97% (4.3K) • 226 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Waynesville
Raven Ridge
1. Raven Ridge
99%
(269)
27mi from Waynesville · 2 sites · Lodging
Raven ridge is a 5.0 acre property with plenty of botanical appeal, Appalachian charm and mountain views. James landed on the property in 2009, built a small dairy barn and milked 3 cows for a couple years before building the two cabins. In 2015 he was joined by Sofi, originally from Sweden and together they have three daughters.
Together they manage a botanically interesting hobby hill farm and are happy to host travelers and seekers in their cabins. Hilltop was a joint project that James built in 2012 with a talented woodworker and friend in 6 months. We have maintained the original vibe of the place, rustic simplicity and elegance a notch or two above glamping, well-described by the zen koan, "chop wood, carry water" Orchard House was built entirely by James from the block up to the roof, averaging 1 hour/day for 3 years or 1,000 hours.
Some of the Hilltop photos are a bit dated, we have a more private outhouse behind the cabin, and have made a few improvements here and there. Reach out anytime for any reason. We love hosting and nearly everyone enjoys their stay.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$77
/ night
Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping
2. Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping
97%
(73)
49mi from Waynesville · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
All sites are on the valley river surrounded by mountain views.
Close to the Dragon Tail, Trail of Tears, and the North Georgia / Tennessee
border.
Zip lining, white water rafting, fishing, hiking, and biking are all nearby.
Enjoys stunning views, the sound of the river, and plenty of other outdoor activities around.
Two separate bathhouses are available with 2 full bathrooms in each and a laundry room is also available.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Smoky Mountain Meadows
3. Smoky Mountain Meadows
97%
(179)
27mi from Waynesville · 168 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
(Please Note: Hipcamp does not have an easy way to add in Pet and Child fees.
You will need to go to EXTRAS and add in number of pets ($5/pet/per night) for cabins and/or number of children ($5/child/night) on all sites SEPERATE from adults when making your reservation. IF YOU DO NOT DO THIS, YOU WILL BE CHARGED $10/NIGHT FOR EACH CHILD INSTEAD OF $5. We will no longer be issuing refunds or store credits for the overcharge.)
When you enter Smoky Mountain Meadows Campground, you can leave all the “rush-rush” of your daily life behind. You will find yourself in a beautiful valley with quiet green meadows and a bubbling brook encompassing your surroundings.
We are almost half-way between Bryson City and the Nantahala Gorge.
We have been host to the Carolina Canoe Club's
Annual Week of Rivers Event for over 25 years!
2025 Season: March 31 – Oct 31
Rules for the Campground
1. 100 % Refund less credit card processing fee if you cancel before 14 days of your arrival date. 50% Refund if you cancel between 14 and 7 days of your arrival date. No Refund if you cancel within 6 days of your arrival date.
2. CHECK IN: 4 PM. CHECK OUT: 11 AM.
3. QUIET TIME. 10 PM - 8 AM
4. CHECK OUT PROCEDURES. Camp must be broken down by 11 AM on departure day. If you stay past time you could be charged for an additional day. Extension possible with pre-approval.
5. All Overnight Guests Must Pay
6. Trash must be taken to the Green Bins located at the lower corner of the upper field
7. No washing vehicles
8. PETS must be kept on a leash at all times. Please clean up after your pets and do NOT leave them in the campground unattended.
9. Please be respectful of other campers and the property. Disruptive or inappropriate behavior will result in immediate cancellation of your stay and you will be asked to leave the park.
10. We reserve the right to refuse service or ask guests to leave the park at any time and for any reason.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
4. Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
18mi from Waynesville · 32 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
No matter the weather, no matter the time of year, here at Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins, a perfect relaxing stay is what we are all about. Enjoy a picturesque creekside retreat in Cherokee, NC, the hub of activity for Western North Carolina in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Our full-hookup campsites and vacation log cabins feature just exactly what you need to get away and have some fun. Explore our peaceful setting and convenient amenities designed for your comfort and enjoyment.
*We are open May-October for stays in the campground, and year-round for the cabins and campsite #19.
