The best river, stream, or creek glamping near Sparta, North Carolina

Situated near Stone Mountain State Park, Grayson Highlands State Park, and the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, Sparta offers easy access to multiple natural wonders. This small town in upper North Carolina provides a diverse range of camping accommodations too—from rustic backcountry campsites with no amenities to glamping yurts with access to hot showers. Dive deeper into the area to find astounding views in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area, or hit up a local bluegrass concert in Doughton Park—where RVers will find full-hookup campsites for optimum comfort.

98% (1.6K) • 88 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sparta

Mountain Farm Camping & Glamping

1. Mountain Farm Camping & Glamping

100%

(51)

33mi from Sparta · 37 sites · Tents, Lodging

Nestled in North Carolina's Brushy Mountains, Growing Faith Farms & Retreat offers a tranquil escape from modern life, just 90 minutes from Charlotte. Perched atop the mountain, our retreat overlooks vast stretches of mountaintops, rolling hills, and verdant landscapes. Here, we cultivate more than just crops; we nurture a profound sense of tranquility and community. Our space is designed to encourage guests to pause, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the beauty and simplicity of nature. Our campsites provide a variety of camping options, from predefined sites to walk-in spots throughout our expansive 200-acre mountain. You can choose to camp by the creek, in a sunny field, or deep in the woods. In 2024, we introduced our private Shower House, featuring three fully equipped bathrooms with showers, sinks, and toilets, plus heating and air conditioning. We also offer pre-furnished bell tents, camping platforms, and at site water and electricity (select sites) for your convenience. If you want to immerse yourself in outdoor camping without sacrificing the comforts of home, our glamping tent features a queen-size bed with linens, as well as a twin bed that converts into a second bed for added convenience. Stay cozy with a heated indoor wood stove, and enjoy a kitchen table, dresser, and chair for your convenience. You'll also have access to a private bathroom complete with a fully functioning toilet, indoor/outdoor hot shower, and sink. Outside, a private covered kitchen awaits, equipped with a kitchen sink, cooler, pots and pans and cooking utensils. Relax in your lounge chairs on the porch and take in the views, and indulge in outdoor cooking with a gas grill, picnic table, and outdoor fire pit area. During your stay at our farm, guests can unwind amidst natural surroundings, visit with our animals, enjoy on farm activities and explore the wide variety of local attractions that the surrounding area has to offer. Just 30 minutes west, you’ll find the Blue Ridge Parkway. Kerr Scott Lake is only 10 minutes away, where you can swim, rent kayaks and pontoon boats, fish, or enjoy mountain biking and hiking on extensive trails. Prayer Mountain is about 2 miles up the road. To the east, explore several wineries and a local moonshine distillery. A half-hour away, visit the Amish community with shops like Shiloh Bakery and General Store (closed Sundays and Mondays). For fantastic hiking, head northeast to Stone Mountain, about 45 minutes away, which also features a renovated homestead. To the south, Rocky Face Park offers hiking and rock climbing, while Emerald Hollow Mine allows you to search for and keep precious stones. There are always concerts, movies and festivals happening in the area too for entertainment. Check the activities section below for more details!

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$25

/ night

Easy Bend River Farms

2. Easy Bend River Farms

100%

(13)

37mi from Sparta · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Private riverside camping and tree house cabin. We are a Blackberry agro tourism farm offering 3 river front camping options equipped with warm shower, off grid shelter, river access and miles of trails to explore- completely private, but also close to many local wineries.- Camp by the river, or opt to stay above the river in the "rivernest" treehouse - which sleeps up to 4 and offers kitchenette and bathroom!

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$36

/ night

Tri Mountain View

3. Tri Mountain View

96%

(139)

44mi from Sparta · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Tri Mountain View Campground is located in the Northeast corner of Tennessee in the town of Shady Valley. With an elevation of 2,800 feet, Shady Valley is the second highest town in Tennessee. It is just 26 miles from the Bristol Raceway and the Bristol Caverns. It is just a 15 minute drive to Backbone rock and a short drive to the Appalachian Trail. The property was a Dairy Farm and went out of business in the late 90’s and since then there has been over 3,000 trees planted. Some of these trees include the rare Butternut and Hazelnut, but mostly White Pine, Walnut and Oaks. The property has approximately 1,000 feet of fishing on Beaver dam creek, so we recommend bringing waders. There is also a shower house, washer and dryer.

