Van Hook Glade
4.6487 reviews14014 HIGHLAND RD, HIGHLANDS, NC, 28741, USA
Quick Facts
4,118 ftPrice
$24 - $40/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
18 campsites
Season
Open April 1 to Octo...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Showers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
4,118 ftPrice
$24 - $40/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
18 campsites
Season
Open April 1 to Octo...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Showers
Get DirectionsVan Hook Glade
$24.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees for individual sites range from $24 to $40 depending on site type. Additional reservation fees ($8 online/$9 via contact center) apply....
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Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$64.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider828-787-1980null
What Campers Say
4.64
Top-Rated
Based on 87 reviews
68 Google reviews
Most mentioned
privacycleanlakewell-maintained
Some mention
noise
"User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, helpful hosts, and scenic location. However, some complaints about road noise and bathroom maintenance were noted."
Fees & Passes at Van Hook Glade
$24 - $40/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Cancellations made prior to arrival incur a $10 fee and reservation fees are non-refundable. Late ca...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Cradle of Forestry In America Interpretive Association website.
Best Time to Camp at Van Hook Glade
Van Hook Glade enjoys a delightfully temperate mountain climate that rewards visitors with crisp, clear days perfect for outdoor adventures. During the cooler months, expect invigorating mornings around 31°F that warm to comfortable 45°F afternoons—ideal for hiking without breaking a sweat. The area's characteristically dry conditions mean more sunny days for your camping experience, with the best weeks offering brilliant blue skies and minimal precipitation that showcase the forest at its finest.
Best
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 1 to October 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open April 1 to October 30. No bookings available outside this season.
- Current Alerts: No active alerts were noted.
About Van Hook Glade
Escape to Van Hook Glade, where 18 intimate campsites nestle among towering hardwoods in the heart of Nantahala National Forest. Each secluded site invites you to unwind beneath ancient canopies, with thoughtfully placed amenities including sturdy picnic tables, level tent pads, convenient lantern posts, and stone-ringed fire circles perfect for evening gatherings. After a day exploring nearby Cliffside Lake's hiking trails and fishing spots, you'll appreciate the modern comfort of hot showers and flush toilets—a rare luxury in such a pristine wilderness setting.
The campground supports both tent and non-electric camping. No RV hookups are available.
Historical SignificanceTucked within the storied Nantahala National Forest, Van Hook Glade serves as your gateway to the enchanting mountain town of Highlands, North Carolina. This cultural gem has long attracted artists, writers, and nature enthusiasts drawn to its perfect blend of Appalachian heritage and sophisticated mountain charm. The surrounding forest tells its own ancient story, where Cherokee paths once wound through these same ridges and valleys.
Weather and SeasonsVan Hook Glade enjoys a delightfully temperate mountain climate that rewards visitors with crisp, clear days perfect for outdoor adventures. During the cooler months, expect invigorating mornings around 31°F that warm to comfortable 45°F afternoons—ideal for hiking without breaking a sweat. The area's characteristically dry conditions mean more sunny days for your camping experience, with the best weeks offering brilliant blue skies and minimal precipitation that showcase the forest at its finest.
ElevationPerched at 4,118 feet above sea level, Van Hook Glade offers a refreshing mountain retreat where cool breezes whisper through the trees even on summer days. This elevated paradise provides stunning vantage points of the surrounding peaks while keeping you comfortably above the heat and humidity of the lowlands. The altitude creates a unique microclimate where wildflowers bloom later and autumn colors arrive earlier, extending your opportunities to experience nature's seasonal showcases.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient forests paint the rolling hills in endless shades of green, and morning mist dances across the 4,118-foot ridgelines. The campground's old-growth canopy creates a natural cathedral, while nearby Cliffside Lake mirrors the sky through breaks in the trees. Adventure beckons with easy access to two of the region's most spectacular cascades—the aptly named Dry Falls, where you can walk behind the 75-foot curtain of water, and the thundering Whitewater Falls, plunging dramatically through granite cliffs.
Geological RegionVan Hook Glade rests atop the ancient Blue Ridge Mountains, where millennia of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of gentle peaks and hidden valleys within Nantahala National Forest. At 4,118 feet, the campground occupies a sweet spot where northern hardwood forests blend with southern Appalachian species, creating remarkable biodiversity. The tranquil waters of nearby Cliffside Lake fill a natural bowl carved by time, while the surrounding heavily forested slopes showcase the region's characteristic rolling terrain—a testament to the worn but enduring mountains that define Western North Carolina.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not explicitly detailed, although some sites like #12 include stairs that may affect accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, including options large enough for a 10x18 ft tent. Some sites are noted for accommodating trailers up to 31 feet, although maneuvering larger rigs is challenging.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as secluded and heavily wooded, offering significant privacy. 'Each camp site is very private and feels like you are actually in the woods,' noted Emily O. (August 2023).
