- Nantahala National Forest
The best RV parks in Nantahala National Forest, NC
95% (73)
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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
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Cave Creek RV Site
Cave Creek RV Site
100%
(40)
5.3mi from Nantahala National Forest · 1 site
Convenient private, individual site near the Great Smoky Mountains. Beautiful scenery far from the beaten path with a creek, fire pit, picnic table, and pottery gallery.
The property is 45 minutes to Cherokee, 30 minutes to Highlands, and 20 minutes to the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Great hikes nearby including the Appalachian Trail. 3 miles from Little Tennessee River.
Come and enjoy!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$48
/ night
Burningtown Blooms
Burningtown Blooms
100%
(12)
5.7mi from Nantahala National Forest · 1 site
Looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience? Check out our Hip Camp listing and immerse yourself in nature.
Enjoy stunning views, peaceful hikes (property backs up to USFS line along the Bartram Trail) and cozy campfires.
Guest are also welcome to visit our small working family homestead. During season we have blueberries, vegetables and flowers available for U-pick or spend an afternoon feeding some treats to our Cows, goats and ducks.
Creekside Semi Private site with Electric, Water and Sewer Hookup.
Area activities include gem mining, hiking, bird watching, fishing. Just a short 15 minute drive to town.
Feel free to send message with any questions.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Martin's Nest Nantahala
Martin's Nest Nantahala
100%
(68)
7.5mi from Nantahala National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The creek in front of the property is available for use. Great for soaking when the weather gets hot and it's shallow enough to just bring a folding chair. Fish? Yes, there are some trout in there. Flies work best. Got kids? Build a dam! Go for a creek walk! Great hiking at the end of Wesser Creek Road. There is a trail by the creek and a fire tower with great view about 4.5 miles up that trail. Water source (spring) is available at the top. Follow the blue blaze. The white blazes at the top tell you you're on the Appalachian Trail. Take a side hike to Maine!
Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is just down the road on 19/74. Rafting, zip lines, a ropes course, mountain biking... good food by the river, a bar, public restrooms... the works. They often have music by the river on the weekends.
This land was once a hillside farm, after it was first logged early in the last century. They used to grow corn all over the hillside, then let the cows up there to graze and eat up the stalks. If you look closely, you might find some barbed wire in an old oak here and there.
Pets
from
$44
/ night
Nantahala Ridge Campground
Nantahala Ridge Campground
95%
(10)
8.1mi from Nantahala National Forest · 5 sites
Experience the ultimate mountain adventure with our full hookup RV sites (50/30/20 amp, water, septic, high speed wifi, picnic table, fire ring included). Nestled in a scenic mountain location, our spacious sites offer a private outdoor space for the ultimate scenic mountain experience. Our sites come complete with a picnic area and fire pit, perfect for evenings under the stars. Minutes from Nantahala Outdoor Center, Appalachian Trail, Bryson City, and Cherokee.
Pets
Full hookups
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
Full hookups
from
$55
/ night
Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground
Cowee (Kawiyi Deer Clan) Campground
96%
(26)
10mi from Nantahala National Forest · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Private end of road property in the Cowee Valley of Franklin NC, which is the first resupply stop along the Appalachian Trail through the Smoky Mountains. Cowee Valley is a gorgeous scenic valley with farmland and winding roads and mountains on all sides. Idyllic drive in with plenty of cows grazing, deer and wild turkey running around and amazing sunsets.
Cowee Campground has newly been made into a campground, previously undeveloped. We have left most of it undisturbed to maintain the natural and peaceful nature vibes. This land is a short distance off the main roads and small/private. All tent sites are in the shaded forest and RV hookups are just a few steps away with hardwoods filling out and providing partial shade. It's a quiet area with the sounds of nature and leaves rustling. We hope you'll appreciate and enjoy the beauty and tranquility as much as we do. If you want to car/truck camp without hookups we have space for that too. Just let us know.
We have a beautiful 4 bathroom bathhouse, with ADA shower and another bathroom with clawfoot tub/shower and private back deck. 2 large firepits with Andirondack chairs and a separate picnic table and grill area. There is a large communal Yoga/Event deck and covered Bar/Hangout area beneath - hammock, bar top, darts and it's own firepit as well. Plus Corn hole and Horseshoe pits for your enjoyment.
