The best airstream rentals near Sylva, North Carolina

Nestled in the Plott Balsam Mountains, this small town is a short drive from two national forests, where campers can enjoy tent campsites, RV campsites with nearby restrooms, and cabins inside the park. Nantahala Forest offers over 500,000 acres of scenery to explore, while Pisgah Forest includes campsites with spectacular views over Linville Gorge. For backcountry and frontcountry tent camping in the mountains, visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Trails for hiking and biking as well as rushing rivers and whitewater rafting make Sylva an exciting home base to discover western North Carolina.

99% (82)

Top-rated campgrounds

Nestled in the Plott Balsam Mountains, this small town is a short drive from two national forests, where campers can enjoy tent campsites, RV campsites with nearby restrooms, and cabins inside the park. Nantahala Forest offers over 500,000 acres of scenery to explore, while Pisgah Forest includes campsites with spectacular views over Linville Gorge. For backcountry and frontcountry tent camping in the mountains, visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Trails for hiking and biking as well as rushing rivers and whitewater rafting make Sylva an exciting home base to discover western North Carolina.

99% (82)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Roamstead

97%

(55)

27mi from Sylva · 77 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cosby, TN

Roamstead was born on a family RV trip across the country. Our founders noticed their glamorous plans often ended in glorified parking lots or dirty campgrounds without amenities or thought regarding design. Alongside that, many campgrounds seemed unapproachable to those who hadn’t been before. A vision was born to reinvent 'roughing it' in a way that could welcome all adventurers to experience the magic of the great outdoors. We believe the beauty of nature should be experienced by everyone. It's good for your health, and the more we connect with and learn about the outdoors, the more we'll feel compelled to protect it. Whether you've been camping all your life or this would be your first trip, we're here for you. We aim to build a bridge (you know, a metaphorical one) to the great outdoors, where all adventures can truly feel welcome. Roamstead is committed to making our outdoor spaces accessible to everyone. At our Smoky Mountains location, we're partnering with Friends of the Smokies to do just that. Friends assists the National Park Service in its mission to preserve and protect the Great Smoky Mountains National Park by raising funds and public awareness, and providing volunteers for needed projects. They restore trails, build handicap accessible access points, and provide urban youth educational opportunities in the park, to name just a few of their many projects. A dollar of each stay at Roamstead Smoky Mountains is donated back to Friends of the Smokies to help continue their mission.

2. Moonshine Ridge Campground

96%

(14)

28mi from Sylva · 6 sites · Lodging · Cosby, TN

At the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park about 15-20 minutes from downtown Gatlinburg and convenient to two National Park entrances and walking distance to the Maddron Bald hiking trail. Walking distance to an Organic coffee house. Situated on a small private quiet (no road noise) campground with a small creek in the "holler" with remnants of moonshine stills from the 30's. Two national park entrances (Cosby Campground and Greenbrier) with lots of hiking within 10 minutes. At the front of the campground are 4 campsites with full hookups. 3 are occupied with rental RV’s and Airstream. One vacant lot (with full hookups) is available to rent. At the back of the campground are 3 occupied campsites with Airstreams and RV for rent. There’s a trail at campsite #4 that goes down to the creek and the moonshine stills. There’s a wooded area between the front and back of the campground with walkways to a sitting area with a swing, and a hammock.

3. Wanderlust Woods

96%

(35)

29mi from Sylva · 10 sites · Lodging · Cosby, TN

Wanderlust Woods is a hidden 10 acre property hosting a flowing creek, mountain views, and plenty of space to wander yet minutes from adventure activities, fishing, and hiking in the National Park. Perfect for all seeking the glory of the mountains in a unique & immersive setting. We are located in Cocke County Tennessee near the towns of Cosby and Hartford, 10 minutes from the Interstate and situated very near the boundary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The natural beauty of the area is unparalleled with views of the Smokies at almost every turn. Hiking, fishing, kayaking, white water rafting, and ziplining are all within a 10 mile radius of the property. Gatlinburg, TN is a 25 minute drive and Asheville, NC is just over an hour, offering guests options for fun day trips in the area.

