- Nantahala National Forest
The best glamping in Nantahala National Forest, NC
95% (73)
Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Nantahala National Forest
Blue Ridge Basecamp
Blue Ridge Basecamp
99%
(159)
3.1mi from Nantahala National Forest · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Forested 15 acre lot with a beautiful grassy meadow, and a meandering stream with shallow spots to cool off in on a hot day.
We have a meadow by the creek with first come first served tent spots. Pitch your tent anywhere you like and relax the day away.
We also offer 6 fully stocked campers and 4 RV sites for rent. Please see each site for all the details! ALL RV/camper sites have FULL hookups with 20/30/50 amp, water and septic.
There is fresh drinking water, on site garbage, picnic tables, firepits, firewood for purchase and a well-maintained porta-john. Porta John is only available March 1 - November 1.
We are just minutes away from Nantahala Lake, Nantahala River, and the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy nearby white-water rafting, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, kayaking, ziplines and more. If you're not up for cooking there is a local restaurant on the lake 5 minutes away, as well as the Nantahala Outdoor Center a quick 20-minute drive.
Pets
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from
$29
/ night
Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites
Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites
90%
(48)
7.4mi from Nantahala National Forest · 13 sites · Tents, Lodging
We just retired from Active Duty Air Force! My ancestors have owned the land our NC cabins sit on since 1836. In fact, my mother grew up there after my Grandfather returned from WWII when there was no electricity and the outhouse was a bench over the creek. I grew up hiking the mountains with my brothers and our BB guns and my Uncle Frank at our family reunions. In 2005 he deeded us a parcel of land and we built our first cabin - Smawlie. We love to come to the cabin and Hike the trails on our own property, and of course, the world famous ones that join them, namely the Bartram and the Appalachian Trails. As you explore the lake, the trails, the rivers, and the mountain roads you'll see why our ancestors settled here. In 2018 - we bought the remainder of Uncle Frank's land - and in his honor built our second cabin - Frank's Landing. Also in that year I started managing my brother Bill's cabin.
When we were stationed in Alaska for 6 heavenly years - we purchased a remote parcel of property and have slowly begun to develop it. We just completed building our cabin there.
Thanks for reading this little tid bit about us. We love to explore the mountains and are excited to share our cabins with you.
Pets
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from
$45
/ night
Winding Stair Campground
Winding Stair Campground
99%
(198)
8.2mi from Nantahala National Forest · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Winding Stair Campground sits at an elevation of 3,380 feet, next to the headwaters of the Nantahala River and is surrounded by national forest and undeveloped private land trusts. The stunning mountain views in a remote tucked-away setting make our farm a perfect getaway!
Just a 15-minute scenic drive from Franklin in North Carolina, easily accessible off Hwy 64, our campground offers a chance to enjoy nature without being far away from the public amenities of a small but well-equipped town.
A few features about our property:
- Working farm: Campers are welcome to meet our Icelandic sheep and take a self-guided tour of our farm, along designated pathways.
- Security: The campground and farm are fenced in on three sides with the river being the fourth boundary. Personal code to the entrance gate will be given at check in.
- Bath House: The restored bathhouse is split into boys’ and girls’ sides. Each side has 2 private showers, 4 flushing toilets, sinks, hot water, and gas heat.
- Community Pavilion: The Pavilion is a large 40x30 ft. open sided structure overlooking the Nantahala River. It has an ample fireplace, running water sink, counter space, couches, and table with benches.
- Pack Room: Where the adventure begins! A cozy hub where all guests get local information, view maps, and grab some local seasonal groceries. Also available to all campers are washing sinks with hot water, toaster oven and microwave.
- Communication: Or rather, lack thereof! There's no cell service on the property so it's a great time to get away from it all. There is limited Wi-Fi available near the Pack Room and an emergency landline available.
- Charging: Traveling in an electric vehicle? Recharge for free at our dedicated EV 50amp outlet when you stay at any of our sites. First come, first served.
Want to know more about the history of the property? Visit the 'Our Story' section on our website.