For weekly or monthly RV reservations, please contact 828-371-8471. Weekly RV rates are $325.00 and Monthly are $750.00 Also available for Retreat or Event rental.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
Turkey Creek Campground
Turkey Creek Campground
100%
(14)
11mi from Nantahala National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Located just a short drive from Bryson City in Western North Carolina, Turkey Creek Campground is the perfect staging ground for all your Smoky Mountain adventures. Our quiet, family-friendly campground is located just minutes from the Tsali Mountain Bike Trails, the Nantahala River and Outdoor Center, and the Appalachian Trail. The camp is located just steps from Fontana Lake where you can enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, paddle-boarding or just leisurely enjoying the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. When the sun goes down, the fireflies come alive and are only outshined by the beautiful night sky views.
Our campground features generous and well-groomed tent pads, 20/30 and 50 amp power connections (full hookup available), freshwater access at every site, picnic tables and fire rings. If you’re traveling in a van, RV or pulling a trailer, we have options for all our guests. Our bathhouse and laundry facilities are impeccable and we have an elevated deck area that overlooks the camp and is perfect for gatherings or just sitting in a rocking chair enjoying a good book. If you really must be productive or keep yourself connected to the outside world, we have fast, reliable high-speed WiFi available throughout the camp.
Consistently voted one of the “Top 10 Best Campgrounds”, come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Turkey Creek Campground.
For more camping options - including group reservations - please call 828-307-3077.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ 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
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
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
Full hookups
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
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Coweeta Creek Campground
Coweeta Creek Campground
100%
(141)
14mi from Nantahala National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Coweeta Creek Campground has water, electric, and septic on Sites 1, 2, and 3 as well as a firepit and picnic table. The bathhouse allows for hot showers and flushing toilets. Site 4 is for tents or small pop-ups.
If you are interested in renting an RV and having it set up for you when you arrive, please check out Windy Sky Rentals 706-426-3062.
https://windyskyrvrentals.com/.
Each site is gravel, shaded, and sits along the peaceful Coweeta Creek. The campground property has a large field for games (kickball, soccer, volleyball), as well as a flat 1/4 mile loop which you can view our mini homestead farm. We have chickens, bees, vegetable gardens, and a small fruit orchard. We recently added a 1/2 mile trail, called Turkey Foot Trail, through the wooded area.
The campground is somewhat secluded (some neighbors across the creek), but only 15 minutes from Franklin, NC and 15 minutes from Clayton, GA with plenty of shopping/restaurants. Once you are at the campground you won't want to leave the beauty of the creek!
Strong Wifi is available at all sites. Network password will be provided before arrival.
Property History: Coweeta Creek Campground WAS a 20 site, thriving, family/church oriented campground from the 1970's that was later sold, then neglected. My family purchased in 2022 and opened a few camping sites for a more family friendly, intimate setting.
*Please send us a message if you are interested in renting out the entire property for family reunions, birthdays, or other events. There is potential for 10 sites with water/electricity along the creek, but we don't advertise it!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$45
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Matthew
3 weeks ago
10 ft toy hauler
With pets
Great location along the creek and close to downtown Bryson City. Host was very nice and came out to greet me upon arrival.
See moreJ
John
3 weeks ago
34 ft Class C
With pets
The hosts were wonderful the site was amazing right on the river
See more
L
Laurie
3 weeks ago
34 ft Class C
With pets
We had a lovely time at the camping site of Danny and Pam’s. We rode on the Polar Express and the location was perfect, only a few minutes away. Our site backed up to a beautiful creek which was very relaxing to sit by. Danny responded right away to any of my questions and was very hospitable.
See more
Diana
November 2025
13 ft pop-up camper
With kids
My family had another AMAZING time camping at Coweeta Creek. It was cold but it was nice to have clean bathrooms with hot showers. We enjoyed the peaceful sounds of the creek while getting cozy next to the camp fire. We went to Winter Wonderland in downtown Franklin. We saw some pretty lights and enjoyed some warm cider while shopping in the local stores. This is still one of my Favorite places to camp!
See moreB
Bryan
November 2025
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
Danny and Pam were excellent hosts! We stayed in site 1. It was level, clean, and right beside the creek. We can't wait go back during warm weather to enjoy tubing!
