Smokemont Campground

90 Sloan Road, Franklin, NC 28734

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian wilderness, Appletree Group Campground offers an exceptional retreat designed specifically for groups seeking to reconnect in nature. Four thoughtfully planned sites accommodate gatherings of all sizes - from intimate reunions of 25 at Sites A and D to larger celebrations of up to 50 people at Sites B and C. Each site comes complete with covered picnic shelters perfect for group meals, traditional fire rings for evening storytelling, vintage-style lantern posts that cast a warm glow, and spacious grassy meadows ideal for tent villages. Modern conveniences haven't been forgotten - clean restrooms with flush toilets and a well-maintained shower house ensure comfort without compromising the outdoor experience.

5464 Charleys Creek Road, Tuckasegee, NC 28783, USA

Hidden deep within the sprawling 39,000-acre Roy Taylor Forest, Balsam Lake Lodge emerges like a woodland sanctuary where comfort meets wilderness. This cherished retreat perches above the tranquil waters of Balsam Lake, offering groups an authentic mountain experience without sacrificing essential amenities. Behind its rustic facade, you'll discover 16 cozy twin beds awaiting weary adventurers, a fully-equipped kitchen ready for hearty camp meals, outdoor grills perfect for evening cookouts under the stars, modern flush toilets, and a steady supply of firewood to keep the stories flowing long into the night.

1373 Thunderbird Mountain Road, Robbinsville, NC, USA

Nestled within the pristine Nantahala National Forest, Cheoah Point Cabin 1 beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape. This charming rustic cabin serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits, from meandering along scenic hiking trails to diving into the crystal-clear waters at the dedicated swim beach. Here, the simplicity of basic amenities meets the luxury of nature's grandeur, where mornings begin with mist rising off Santeetlah Lake and evenings end with the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.

1373 Thunderbird Mountain Road, Robbinsville, NC 28771, USA

Nestled within the pristine Nantahala National Forest, Cheoah Point Cabin 2 offers an enchanting lakeside escape where tranquility meets adventure. This thoughtfully positioned retreat commands stunning views of Santeetlah Lake's crystalline waters, while providing convenient access to a refreshing swim beach, well-maintained boat ramp, and scenic hiking trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness. Here, the gentle lapping of lake waters and rustling forest canopy create nature's perfect soundtrack for your mountain getaway.

National Forests in North Carolina

Nestled in an intimate single-row layout, Sunburst Campground offers a cozy retreat where simplicity meets comfort. Each thoughtfully appointed site comes complete with picnic tables, dedicated tent pads, ambient lantern posts, and campfire rings with cooking grills, while modern flush-toilet restrooms and conveniently available firewood ensure your wilderness experience never sacrifices essential comforts.

8820 Lake Logan Road, Canton, NC 28716

Deep in the heart of Pisgah National Forest, where towering trees whisper stories of the past, Sunburst Campground awaits with 10 intimate primitive campsites. This former logging camp has transformed into a sanctuary for modern adventurers, where the melodic flow of the West Fork of the Pigeon River provides nature's soundtrack. Here, rustic charm meets untamed wilderness, creating the perfect escape for those seeking authentic outdoor experiences far from the digital world's constant hum.

1070 Massey Branch Road, Robbinsville, NC 28771

Nestled within the renowned Tsali Recreation Area, this 42-site forested haven beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its seamless blend of comfort and adventure. Mountain bikers and equestrians find their paradise here, with direct access to an extensive four-loop trail system that winds through the Appalachian wilderness. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the canopy or settling in with a small RV, you'll enjoy thoughtful amenities including fresh drinking water, modern flush toilets, and revitalizing hot showers after a day on the trails.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN, USA, 37738

Nestled alongside one of the Great Smoky Mountains' most beloved waterways, Deep Creek Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience where the soothing sounds of rushing water provide the perfect soundtrack to your mountain escape. This primitive camping haven maintains the simple pleasures of outdoor living with essential amenities like flush toilets and fresh drinking water, while intentionally preserving the wilderness atmosphere by forgoing modern conveniences like showers and electrical hookups.

