Kimsey Creek Group Campground
90 Sloan Road, Franklin, NC 28734
Kimsey Creek Group Campground
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee for each group site is $75, accommodating groups of 10-25 people per site. Fees are charged per site, and reservations are mandatory.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest, Kimsey Creek Group Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable wilderness retreat with friends and family. This verdant oasis sits gracefully alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Nantahala River, where native trout dart through sun-dappled pools. As part of the greater Standing Indian Campground complex, Kimsey Creek serves as your gateway to adventure, with winding trails leading to towering mountain peaks and pristine hunting grounds teeming with both big and small game. Whether you're planning a reunion, scout trip, or outdoor celebration, this group campground provides the perfect basecamp for creating lasting memories in nature's embrace.
Kimsey Creek Group Campground is exclusively a group camping facility within the Standing Indian Campground. Its features are tailored for primitive group camping.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of Kimsey Creek Group Campground may be unwritten in official documents, these ancient mountains hold countless stories within their misty hollows and weathered peaks. The surrounding Nantahala region has long been a sanctuary for those seeking solitude and connection with the natural world.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Appalachian seasons at Kimsey Creek, where each time of year paints the landscape in dramatically different hues. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and comfortable hiking weather, while autumn transforms the canopy into a breathtaking tapestry of gold and crimson. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for splashing in the river's cool waters, though afternoon thunderstorms may roll through the mountains. Winter's arrival brings a peaceful quiet to the forest, though seasonal closures protect both visitors and the natural environment during the coldest months. Throughout the year, temperatures can swing from very cold mountain mornings to pleasantly warm afternoons, so layers are your best friend.
ElevationPerched within the rolling terrain of the Southern Appalachians, Kimsey Creek occupies a sweet spot in the mountains where the air is crisp and clean. Though exact elevation figures remain elusive, visitors will feel the distinctive mountain atmosphere in every breath, from the cool morning mist to the way sounds carry differently through the thin mountain air.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where towering hardwoods and evergreens create a cathedral-like canopy overhead. The campground's crown jewel, the Nantahala River, meanders alongside your site, its gentle murmur providing nature's perfect soundtrack. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting everything from playful river otters to majestic white-tailed deer, while birdsong fills the air from dawn to dusk. A network of hiking trails radiates from the campground like spokes on a wheel, each path promising its own rewards—from babbling creek crossings to panoramic vistas atop neighboring peaks that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Geological RegionKimsey Creek Group Campground claims its place within the ancient Blue Ridge Mountains, specifically in the biodiverse wonderland of the Nantahala Ranger District. This corner of Appalachia represents millions of years of geological artistry, where time and elements have sculpted a landscape of rounded peaks, deep valleys, and tumbling waterways. The campground's position along the Nantahala River places you at the intersection of mountain and water ecosystems, where lush rhododendron thickets give way to moss-covered boulders and fern-filled glens create natural amphitheaters of tranquility.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThis campground does not provide specific accessibility features or infrastructure.
Sites SizeEach group site can accommodate a maximum of 25 people.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is designed for group camping within a primitive setting, but specific details about site privacy are not described.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroups may prefer sites closer to the Nantahala River for scenic views and access to trails.
Best CampsitesSite-specific ratings are unavailable, though groups typically aim for privacy and proximity to natural features.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 25 guests per group site.
Groups
There are three group sites available, each accommodating between 10 and 25 people. Reservations are required to utilize these sites.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree group camping sites. Layout is designed for groups of up to 25 individuals per site.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 1 to November 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made directly via the National Forests in North Carolina system or related platforms.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; reservations are mandatory.
Cancellation PolicySpecific cancellation rules are not provided, but reservations are mandatory and likely subject to standard national forest policies.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Activities you can enjoy
Kimsey Creek Group Campground offers opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in a variety of activities. Highlights include fishing in the Nantahala River, hiking to nearby mountain peaks, and wildlife viewing. The surrounding area is also open to big and small game hunting.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are accessible from the campground, providing opportunities to explore the adjoining mountain peaks. These trails cater to day hikers seeking scenic views and outdoor experiences.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Nantahala River, a native trout stream that borders the campground. This activity is popular among anglers.Wildlife viewing
Campers can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities within the Nantahala National Forest. Specific species of wildlife are not listed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is open seasonally from April 1 to November 30.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Specific fire policies are not mentioned.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include the absence of potable water and restrooms, wildlife interactions, and potential exposure to hunting activities in nearby areas.
Active alertsSite A is closed as of May 4, 2022.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are likely located in Franklin, NC, including hospitals, police stations, and other facilities, approximately 9 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril to November.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned for this campground. Campers should plan to pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresBordering the Nantahala River, providing opportunities for trout fishing and scenic appreciation.
Common complaintsThe lack of restrooms and potable water is a recurring concern. Some users also note potential overcrowding during peak seasons.
HostNo details provided about campground hosts.
Campground Map
90 Sloan Road, Franklin, NC 28734
Driving directionsFrom Franklin, take US 64W for 9 miles, turn left on old US 64 and follow signs to Standing Indian Campground. Kimsey Creek Camp must be accessed through Standing Indian Campground.
Road access is via paved roads for most of the route, but the last stretch to Kimsey Creek Camp requires navigating through Standing Indian Campground, which may include narrower and less defined paths. Seasonal closures may affect access.Nearby places
Franklin, NC (9 miles, approximately 15-20 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Franklin, NC (9 miles away) is the closest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
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Kimsey Creek Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
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Review Summaries
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Common Concerns
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
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Seasonal Insights
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Camper Quotes
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Site-Specific Reviews
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Accessibility Features
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Pet-Friendly Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025