If traveling West from I-40, we recommend taking Hwy 74 through Waynesville and Sylva to Cherokee for the best roads.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Rooster Ridge Cabin
5. Rooster Ridge Cabin
100%
(9)
39mi from Waynesville · 2 sites · Lodging
Rooster Ridge cabin is 12 years old. I had it built as a vacation rental, it's my most cozy and comfortable cabin. Centrally located between Chimney Rock and Hendersonville, NC. A 4 wheel drive is not necessary.Learn more about this land:
Sensational Cabin Get Away.
Looking for a great and affordable getaway in North Carolina? Look no further, this is it! The cabin at 'Rooster Ridge' is a two bedroom, two bath retreat, located mid-way between Hendersonville and Lake Lure NC. Convenient to downtown, Chimney Rock, Lake Lure and Asheville this is the best of both worlds. A private deck off the master bedroom, features a relaxing hot tub spa for your enjoyment. The rustic fireplace and comfortable living area are perfect for movie nights in front of the 42'' flat screen tv. The Cabin at 'Rooster Ridge' is cozy, clean and waiting for you.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$143
/ night
97% (4.3K) • 226 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Waynesville
Raven Ridge
1. Raven Ridge
99%
(269)
27mi from Waynesville · 2 sites · Lodging
Raven ridge is a 5.0 acre property with plenty of botanical appeal, Appalachian charm and mountain views. James landed on the property in 2009, built a small dairy barn and milked 3 cows for a couple years before building the two cabins. In 2015 he was joined by Sofi, originally from Sweden and together they have three daughters.
Together they manage a botanically interesting hobby hill farm and are happy to host travelers and seekers in their cabins. Hilltop was a joint project that James built in 2012 with a talented woodworker and friend in 6 months. We have maintained the original vibe of the place, rustic simplicity and elegance a notch or two above glamping, well-described by the zen koan, "chop wood, carry water" Orchard House was built entirely by James from the block up to the roof, averaging 1 hour/day for 3 years or 1,000 hours.
Some of the Hilltop photos are a bit dated, we have a more private outhouse behind the cabin, and have made a few improvements here and there. Reach out anytime for any reason. We love hosting and nearly everyone enjoys their stay.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$77
/ night
Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping
2. Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping
97%
(73)
49mi from Waynesville · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
All sites are on the valley river surrounded by mountain views.
Close to the Dragon Tail, Trail of Tears, and the North Georgia / Tennessee
border.
Zip lining, white water rafting, fishing, hiking, and biking are all nearby.
Enjoys stunning views, the sound of the river, and plenty of other outdoor activities around.
Two separate bathhouses are available with 2 full bathrooms in each and a laundry room is also available.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Smoky Mountain Meadows
3. Smoky Mountain Meadows
97%
(179)
27mi from Waynesville · 168 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
(Please Note: Hipcamp does not have an easy way to add in Pet and Child fees.
You will need to go to EXTRAS and add in number of pets ($5/pet/per night) for cabins and/or number of children ($5/child/night) on all sites SEPERATE from adults when making your reservation. IF YOU DO NOT DO THIS, YOU WILL BE CHARGED $10/NIGHT FOR EACH CHILD INSTEAD OF $5. We will no longer be issuing refunds or store credits for the overcharge.)
When you enter Smoky Mountain Meadows Campground, you can leave all the “rush-rush” of your daily life behind. You will find yourself in a beautiful valley with quiet green meadows and a bubbling brook encompassing your surroundings.
We are almost half-way between Bryson City and the Nantahala Gorge.
We have been host to the Carolina Canoe Club's
Annual Week of Rivers Event for over 25 years!
2025 Season: March 31 – Oct 31
Rules for the Campground
1. 100 % Refund less credit card processing fee if you cancel before 14 days of your arrival date. 50% Refund if you cancel between 14 and 7 days of your arrival date. No Refund if you cancel within 6 days of your arrival date.
2. CHECK IN: 4 PM. CHECK OUT: 11 AM.
3. QUIET TIME. 10 PM - 8 AM
4. CHECK OUT PROCEDURES. Camp must be broken down by 11 AM on departure day. If you stay past time you could be charged for an additional day. Extension possible with pre-approval.
5. All Overnight Guests Must Pay
6. Trash must be taken to the Green Bins located at the lower corner of the upper field
7. No washing vehicles
8. PETS must be kept on a leash at all times. Please clean up after your pets and do NOT leave them in the campground unattended.
9. Please be respectful of other campers and the property. Disruptive or inappropriate behavior will result in immediate cancellation of your stay and you will be asked to leave the park.