1912 East Deep Creek Road

Nestled alongside one of the Great Smoky Mountains' most beloved waterways, Deep Creek Campground welcomes adventurers to its 92 thoughtfully arranged sites. Here, the soothing sounds of rushing water create nature's soundtrack as you settle into your home away from home, complete with a sturdy tent pad, picnic table, grill, and fire ring for evening gatherings. While modern conveniences like flush toilets and fresh drinking water keep you comfortable, the absence of showers reminds you that you're truly immersed in the wilderness. This gateway to cascading waterfalls and meandering trails has become a cherished basecamp for those seeking both relaxation by the creek and heart-pumping mountain adventures.

1912 East Deep Creek Road, Bryson City, NC, 28713, USA

Nestled in the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Deep Creek Group Camp beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This expansive campground features 92 thoughtfully spaced primitive sites, each outfitted with essential amenities including sturdy picnic tables, cooking grills, and stone-ringed fire pits perfect for evening gatherings under starlit skies. As a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Deep Creek serves as your gateway to crystal-clear mountain waters ideal for tubing adventures, pristine fishing spots teeming with native trout, and miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient forests. While embracing the simplicity of traditional camping without modern hookups or shower facilities, this back-to-nature retreat offers the rare opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the timeless rhythms of the mountains.

c/o Oconaluftee Ranger Station, 60 Enloe-Floyd Bottoms Road, Cherokee, NC, 28719, USA

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Tow String Horse Camp, where the ancient trails of the Great Smoky Mountains await you and your equine companion. This exclusive equestrian haven offers riders the rare opportunity to explore the park's legendary backcountry from horseback, just as early settlers once did. Remember, this unique campground requires you to bring your horse – it's not just encouraged, it's essential! Here, traditional woods camping meets the romance of the open trail, creating an authentic wilderness experience that connects you to centuries of mountain heritage.

c/o Oconaluftee Ranger Station, 60 Enloe-Floyd Bottoms Road, Cherokee, NC, 28719, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Smokemont Group Camp invites adventurers to gather where ancient forests meet rushing mountain streams. This scenic retreat welcomes groups of up to 20 guests per site, offering well-appointed tent pads, cooking grills, and crackling fire rings perfect for evening storytelling. With direct access to winding trails and babbling creeks, plus fascinating cultural landmarks just steps away, Smokemont transforms ordinary camping trips into unforgettable mountain experiences.

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Nestled deep within the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Smokemont Group Campground beckons adventurers with 142 thoughtfully placed campsites that welcome both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. This mountain sanctuary serves as your gateway to some of the park's most treasured experiences—from the historic water-powered Mingus Mill to the breathtaking views atop Clingmans Dome. Just minutes from the culturally rich town of Cherokee, North Carolina, Smokemont has earned its reputation as a beloved basecamp where modern explorers gather to share stories under starlit skies.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Perched high in the clouds at 5,310 feet, Balsam Mountain Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This hidden gem features 42 pristine tent-only sites where the only sounds breaking the mountain silence are rustling leaves and distant bird calls. Here, summer never truly arrives—even in July, you'll reach for your fleece as evening temperatures dance in the crisp 50s, making this the perfect refuge from sweltering lowland heat.

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

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.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

c/o Oconaluftee Ranger Station, 60 Enloe-Floyd Bottoms Road, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Round Bottom Horse Camp, where the ancient peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains become your personal riding playground. Perched at an elevation of 3,060 feet, this specialized equestrian retreat connects riders with miles of scenic mountain trails that wind through pristine wilderness. Here, the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves on mountain paths mingles with the babbling of crystal-clear streams, creating a symphony that speaks to every horse lover's soul.

3576 Ranger Station Road, Waynesville, NC 37876, USA

Nestled deep within the tranquil Cataloochee Valley, this hidden gem offers equestrian enthusiasts a rare opportunity to experience the Great Smoky Mountains as early settlers once did—on horseback. Cataloochee Horse Camp provides a rustic retreat where riders and their trusted companions can rest beneath ancient hardwoods after days spent exploring miles of scenic mountain trails. With dedicated horse stalls and primitive camping facilities, this secluded sanctuary perfectly balances wilderness adventure with essential amenities for both horse and rider.

3576 Ranger Station Rd

Tucked away in the enchanting Cataloochee Valley, this hidden gem of Great Smoky Mountains National Park beckons those seeking solitude and authentic mountain experiences. Here, where pristine streams whisper through ancient forests and majestic elk roam freely across meadows, Cataloochee Campground offers an intimate connection with the wild heart of Appalachia. Morning mists reveal breathtaking mountain vistas, while evenings bring the haunting bugle of bull elk echoing through the valley. Whether you're casting a line in crystal-clear streams, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply savoring the profound quiet of this secluded paradise, Cataloochee promises an unforgettable escape from the modern world.