Learn more about this land:
Pets
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Showers
from
$55
/ night
The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping
The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping
99%
(48)
8.3mi from Nantahala National Forest · 1 site
Fall in love with our secluded Off-Grid Cabin located in the Great Smoky Mountains. Wake up to the sounds of a babbling creek and beautiful mountain views, hike the Road to Nowhere, kayak the Little Tennesee River, cook hot dogs over an open fire, and then open the glass panel garage door and fall asleep under the most beautiful sky you will ever see.
Rowdy Bear Highlights:
• 12ft glass panel door that opens the cabin to nature
• Queen Tempurpedic bed
• Rain Captured Shower
• Fire Pit
The Space:
The Rowdy Bear is an Off-Grid Cabin that is situated in the Great Smoky Mountains with easy access to both Bryson City and Franklin. The cabin itself was built using rough sawn wood acquired from a local sawmill. Many of the items used in the cabin came from local shops or antique stores.
There is a 2000-watt Solar Generator in the cabin that can be used for lights, charging cell phones, and running the pump for the shower. The Solar Panels are enough to charge the Generator to 100% each day.
Rainwater is used for showers. The gutter system on the cabin is used to catch rainwater. The downspout runs into a "First Flush Diverter", which allows any dust, dirt, or anything else that might land on the roof between the rainstorms to be diverted away from the water storage tank. The clean rainwater then fills the water storage tank. Be aware that Rainwater is fine for showers, but is not meant for drinking.
Propane is connected to a space heater and the shower. The space heater is 17,000 BTUs, which is plenty for colder nights. The shower has an at-source water heater and can heat the water up to 120 degrees, which is more than enough for a hot shower.
A porta potty is provided for bathroom purposes and is cleaned and restocked every Thursday.
Pets are allowed!
The following items are provided:
1. Linens
2. Towels
3. Coffee, Coffee Pot, and Coffee Cups
4. Body Wash
5. Shampoo
6. Board Games
7. Lanterns
8. Two Person Table and Chairs
9. Two Rocking Chairs
10. four Adirondack Chairs for the Firepit
11. Firepit
12. Outdoor table for food and drinks
13. Propane Torch for lighting fires
Guest access
The Rowdy Bear is situated on 2.5 acres of land. There is a large section cleared off where the cabin is located. There is plenty of room for the fire pit, vehicles, animals, and any outdoor games you might want to bring (cornhole).
Both Bryson City and Franklin are fairly close to the cabin. Bryson City is approximately 20 minutes away, while Franklin is approximately 30 minutes away. Both towns offer great little downtown areas that have shopping and restaurants. Don't be afraid to try the food trucks, they have some of the best food.
Bryson City has many trails for hiking such as the Road to nowhere, Noland Divide Trail, Three Waterfalls Loop (FYI: There are three waterfalls on this trail), and Deep Creek Waterfall Loop. The fishing in Bryson City is also great and the guided trips are very reasonably priced. I would suggest going in the morning and doing a float trip.
Franklin is bigger and a little more spread out than Bryson city, but there are a lot of neat little stores and restaurants. I personally like going to the Currahee Brewing Company. Currahee is right on the river and is set up to host live bands and it gets pretty lively in the late afternoons and evenings on the weekends.
Other things to note
One of the things you would want to bring is a 1 lb propane bottle for the Torch that is provided. Using the torch to start a fire is much easier than kindling.
The solar generator has enough power to run the small coffee pot if you don't want to use the percolator. The generator also has enough power to run hair dryers. The main thing you want to keep in mind is anything that uses a heating element will drain the battery quickly. Lanterns are provided If needed. Overall, you should be good to go, but it is something to keep in mind.
Pets
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Showers
from
$135
/ night
Gorgeous Stays Glampground
Gorgeous Stays Glampground
100%
(16)
8.4mi from Nantahala National Forest · 14 sites · Tents, Lodging
Gorgeous Stays! WHERE THE STAY IS PART OF YOUR ADVENTURE!