10. We reserve the right to refuse service or ask guests to leave the park at any time and for any reason.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$30
/ night
Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
4. Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
18mi from Waynesville · 32 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins
No matter the weather, no matter the time of year, here at Lazy Turtle Campground & Cabins, a perfect relaxing stay is what we are all about. Enjoy a picturesque creekside retreat in Cherokee, NC, the hub of activity for Western North Carolina in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Our full-hookup campsites and vacation log cabins feature just exactly what you need to get away and have some fun. Explore our peaceful setting and convenient amenities designed for your comfort and enjoyment.
*We are open May-October for stays in the campground, and year-round for the cabins and campsite #19.
If traveling West from I-40, we recommend taking Hwy 74 through Waynesville and Sylva to Cherokee for the best roads.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Rooster Ridge Cabin
5. Rooster Ridge Cabin
100%
(9)
39mi from Waynesville · 2 sites · Lodging
Rooster Ridge cabin is 12 years old. I had it built as a vacation rental, it's my most cozy and comfortable cabin. Centrally located between Chimney Rock and Hendersonville, NC. A 4 wheel drive is not necessary.Learn more about this land:
Sensational Cabin Get Away.
Looking for a great and affordable getaway in North Carolina? Look no further, this is it! The cabin at 'Rooster Ridge' is a two bedroom, two bath retreat, located mid-way between Hendersonville and Lake Lure NC. Convenient to downtown, Chimney Rock, Lake Lure and Asheville this is the best of both worlds. A private deck off the master bedroom, features a relaxing hot tub spa for your enjoyment. The rustic fireplace and comfortable living area are perfect for movie nights in front of the 42'' flat screen tv. The Cabin at 'Rooster Ridge' is cozy, clean and waiting for you.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$143
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
T
Tony
November 2025
With pets
Excellent location. Cabin has a perfect setting by the creek. Easy access off the main highway. Cabin was clean well taken care of. Could not have asked for a better stay!
See more
P
Payton
November 2025
With pets
I would give more stars if I could! Wonderful stay. The tiny house was very well kept up, good WiFi, amazing scenery and the gas fire pit was an amazing touch. I'll definitely be coming back!
See more
C
Catherine
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Raven Ridge
Talk about a slice of heaven! James was so accommodating and gave great directions and fast communication. The cabin is so magical, clean, and has the best books! Would recommend for anyone looking to unwind or find creative inspiration. We only got to stay one magical night but will be back for a long weekend retreat! Also birding paradise
See more
S
Shea
October 2025
3 nights at Raven Ridge
Ravens Ridge was a beautiful getaway. With rustic charms and spectacular views.... Even from bed!
Cantral to places to explore. Went to Bryson City for the train ride through the mountains. Gatlinburg is so close as well to find fun to get into.
Definitely be prepared for the walk up to the cabin but it was a beautiful and well needed retreat.
See more
G
Glen
October 2025
4 nights at Smoky Mountain Meadows
I stayed in the Dogwood cabin and it was perfect. The cabin was clean when I checked in and the bed (queen) was very comfortable. The bathrooms were also clean and it was nice having a microwave nearby.
The campground was quiet. There seemed to be quite a few full-timer sites that weren’t occupied.
Would definitely stay there again.
See more
J
Julien
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Raven Ridge
The cabin was delightful and the property was beautiful. Pretty easy to find if you follow the directions. Very close to plenty to do in downtown Marshall. We had a good time making breakfast with the wood fired stove!
See moreS
Stacy
September 2025
With pets
A beautiful and peaceful cabin. Wake up in the clouds and enjoy the silence.
See more
Hanna
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Raven Ridge
Beautiful property. The cabin was so unique and comfortable. I especially enjoyed sitting out on the deck and watching the birds flutter about. Thanks for your hospitality!
See more
L
Leslie
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Smoky Mountain Meadows
The little cabin was cute, beds were comfy, my favorite part was the little creek running in front. Loved it!
See moreT
Tanner
August 2025
2 nights at Raven Ridge
I truly enjoyed staying in James’ Hilltop Cabin. The cabin itself was cozy and charming. There is another cabin close by but it still felt private. The land that the cabin is on has some great trails with beautiful views. James was incredibly responsive and helpful and accommodated me on short notice. I definitely plan on staying again next time I’m in the area! 10/10
See more
L
Lore
August 2025
1 night at Raven Ridge
Beautiful place with people who care about tending to their land in a mindful way.