See more
M
Mark
November 2025
28 ft travel trailer
Amazing waterfall views. Great family camping spot with room for everyone. Tents and campers have plenty of spots to set up. Very secluded yet close to things you may have forgotten.
See more
T
Tim
November 2025
34 ft travel trailer
With kids
My family and I stayed at campsite number one. The scenery is beautiful and the whole park is very clean and well laid out. We loved that there was a good amount of space and privacy between the sites. The creek is very soothing and beautiful. It was very convenient having seasoned firewood and fresh farm eggs available to purchase on site. The eggs were delicious and the chickens greet you every time you walk to the bathhouse. Speaking of the bath house it was very clean and the showers were nice and hot with plenty of water pressure. There is an ingles 11 minutes away to stock up on food. There is also a beautiful easy trail 6 minutes away called Tessentee bottomlands preserve. Adam was a very welcoming and attentive host. I would definitely suggest this campground for anyone looking to have a peaceful, private camping experience.
See more
J
Jay
November 2025
15 ft travel trailer
What a wonderful experience. Private spot with plenty of room for a camper to get in and out. Make sure you go check out the pottery studio. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
See moreA
Abby
November 2025
27 ft travel trailer
Lovely camping next to the creek. Melissa and Adam were warm and hospitable. We would camp here again. :)
See more
Bill
November 2025
18 ft campervan
Great spot. Beautiful. Safe. Clean. Well appointed. Communication was top notch and Ed was kind and accommodating.
See more
Shane
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Everything was amazing from the site, the creek, and the waterfall.
See more
E
Eta
November 2025
17 ft travel trailer
Clean, serene and small creekside camp. Wonderful hosts Anne and Chris have cultivated a peaceful and safe property to share with us and I am grateful. Going home with fresh eggs and a full heart.
See moreL
Liza
November 2025
23 ft travel trailer
With kids
We had a wonderful stay! The sites run along a large creek so the ambiance is perfect. Sites are clean with everything working properly and nicely spaced out. What we loved most is that there are many accessible approaches to the creek bed for our children to play and explore, plus large open fields for them to run some energy out. There is also a nice hike that takes you through the woods on the property. The hosts were out and about working on things, very friendly and accommodating. We will return.
See more
Christopher
November 2025
35 ft travel trailer
With pets
Site 1 is beautiful. It sits right on the edge of the creek. The sounds of the water flowing over the rocks nearby were so peaceful. The property is quiet and well-maintained. The bathhouse was exceptionally clean, and the showers have fantastic water pressure. Owners are very nice and came out to say hello to us. Ten out of ten, and am already planning a return trip for the springtime.
See more
K
Kathryn
November 2025
21 ft travel trailer
Cowee is the best campground we’ve ever been to - and we’ve been to a lot all up and down the east coast. Tanya has clearly designed this campground to every last detail with an aesthetic hand. From the campsites themselves and their views, to the public spaces, conveniences of a laundry room to bathrooms which look like bathrooms out of a camp beautiful magazine. And Tanya is absolutely fabulous - responsive and very caring. We are definitely coming back!
See moreM
Mark
November 2025
23 ft travel trailer
It was a perfect site! Close to the smoky mountains and close to town! We will be back
See more
S
Steven
November 2025
31 ft travel trailer
With pets
This place was really nice. Great for kids. They had a blast. The host were amazing. Not one bad thing to say about it. Stayed 11/7/25 - 11/10/2025. Will definitely stay there again.
See more
B
Brenda
November 2025
19 ft pop-up camper
The hosts are very helpful and knowledgeable. The thoroughness of plan for the resort and level of detail is truly remarkable!
See more
B
BRIGITTE
November 2025
15 ft campervan
With pets
What a beautiful campground! All four campsites are by the creek providing mother nature’s perfect lullaby for a peaceful night of sleep. The availability of seasoned firewood on site is so convenient. Bathrooms with three toilets and three showers are great. I can’t wait to return!
See more
R
Rachael
November 2025
40 ft Class A
With pets
We had a great time camping! The spot was fantastic and very thankful for the new 20x30 cover which protected our RV during our stay.
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
K
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.
C
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.
D
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.
C
Cindy T.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
No reservations
A
Alan B.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
Very crowded on a summer weekend
A
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