All you need to bring are clothes & a toothbrush & a smile! Check out all the amenities that are available when you plan a vacation with Gorgeous Stays! A Five-star camp bathhouse with vessel sinks, hot showers, and toilets, is located on the lower level of our rustic modern Lodge. There's a fun-size campground store with snacks, small heatable meals, personal essentials, firewood, and beverages. Plus -- six community fire pits, two food pavilions with propane grills, outdoor games, and much, much more!
All of our units come equipped with linens, towels, a K-cup coffeemaker, a microwave, a mini-fridge, a tiny sink, AC/Heat or fans/heater, comfy gel memory foam mattresses, and an RV toilet for nighttime convenience! Feel free to contact us if you have questions about anything that we offer! Gorgeous Stays wants your Stay to be memorable,
relaxing and fun!
There are so many things for you to do near us in Western North Carolina! Memorable experiences abound when you share nature with your family and friends.
Gorgeous Stays Glamping Campground is located within 2 miles of 4 rafting companies, 2 zipline areas, and a ropes Adventure Park. For more adventure in the area near us, there's the Appalachian Trail, the Little Tennessee River, Fontana Lake, and the Nantahala River (the best fly-fishing river in the Southeast). From quaint towns like Bryson City (home to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad), Sylva, and Dillsboro, to Harrah's Casino in Cherokee--You can check out even more of the possibilities below! Click on the Learn More buttons below to easily access the websites of some of our favorite experiences!
Pets
Toilets
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from
$35
/ night
Magical Mountain Resorts
Magical Mountain Resorts
99%
(198)
12mi from Nantahala National Forest · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Five gravel, flat RV sites with electric and water, by a trout creek and dump site on property! Tiny homes on property, hammocks, fire pit and more. 30 minutes away from Lake Chatuge, local brewing companies, local shopping, wine tasting, local artist displays and Marinas on the lake. Hiking, fishing
Pets
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Showers
from
$32
/ night
Smoky Mountain Meadows
Smoky Mountain Meadows
97%
(179)
12mi from Nantahala National Forest · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$30
/ night
Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping
Mountain Riders Riverfront Camping
97%
(73)
14mi from Nantahala National Forest · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$35
/ night
Nurture + Nature - Glamping Retreat
Nurture + Nature - Glamping Retreat
100%
(10)
15mi from Nantahala National Forest · 5 sites
Relax. Rejuvenate. Reconnect.
It is so important to have a safe space and dedicated time for disconnecting from the daily grind. Nurture + Nature provides our guests with opportunities to recharge their body, mind, and soul with positive energy and reconnect with themselves and nature.
The retreat center is located on a small farm in the beautiful mountains in Western North Carolina, where you will be greeted by horses, chickens and Buddy the mini Donkey, everyone's fav! We are surrounded by picturesque views and fresh mountain streams. Accommodations include fully furnished tents with one, two or three beds per tent (the entire retreat center sleeps up to 16 people), electric heater to keep you toasty on chilly nights, large indoor workshop space, rejuvenating warm outdoor showers and plenty of private spaces to nurture in nature.
*We clean and disinfect our accommodations and gear after every guest departure. We maintain very high standards of cleanliness and guest safety. Masks are required during group activities, we practice a socially distanced retreat experience.
Toilets
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Campfires
from
$86
/ night
Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS
Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS
98%
(29)
16mi from Nantahala National Forest · 1 site
Welcome and Thank you for choosing All Seasons Glamping for your unique camping experience nestled on 4.3 Acres in the mountains of North Carolina. We hope you will enjoy the nature and an outdoor adventure or two. Relax and Stargaze in our Hot Tub with Stunning Mountain Views. Located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, 15 minutes from Cherokee, NC and the Casino, 10 mins drive to the Great Smoky National Park, and 5 mins drive to Downtown Bryson City, NC. This cute little Private R-Pod Camper provides a unique, convenient and memorable stay with epic views overlooking the mountains, and some hiking trails down to a little creek below the property. Perfect for all Seasons. Join us for a new Glamping Adventure!
