Gorges State Park

Hartwell Lake

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

Nestled deep within the expansive southern woodlands near the pristine Chattooga River, Cassidy Bridge Hunt Camp offers adventurers an authentic wilderness experience. This secluded camp serves as your gateway to miles of untamed forest, where towering hardwoods create a natural cathedral and the sounds of nature replace the noise of modern life.

112 Andrew Pickens Circle, Mountain Rest, SC 29664, USA

Escape to the untamed beauty of Cassidy Bridge Primitive Camp, where the rushing waters of the Chauga River provide a natural soundtrack to your wilderness adventure. Nestled within the Andrew Pickens Ranger District of Oconee County, this back-to-basics campground offers outdoor enthusiasts the perfect basecamp for exploring South Carolina's mountainous playground. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, navigating forest trails on foot or horseback, tracking game through ancient woods, or seeking the thrill of whitewater rafting, this rustic retreat delivers authentic outdoor experiences. True to its primitive nature, the campground provides essential facilities including pit toilets and spacious RV parking areas, allowing you to disconnect from modern distractions and reconnect with nature.

671 High Falls Road, Seneca, South Carolina, 29672-0411, United States

Discover your perfect lakeside escape at High Falls County Park, where 46 pristine acres along the shores of Lake Keowee create an outdoor paradise in South Carolina's stunning Mountain Lakes region. Choose from 91 thoughtfully designed campsites, including 10 coveted waterfront spots where you'll wake to sparkling lake views just steps from your tent or RV. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring crystal-clear waters by kayak, or gathering around the campfire as stars emerge overhead, this fully-equipped park offers the ideal basecamp for adventure. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with natural beauty, featuring electrical and water hookups, clean bathhouses, a refreshing swimming area, playgrounds for the kids, and courts for friendly competition.

Andrew Pickens Ranger District, Oconee County, South Carolina

Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Whetstone Horse Camp offers equestrians a perfect base for exploring the wild beauty of South Carolina's Andrew Pickens Ranger District. Located about 13 miles northwest of Walhalla in Oconee County's western corner, this specialized campground sits near the legendary Chattooga River and provides access to more than 30 miles of horseback riding trails. The setting captures that special transition zone where the Piedmont meets the mountains, with the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests' 629,000 acres stretching out in every direction. The campground features 18 dedicated equestrian sites, each thoughtfully designed with parking spurs large enough to accommodate horse trailers. Every site comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post, while hitching racks are strategically placed throughout the facility so your horses are never far from camp. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided, keeping things comfortable without sacrificing the rustic atmosphere. All sites operate on a reservation-only basis year-round, so advance planning is essential. The facilities strike a nice balance between basic amenities and the authentic backcountry experience that serious trail riders seek. Trail enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, with the Rocky Gap Trail winding through the South Carolina side of the river and the Willis Knob Horse Trail crossing into Georgia. Both trails offer excellent terrain for horseback riding and hiking, ranging through diverse mountain landscapes. Beyond the saddle, the nearby Chattooga River beckons for exploration, and the area's cultural attractions add dimension to your visit. The historic Stumphouse Tunnel—an incomplete 19th-century railroad project—and the scenic Isaqueena Falls are both just 20 minutes away. Time your visit for the third weekend in October, and you can catch Walhalla's annual Oktoberfest celebration, a 13-mile ride back to civilization. Getting here requires navigating about 5 miles on Whetstone Road from Highway 28, with the final stretch on gravel, so come prepared for a true backcountry approach that sets the tone for your mountain adventure.

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

Escape into the heart of untamed wilderness at this secluded primitive campsite, where towering trees create a natural cathedral seven miles from the Stumphouse Ranger Station. Here, modern distractions fade away as you embrace the authentic camping experience, surrounded by the whispers of ancient forest and the promise of adventure just beyond your tent flap.