3576 Ranger Station Road

Tucked away in the remote Cataloochee Valley, this primitive group campground offers an authentic backcountry experience where time seems to slow down. Beneath towering mountain peaks and within dense, shaded forests, campers discover a gateway to some of the park's finest hiking trails and pristine fishing streams. Historic log structures dot the landscape nearby, whispering stories of the mountain families who once called this rugged valley home.

500 Elkmont Road, Gatlinburg, TN

Step back in time at the Appalachian Clubhouse, a lovingly restored 3,000-square-foot treasure from 1934 that captures the rustic charm of the Great Smoky Mountains' golden age. This atmospheric gathering space, faithfully rehabilitated to mirror its 1930s glory, welcomes visitors with a spacious open hall and a wraparound porch where forest whispers and creek songs provide the soundtrack to your special occasion.

500 Elkmont Road, Gatlinburg, TN

Nestled in the heart of the Elkmont Historic District, Spence Cabin offers an intimate mountain retreat where history meets celebration. This charming facility welcomes small family gatherings, corporate meetings, and memorable weddings with its cozy meeting rooms, warming kitchen, and a delightful 192-square-foot screened porch overlooking the Little River's tranquil waters.

434 Elkmont Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Nestled along the banks of the Little River, Elkmont Campground beckons as the crown jewel of Great Smoky Mountains National Park's camping destinations. As the park's largest and most beloved campground, it welcomes thousands of adventurers each year to its 220 sites scattered beneath towering hemlocks and hardwoods. Whether you're pitching a tent beside the soothing sounds of the river, settling your RV into a spacious site, or seeking one of the secluded walk-in spots for a more intimate wilderness experience, Elkmont delivers the quintessential Smokies camping adventure. Thoughtfully designed ADA-accessible sites ensure everyone can experience the magic of sleeping under the mountain stars.

434 Elkmont Road, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Elkmont Group Camp beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of wilderness and comfort. Here, groups gather around crackling fire rings beneath towering canopies, sharing stories as smoke mingles with mountain mist. Modern conveniences like flush toilets and fresh drinking water complement the rustic charm, while nearby trails lead to cascading waterfalls and whispers of Appalachian history. Each picnic table becomes a gathering place for memories, and every grill-topped fire ring promises evenings filled with laughter and the aroma of campfire cuisine.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Escape to the tranquil wilderness of Big Creek Campground, a hidden gem tucked away in the remote reaches of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This intimate tent-only retreat offers 12 peaceful walk-in sites, each just a short stroll from the parking area and perfectly positioned alongside the melodic waters of Big Creek. While embracing a back-to-nature experience without showers or hookups, the campground thoughtfully provides modern conveniences including flush toilets, fresh drinking water, and secure food storage lockers to protect your provisions from the local wildlife.

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, TN, 37821

Escape to Big Creek Campground, where the authentic tent camping experience brings you closer to the heart of the Smoky Mountains. This peaceful retreat welcomes those seeking simplicity and connection with nature, offering essential comforts like flush toilets, fresh drinking water, and fire rings for evening gatherings under the stars. While you won't find RV hookups, camp stores, or shower facilities here, what you will discover is something far more valuable – an unspoiled gateway to mountain wilderness where the only sounds at night are crackling campfires and the gentle rush of Big Creek.

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, Tennessee, 37821

Where the rushing waters of Big Creek meet the ancient Appalachian Mountains, Big Creek Group Camp offers an intimate wilderness experience right at the Tennessee-North Carolina border. This secluded retreat within Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcomes groups of up to 25 adventurers beneath a cathedral of old-growth forest canopy. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the natural environment, featuring flush toilets, fresh drinking water, and thoughtfully placed tent pads that let you sleep under towering hardwoods while Big Creek's gentle symphony plays through the night. Miles of hiking and horseback trails begin right from your campsite, inviting exploration into one of America's most biodiverse landscapes.

127 Cosby Park Road, Cosby, TN, 37722, USA

Nestled beneath a cathedral of ancient hardwoods, Cosby Group Camp offers an intimate escape where the gentle murmur of Cosby Creek provides nature's soundtrack. This hidden gem in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park combines the serenity of backcountry camping with the convenience of modern amenities, including flush toilets and fresh drinking water. Perfect for groups seeking authentic tent camping experiences, the campground invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the timeless rhythms of the mountains.