4. Upscale Airstream, Hot Tub, River

31mi from Sylva · 1 site · Lodging · Brevard, NC

-Latte maker, King bed, heat/AC, fast wifi, grill -Private deck w/ hot tub, firepit & cozy couch -Luxury linens, rain showerhead, light dimmers -5min breweries, 7min Pisgah National Forest -15min Dupont Waterfalls, 25min AVL airport This unique Airstream experience will leave you rested and revitalized. Silver Fern is a Roamly Getaways property in Brevard NC. It was remodeled from the ground up and has been purpose built to provide you the stay your 9-5 has left you dreaming about. Silver Fern is located on a 35 acre parcel of land owned by Roamly Getaways. This property has been purpose built to provide you with an amazing experience. Two other Airstreams on the property which are also available for rent. (Royal Fern Airstream and Creekside Fern Airstream) . Each Airstream has its own private deck and private hot tub! The Airstreams are strategically situated to provide privacy, but are only a couple hundred feet apart. THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO!!! -“The Land Of Waterfalls!” -The area around Brevard NC is home to 200+ waterfalls! -World class destination for mountain biking, road cycling, hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing, and white water paddling. -Restaurants, coffee shops, breweries & stores: 5-10 min -Downtown Asheville: 40-45min -Pisgah National Forest: 7 min -Dupont State Forest: 15min -Direct river access from property for canoeing, tubing, fishing. Other put-ins are only a couple miles upstream & downstream. -Blue Ridge Parkway: 30min BEDOOM: -king size bed -dimmable reading lights -white noise machine -fully dimmable alarm clock -smart TV on swivel can face couch or bed -suit case storage under bed -drawers for unpacking -ultra comfortable bed and linens LIVING/DINING: -couch with pull out ottomans -reading lights -smart TV -board games and card games -counter with stools for dining -raised ceiling with windows and uplighting KITCHEN -butcher block counter w/sink -small fridge w/ freezer -oven, induction cooktop, microwave -one touch latte maker -pots and pans for induction cooktop -toaster, blender, muffin tin, coffee pot, cutting boards, etc. -sharp knives, wine opener, can opener -(Ask us for our kitchen essential supply list!) BATHROOM -shower with multiple shower heads that can be operated simultaneously. -shower wand and rain head -heated floors, wall heater -on-demand unlimited hot water -luxury towels, makeup towels -heated shower floors -hairdryer, cotton pads, Q-tips AMENITIES & EXTRAS -Starbucks Whole Bean Espresso for latte maker -local coffee for drip coffee pot (decaf and regular) -tea, coffee filters, cream, sugar -French press (coarse ground coffee not provided) -Public Goods brand shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion -dish soap, sponges HEATING/AIR: ductless heating and air DECK AND OUTDOOR SPACE -private outdoor deck and hot tub not shared with anyone else -hot tub - professionally managed -Solo Stove with Adirondack chairs -fire starters and fire wood provided -gorgeous covered deck -huge fan to keep you cool in the summer -comfortable couch w/ ottoman (great for napping) -outdoor cook area including granite countertops and 5 burner Spire Grill -outdoor eating area with stools -grill tools PARKING: parking for 2 cars beside the Airstream.

