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We purposely tucked the campsite high up against the mountain to achieve complete solidarity. There is plenty of room for a tent and the bench. And yes - we put the last board in on the deck after taking this photo.Photo 1 of 6 of Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites
The LED in the Hot Tub adds a little ambiance - though you'll probably be lost in the view of the stars and the setting sun.View lodging photos of Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites
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Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites

Hosted by Michael · North Carolina
10 sites · Tent, Lodging · 7 acres
90%
·
35 reviews
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Creature comforts
Enjoy the comforts of home at some sites—including flush toilets, showers, and a kitchen.
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.

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Tent-only sites (dispersed)

7 sites
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"Backside" Primitive Tent Camping

75%
(14)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
For true adventure and seclusion! We can't adequately describe how peaceful it is to sit at the fire pit while listening to the birds and the creek as the sky turns pink and purple over the Smoky Mountains after an exciting day exploring the incredible outdoor activities we'll point you to.  The campground is more than a mile from the nearest paved road to achieve the most solidarity.  This means you'll need a 4x4 vehicle to access the property. This is an ABSOLUTE requirement!!!  There are 6 beautiful, flat, separated tent sites on our 6 acre family land. Evenings w/the stars are simply magical! There is no cell reception or wifi available - which means you'll have an undistracted experience.  Our favorite activities (all within a short 10 to 15 minute drive from the campsites) include cliff jumping at our secret swimming hole, rope swinging off the islands on the lake (rent a canoe or kayak from the local marina), hiking the Appalachian trail, whitewater rafting the Nantahala River, and exploring the trails around the campground.  At the end of the exciting day of fun it's time to rest in peace at our secluded campground.  There is a mountain spring creek running through the property for fresh mountain water and to lull you to sleep (please filter/boil the water to ensure safety).  The property features 2 large communal brick fire pits, a picnic table, a porta-potty, and eventually will have wooden tent platforms.  For now - it's a "backwoods" remote group site only accessible by 4x4 vehicle.  Perfect for the adventurous group!  You're welcome to scour the property for firewood but recommend you bring a hand saw/ax.  We can't adequately describe how peaceful it is to listen to the birds & watch the sky turn purple over the Smoky Mountains of our "Backside" campground w/ 6 acres of complete solidarity.  Evenings around the firepit w/ the stars are simply magical!  Local activities include cliff jumping a secret swimming hole,  hiking the Appalachian trail, & whitewater rafting the Nantahala River.  There are 7 large tent campsites with 2 shared fire pits, a porta-potty, a fresh water creek, & picnic tables. NOTE:  This is NOT an easy drive up car camp site.  Guests must have 4x4 to access the campground and MUST arrive during the day so as to not get lost.  Our "Backside" campground features 6 "hike in" tent/hammock camping sites, with two communal fire pits, 2 communal picnic tables, and a communal Porta-Potty.  A fresh water creek runs through the campsite for easy access to drinking water (though it's probably best to still either filter or boil it).  The parking area is 50 ft from the access trail for easy load in and load out.  There are 7 sites available, so there's a potential other campers will be at one or more of the other sites in the campground - unless you book them ALL at once.  NOTE: All but the last mile to the campsite is paved and easy access.  BUT - the last mile of the access road  is an unmaintained dirt/mud/gravel road that can be tricky to navigate - especially when we've had heavy rain, and when it's dark, therefore 4x4 is required as is DAYTIME arrival.  No one is close by to offer assistance if you ignore this warning and you won't be able to call for help as there's no cell reception in the mountains.  DO NOT book this site if you don't have 4x4!  If you do have the proper vehicle and mindset - then it's one of the best, secluded, private, primitive campgrounds in the state! You're welcome to explore all of the trails around our property and gather any firewood you find.  We don't provide dry firewood, so you may want to bring a bundle with you.  I'll also message you the directions to all of the local activities we enjoy in the area just a short drive from the campground. This is a primitive campsite for the adventurous group. If you'd like to invite your friends and/or family they can book one of the other 6 sites at the campground.  No utilities are provided or even available.  There is a freshwater creek running through the campsite but you must filter/boil the water to be safe.  There is plenty of firewood to burn but you should bring your own hand saw and/or ax. There is no cell reception at the property.  The sites are extremely peaceful!  The sites are at the end of a one mile dirt road (mud- when it's raining).  Therefore, we require a four-wheel drive vehicle to access the campground.
Short walk to site
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
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"David's Dugout" Tent Platform+View