See more
C
Christina
August 2025
Tiffany
August 2025
2 nights at Raven Ridge
Sweet little spot that has all the basics covered for a short retreat. The cabin was built with care and is quirky, but fun and romantic. Anyone with mobility issues should be aware that the staircase might be very challenging (steep, narrow). The hosts are very accommodating and easily available if needed. Would recommend to anyone who is looking to get away for a few days. Plenty of trails on site if you don't want to leave the premises. Beware that the trail to the Cliffs is really difficult to find on the side closest to the property. I recommend walking up the road and taking the part of the trail closer to the Cliffs, in between two residences.
See more
Megan
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Raven Ridge
The most enchanting cottage stay! The orchard house was so well decorated and cozy, it was the perfect get a way for a couple! We also explored the lands and did some tubbing nearby, the location is great
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Ann
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Rooster Ridge Cabin
We had a wonderful stay at Rooster Ridge! The cabin was cozy and peaceful—perfect for a relaxing getaway. We especially loved the hot tub, which was the perfect way to unwind after a long drive. The cabin was clean and thoughtfully decorated, making us feel right at home. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a quiet, comfortable escape!
See more
L
Lillie
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Raven Ridge
Raven Ridge was stunning. Excellent hospitality and communication, rustic yet efficient space <3 will absolutely be coming back!
See moreE
Eden
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Raven Ridge
I had a lovely and peaceful time in this cute cabin on a beautiful piece of land! I especially enjoyed sitting on the porch and exploring the surrounding trails. I would highly recommend Hilltop Cabin and hope to be back.
See moreL
Leif
July 2025
With pets
It was such a nice getaway from modern living. We really enjoyed the cabin and taking the time in the morning to get the stove going to make our breakfast. We love the cow and enjoyed walking through the property..
See more
J
Julia
June 2025
With pets
This little cabin was so cute and cozy and perfect for our weekend trip! We definitely plan on revisiting in the winter months!
See moreJ
Josh
June 2025
The best dog-friendly cabins near Waynesville guide
Where to go
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Mountains, lush forests, and waterfalls welcome visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Explore North Carolina’s Deep Creek streams and waterfalls, journey to the past in Cataloochee Valley’s 19th- and 20th-century buildings, or wander the wonders of the Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill. About 30 minutes from Waynesville, choose between backcountry, frontcountry, group campgrounds, and horse sites in the park for an up close and unforgettable experience.
Blue Ridge Parkway
East of Waynesville sits the bountiful Blue Ridge Parkway. Featuring some of the oldest mountains in the world, it’s also home to Mount Mitchell, the highest mountain peak in the eastern US. Find a resting place at one of eight campgrounds along the parkway or settle into unique spots nearby like the Indigo Eagle Sanctuary, equipped with campsites, glampsites, and cabin rentals. Journey down this scenic stretch to explore endless hiking, biking, and wildlife.
Cherokee National Forest
Saunter into the south side of the Cherokee National Forest just north of the Great Smoky Mountains and 45 minutes from Waynesville. Offering developed campgrounds, hiking trails, whitewater rivers, and picnic areas, this tree-filled oasis provides opportunities for thrill-seekers and those looking to relax. With scenic drives and nature viewing, the effortlessly tall-trunked, green space is an easy decision when camping near Waynesville.
Nantahala National Forest
Heading into the southwest valleys of North Carolina, Nantahala National Forest is the biggest of four national forests in the state. An easy 10-minute drive from Waynesville, campers can book on-site campgrounds with sites ranging from primitive to RV spots with full hookups, lodges, and horse camps. Hit the Nantahala Outdoor Center to rent a raft, paddleboard, or kayak, and trek through treetop adventures or zip down zip lines. Be sure to pack swimsuits and journey out to the swimming hole at Silver Run Falls or one of many other worthy forest waterfalls.
When to go
Despite spring, summer, and fall being the more popular months to camp near Waynesville, there are options for winter warriors, too. Unforgettable fall foliage is followed by winters with snow and icy adventures. Spring offers two rounds of gorgeous flower blooms while summer temperatures over 80°F provide optimal water activities. There’s not a single season where campers won’t find themselves wondering how soon they can return to Waynesville.