5. Silvia, the '72 Airstream

100%

(3)

48mi from Sylva · 1 site · Lodging · Travelers Rest, SC

LISTING DESCRIPTION 3 Acre Mini Farm - Pet Friendly, Peaceful Mountain Views & Ponies! Perfect for girls’ weekends, cyclist stopovers, singles, couples & small families - anyone who wants to get away, relax & recharge. TR's many cool shops & restaurants are <10 min away, Greenville & Hendersonville, NC are <30 min, Asheville is <1 hr. The ponies, mountain & meadow views, bubbling creek, nightly stars, moon glow, graceful old oaks and country peace & quiet are all free of charge. YOUR SPACE It’s a known fact that the Airstream camper is in a class by itself, and a 1972 Airstream Ambassador that's 90% original is a rare treat. Our girl is one incredible aluminum land yacht that we've christened "Silvia" after a hit song of '72 - Silvia's Mother" by Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show, and because, well, she's silver. She's been well cared for over the past 50+ years, and only the things that really matter have been updated - bathroom, larger instant water heater, new AC, microwave, fridge, Keurig coffeemaker, memory foam mattresses with latex toppers, dedicated WiFi, surge-protected USB outlets – but as far as everything else, from the '70s vintage cookware, utensils, linens, books, games, puzzles, and many '70s music CDs to discover, you'll really dig her vibe. GUEST ACCESS Guests have a gated private double entrance/exit driveway. The entire guest area is fenced/gated, guests have access to the lower property where the ponies are, seating on the bridge for a. m. coffee or p. m. libation. Beware though - the ponies may come begging for a sip. If you do enter the lower property to hang out with the ponies or check out our mini farm, PLEASE REMEMBER TO 1) close the gate behind you, 2) make sure the kids and pets are always under your direct supervision. HOST INTERACTION WITH GUESTS We live in the house on the property, but unless you need us for something you won’t see us at all, and we won't disrupt your stay. You may see us coming and going, feeding the ponies, doing yard work, etc., but we like our space and quiet living, so we won't invade your portion of the property during your stay. We're just a text away. OTHER DETAILS TO NOTE We're just off a 2-lane country road that the local folks use as a cut-through during the morning and evening rush hours, so traffic can pick up a little then, but it quickly settles to typical country road traffic for much of the time, ebbing off to intermittent during the evening and overnight.

6. Cozy Private Appalachian Airstream

100%

(2)

38mi from Sylva · 1 site · Lodging · Alexander, NC

Idyllic retro airstream in a pastoral setting. This remodeled airstream features a cozy one bedroom private experience. The sleeping area contains a comfy queen sized bed. The space has a nice living room area, kitchen with a cook top (no oven) , sink, microwave oven and refrigerator. There is a full bath, with flush toilet and a camper sized shower. The unit has running hot and cold water. You will be very comfortable with A/C and heat when needed. WIfi and smart tv included. Super easy access and parking for two vehicles, only 15 minutes from downtown Asheville and 10 minutes from hip West Asheville! The setting sits above a beautiful horse pasture where you can sometimes see a newborn foal snuggling with its Mother! There is a nice deck for your enjoyment as well. And it is also so close to everything the Asheville area has to offer - hiking, eating, breweries, music, nature and plenty of relaxing!

7. Glamping Airstream Barn

14mi from Sylva · 1 site · Lodging · Bryson City, NC

Escape to the Airstream Glamping Cabin at 3 Little Bears Retreat in Bryson City, where fellowship, relaxation, sustainability, and adventure come to life. Immerse yourself in the unique blend of Western North Carolina's nature and culture. This fully restored barn and Airstream offer a one-of-a-kind glamping experience in a conditioned, energy-efficient space. Designed with over 80% adaptive reuse and locally sourced materials, it’s the perfect eco-friendly getaway for your next adventure! The space: The Airstream serves as the cozy primary bedroom inside the cabin, featuring a queen and single bed, plus a half bath. Two charming lofts above the Airstream offer queen beds with charging outlets and tiny-house-style low ceilings. The cabin also boasts a full bath with a stunning nature-view shower and a kitchenette equipped with a burner, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Step outside to enjoy a cantilevered deck high among the trees with a creek serenade below and mountain ridgeline and peak views including Sharp-Top Mountain. Relax in the hot tub, refresh in the outdoor shower, roast marshmallows at the firepit, or cook on the Blackstone griddle. A dedicated nature meditation area completes the outdoor amenities. Guests also have access to our ever-expanding private hiking trails on the Retreat leading to private mountain streams, tranquil ponds in which to play, and the pristine Lands Creek to explore and relax by. Conveniently located just one minute from the Road to Nowhere entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (includes Noland's Creek, Fontana Lake, many trailheads, and the famed tunnel), five minutes from downtown Bryson City and 8 minutes from the Deep Creek National Park Entrance, our retreat is easily accessible year-round without winding mountain roads and easy access to many hikes, viewpoints, and famed flyfishing spots. Rooted in sustainability, 3 Little Bears Retreat features eco-friendly design, wildlife rehabilitation efforts, and tree and native plant restoration. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the area, from being adjacent to birthplace of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the enduring legacy of the Cherokee Nation and early settlers.