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$18

/ night

New River State Park

4. New River State Park

100%

(6)

81 sites · Jefferson, North Carolina

Relax on the river and explore the trails in this North Carolina park.

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Jefferson National Forest

5. Jefferson National Forest

98%

(27)

488 sites · Bluefield, Virginia

Literally thousands of miles of hiking trails can take you anywhere you want to go.

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Ramble on Big Creek near HRSP

6. Ramble on Big Creek near HRSP

47mi from Sparta · 1 site · Lodging

Cabin on Big Creek — situated on a point with the stream on three sides, near the confluence with the Dan River! Close to Hanging Rock State Park, kayaking, and mountain bike trails. The cabin features a queen bed, double futon, full-size refrigerator, stove, microwave, coffee maker, and heat and A/C. Outside, you’ll find a sink and shower with hot and cold water, plus a nice outhouse. There’s also room for additional camping nearby if a group wants to come!

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$80

/ night

Secluded Mitchel River Camping

7. Secluded Mitchel River Camping

95%

(132)

19mi from Sparta · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This land was once owned by Noah Hays himself. He was the main farmer on this land along with other farming land on this road. Hints the name "Noah Hays Road". We stopped farming this land long ago but some of his relatives are still farming on the land he use to farm on. You will see one of his old plots still being farmed across the street from our property. There is still the old cabin he use to live in along with an old curing barn they use to hang the tobacco in after harvest. Supper cool!Learn more about this land:This is a new listing.Nestled in the foothills of North Carolina is a majestic and peaceful plot of land that sits beside the south fork of the Mitchel River and; on the other side, a steep hillside of security covered in luscious wooded hardwood and pine. Engulfed in the sights and sounds of pure nature; expect wildlife encounters, frolicking through the fields, and a light show from the stars like never before.Come for a night or bring the family for an extended get away.The spaceThe space is equipped for dry camping with a outhouse on site for bathroom procedures.The parking pad can accommodate most A class RV's with a length and width of 38 by 10 foot. The extended patio protrudes another 8 foot in the front and on the back side of the pad is another 5 foot providing plenty of room for roll out space for your bed/kitchen, living space.We have a beautiful fire pit with a grate attached and a patio table that you are welcome to move around to your liking during your stay.The field on the left and right of the parking spot is grassy and fairly flat making a great place for recreational activities and even setting up a few extra tents.The river sits parallel with the site that have a easily walk down to the rivers edge.For any other questions feel free to message me.

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$20

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Rocky Face Camp

8. Rocky Face Camp

100%

(21)

43mi from Sparta · 1 site · Lodging

Nature lover’s paradise, song birds, wildlife, creek side, at the pastoral base of Rocky Face Mountain. Creek stocked for 800 feet of private fishing. Quick access to Ski Slopes and hiking trails. Plenty of room to pitch a tent to add extra guests. This is a functioning farm with horses, pigs and chickens as well as agriculture. Tiny house has WiFi, covered porch, attached bathroom- hot shower and sink, port-a-potty, kitchenette, grill and fire pit. Central to Sugar and Beech Ski Mtns, Valle Crucis and Banner Elk 10 minutes, Boone is 25 minutes away.

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from

$89

/ night

Wildwood Heart Farm

9. Wildwood Heart Farm

93%

(7)

31mi from Sparta · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are a holistic herbal farm, with glamping, primitive sites. Meditation trail, reiki, we are 1 mile from swim beach and near lots of hiking trails. Only 34 miles from Grandfather Mt National Park and 31 miles from Boone NC We have outdoor showers, handwashing area and potty. Gas grill, picnic tables, fire pit and firewood, a cooler is provided. We have beds in each bell tent, with one sleeping 2 adults and other sleeps 4. Butterfly Cottage will sleep 6 (coming May 2025) we also have 2 acres of wildflowers planted for our butterfly sanctuary. We have a wonderful foraged breakfast available by request Call with questions 336/304/0078 **NO Longer allowing pets due to damage** We are 🍃🍄 &; 🌈 friendly

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$35

/ night

Pilot Mountain State Park

10. Pilot Mountain State Park

90%

(15)

51 sites · Pinnacle, North Carolina

Pilot Mountain is part of the Yadkin Valley American Viticultural Area comprising over 50 wineries.

