Sunburst Campground

14014 HIGHLAND RD, HIGHLANDS, NC, 28741, USA

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.

National Forests in North Carolina

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.

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA

Tucked away in the heart of Pisgah National Forest, Kuykendall Group Camp beckons adventure-seekers with its perfect blend of mountain solitude and outdoor recreation. This cozy mountain retreat has become a favorite gathering place for large groups seeking to reconnect with nature and each other. Whether you're casting a line in crystal-clear waters, exploring winding mountain bike trails, or simply lounging by the creek after a day of hiking, Kuykendall offers endless ways to embrace the great outdoors. The campground's secluded setting provides an intimate escape while still offering easy access to swimming holes, scenic picnic spots, and some of the region's most rewarding trails.

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.

National Forests in North Carolina

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768, USA

Nestled along the banks of the pristine Davidson River, this beloved year-round sanctuary welcomes families seeking the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness adventure. Eight thoughtfully designed camping loops weave through towering shade trees, creating intimate spaces where the gentle murmur of the river becomes your soundtrack. From your tent or RV, miles of legendary hiking trails beckon, leading to some of North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls and scenic vistas.

1 DAVIDSON RIVER CIRCLE, PISGAH FOREST, NC 28768, USA

Escape to White Pine South Group Camp, where towering evergreens whisper ancient mountain secrets and your group of up to 25 adventurers can claim a private slice of Pisgah National Forest paradise. This tent-only sanctuary serves as your basecamp for exploring miles of hiking trails, challenging mountain bike routes, and crystal-clear streams perfect for fishing and swimming. Here in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature and each other around the campfire under a canopy of stars.

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768, USA

Tucked away where Cove Creek whispers through the verdant valleys of western North Carolina's Appalachian Mountains, Cove Creek Lower Group Camp invites large gatherings to connect with nature and each other. This spacious forest retreat welcomes up to 60 adventurers who come seeking the perfect blend of outdoor excitement and mountain tranquility. Whether you're casting a line for native trout, exploring winding mountain bike trails, or simply gathering around the campfire under a canopy of ancient hardwoods, this year-round sanctuary offers endless possibilities for creating lasting memories with your group.

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA

Nestled deep within the Appalachian Mountains of Pisgah National Forest, Cove Creek Upper Group Camp offers an authentic wilderness retreat perfect for large gatherings of up to 60 adventurers. This spacious group campsite combines rustic charm with essential amenities, featuring thoughtfully placed picnic tables and grills beneath a canopy of shade trees, traditional campfire rings for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and fresh water spigots throughout the grounds. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout outing, or outdoor celebration, this mountain sanctuary provides the ideal basecamp for creating lasting memories in nature.

National Forests in North Carolina

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.

1600 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Wolf Ford Horse Camp, where the ancient trails of Pisgah National Forest become your playground. This reservation-only equestrian paradise sits deep within the Pisgah Ranger District, offering riders exclusive access to more than 100 miles of winding horse trails and forest roads. Here, beneath towering canopies of shade-giving trees, you'll discover a primitive camping experience that connects you with nature's raw beauty—from babbling creeks to hidden waterfalls. Just a short ride from the historic Cradle of Forestry and the charming town of Brevard, Wolf Ford serves as your gateway to one of North Carolina's most treasured wilderness areas.

Milepost 408.8 Blue Ridge Parkway

Perched at nearly 5,000 feet in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mount Pisgah Campground invites you to sleep beneath a canopy of ancient hardwoods where cool mountain breezes whisper through the leaves. This elevated sanctuary combines the rugged beauty of wilderness camping with thoughtful modern conveniences, while serving as your gateway to some of the region's most spectacular hiking trails and panoramic overlooks. Here, morning mist dances through the forest and evening brings a symphony of nature's sounds to your tent flap.

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.

1600 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA

Tucked away in the heart of a pristine hardwood forest, Wash Creek Horse Camp offers an authentic backcountry experience tailored specifically for equestrian adventurers. This intimate campground welcomes groups of up to 30 riders and their companions, with space for 10 vehicles at its single, thoughtfully designed group site. Here, the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves on forest trails replaces the buzz of modern life, creating a sanctuary where horses and their riders can explore miles of wilderness together.

375 Wesley Branch Road, Asheville, NC 28806, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Lake Powhatan beckons outdoor enthusiasts with an array of camping experiences that suit every comfort level. Whether you're seeking the luxury of a glamping tent, the convenience of full RV hookups, or the authentic simplicity of traditional tent camping, this heavily wooded sanctuary delivers. Just a stone's throw from vibrant Asheville, the campground serves as your gateway to adventure—from morning hikes on mountain trails to afternoon fishing expeditions, all crowned by breathtaking drives along the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway.

375 WESLEY BRANCH RD.

Nestled in the serene Hardtimes Loop, Lake Powhatan Glamping invites you to experience the magic of outdoor living without sacrificing comfort. Twelve thoughtfully furnished canvas tents await, each offering a private sanctuary beneath a canopy of shade trees. Just a leisurely stroll from the shimmering waters of Lake Powhatan, your glamping haven comes complete with everything you need for the perfect escape—from crackling campfire rings where stories come alive to modern charging stations that keep you connected. With flush toilets, picnic tables, and the gentle sounds of nature as your soundtrack, this is where adventure meets relaxation in perfect harmony.

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 along the banks of the Oconaluftee River in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Smokemont Campground serves as your gateway to Appalachian adventure. Here, morning mist rises from the river as hikers set off on nearby trails, anglers cast lines into crystal-clear mountain streams, and families gather around evening campfires sharing stories of black bear sightings and waterfall discoveries. Just minutes from the vibrant town of Cherokee, this beloved basecamp perfectly balances wilderness immersion with convenient access to cultural attractions and the rich heritage of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

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.

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

3576 Ranger Station Rd

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

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

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

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

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

1600 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768

3576 Ranger Station Road, Waynesville, NC 37876, USA

Milepost 408.8 Blue Ridge Parkway

1 DAVIDSON RIVER CIRCLE, PISGAH FOREST, NC 28768, USA

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768, USA

3576 Ranger Station Road

5289 N. MILLS RIVER ROAD

375 Wesley Branch Road, Asheville, NC 28806, USA

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA

1600 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA

375 WESLEY BRANCH RD.

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768, USA

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.