86%
(11)
Tent site · Sleeps 2
We can't adequately describe how peaceful it is to sit back on the "reflection bench" on the elevated tent platform deck next to the stone fire pit while listening to the birds as the sky turns pink & purple over the Smoky Mountains. We purposely tucked the campsite high up against the mountainside to achieve complete solidarity and amazing views. Evenings w/the stars are simply magical! Area activities include cliff jumping at our secret swimming hole, rope swings off an island, sunbathing at a majestic waterfall, hiking the Appalachian trail, whitewater rafting the Nantahala River, then resting in peace at this secluded mountainside campsite. Perfect for an adventurous couple and their furry companion.
Moderate walk to site
4WD required
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed

Lodging

3 sites
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Log Cabin w/ Mountain View

100%
(9)
Cabin · Sleeps 4 · 1 bedroom · 3 beds · 1 toilet
Seclusion, and the view of a lifetime from the HOT TUB!!! That's what this space is all about! Just look at the photos! They're real. I took them!  This area of NC is so beautiful! It's an adventurer's dream come true. Some of our favorite things to do include hiking the nearby Bartram & Appalachian trails, cliff jumping at our secret swimming hole, jet skiing on the Nantahala Lake, white water rafting the Nantahala River, and fly fishing the creeks and rivers that rivet the area. We also enjoy the scenic Cherahola Skyway and Deal's Gap (Tail of the Dragon). There's so much to do - but when you're ready to relax after a day of adventure we invite you to watch the sunset over the smokey mountains as you grill a nice steak on the deck, and then gaze up at the star canopy as you reminisce about the day's adventures while roasting marsh mallows around the fire pit. If it's raining, snuggle up to a DVD and enjoy the ambiance of our little electric [xxxxxxxx] bedroom features an incredibly comfortable memory foam mattress. We like to leave the curtains open to enjoy the sun rise over the misty Smokey [xxxxxxxx] Loft is extremely inviting for younger adventurers and has two very comfy twin mattresses. The cabin is completely stocked with everything you'll need to enjoy a vacation in the [xxxxxxxx]: There is no CELL Service or INTERNET at the cabin. You're not on vacation if you're checking email, social media, or interrupted by work phone calls! Bring your phone with you though, because you will want to take selfies and capture the beauty of the area. Just post them when you get back (and tag us #NantahalaVacations). So, enjoy the break from tech while you [xxxxxxxx] put the cabin in a location to capture the perfect view meant that our gravel driveway became incredibly steep! If you DON'T have 4x4 we require you to hike the driveway. This is not an uncommon request in the mountains, just be prepared for an exhilarating 800 ft. hike. If you still want to explore this area but don't want to hike the driveway - just search for our other cabin "Frank's Landing" here on Hipcamp. It's more easily accessible cabin - next to a creek - nestled in the valley floor just below this cabin.  Bonus: if you are traveling with other explorers but don't necessarily want to share the space with them, or if after looking at our photos you're inspired to invite some friends to join you, they could enjoy one of our other cabins. Just point them in the right direction.
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
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Tiny Home Cabin

100%
(8)
Cabin · Sleeps 2 · 1 bedroom · 2 beds · 1 toilet
This is THE perfect honeymoon tiny home cabin! With a hot tub only steps from the cabin you'll be enveloped in nature as you enjoy the secluded, peaceful, cozy mountainside.  When it's time to go inside you'll be astounded at the modern, open, bright, and inviting tiny home.  The cabin is complete with everything you'll need - including the view of a lifetime!  That's what this space is all about! Just look at the photos! I took them! They're real!  This area of NC is so beautiful! It's an adventurer's dream come true. Some of our favorite things to do include hiking the nearby Bartram & Appalachian trails, cliff jumping at our secret swimming hole, boating the Nantahala lake, white water rafting the Nantahala River, and fly fishing the creeks and rivers in the area. We also enjoy the scenic Cherahola Skyway and Deal's Gap (Tail of the Dragon). There's so much to do in the area - but when you're ready to relax after a day of adventures we invite you to watch the sunset as you grill up a nice steak and then rest at night in the little red adirondack chairs under the star canopy around the fire pit.  Note: There is no CELL Service or INTERNET at the tiny home. You're not really on vacation if you're checking email, social media, or interrupted by work phone calls! Bring your camera with you though, because you will want capture the beauty of the area and maybe even take a selfie to post when you get back (please tag us #NanthalaVacations).  To put the cabin in a location to capture the perfect view meant that our gravel driveway became incredibly steep! If you DON'T have 4x4 vehicle we require you to hike the last 500 ft of the driveway. This is not an uncommon request in the mountains, just be prepared for a short but steep little hike. If you still want to explore this area, but don't want to hike the driveway, just search for our cabin "Frank's Landing" which is at the bottom of the driveway and is available here on Hipcamp (check my profile). It's our more easily accessible cabin nestled in the valley floor next to a creek, just below this "Little Red" tiny home.  Bonus: If you are traveling with other explorers but don't necessarily want to share the space with them, or if after looking at our photos you're inspired to invite some friends to join you, they could enjoy one of our other cabins.  They are called "Smawlie" and "Frank's Landing".  Just point them in the right direction. You're going to LOVE "Little Red".  It feels just like it's tucked into the woods like the iconic children's book (we have a copy in the cabin for you to peruse). Looking forward to working with you!
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
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Tiny Home Log Cabin