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Claytor Lake State Park

11. Claytor Lake State Park

100%

(2)

16 sites · Snowville, Virginia

Explore the miles of hiking trails along this serene lake.

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Hanging Rock State Park

12. Hanging Rock State Park

100%

(19)

86 sites · Danbury, North Carolina

See waterfalls, heavily wooded trails, and towering peaks in this state park.

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Tiny House in Happy Valley

13. Tiny House in Happy Valley

99%

(249)

41mi from Sparta · 1 site · Lodging

I moved here from San Francisco, to simplify my life, and accomplish my dreams. The Tiny house was designed and built by architect, Jesse Plaster. It's a unique cozy loft style design, set back in the woods on our property. It's purposely placed next to a creek, with a nice stone fire ring to really enjoy the outdoors. In the cold months, it's heated by a wood burning stove. Also next to the house are logging roads that allow you to hike the Ripshin Mountains. The Yadkin River is near by, and so is Boone and Blowing Rock. If you like mountain biking, bring your bike to ride Kerr Scott, or Zacks Fork trails. Also, check out the workshops at Pattersonschoolfoundation.org They offer sustainable living classes such as cheese making, mushroom foraging, blacksmithing, soap making, kimchi making, etc...  Also ask about our private Yoga sessions. Last but not least, there is a wood burning private sauna that your able to reserve.Come enjoy our Happy Valley! Mi casa es su casa!

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$105

/ night

FoxDen by Heartwood Farm and Cabins

14. FoxDen by Heartwood Farm and Cabins

98%

(45)

47mi from Sparta · 1 site · Lodging

Get away from it all when you stay among nature in this secluded off-grid tiny cabin in the forest. Complete with outdoor grill, fire pit, picnic table, well maintained outhouse, miles of trails and a large swimming or fishing pond (catch and release). This is a secluded off grid location without power, wifi, or cell service, so be prepared to UNPLUG and unwind. Firewood for your first campfire is provided along with one tank of propane to run the indoor camp stove. Five gallons of drinking water are included with coffee and a French press. There is a cooler provided. Remember to bring ice for your groceries and sleeping bags! Please include an extra rental fee of $20 for pets (up to 3). Multiple firewood bundles can be waiting for you at $8 each (a decent fire's worth per bundle). Extra guests (more than 2) are approved on a case by case basis for $10 each per day.

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Potable water

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$64

/ night

Glamping At Fall Creek Retreats

15. Glamping At Fall Creek Retreats

100%

(20)

26mi from Sparta · 3 sites · Lodging

Enjoy this lovely setting and romantic spot in nature. This Tiny Home glamping site is the perfect place to relax, unplug and unwind in the great outdoors, right on the creek. Located on a private, easy to reach property, this Tiny Home offers stunning views of the creek. This has all essential amenities, equipped for a comfortable glamping stay; queen bed, Keurig, microwave, Wifi, ceiling fan, gas grill, camping outdoor shower and private portable toilet. Relax on the screened porch or by the fire pit, perfect for enjoying nature. The creek sound is simply hypnotic. The space Immerse yourself in nature. Welcome to the Tiny Home of Tranquility • One-room setup with all essentials: o Comfortable queen bed with ceiling fan o Kitchenette with microwave, plates, utensils, cups, cooler o Dining table o Screened front porch • Private bath and shower at back entrance • Common areas: Pavilion, cornhole set & wading area in parking lot • State trout stream for fishing enthusiasts and wading • Conveniently located: - 22 minutes to Boone - 18 minutes to Wilkesboro - 7 minutes of Hwy 421 to site Guest access: all guests have access to: - Parking lot - Pavilion & cornhole area - Fishing at your site and from parking lot downstream (trout are released at parking lot) Other things to note • Wifi for calling, communication and music • Power Supply - Solar power with generator backup - Supports microwaves, Keurig, ceiling fans, and lights • Bathroom Amenities - Wood-encased, private, portable toilet with overhead light - Private camping shower bag for two quick showers (warm season) - Soap/shampoo provided - Easy access from rear entrance • Central Location - Nearby activities: hiking, boating, lake fishing, tubing, dining, wineries, breweries, and more (Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson, Wilkesboro) • Additional Glamping Options For Friends - Geodome and A-Frame - Friends can join you and view