Camper favorites near Sylva

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Upscale Airstream, Hot Tub, River

31mi from Sylva · 1 site · Lodging · Brevard, NC

-Latte maker, King bed, heat/AC, fast wifi, grill -Private deck w/ hot tub, firepit & cozy couch -Luxury linens, rain showerhead, light dimmers -5min breweries, 7min Pisgah National Forest -15min Dupont Waterfalls, 25min AVL airport This unique Airstream experience will leave you rested and revitalized. Silver Fern is a Roamly Getaways property in Brevard NC. It was remodeled from the ground up and has been purpose built to provide you the stay your 9-5 has left you dreaming about. Silver Fern is located on a 35 acre parcel of land owned by Roamly Getaways. This property has been purpose built to provide you with an amazing experience. Two other Airstreams on the property which are also available for rent. (Royal Fern Airstream and Creekside Fern Airstream) . Each Airstream has its own private deck and private hot tub! The Airstreams are strategically situated to provide privacy, but are only a couple hundred feet apart. THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO!!! -“The Land Of Waterfalls!” -The area around Brevard NC is home to 200+ waterfalls! -World class destination for mountain biking, road cycling, hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing, and white water paddling. -Restaurants, coffee shops, breweries & stores: 5-10 min -Downtown Asheville: 40-45min -Pisgah National Forest: 7 min -Dupont State Forest: 15min -Direct river access from property for canoeing, tubing, fishing. Other put-ins are only a couple miles upstream & downstream. -Blue Ridge Parkway: 30min BEDOOM: -king size bed -dimmable reading lights -white noise machine -fully dimmable alarm clock -smart TV on swivel can face couch or bed -suit case storage under bed -drawers for unpacking -ultra comfortable bed and linens LIVING/DINING: -couch with pull out ottomans -reading lights -smart TV -board games and card games -counter with stools for dining -raised ceiling with windows and uplighting KITCHEN -butcher block counter w/sink -small fridge w/ freezer -oven, induction cooktop, microwave -one touch latte maker -pots and pans for induction cooktop -toaster, blender, muffin tin, coffee pot, cutting boards, etc. -sharp knives, wine opener, can opener -(Ask us for our kitchen essential supply list!) BATHROOM -shower with multiple shower heads that can be operated simultaneously. -shower wand and rain head -heated floors, wall heater -on-demand unlimited hot water -luxury towels, makeup towels -heated shower floors -hairdryer, cotton pads, Q-tips AMENITIES & EXTRAS -Starbucks Whole Bean Espresso for latte maker -local coffee for drip coffee pot (decaf and regular) -tea, coffee filters, cream, sugar -French press (coarse ground coffee not provided) -Public Goods brand shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion -dish soap, sponges HEATING/AIR: ductless heating and air DECK AND OUTDOOR SPACE -private outdoor deck and hot tub not shared with anyone else -hot tub - professionally managed -Solo Stove with Adirondack chairs -fire starters and fire wood provided -gorgeous covered deck -huge fan to keep you cool in the summer -comfortable couch w/ ottoman (great for napping) -outdoor cook area including granite countertops and 5 burner Spire Grill -outdoor eating area with stools -grill tools PARKING: parking for 2 cars beside the Airstream.

