Balsam Mountain Campground

Star4.42
524 reviews
253 Smokemont Campground Road, Cherokee, NC, 28719, USA
Scenic ViewsGreat Hiking

Quick Facts

5,310 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

42 campsites

Season

Open from May 16 to ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Balsam Mountain Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fees are $30 per night for both standard nonelectric sites and tent-only nonelectric sites during peak season. Out-of-season reservations are...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
828-497-9270Dawn_Pekarchick@nps.gov
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What Campers Say

4.42

Recommended

Based on 524 reviews

139 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsprivacycleanlocation

Some mention

noise

"User reviews highlight the campground's serene and remote setting, clean facilities, and cooler climate due to its elevation. Common complaints include the proximity of campsites and the lack of privacy."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

253 Smokemont Campground Road, Cherokee, NC, 28719, USA

Balsam Mountain Campground

253 Smokemont Campground Road, Cherokee, NC, 28719, USA

Driving directionsFrom the North: From I-40 take Exit 20 Maggie Valley, NC and travel US-19 towards Cherokee, NC. Access the Blue Ridge Parkway at Soco Gap and continue South to mile 458.2, turning right onto Heintooga Ridge Road. Enter Great Smoky Mountains National Park at Black Camp Gap and continue 9 miles to Balsam Mountain Campground. From the South: Follow US-441/US-23 North. At Dillsboro merge onto US-74 West/US-441 North. At exit 74 merge onto US-441. Continue on US-441 through Cherokee, NC and into the park. Access the Blue Ridge Parkway traveling North to mile 458.2, turning left onto Heintooga Ridge Road. Enter Great Smoky Mountains National Park at Black Camp Gap and continue 9 miles to Balsam Mountain Campground.
Paved roads provide access, but Heintooga Ridge Road is narrow and winding, requiring drivers to exercise caution. Buses, motorhomes, vans longer than 25 feet, and vehicles towing trailers are prohibited.
Nearby places
Maggie Valley, NC (~22 miles, ~50 minutes)
Cherokee, NC (~15 miles, ~30 minutes)
Asheville, NC (~60 miles, ~1 hour 30 minutes)
Bryson City, NC (~35 miles, ~1 hour 10 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Cherokee (~15 miles) for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. Smokemont Campground (~12 miles) may offer firewood and limited supplies during the operating season.

Best Time to Camp at Balsam Mountain Campground

Here in the high country, Mother Nature keeps her own schedule. Even in peak summer, temperatures rarely climb above a comfortable 70°F, while evenings invite cozy campfires as the mercury dips into the 50s. The mountain's moods shift quickly—brilliant sunshine can give way to mysterious fog rolling through the valleys, and afternoon showers often grace the forest with a fresh, earthy perfume. This ever-changing atmospheric theater is part of Balsam Mountain's allure, creating an environment where every day brings new wonders.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 16% in NC

Cool summer temps rarely above 70°F make it a popular summer escape despite high occupancy.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

Open into mid-October; high-country foliage and overlooks promise excellent fall color viewing.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Opens May 16; late spring offers cool weather and trails though early spring conditions variable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 16–Oct 13 window; not available for winter visits.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 16 - October 13 (2025 and subsequent years).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 16 to October 13 (reservable dates: June 21 - October 13, 2025).
  • Current Alerts: Bear activity warnings; remote access requires preparation.

About Balsam Mountain Campground

Perched high in the clouds at 5,310 feet, Balsam Mountain Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. This hidden gem welcomes adventurers seeking respite from summer heat and crowds, where morning mist dances through ancient forests and the only sounds are birdsong and rustling leaves. While modern amenities are limited to flush toilets and fresh mountain water, the trade-off is pure mountain magic—pristine facilities, refreshingly cool temperatures, and the kind of peaceful solitude that restores the soul.
Balsam Mountain Campground offers standard nonelectric and tent-only sites suitable for tents, small RVs, and campers who prefer a rustic experience.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 1 PM daily.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Balsam Mountain Campground offers a range of outdoor experiences including hiking, wildlife viewing, and backcountry fishing. It is described as 'a hiker's paradise' with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The Hemphill Bald and Rough Fork trails are particularly highlighted for their 14-mile loop and scenic views.
HikingThe campground is surrounded by several hiking trails. The Hemphill Bald and Rough Fork trails offer a 14-mile loop for experienced hikers. A shorter, nature-focused trail begins near Site 43. Reviewers underscore the serenity and natural beauty of these paths.
FishingFishing opportunities are abundant in the mountain streams and rivers nearby. The area is known for its trout, and fly fishing is particularly productive during spring insect hatches.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a major attraction. Visitors frequently spot elk and occasionally black bears. One reviewer noted, 'Elks and deer walked through the camp.'
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe park features over 90 preserved log buildings providing cultural and historic significance, but no specific educational programs tied to the campground are mentioned.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHigh bear activity; all food and scented items must be stored in vehicles or bear-proof lockers. Slippery terrain during rain and fog. Remote location with limited cell coverage.
Active AlertsBear activity warnings; remote access requires preparation.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof food lockers provided at tent-only sites. No fee for usage.

Weather at Balsam Mountain Campground

Reviews

4.4
524 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Balsam Mountain Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's serene and remote setting, clean facilities, and cooler climate due to its elevation. Common complaints include the proximity of campsites and the lack of privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 524 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean bathrooms, cooler temperatures, friendly camp hosts, and scenic views were frequently praised. Specific sites such as #23 and #37 were noted for their privacy and location.
Based on 524 reviews

Common Concerns

Close proximity of campsites leading to noise issues, lack of showers, and the absence of firewood sales on-site were common concerns.
Based on 524 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring a flashlight for nighttime restroom use, as bathrooms lack lighting. Stock up on firewood before arrival. Sites like #23 and #37 are recommended for better privacy.
Based on 524 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak season offers cool temperatures and high occupancy. Weekdays and off-peak times are quieter and more serene.
Based on 524 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Beautiful campground. Wonderful camp hosts, very nice people.' - Virginia Prentice. 'Temperatures are cool, which feels good. Bring fall clothing for chilly nights.' – Sebastien Pilon. 'If you like...
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Based on 524 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #23: 'Most private site.' Site #32: 'Located very close to the restrooms, with noticeable odors and high foot traffic.' Site #37: 'Down from the road a few steps, perfect!'
Based on 524 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible flush toilets are available. Some campsites have steep or uneven terrain, which may pose challenges for visitors with mobility issues.
Based on 524 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must remain on a leash. Some users expressed concerns about the park’s policy of not allowing pets on trails.
Based on 524 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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