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$80

/ night

Babbling Brook Campground

16. Babbling Brook Campground

99%

(390)

30mi from Sparta · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging

Before the Kerr Scott Reservoir was built, in the 40's and 50's, this neighborhood was a local swimming hole and vacation area. Public buses came from neighboring communities so people could boat, swim, camp, and picnic. While we don't have access to the pond, our part of this land still is calling out to people, 'Come, rest, unload your burdens, and find peace.' When we started this project with Hipcamp, we didn't fully realize that we were reconnecting with the history on this property. So, come, take your shoes off, and wade in the creek. Read a book while laying in a hammock. Sit by the fire and chat with family and friends. Come and participate in our little homesteading project, and leave your burdens behind. LOCAL ACTIVITIES: To the west is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is 30 minutes away. 15 minutes away is Kerr Scott Dam where you can rent kayaks, pontoon boats, as well as other sporting equipment. Fish, go mountain biking on the extensive trails, and hiking. Prayer Mountain is right up the road, about 2 miles away. Heading east, you can find several fine wineries andvineyards that you can visit. There is also a moonshine distillery in town. About a half hour away is an Amish community that has several businesses open to the public, including the Shiloh Bakery and General Store. They are closed on Sunday and Monday. To the northeast, about 45 minutes away, is Stone Mountain. Absolutely fantastic hiking, it is also an old homestead that has been renovated and is open to the public. To the south, there is Rocky Face Park, where there is hiking and rock climbing. Nearby, is Emerald Hollow Mine, where you can go and find, and keep, precious stones you find in the nearby river. There is also a great disk course course, Highland Hills Disc Golf Course, one of the top 25 in the country. There is fun for all ages. Merlefest, the last weekend of April, is a world class Bluegrass festival, is located right in our town. Be sure to look at the activities section below for additional information.

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$55

/ night

joyville, camping site on elk creek

17. joyville, camping site on elk creek

100%

(124)

31mi from Sparta · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land: camping sites on elk creek or smaller creek that feeds elk creek. trout fishing on stocked stream. mountain biking, hiking. 20 min. to Boone. n.c. Hiking trails can be fairly easy or as steep as your goat would like. there are dirt bike trails near by that can be ridden from camp site. come pan for gold in elk creek. Nice swimming hole at site, motorcycle campers welcome.

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$60

/ night

Marshall Creek Farm

18. Marshall Creek Farm

98%

(77)

44mi from Sparta · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Marshall Creek Farm is offering 2 camping spots on our 26 acres property out in the country of Westfield NC Just 15 minutes from Hanging Rock State Park where you can enjoy scenic waterfalls and breath taking views on some of our states most beautiful hiking, biking, and horse riding trails. First site is a cabin for two nestled in the private woods on a ridge on the back of the property. Second site is a tent/rv site that sits on the edge of a 3 acre pasture on the bank of Marshall Creek. Other nearby interests include kayaking, tubing, and fishing the Dan River, Zip-lining, Pilot Mt. State Park, Also the town of Mt. Airy (Mayberry) from the Andy Griffith show. You can also visit the well known Maybry Mill on a nearby section of the Blue Ridge Parkway. And of course you can always have a memorable time simply hanging around camp enjoying a cozy fire or gazing into the brightly lit starry skies that have escaped the city lights. Split firewood available on the honor system for purchase on the site of your choice. $5/bundle cash. Please scroll down and explore each listing for more detail.