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, Tennessee, 37821

Nestled deep within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Big Creek Horse Camp offers an extraordinary escape where riders and their equine companions can explore some of the most breathtaking mountain trails in the eastern United States. As the park's only horse camp equipped with potable water and flush toilets, this specialized equestrian haven combines rustic mountain charm with essential modern conveniences. Here, the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves on trail meets the whisper of mountain streams, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your horseback adventure. Remember, this exclusive retreat requires you to bring your own horse – it's a place where the bond between rider and mount deepens with every mile of scenic trail.

127 Cosby Park Road

Escape into the peaceful embrace of Cosby Campground, where traditional camping meets the untamed beauty of the Smokies. Each thoughtfully designed tent site offers a 16x16 ft pad nestled among towering trees, complete with your own fire ring for evening storytelling, a grill for memorable outdoor meals, and a picnic table for gathering under the canopy. While you'll find modern conveniences like flush toilets and fresh drinking water throughout the grounds, the campground maintains its authentic wilderness character without showers or electric hookups—perfect for those seeking a genuine back-to-nature experience. RV campers will find limited spaces available, making this primarily a haven for tent enthusiasts.

632 Manor RD, Mars Hill, NC 28754, USA

Hidden beneath a canopy of ancient hardwoods in the heart of Pisgah National Forest, Harmon Den Horse Campground beckons to those seeking adventure on horseback or the simple pleasure of sleeping under starlit skies. This remote sanctuary caters to equestrian enthusiasts with thoughtfully designed amenities, including spacious stalls, convenient mangers, and direct access to miles of scenic riding trails that wind through the Appalachian wilderness. Whether you arrive with your four-legged companion or simply with a tent and a spirit of adventure, you'll find yourself immersed in the tranquil rhythms of forest life.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Cherokee National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of Cherokee National Forest, Round Mountain Campground offers a refreshing escape into Tennessee's pristine wilderness. This hidden gem welcomes adventurers on a first-come, first-served basis, rewarding those who venture off the beaten path with secluded camping spots among towering trees and babbling streams. Simply arrive, select your perfect site, and settle into the tranquility of the forest.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

127 Cosby Park Road

c/o Oconaluftee Ranger Station, 60 Enloe-Floyd Bottoms Road, Cherokee, NC, 28719, USA

107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN, USA, 37738

3576 Ranger Station Rd

434 Elkmont Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

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127 Cosby Park Road, Cosby, TN, 37722, USA

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, Tennessee, 37821

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

107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, Tennessee, 37821

1912 East Deep Creek Road

434 Elkmont Road, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738, USA

236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, TN, 37821

c/o Oconaluftee Ranger Station, 60 Enloe-Floyd Bottoms Road, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA

1070 Massey Branch Road, Robbinsville, NC 28771

c/o Oconaluftee Ranger Station, 60 Enloe-Floyd Bottoms Road, Cherokee, NC, 28719, USA

1912 East Deep Creek Road, Bryson City, NC, 28713, USA

8820 Lake Logan Road, Canton, NC 28716

National Forests in North Carolina

Escape to Hurricane Creek Horse & Primitive Campground, where the rhythm of hoofbeats and the whisper of forest trails create an authentic backcountry experience. This rustic retreat beckons equestrians and adventurers alike with its network of winding trails, well-appointed horse stalls, and essential amenities including fire rings and vault toilets. Whether you arrive on horseback or hiking boots, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape where outdoor traditions thrive and hunters pursue both big and small game through the surrounding wilderness.

176 Millpond Road, Gatesville, North Carolina, 27938, United States

Tucked away in northeastern North Carolina's pristine wilderness, Merchants Millpond State Park Family Campground beckons those seeking refuge from the everyday hustle. This hidden gem wraps visitors in a cocoon of towering trees and tranquil solitude, where wooded campsites offer generous privacy and the outside world fades to a whisper. Seasoned campers consistently praise the park's ability to deliver that elusive combination of seclusion and serenity, making it a cherished secret among those who've discovered its charms.