Toilets
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Campfires
from
$81
/ night
Conleys Creek Campground
Conleys Creek Campground
96%
(466)
18mi from Nantahala National Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to our little slice of creekside heaven!
Four years ago, we took a run-down manufactured home park and started turning it into something special — a peaceful, down-to-earth spot for campers to relax, explore, and feel right at home. It's been a total labor of love, and now we’re excited to share it with folks who appreciate the beauty of nature, good company, and a few chickens wandering by. At night, things slow down — our campground is quiet, peaceful, and perfect for stargazing.
We’ve got:
3 creekside RV sites with water + electric hookups
1 creekside RV site with full hookups (water, electric, and septic)
4 first-come, first-served creekside tent spots
A 38' luxury RV available to rent for a comfy glamping stay
All sites are right along Conleys Creek, which is stocked with trout and perfect for fishing or cooling off in the summer. Every spot includes a picnic table and fire pit — and tent sites come with a fire pit that includes a cooking grate for easy campfire meals.
Our land is totally pesticide-free and full of life — from colorful flower gardens to veggies, herbs, fruit trees, and our famous 14 free-range chickens (a.k.a. The Dixie Chicks). Guests love feeding them, petting them, and collecting fresh eggs.
You’ll also find:
A clean, private bathhouse
A game room with ping pong + darts
Outdoor yard games
Fast, reliable Wi-Fi
Firewood, eggs, and ice for sale
A dump station for RVs
We’re in a super convenient spot — nestled between Bryson City and Cherokee, just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dillsboro, Sylva, and tons of hiking, biking, kayaking, tubing, and whitewater adventures.
We’re open year-round, but if you come during leaf peeping season, you’re in for a real treat — the colors are absolutely magical.
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome too — we get it, they’re family!
This is our home, our lifestyle, and our dream. We’d love to have you come enjoy it with us.
Pets
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from
$38
/ night
Mountaintop Fantasy
Mountaintop Fantasy
98%
(237)
22mi from Nantahala National Forest · 4 sites
FALL/WINTER SPCIAL: 40% off weeknights.
NEW FOR 2025: Glenville High Treehouse and landscaped Overlook
Selected by Outside Magazine as their Favorite Hipcamp in North Carolina and a Hipcamp Finalist in N.C. 2020, 2021, and 2022 and runner up best Treehouse 2023, the Glenville High Treehouse ( the "Treehouse" ) and the Overlook await you in 4 acres.
The two sites are directly across our driveway from each other. The Treehouse affords covered interior sleeping for 6 ( combination adults an kids ), a W/C and shower, WiFi, TV, all necessary cooking and dining equipment, water equipment and room to pitch a tent if desired. The Overlook site is landscaped,shared and offers a covered overlook, various out door dining and lounging tables, large outdoor stone fireplace and water and fishing equipment shared only with us.
PLUS free access to the community dock and our canoes and kayak. Playground for the kids including trampoline.
Explore the innumerable trails and waterfalls of the Smokies; swim, canoe, kayak and fish in the Lake or numerous rivers and streams; swim at the sand beach down the road; rent a pontoon boat; enjoy the numerous nearby waterfalls; travel the Blue Ridge Parkway; enjoy the shopping and restaurants of nearby Cashiers and Highlands.
Or just hang out. This area is truly one of a kind spiritual respite far from the madding world.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$105
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Ali
2 weeks ago
With pets
We loved taking our dogs on this winter cabin adventure. The setting was perfect.
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Sam
3 weeks ago
With pets
An excellent experience. We stayed warm in the cabin especially with the gas stove 10/10 would recommend and visit again.
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Samantha
December 2025
With pets
Awesome glamping spot! Enough shelter for any weather, beautiful views, the simple amenities you need. It was nice to have a bed and we loved the entire wall sized view of the forest. Will visit again.