Silvia, the '72 Airstream

100%

(3)

48mi from Sylva · 1 site · Lodging · Travelers Rest, SC

LISTING DESCRIPTION 3 Acre Mini Farm - Pet Friendly, Peaceful Mountain Views & Ponies! Perfect for girls’ weekends, cyclist stopovers, singles, couples & small families - anyone who wants to get away, relax & recharge. TR's many cool shops & restaurants are <10 min away, Greenville & Hendersonville, NC are <30 min, Asheville is <1 hr. The ponies, mountain & meadow views, bubbling creek, nightly stars, moon glow, graceful old oaks and country peace & quiet are all free of charge. YOUR SPACE It’s a known fact that the Airstream camper is in a class by itself, and a 1972 Airstream Ambassador that's 90% original is a rare treat. Our girl is one incredible aluminum land yacht that we've christened "Silvia" after a hit song of '72 - Silvia's Mother" by Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show, and because, well, she's silver. She's been well cared for over the past 50+ years, and only the things that really matter have been updated - bathroom, larger instant water heater, new AC, microwave, fridge, Keurig coffeemaker, memory foam mattresses with latex toppers, dedicated WiFi, surge-protected USB outlets – but as far as everything else, from the '70s vintage cookware, utensils, linens, books, games, puzzles, and many '70s music CDs to discover, you'll really dig her vibe. GUEST ACCESS Guests have a gated private double entrance/exit driveway. The entire guest area is fenced/gated, guests have access to the lower property where the ponies are, seating on the bridge for a. m. coffee or p. m. libation. Beware though - the ponies may come begging for a sip. If you do enter the lower property to hang out with the ponies or check out our mini farm, PLEASE REMEMBER TO 1) close the gate behind you, 2) make sure the kids and pets are always under your direct supervision. HOST INTERACTION WITH GUESTS We live in the house on the property, but unless you need us for something you won’t see us at all, and we won't disrupt your stay. You may see us coming and going, feeding the ponies, doing yard work, etc., but we like our space and quiet living, so we won't invade your portion of the property during your stay. We're just a text away. OTHER DETAILS TO NOTE We're just off a 2-lane country road that the local folks use as a cut-through during the morning and evening rush hours, so traffic can pick up a little then, but it quickly settles to typical country road traffic for much of the time, ebbing off to intermittent during the evening and overnight.

Cozy Private Appalachian Airstream

100%

(2)

38mi from Sylva · 1 site · Lodging · Alexander, NC

Idyllic retro airstream in a pastoral setting. This remodeled airstream features a cozy one bedroom private experience. The sleeping area contains a comfy queen sized bed. The space has a nice living room area, kitchen with a cook top (no oven) , sink, microwave oven and refrigerator. There is a full bath, with flush toilet and a camper sized shower. The unit has running hot and cold water. You will be very comfortable with A/C and heat when needed. WIfi and smart tv included. Super easy access and parking for two vehicles, only 15 minutes from downtown Asheville and 10 minutes from hip West Asheville! The setting sits above a beautiful horse pasture where you can sometimes see a newborn foal snuggling with its Mother! There is a nice deck for your enjoyment as well. And it is also so close to everything the Asheville area has to offer - hiking, eating, breweries, music, nature and plenty of relaxing!