OFF FOREST DEVELOPMENT RD 67, FRANKLIN, NC, 28734, USA

Nestled deep within the Nantahala National Forest, Standing Indian Campground beckons adventurers with its four distinct camping loops that wind through ancient mountain terrain. Whether you arrive with an RV or pitch a tent beneath towering evergreens, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where modern comforts meet wilderness wonder. Each site comes thoughtfully appointed with campfire rings for evening storytelling, grills for mountaintop meals, and lantern posts that cast a warm glow as dusk settles over the peaks. Fresh mountain water flows from spigots throughout the grounds, while clean flush toilets and hot showers ensure comfort after days spent exploring miles of hiking trails, playing in the crystal-clear Nantahala River, or pursuing game through misty hollows.

465 JACKRABBIT ROAD

Perched on a scenic peninsula where forest meets water, Jackrabbit Mountain campground invites adventurers to experience the best of the Nantahala National Forest. Here, morning mist rises from Lake Chatuge as campers wake to the calls of woodland birds, ready for days filled with hiking mountain trails, casting fishing lines into pristine waters, or exploring the shoreline by kayak. The campground's three distinct loops offer flexibility for your stay - Loop A welcomes visitors from May through September, while Loops B and C extend the season into October's spectacular autumn colors.

5564 Meat Camp Road, Todd, North Carolina, 28684, United States

Perched high in the North Carolina mountains at 4,000 feet, Elk Knob State Park's remote backcountry campsite offers adventurous souls a true wilderness experience. This primitive group camping area beckons those seeking solitude and simplicity, where modern conveniences give way to essential amenities—a centrally located pit privy and a sturdy bear box to protect your provisions from curious wildlife. Here, camping returns to its roots, offering an authentic connection with the natural world far from the crowds and comforts of traditional campgrounds.

1070 Massey Branch Road, Robbinsville, NC 28771

Nestled within the renowned Tsali Recreation Area, this 42-site forested haven beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its seamless blend of comfort and adventure. Mountain bikers and equestrians find their paradise here, with direct access to an extensive four-loop trail system that winds through the Appalachian wilderness. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the canopy or settling in with a small RV, you'll enjoy thoughtful amenities including fresh drinking water, modern flush toilets, and revitalizing hot showers after a day on the trails.

5289 N. MILLS RIVER ROAD

Nestled deep within the enchanting Pisgah National Forest, North Mills River Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain tranquility and adventure. This rustic hideaway invites you to wake up to the gentle sounds of the Mills River, spend your days exploring endless trails by foot or bike, and cast a line for native trout in crystal-clear mountain waters. Two thoughtfully designed camping loops offer shaded sites beneath a canopy of ancient hardwoods, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for those memorable evening gatherings. Modern comforts haven't been forgotten—clean restrooms with hot showers and flush toilets ensure you can refresh after a day of mountain exploration.

50 Black Mountain Campground Road, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA

Nestled along the crystal-clear waters of the South Toe River, Black Mountain Campground beckons adventurers to experience the raw beauty of North Carolina's high country. Whether you prefer the simplicity of primitive camping or the convenience of electric hookups, this beloved basecamp puts you at the doorstep of Mount Mitchell—the crown jewel of the eastern United States. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line for native trout in the rushing river, explore mountain trails that lead to breathtaking vistas, or simply lose yourself in the winding scenic drives that reveal the Appalachians' ancient secrets.

976 Grassy Ridge RD, Sapphire, North Carolina, 28774, United States

Nestled in North Carolina's rugged mountain wilderness, Gorges State Park welcomes adventurers with pristine camping facilities that blend modern comfort with untamed nature. Choose from traditional tent sites beneath towering hardwoods, fully-equipped RV sites with all the amenities, or cozy rental cabins perfect for those seeking a rustic retreat. The park's crown jewels—the thundering Rainbow Falls and the mesmerizing Turtleback Falls—await discovery along meticulously maintained trails that wind through this spectacular landscape.

131 Charles Street

Escape to the remote paradise of Long Point Cabin Camp, where ten charming wooden duplex cabins stand as your gateway to unspoiled coastal wilderness on North Core Banks. Each rustic retreat comes equipped with electricity and can accommodate either six guests in a half-duplex or twelve in a full unit, perfect for families or fishing buddies seeking adventure. Accessible only by boat, this hidden gem within Cape Lookout National Seashore has drawn generations of anglers and beach lovers who cherish its pristine isolation and world-class fishing opportunities.