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C
Christine
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Gorgeous Stays Glampground
We stayed in the Yurt which was so cozy and beautiful. The toilet inside was so convenient. It was cold but we were given 2 heaters and an electric blanket which kept us so warm we wound up sweating while it was 25 degrees out. These grounds were so cute and had all the amenities u could ask for. Great for a romantic getaway or a family weekend. We will be coming back!
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C
C
November 2025
Group trip
I really enjoyed spending time with my adult family away from the stresses of the holiday season. We spent daylight visiting Waterfalls, museums and dining. We bonded by the outdoor bonfire at night, and we shared family reflections and laughter in the one-room cabin. As a family that enjoys spending time together, this trip was magical.
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Heidi
November 2025
With pets
Brian has created something so incredibly special here! We stayed at Diamondstone and he has added many special touches- the electric candles, little propane stove, wooden benches and handrails....
He is also INCREDIBLY responsive! We could not figure out how to work the padlock to get into the cabin (note: the numbers must be lined up in the GREEN section of the lock) but he answered right away even though it was 10pm (second note: there is no cell service there so you have to go a ways to find it).
The cabin is not insulated and the stove does not put out much heat, so if you're coming in winter make sure you have good cold weather gear. My son set up his tent outside and as we both brought winter gear we had an wonderful, peaceful time reconnecting with nature and each other.
Thank you Brian for being a wonderful host and creating such a special place.
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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!
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M
Mahi
November 2025
Weekend Trip to SoulShine Forest
Thank you thank you thank you Lisa & Winton for a beautiful experience. The Lotus Belle is so unique and groovy with those most beautiful art and decorations. We loved the bathhouse so much, so clean and pretty. The whole site is the most unique piece of art you could find. Lisa and Winton are exceptional communicators and so incredibly sweet and accommodating. They went above and beyond to help me surprise my partner for our anniversary 💛 Winton even helped get our car battery fixed when it died at the site - you have no idea how much I appreciate this 💛
Thank you guys so so much for helping me plan this special weekend for my partner and I :)
We can’t wait to visit again ☮️💛
- Mahi & Hannah
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K
Krista
November 2025
With pets
We absolutely loved our stay and will definitely be coming back. The heater did great with keeping the space warm for us. It was truly breathtaking and exactly what we needed. We never saw another person and felt completely alone and private. Can't wait to come back!
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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!
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R
Roné
November 2025
4 nights at Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS
We had a wonderful time staying at Private Glamping w/ Outdoor Shower at Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS. Our hosts were so kind and thoughtful, and the setup was excellent and had everything one needs for a very comfortable and memorable glamping experience. The hot tub was definitely a highlight for us. Despite a sudden cold front coming in, the camper was always at a comfortable temperature and we never felt cold at night, even with outside temperatures dropping below freezing. Thank you again to our generous hosts for a great stay in this little oasis in Bryson City. We look forward to visiting again.
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J
Julia
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Destination Outdoors! DO IT!
I would definitely recommend Destination Outdoors! Matt is an awesome host, and he has created an amazing spot. The yurts are super comfy and the bathroom is great!
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J
John
November 2025
Weekend Trip to The Heart Center
My wife and I stayed in the yurt to get away from the noise and celebrate my birthday and the Heart Center truly delivered. The land and energy this place holds is incredible. Liz was a fantastic host and both my wife and I were able to have a reiki session with her while staying here. To stay it was transformational for both of us would be an understatement. Both of us learned so much from our sessions and left the Heart Center feeling lighter both physically & emotionally. We will definitely visit again in the future and Liz - thank you for what you do and putting together such an amazing place of healing and warmth admist the natural beauty of the area. Much love and until next time 🙏🏼❤️
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Eifel
October 2025
1 night at Mountaintop Fantasy
This a very unique and cozy treehouse cabin in a beautiful location, right by Lake Glenville. It is a comfortable space with lots of amenities for a fun weekend in the mountains, and feels very secluded surrounded by woods and at a high elevation. Despite being there in rainy weather, it was beautiful with all the fall foliage! And Peter is a very friendly and welcoming host. I would certainly recommend a visit!