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites like 001 for privacy and access to a creek. Avoid sites near the highway (e.g., 020) if sensitive to road noise.
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit two vehicles and two tents maximum. Some walk-in sites limited to one vehicle.
Groups
Group shelters are available for $30-$40 per night, but specific details about group camping are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of one loop with 18 individual campsites, offering tent pads, lantern posts, and picnic tables. Sites are spaced for privacy except near the highway.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1 to October 30. No bookings available outside this season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come, first-served basis outside of reservable seasons. Sharp curve issues for RV access may affect walk-up usability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made prior to arrival incur a $10 fee and reservation fees are non-refundable. Late cancellations starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in date also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservation dates outside of the original reservation incur a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities include hiking, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. Boating is not permitted at Cliffside Lake. The campground is near attractions like Dry Falls, Whitewater Falls, and the town of Highlands.
Hiking
The campground features a short trail that leads to the Cliffside Lake Recreation Area, which offers six hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Nearby notable hikes include the Ranger Falls Loop and Whiteside Mountain Trail. 'I definitely recommend hiking into Ranger Falls, it's an amazing location,' stated Torgny B. (April 2021).Fishing
Fishing is permitted at Cliffside Lake, which is known for trout and panfish. 'The lake is maybe a mile-and-a-half away and was full of trout and panfish,' wrote Matthew P. (August 2020). However, some users noted that the lake felt over-fished.Swimming
Cliffside Lake offers a small beach area suitable for swimming. 'The lake has a small beach area, perfect for a quick dip,' noted Michael K. (September 2020).Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed, but the campground closes during the winter season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned, as boating is prohibited.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires restricted to provided fire rings. Guests encouraged to purchase firewood on-site due to pest regulations.
- Quiet hours were mentioned but enforcement was inconsistent according to user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad noise is mentioned as a recurring issue in user reviews. Large rig maneuvering may be difficult due to tight entryways.
Active alertsNo active alerts were noted.
Weather at Van Hook Glade
39
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Highlands, NC provides nearest emergency services including police, fire department, and hospital facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 30
Trash and recyclingTrash bags are provided, and the campground is frequently praised for being clean. 'No trash around the campsite, and the host was very helpful,' noted Brenda T. (January 2020).
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Cliffside Lake for trout fishing, swimming, and picnicking. Numerous waterfalls such as Dry Falls and Whitewater Falls are within driving distance.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby roads and other campers was frequently mentioned. Restroom issues such as soap shortages and toilet functionality were noted. Occasionally green firewood was sold on-site, making it hard to burn.
HostHosts receive consistent praise for friendly and helpful behavior. They maintain clean facilities and assist with site changes. Hosts also provide firewood for sale.
Campground Map
14014 HIGHLAND RD, HIGHLANDS, NC, 28741, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highlands, North Carolina, follow Highway 64 west approximately 4.5 miles. The campground entrance is on the right.
Sharp curve inside campground loop may make maneuvering an RV difficult. Roads are paved but larger rigs may face challenges due to tight entryways and highway approach. No dump station available.Nearby places
Highlands: 4 miles
Franklin: approximately 25 miles
Nearby supplies
Highlands has a general store
Franklin offers grocery stores, camping supplies, fuel, and performing arts.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
87 reviews
Van Hook Glade is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, helpful hosts, and scenic location. However, some complaints about road noise and bathroom maintenance were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 87 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the campground's privacy, clean facilities, helpful hosts, and proximity to natural attractions like Cliffside Lake and Dry Falls. Many users described...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include road noise, limited restroom facilities when the campground is full, and occasionally green firewood being sold on-site.
Based on 87 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing firewood to ensure it's seasoned and planning hikes to avoid peak hours at nearby attractions like Dry Falls. Some users noted the lack of cell service and suggested...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews during the summer months highlight the campground's cool elevation as a relief from hot weather, while fall reviews praise the colorful foliage. Some winter reviews noted limited...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The bathrooms and showers were very clean, and the host was super friendly' (Hank E., August 2020). 2. 'The campsites are very private and well-maintained, and the nearby Cliffside park was...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
1. Site #1: 'Super private and near a small creek' (Junior B., September 2021). 2. Site #12: 'Recessed down a few steps, very private despite being across from a water pump and bathroom' (Monica H.,...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility challenges noted include steep stairs at certain sites like #12. No other accessibility-specific reviews were identified.
Based on 87 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Van Hook Glade is described as 'very dog-friendly' by several reviewers, including Michael H. (April 2021).
Based on 87 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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