Glamping Airstream Barn

14mi from Sylva · 1 site · Lodging · Bryson City, NC

Escape to the Airstream Glamping Cabin at 3 Little Bears Retreat in Bryson City, where fellowship, relaxation, sustainability, and adventure come to life. Immerse yourself in the unique blend of Western North Carolina's nature and culture. This fully restored barn and Airstream offer a one-of-a-kind glamping experience in a conditioned, energy-efficient space. Designed with over 80% adaptive reuse and locally sourced materials, it’s the perfect eco-friendly getaway for your next adventure! The space: The Airstream serves as the cozy primary bedroom inside the cabin, featuring a queen and single bed, plus a half bath. Two charming lofts above the Airstream offer queen beds with charging outlets and tiny-house-style low ceilings. The cabin also boasts a full bath with a stunning nature-view shower and a kitchenette equipped with a burner, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Step outside to enjoy a cantilevered deck high among the trees with a creek serenade below and mountain ridgeline and peak views including Sharp-Top Mountain. Relax in the hot tub, refresh in the outdoor shower, roast marshmallows at the firepit, or cook on the Blackstone griddle. A dedicated nature meditation area completes the outdoor amenities. Guests also have access to our ever-expanding private hiking trails on the Retreat leading to private mountain streams, tranquil ponds in which to play, and the pristine Lands Creek to explore and relax by. Conveniently located just one minute from the Road to Nowhere entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (includes Noland's Creek, Fontana Lake, many trailheads, and the famed tunnel), five minutes from downtown Bryson City and 8 minutes from the Deep Creek National Park Entrance, our retreat is easily accessible year-round without winding mountain roads and easy access to many hikes, viewpoints, and famed flyfishing spots. Rooted in sustainability, 3 Little Bears Retreat features eco-friendly design, wildlife rehabilitation efforts, and tree and native plant restoration. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the area, from being adjacent to birthplace of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the enduring legacy of the Cherokee Nation and early settlers.

Stories from the community

H

Hallie

October 2025

2 nights at Wanderlust Woods

Enjoyed my quick stay at Jamey’s glamping site. Frida is very cozy and has all the basic things you need to glamp. Love that it by the water and can hear the water sound. Perfect place to unplug!

L

Lisa

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Silvia, the '72 Airstream

Sylvia is full of charm. The grounds are delightful. The road that runs by the house the host can do nothing about but it is a busy road.

Walking distance to Maderon Bald Trail Head, and an organic coffee shop and book store.

J

Jim

September 2025

4 nights at Moonshine Ridge Campground

Tim was an excellent host, kept us well stocked with firewood and the airstream had everything in it we needed. Beautiful spot for campfires and starlight. This is the perfect spot to stay for visiting the smokes, pigeon forge, Gatlinburg, etc. We were within an hour drive of everything we wanted to do. We even extended our stay by another day. We will be back.

J

Joseph

September 2025

Group trip

6 nights at Moonshine Ridge Campground

We had a great time. Great spot, great host. RV was clean and all set up for us when we got there. Would definitely recommend.

Brittany

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Moonshine Ridge Campground

Cool spot that was close to so many things! The camper had everything we needed and was a cozy spot to rest for the weekend. It did smell a bit dingy/musty, but I think that's what you get when staying in an old camper :) It didn't negatively effect our stay and we would definitely stay here again. We enjoyed having the ability to sit by the fire and not stress about gathering/chopping wood. We were able to light the fire, sit back, and enjoy. There is a coffee/book shop within walking distance of the camper that sells amazing coffee and has a huge variety of books/gift items! If you go, ask the owner about the nightmares and nausea t-shirts lol

T

Taylor

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Moonshine Ridge Campground

Lovely stay at the airstream! Tim was responsive when I had questions. Very comfy bed!

The Shiny Tiny Airstream sits at the top of the properties right next to the trail.

B

Bridget

July 2025

3 nights at Wanderlust Woods

Super awesome spot! Loved having a hot shower and WiFi after long days of exploring!

N

Neil

July 2025

3 nights at Wanderlust Woods

We loved staying here! It was a very quiet area and so nice to wake up with the sounds of the stream right next to us. This was our first time going to gatlinburg area and it was awesome to be able to come back each day and relax in our cute airstream. Jamey was also very helpful and made sure our stay was as relaxing as possible. They helped set up the airstream before we got there since it was pouring by the time we got there! Next time we go to gatlinburg area, we will definitely be staying with Jamey again!