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Leslie
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Private Glamper/HOT TUB/MNTN VIEWS
Picture this: Wake up in your cozy camper (very clean and comfortable bed) and hop in the hot tub (extra towels included), take a hot outdoor shower surrounded by fall leaves and head down into Bryson City for some coffee and breakfast. After that, spend the day hiking in the Smokeys, come back into town to explore some shops and breweries, then head back to your cozy trailer for a fire and to soak some more in the hot tub.
That was our exact experience- even though it was about 50 degrees and raining by the evening, that actually made everything even more fun, hot tub included.
This site is so unique, convenient, and well designed. You can tell the host takes pride in making it a perfect stay for everyone, with attention to detail (like putting out a Halloween themed basket with Kurig pods). She even refunded money for firewood we didn’t use.
One note: the hot tub was set at 95 when we arrived, and after a few hours was only 97 even though we set it to 104. It took overnight to get up to temperature, but after that it stayed hot and we got plenty of use out of it.
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B
Brian
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Mountaintop Fantasy
This Treehouse/ Overlook was just right for glamping - all accommodations and ease of use! Warm space to sleep with WiFi, open air kitchen with full accessories, heated full bathroom and shower while being able to enjoy the view of the mountains and nature. Instructions and directions are well thought out and posted for everything. Layout is an easy walk and well designed - great place to to relax and just enjoy your time! Our furry host, Molly was a pleasure to meet and get to know too! Good times had by all!
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Erin K.
October 2025
3 nights at Mountain Creek Rest
I cannot emphasize enough how beautiful this spot is. The stream, the trees, the quiet. I have camped in almost every state, and this is easily one of my favorite sites. The road in a bit bumpy, but doable. I easily made the trek in a civic. The road is also great for taking a scenic walk. The covered porch was perfect for a rainy afternoon, and the heater was a welcome addition on cool autumn evenings. Close to the stunning Joyce Kilmer Wilderness & Nantahala National Forest. I hope to come back again!
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T
Tony
October 2025
6 nights at Blue Ridge Basecamp
This is a perfect spot to explore all the exciting things this area has to offer.
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Kristi
October 2025
With pets
We loved our stay at the Magical Resorts Groundskeeper Cabin! Mary truly thought of every detail when designing and decorating each space. The beautiful stained glass, cozy bedding, fire torches, and even the dishes made us feel like we were actually in Hagrid’s cabin!
Even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan, the cabin is simply beautiful and so thoughtfully done. We have two younger children who absolutely loved it—they spent hours on the swings and the play area by the water and enjoyed feeding and petting the animals.
One evening we visited downtown Haynesville and had a great meal at a local restaurant. We probably could have spent more time exploring the town, but we just loved relaxing in nature.
Mary was so kind and quick to respond to all of my messages. We will definitely be back!
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Noah
October 2025
Weekend Trip to The Rowdy Bear Off-Grid Glamping
We had an unforgettable anniversary weekend at the Rowdy Bear cabin! It was the perfect setting to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with each other. The cabin had everything we needed and nothing we didn’t (except the heater, which we didn’t have to turn on once due the unseasonably warm weather)!
The million dollar view, peaceful privacy, brilliant night sky, and simple setup make this a special place we want to come back to again and again. The super comfortable bed, amazing hot shower, and easy solar-powered electricity were welcome luxuries, turning us backpacking campers into converted glampers overnight! Thank you for sharing this slice of heaven with us!
See more 95%
73 ratings · 24 reviews
Mixed feelings
· July 2025
Though the Pine ridge road area is beautiful, it’s crowded. Skip this and go to the sites around Joyce Kimmel Rd for a more beautiful & secluded experience.
H
Hailey B.
7 months on Hipcamp
As of May 29th 2025, this campground is closed still
M
Matthew A.
8 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2019
Sites are well spread out and private. Some road noise but cannot see the vehicles. Lake views are gorgeous. I just wish fellow campers would clean up after themselves. Too much human waste not buried and busted garbage bags left on sites. Must clean up before using. Still a beautiful area. Peaceful.