100%
(7)
Cabin · Sleeps 4 · 1 bedroom · 3 beds · 1 toilet
Our cozy little Tiny Home cabin has every amenity needed for a vacation - including a new Hot Tub!!!. After hiking the Appalachian trail, cliff diving at our secret swimming hole, white water rafting or fly fishing the Nantahala River, you will rest your eyes on THE most comfortable memory foam mattress in the mountains.  The loft welcomes two adventuring spirits to rest their little heads. In addition to a completely stocked modern cabin, you will have access to several acres of flat, manicured lawn surrounded by mountains and a soothing mountain creek to dip your toes in. We constructed a beautiful stone fire pit for cooking s'mores as you gaze upon the incredible night sky, full of stars! In 2017 this area enjoyed a once in a lifetime view of the Solar Eclipse in the "Path of Totality.  "We encourage you to hike and explore the area. We will provide you a guide book of the best local eateries, local trails, and Instagram worthy photo opportunities - to include our favorite place to rent boats/jet skis/canoes etc.I f you have 4x4 and would prefer a mountain view rather than this peaceful creek-side listing, or you have friends that want to join you on your adventures, but don't necessarily want to share the space with them, search for our other cabin at the top of the mountain - SMAWLIE - also available here on Hipcamp.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
No pets
Showers
Picnic table

Reviews

90%· 49 reviews

Themes

  • Review summary

    Generated from real Hipcamper reviews

    The campsite offers a mix of experiences, with some visitors appreciating the seclusion and natural beauty, while others were disrupted by noise from nearby cabins. The site provides charming amenities like fire pits and picnic tables, but certain areas are overgrown, and facilities like the porta potty are not well-maintained. For those seeking an off-the-grid experience, the location is ideal, though accessibility might be challenging without appropriate vehicles. The host, Mike, is noted for being helpful and providing clear directions, enhancing the stay despite some site limitations.

  • Dave C.

    Tent camped at "David's Dugout" Tent Platform+View, Sept 2025.

    Doesn't recommend

    The site was not as secluded as expected. The small cabin down the hill played loud music from 7pm until we left at 1030pm.

  • Reanna T.

    Tent camped at "Backside" Primitive Tent Camping with pets, Aug 2025.

    It was okay

    The camping spot was so cute- already had a firepit area and bonus for the picnic tables and small stream beside us. A lot of the marked spots were taken over by the trees and branches fallen in piles. We originally had G but had to take the other spot and luckily it seemed like no one else booked one of the spots. We tried hiking up the trail and quickly had to turn around due to the overgrowth and large trees fallen blocking the trail. The porta potty is there but would just recommend not using it- it's evident that it's been sitting there for a long time... Despite all that, if you're looking for a quiet and secluded spot to camp this is perfect. The stream is nice but seems like others have left trash and such in it as well.

  • Lee M.

    Tent camped at "Backside" Primitive Tent Camping with kids, Jun 2025.

    Recommends

    Everything was as expected. Sites seemed well kept and the directions Michael sent were really clear. We had to leave early though because our rain fly was defective!

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Amenities

  • Fire pits
  • Flush toiletsAt some sites
  • Potable water
  • ShowersAt some sites · Hot water
  • Picnic tablesAt some sites
  • LaundryAt some sites
  • Trash disposalAt some sites · Recycling bin, Trash bin
  • Cooking equipmentAt some sites · Private, Oven, Stovetop or hot plate, Fridge, Freezer, Cookware, Cooking utensils, Dishware, Cutlery, Dishwasher, Sink or other dishwashing station, Grill over firepit, BBQ
  • Hot tubAt some sites
  • No wifi
  • No playground

Things to know

  • Walk-in access at some sites4WD required at some sites; the rest are 2WD accessible. Moderate walk at some sites.
  • Pet-friendly at some sitesOff leash.
  • Campfires allowedAlways review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.
  • Check-in processYou'll head straight to your site upon arrival.
  • Cancellation policyModerate at some sites; Super Strict at the others. Full refund 3 days before check in time starts.
  • Check-in and check-outCheck-in times vary by site (from 12pm). Check-out times vary by site.
  • Booking windowSame-day bookings welcome, up to 18 months ahead. Minimum stay 1–2 nights depending on the site.

Location

Macon, North Carolina, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Your Host

Michael H.Joined November 2019

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