A

Alex

July 2025

1 night at Moonshine Ridge Campground

Tim is a incredible host who was super flexible, we stayed with 5 pups and he had everything set up for us when we arrived much later than expected, and he did not hesitate to offer us a late checkout, and when we fell in love the home feeling we even decided to stay a extra night! Although it was to hot there was more than enough Firewood supplied. Can't wait to see all his plans come to fruition can't wait to visit again. (Great only 15 minutes to the heart of gatlinburg and 30 from pigeon forge)

Y

Yang

July 2025

With kids

1 night at Wanderlust Woods

The location is perfect if you’re looking for somewhere that’s really tranquil and close to the nature. Really enjoyed the creek in front of our airstream. The airstream itself is also very lovely. I like its vintage style.

M

Melody

June 2025

4 nights at Moonshine Ridge Campground

We absolutely loved it here! It was so peaceful, and Tim was super nice. The airstream was clean, cute and cozy. He made sure we had everything we needed, and was an excellent host. He has the cutest dog too!

Teleia

May 2025

1 night at Moonshine Ridge Campground

Tim was an awesome host and made sure our check in went well and that we had everything we needed. I recommend it for any trip your planning.

S

Shan

April 2025

With pets

1 night at Moonshine Ridge Campground

This was a great stay in a vintage Airstream! It’s nice and quiet and surrounded by gorgeous trees, and Tim checked on us to be sure we had everything we needed. The camper was very comfortable and includes linens, towels, and basic kitchen supplies and coffee. We loved staying here and would definitely stay again!

C

Caroline

April 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wanderlust Woods

Amazing space- remote but little camping community. Running water, shower, and toilet. Creek is perfect space for kids to play. Bedding was super comfortable. Messages were answered quickly. Def gonna stay again!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best airstreams near Sylva guide

Where to go

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Just an hour northwest of Sylva, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and a variety of tent camping options. Backpackers can explore backcountry sites that require hiking to the campground, while frontcountry camping offers easy car access and a developed campsite with restrooms, a firepit, and a picnic table. Reserve a site early to score a group campsite for eight or more people in the front country, or book a horse camp, where Hipcampers can enjoy vehicle access, horse hitch racks, and basic camping facilities.

Nantahala National Forest

The largest national forest in North Carolina, Nantahala covers mountain and valley landscapes with hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails as well as whitewater rafting and camping. Explore a variety of developed and primitive tent campgrounds with lakeside, streamside, and forest views, plus options for group and dispersed camping. Four RV campgrounds offer space for RVs and campervans in the Nantahala Ranger District, with access to nearby showers and flush toilets. The park also offers a primitive cabin and a fully-equipped lodge with 16 beds and a kitchen. It’s advised to book early as group sites tend to be popular in the summer months.

Pisgah National Forest

An hour’s drive northeast of Sylva is Pisgah National Forest, home to the Cradle of Forestry historic site as well as waterfalls, whitewater rivers, and expansive mountain and forest hiking trails. Tent campers can find a variety of sites with drinking water, showers, and flush restrooms, while RV campers can enjoy the park’s amenities and a dump station at North Mills River. Stop by Wiseman’s View for a stunning look over Linville Gorge. Hipcampers can also book mountainside campsites, riverview sites, and forest campgrounds, but remember to check the availability, as some sites are only open seasonally.

When to go

The popular camping season in Sylva runs from April to October, with the period after Labor Day a favorite for those seeking cooler nights and less humidity. July is the hottest month in the region, with average highs near 85. The state allows camping all year, although it’s important to call ahead because not all sites are available year-round. Experience is recommended for winter camping in the high country, where the slopes are often snowy. For Hipcampers seeking a more relaxed winter experience, many lower-elevation areas around Sylva offer car camping, tent camping, and RV campsites.