp Camps North Carolina

100%
(6)
6.1mi from Murphy · 4 sites
The Hilda House | Cozy Tiny Home Glamping Retreat in Murphy, NC Escape to The Hilda House, a charming 192 sq ft tiny home glamping retreat in Murphy, North Carolina. This cozy tiny house offers the perfect blend of rustic mountain charm and modern comforts, making it an ideal getaway for couples, solo travelers, and outdoor adventurers. Inside the tiny home, you’ll enjoy all the comforts of a larger space including a queen-sized bed, smart TV, WiFi, heat/air, full-size shower, and flushing toilet. Start your mornings slowly with a cup of coffee on the spacious front deck overlooking the woods, where you can soak in the quiet mountain air and watch nature wake up around you. The Hilda House is centrally located near Murphy, NC and just a short drive to Blue Ridge, GA and Hiawassee, GA, making it the perfect home base for exploring the mountains of Western North Carolina and North Georgia. Outdoor lovers will find endless adventure nearby, including: • Whitewater rafting, kayaking, and tubing on the Nantahala and Hiawassee Rivers • Scenic hiking trails and waterfalls throughout the Appalachian Mountains • Boating and fishing on Lake Hiwassee and Lake Chatuge • Exploring the charming shops, restaurants, breweries, and cafes in downtown Murphy and Blue Ridge. After a full day of adventure, return to the property to relax by the fire pit under the stars and enjoy the peaceful wooded setting. Whether you’re looking for a romantic tiny house getaway, glamping retreat, or cozy mountain escape, The Hilda House offers a unique and memorable stay in Murphy, North Carolina.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$117
 / night
Tranquil Mountain View Stargazing

6. Tranquil Mountain View Stargazing

8.8mi from Murphy · 1 site
Come relax at the Carriage House at Saddle Ridge!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$95
 / night
Tusquittee Hideaway

7. Tusquittee Hideaway

100%
(1)
15mi from Murphy · 1 site
Listen to the sound of rushing Tusquittee Creek below from this private, mountaintop 11.7-acre tract located in stunning Tusquittee Valley, near downtown Hayesville and just 10 minutes from Lake Chatuge. Enjoy gorgeous 360-degree mountain and valley views from your secluded perch. A gated entrance off a county-paved road leads you 0.3 miles up a newly graveled drive to a mountaintop campsite that’s perfectly level and freshly sown with grass. A 200-amp electrical panel with 50/30-amp RV receptacles and a 120V outlet is in place, along with a potable water tank. If you’re pulling a trailer or camper, 4WD is required — the road has been newly graded and graveled but is steep in certain sections. Nearby attractions include historic downtown Hayesville, Lake Chatuge, Lake Nantahala, the 22-mile Chunky Gal Trail, Tusquittee Mountain Range, Fires Creek Recreation Area, Standing Indian Mountain, and the Upper Nantahala River.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$250
 / night
Red Bird Ridge Lakefront Tiny House

8. Red Bird Ridge Lakefront Tiny House

100%
(2)
17mi from Murphy · 1 site
Learn more about this land:You'll love your escape to this cozy tiny house nestled into the woods on a lakefront lot on scenic Lake Chatuge. The Tiny House on Wheels has 2 queen bed lofts, and a futon that makes a 3rd queen bed. Swim from the dock, rent a boat, or launch your own at one of 2 nearby TVA ramps. Relax around the lakefront fire pit, or on the AMAZING and huge screened in porch. Downtown Hayesville is just minutes away, as are many hiking and mountain biking trails at Fire's Creek or Jackrabbit Park.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$175
 / night
Toccoa River Cabin

9. Toccoa River Cabin

25mi from Murphy · 1 site
Toccoa River Cabin is the perfect place to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. With direct access to the Toccoa River, you can spend the day fishing to your heart’s content. A hot shower and TV await you in the evening, while a compact but well-stocked kitchen provides everything you need to prepare a meal. A true paradise for the avid fisherman—or anyone looking to relax and reconnect with nature.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$88
 / night
Nantahala Spiritual Retreat

10. Nantahala Spiritual Retreat

83%
(3)
26mi from Murphy · 2 sites
Nantahala Spiritual Retreat is located in the Great Smoky Mountains near trails for hiking, rafting. The Yogi House at Nantahala Spiritual Retreat is a tiny home in nature in the Great Smoky Mountains. While the house is very small, it has all the amenities for a comfortable stay. A 10 x 12 deck in front of the house has plenty of room for yoga, relaxation, meditation, reading and writing, while listening to the sounds of the nearby creek. While there is no internet at the house, there is internet a short walk away, as well as 4G available at the top of the mountain on the 22 acres of NSR.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
Clucking Kramer Homestead

11. Clucking Kramer Homestead

100%
(4)
49mi from Murphy · 2 sites
Our family started vacationing in Tennessee years ago. From the very first time we stayed in mountains we knew we had to make it our home. After years of dreaming we took a huge leap of faith and sold our house in Illinois, packed up everything we owned into a moving truck, and headed south. No jobs, no plans, and everything we knew in the rearview mirror. We landed in Knoxville for a bit while we figured out where we were going to work because paying bills is a necessary evil and started house hunting. We stumbled across this property totally on accident. Turns out it was exactly what we were looking for! My husband dreamed of living in a cabin and I dreamed of hosting guests. Here we have the best of both worlds! We are travelers ourselves and have stayed in so many unique placed all over the country. Wanderers by heart we have met so many lovely people and are excited to meet like minded travelers <3 This property was slightly abused before we found it and is a work in progress but aren't we all that way? The previous owners harvested the trees so it is our goal to bring the property back to its original beauty. You will see us buzzing around planting trees, wildflowers, veggies, and fruit whenever time and weather allows. We are fortunate to be about to share this journey with others and I cannot wait to meet you!Learn more about this land:Gnomaste y'all! Welcome to our little piece of paradise! Located perfectly between Knoxville and Chattanooga this little cottage gives you access to everything the area has to offer. There is so much hiking, boating, fishing, etc nearby it is impossible to list it all. Enjoy the rural setting with gorgeous sunrises/sunsets along with the amazing night sky! All are welcome we can't wait to meet you!Special discounts offered to local artisans and those working outages. Message us for details :)
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$78
 / night

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The best tiny homes 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.