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$49

/ night

RugbyCreek Pet Friendly Rentals

19. RugbyCreek Pet Friendly Rentals

100%

(40)

20mi from Sparta · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Rugby Creek is a very special Vacation Rental Destination! We are a private family farm and animal rescue offering quiet, peaceful, comfortable pet friendly vacation rentals near Grayson Highlands State Park! We have different options to fit every person's needs and budget from Glamping, RV Hookups, Tiny Homes, Barn Apartments to Cabins! Located in the Appalachian Mountains of SW Virginia. Temperate Climate, Quaint Towns, National Parks & Breathtaking Views. Only a few miles from Grayson Highlands State Park and Mount Rogers National Recreational Area you will discover Rugby Creek, a 63-acre mountain retreat. We have private rentals on our working horse farm and non-profit animal rescue. Whether biking the Virginia Creeper Trail, canoeing/tubing the New River, hiking Grayson Highlands State Park/Appalachian Trail, or choosing a personally guided horseback ride amongst the wild pony herds, at the end of the day let nature call you home as you drift to sleep with the night serenade of crickets and frogs. Enjoy quiet seclusion and escape the reality of the fast-paced life to recharge and reset yourself at Rugby Creek. 

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$35

/ night

Stormbrew Farm

20. Stormbrew Farm

99%

(135)

46mi from Sparta · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled in the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia, , hens, ducks, bees, Great Pyrenees, and cats pastorally roam over 18 acres of rolling farmland and forest. Experience our favorite parts of Stormbrew Farm through a primitive camping experience. Learn more about this land:An agrarian dream- a literal field of possibility. With 18 acres to choose from you may find yourself sleeping along the lazy Fifteenmile Creek, atop a hill under Virginia stars, or even set up with pastoral views of hens and Great Pyrenees dogs. The roadfront side of our property offers level terrain for pull-behind trailers, while vehicles (preferably 4WD) and tent campers can travel all the way back to the creek. Feeling froggy? Ford the stream and camp in the large field on the other side. Be sure to mind the animals and fields, as this is a working farm. One mile down the road from the farm is the Virginia Creeper Trail, renowned for biking, but as a multi-use trail, you can also enjoy walking, running, horseback riding, fishing, cross country skiing, and geocaching. South Holston Lake is only minutes away by vehicle, with two public access boating ramps 10 to 20 minutes away. For a drink by the water, head to Abingdon Vineyards- only 10 minutes away. Access to the Appalachian Trail is only 20 minutes away in Damascus. We became caretakers of this lovely property in June of 2021, moving from our existing farm, 45 minutes away. When we got it, it was a blank slate of a hayfield, and we have spent the summer laying infrastructure so that we may grow our cut-flower, honey, and vegetable business.

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from

$29

/ night

Jefferson National Forest

5. Jefferson National Forest

98%

(27)

488 sites · Bluefield, Virginia

Literally thousands of miles of hiking trails can take you anywhere you want to go.

Pets

Electrical hookup

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90%

(15)

51 sites · Pinnacle, North Carolina

Pilot Mountain is part of the Yadkin Valley American Viticultural Area comprising over 50 wineries.

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Claytor Lake State Park

11. Claytor Lake State Park

100%

(2)

16 sites · Snowville, Virginia

Explore the miles of hiking trails along this serene lake.

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99%

(135)