Jacqueline T.
9 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2019
Sites are well spaced. Most are walk-in. Access to the lake is down deep bank. GORGEOUS REMOTE PERFECT
Jacqueline T.
9 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2019
Check frequently to make sure campground isn't closed due to bear activity.
B
Brandi B.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2018
Make sure to bring a kayak or canoe! It’s a beautiful lake for a morning paddle!
N
Nathan S.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2018
bring your own toilet paper and lots of light for the night
V
Vivian P.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2018
Absolutely beautiful area
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Kate M.
7 years on Hipcamp
July 2018
We have been RV camping for sometime...small trailer mind you but fits everywhere.
Really beautiful lake and clean. Please note you must reserve in advance! If you love mountains, clean lakes in a beautiful area this is for you. Also, I want to note ticks are really bad in mountains spring, summer and early fall so take precaution. Have fun and we are going back in September for more fun. Happy camping..
Matku V.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2018
This is my all time favorite campground. My family has been visiting this campground since my grandfather was a Forest Ranger in the area in the 1960's. The icy headwaters of the Nantahala River run through the campground, this is a popular summer tubing spot for campers.
Jacob R.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2018
This is a quiet, lesser known camping area hidden back in the woods. There is a nice little stream with large trout and a bear sanctuary so hopefully an opportunity to safely see some bears.
Jacob R.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2017
Great spots right on the lake.
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Charles R.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2017
There is good trout fishing. Plenty of fresh water and firewood along the trail. Great waterfalls and very scenic.
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Daniel B.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
There are two rustic cabins/shelters you can rent that give you the most secluded spot in the campground where you can pull up your kayak or canoe for the night. You need to reserve months in advance, but its worth it. The only good tent sites are on a first-come-first-served basis, so risky to assume you can get one. The reserved tent sites are all right next to the road and not secluded at all.
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Cindy T.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
No reservations
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Alan B.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
Very crowded on a summer weekend
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Alan B.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
dispersed , widely spaced along creek
Rich P.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2017
Loved this great campground. Right on the lake. Our campsite was wooded on both sides
Kristin V.
3 reviews
May 2017
I have camped there for several years in June. The campground is well maintained, but bring your own toilet paper and shower tent.. The three hydrants provide good water. Only once was a neighboring group too rowdy after midnight, and I had to go and have a talk with them. Fontana Lake is beyond beautiful in that area, with wilderness on both sides. It is directly across the lake for Hazel Creek, the nicest flat water paddle I have ever done.
Doug C.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2017
The actual rock is hard to find!
Beth T.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2017
Go early to get a spacious site. If you don't care about space, you will probably always find a site in the off season. It does get busier in the warmer weather but the sites are well spaced. There's a nearby hike to a waterfall that is mediocre. I would suggest going somewhere else to hike but the camping is great and free!
Alyssa M.
9 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2017
Absolutely beautiful! Panthertown Valley is great because once you backpack in, you won't see many others! Make sure to bring a bear bag and hang your food away from your campsite!!! The bears are around here :). Also, be cautious crossing the river if you have any open cuts/scrapes or disinfect immediately.
Alyssa M.
9 years on Hipcamp
January 2017
Panthertown Valley is one of my favorite places in Western North Carolina to backpack and fish! Miles of backcountry trails are open year round to the public at no cost. The views atop the exposed rock faces are very picturesque are worthy of bringing a camera along. If you decide to camp here be sure to bring a bear bag and hang your food! This is a bear sanctuary so there are quite a few in the area.
When you get off the beaten path and follow any of the small streams running through the wilderness area you are likely to find the native Southern Appalachia Brook Trout in these high elevation streams. If you decide to wet a line please keep in mind that the streams in Panthertown Valley are designated as catch and release only!
Jack T.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
Great spot. Wooded sites for tents. Good hiking is accessible from the campground.
Edie S.
10 years on Hipcamp