46mi from Sparta · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled in the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia, , hens, ducks, bees, Great Pyrenees, and cats pastorally roam over 18 acres of rolling farmland and forest. Experience our favorite parts of Stormbrew Farm through a primitive camping experience. Learn more about this land:An agrarian dream- a literal field of possibility. With 18 acres to choose from you may find yourself sleeping along the lazy Fifteenmile Creek, atop a hill under Virginia stars, or even set up with pastoral views of hens and Great Pyrenees dogs. The roadfront side of our property offers level terrain for pull-behind trailers, while vehicles (preferably 4WD) and tent campers can travel all the way back to the creek. Feeling froggy? Ford the stream and camp in the large field on the other side. Be sure to mind the animals and fields, as this is a working farm. One mile down the road from the farm is the Virginia Creeper Trail, renowned for biking, but as a multi-use trail, you can also enjoy walking, running, horseback riding, fishing, cross country skiing, and geocaching. South Holston Lake is only minutes away by vehicle, with two public access boating ramps 10 to 20 minutes away. For a drink by the water, head to Abingdon Vineyards- only 10 minutes away. Access to the Appalachian Trail is only 20 minutes away in Damascus. We became caretakers of this lovely property in June of 2021, moving from our existing farm, 45 minutes away. When we got it, it was a blank slate of a hayfield, and we have spent the summer laying infrastructure so that we may grow our cut-flower, honey, and vegetable business.

Pets

Electrical hookup

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$29

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

T

Tanner

1 week ago

2 nights at Easy Bend River Farms

Took a short little vacation here for my wife’s birthday and we both loved it! Would highly recommend!

Alexandra

2 weeks ago

2 nights at The North Star Dome at Compass Rose

Love stay, very private, the stars were gorgeous and the animals were adorable! We woke up one morning to ponies hanging out right outside.

J

Jonathan

2 weeks ago

With kids

4 nights at Easy Bend River Farms

What a beautiful place to escape for a short week! The space was even larger than we expected from the pictures and was stocked with everything we needed. We'll be back soon. <3

A

Annie

2 weeks ago

1 night at Glamping At Fall Creek Retreats

A very cozy and private getaway! I can't wait to go back one day!

S

Samatha

2 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Glamping At Fall Creek Retreats

A few hiccups during our stay were troubleshot quickly – after all we were in nature, living off grid and Mother Nature sometimes surprises us. From the soothing sound of the creek, to the quiet of the glamping’s grounds, to the well appointed amenities (inside and outside), our stay at Falls Creek Retreat was a lovely way to bring in the new year! Paul checked in regularly via email/DM; he was a great host from the time we booked to the time we checked out. We felt safe in and around our cabin. We enjoyed strolls alongside the creek and saying hello during our brief interactions w other guests. His serv/grounds guy Ricky was a pleasure to talk with as well. We had a wonderful stay w our pups and cannot wait to return! Cheers to 2026!

D

Dean

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Wildwood Heart Farm

Description does not due this lovely site justice! So quiet and pristine, wouldn’t guess there’s Cooper, the mini donkey, and a herd of goats living there 2. James & Janey were excellent hosts & Janey is a great cook also! Close to civilization but makes u feel like it’s worlds away. Loved our stay!

W

William

December 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Glamping At Fall Creek Retreats

The views were gorgeous and Paul was very helpful with any questions we had!

Ashley

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Blue Ridge Parkway - Campground

We enjoyed staying at Leslie's cabin. The views were incredible. It was cozy and private and everything we were looking for.

A

Alexis

November 2025

1 night at Wildwood Heart Farm

Was an incredible stay. Everything is set up perfectly for you! Feels very safe! Would stay here again!

M

Megan

November 2025

1 night at FoxDen by Heartwood Farm and Cabins

It was quiet and peaceful! It was absolutely beautiful!

Private woods located in the Ripshin Mountains

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Chloe

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Tiny House in Happy Valley

Had such a lovely stay for our anniversary, Angela was super responsive. Don't miss the chance to say hi to Ms. Moonpie!

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nancy

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

Such an amazing weekend at Joyville!! Gary and Dianne were just amazing. Our little cabin had 2 rooms, a deck overlooking the creek where we played games and had such a great time!!

C

Cody

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Glamping At Fall Creek Retreats

Absolutely loved the stay, site was clean and comfortable! Host was great with communication as well! We’ll be going back for sure!

A

Alaya

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Rocky Face Camp

Had a blast staying in this tiny cabin! Super private and peaceful and had lots of room for our pup to run around. The creek nearby is super fun to explore. We were even visited by a very sweet horse that lives on the property! Will definitely be booking again.

S

Shari

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Glamping At Fall Creek Retreats

Loved it! There are 3 structures on the property and I’m so glad we got the A-frame. It’s the farthest away from parking and most secluded space. The sound of the creek drowns out all other sounds and you really feel like you’re there alone. The property is beautiful.

Cozy treehouse cabin, attached outhouse, and expansive wrap-around patio!

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Melissa

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Babbling Brook Campground

I loved spending several nights in the treehouse. I came prepared for colder weather so I had plenty of warm clothes, hand and feet warmers, and propane for the buddy heater and Coleman stove, both of which I used and appreciated. It rained during part of my stay which was magical on the tin roof. The creek babbled. I found dry firewood and kindling prior to the rain, and paired with firewood I brought I enjoyed several campfires. The water accessible pump/kitchen came in handy as the treehouse doesn’t have water or electricity. The attached compostable toilet was convenient and never smelled funky. The cabin is stocked with all the kitchen things you might want for cooking. There were plenty of blankets and I slept snug as a bug in the comfy loft bed. I did rescue a spider or two and released into the wild. As expected for a treehouse in their habitat. Parking for one car was convenient atop a walkway to the treehouse. I enjoyed a farm visit with Elizabeth and learned about her goats horses and more. Her dogs came to visit a few times. Overall I couldn’t have been more happy. It helped to come prepared for the cooler weather paired with Elizabeth’s thoughtful touches. While there are solar lights in and around the cabin, make sure to bring headlamps and/or other light sources. It felt whimsical and dreamy and I can’t wait to return. Thanks Elizabeth!

J

Jordan

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

The cabin was great! Beautiful view of the river and super easy to get to. We loved our stay and have already talked about plans for coming back!

A

Amanda

October 2025

With kids

3 nights at Marshall Creek Farm

Beautiful spot, private and secluded. Had everything we needed for a wonderful stay.

B

Britt

October 2025

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

Awesome campsite right near boone, blowing rock, and banner elk. The owners are very nice and super attentive!

S

Storm

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Blue Ridge Parkway - Campground

Cute cabin with amazing views! If you are lucky enough to catch a sunrise, it’s breathtaking. Make sure to follow the written directions if coming in at night, as turning around if you go too far is a bit tricky. Space heater kept the place toasty and cozy. Lots of trail access near by!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek glamping near Sparta guide

Where to go

Stone Mountain State Park

Visit the 19th-century Hutchinson Homestead, hike 16 miles of trails, or rock climb the renowned 600-foot wide granite dome that gives Stone Mountain State Park its name. The park is roughly 30-minutes south of Sparta and features primitive hike-in campsites (accessed from Widow’s Creek Trail) as well as drive-in options. Every car-access campsite offers tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings with grill tops. Some also have hookups for electricity and water. A communal dump station is free of charge for all campers.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Anglers will love the 10 miles of streams filled with rainbow trout in Grayson Highlands State Park, situated 30 minutes from Sparta. Book the bunkhouse for larger camping groups or one of four yurts with screen-covered windows and dome skylights. There are also plenty of traditional campsites with electricity and water hookups. Then spend the day mountain biking or searching for wild ponies—the trail to Wilburn Ridge is a top-pick for sightings. Hiking and cross country skiing are available in winter, offering beautiful views of the snow-covered landscape.

Linville Gorge Wilderness Area

Part of Pisgah National Forest, the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area has steep, rocky terrain that delivers incredible backcountry camping and gorgeous views. Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” the landscape was formed by the Linville River, which carved out the gorge over thousands of years. Primitive campsites found here are pack-in and pack-out, with no amenities but tons of access to hiking trails and vistas. Wiseman’s View and the top of Table Rock Mountain are some of the best spots to take it all in.

When to go

Most campers flock to North Carolina in June, July, and August. For a quieter camping experience, visit right before summer begins in April and May, or as it ends in September and October. Temperatures stay relatively mild throughout the year, but Sparta does get snow in wintertime, with the highest amount of snowfall in February. If hiking is on the agenda, spring is the perfect time to catch blooming flowers, while fall showcases changing leaves.