1922 Willis Knob Road, Forest Service Road #157, Clayton, GA 30525

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Willis Knob Horse Camp, where the rugged beauty of northern Georgia's Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest beckons equestrians and nature enthusiasts alike. This secluded mountain retreat offers the perfect blend of modern amenities and wilderness charm, featuring convenient water and electric hookups alongside traditional vault toilets and sturdy hitching posts for your four-legged companions. Miles of scenic trails wind through the forest, inviting riders and hikers to explore breathtaking vistas and discover hidden pathways leading to the pristine waters of the legendary Chattooga River.

1946 Sarah's Creek Rd., Clayton GA

Tucked away in a pristine corner of nature, Sarah's Creek Campground beckons those seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This peaceful retreat features 22 thoughtfully placed campsites where the gentle murmur of Sarah's Creek provides a natural soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. Here, primitive camping meets modern tranquility, offering visitors the perfect balance of accessibility and escape. Whether you're casting a line into the creek's cool waters, scanning the treeline for wildlife, or simply unwinding beneath the forest canopy, this hidden gem delivers the restorative power of nature without the crowds.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful corner of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Sarah's Creek Campground offers 22 intimate sites where the sounds of flowing water replace the noise of everyday life. This primitive-style retreat sits at the crossroads of multiple creeks and the legendary Chattooga Wild and Scenic River, creating a haven for anglers, hikers, and anyone seeking the restorative power of moving water.

112 Andrew Pickens Circle, Mountain Rest, SC, 29664, USA

Nestled deep in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Cherry Hill Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This beloved mountain retreat sits just moments from the legendary Chattooga Wild and Scenic River, where pristine waters carve through ancient forests. Here, campers discover a perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion, with cascading waterfalls, meandering trails, and prime fishing holes waiting to be explored. The campground's natural setting provides a tranquil basecamp for those ready to immerse themselves in one of the Southeast's most stunning landscapes.

919 Overflow Creek Rd., Clayton, GA

Tucked away in a secluded corner of the forest, West Fork Campground offers five thoughtfully spaced campsites where the only sounds breaking the silence are the gentle murmur of the Chattooga River and the rustle of leaves overhead. This intimate, primitive campground beckons those seeking an authentic wilderness experience, where modern distractions fade away and nature takes center stage. Each site provides generous privacy and direct access to the pristine riverbank, creating your own personal gateway to one of the Southeast's most cherished waterways.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Tucked along the pristine waters of the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River's west fork, West Fork Campground offers an intimate escape with just five walk-in campsites. This hidden gem in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest rewards those willing to park centrally and walk to their secluded riverside retreat, where the sounds of rushing water replace the noise of everyday life.

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

Escape to the untamed beauty of Burrells Ford, where the sound of rushing water replaces city noise and starlit skies stretch endlessly overhead. This hidden gem along the legendary Chattooga River welcomes adventurers year-round with free primitive camping just a pleasant quarter-mile trek from the parking area. Your riverside retreat comes equipped with the essentials—sturdy picnic tables for gathering, fire rings for evening storytelling, and a vault toilet—all while maintaining the wild character that makes this spot so special.

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

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

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.

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.

1922 Willis Knob Road, Forest Service Road #157, Clayton, GA 30525

Milepost 408.8 Blue Ridge Parkway

Andrew Pickens Ranger District, Oconee County, South Carolina

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

671 High Falls Road, Seneca, South Carolina, 29672-0411, United States

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

1600 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768

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

14014 HIGHLAND RD, HIGHLANDS, NC, 28741, USA

5464 Charleys Creek Road, Tuckasegee, NC 28783, USA

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

112 Andrew Pickens Circle, Mountain Rest, SC, 29664, USA

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

1946 Sarah's Creek Rd., Clayton GA

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

8820 Lake Logan Road, Canton, NC 28716

919 Overflow Creek Rd., Clayton, GA

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

National Forests in North Carolina

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.

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.

3009 Raven Rock Rd, Lillington, North Carolina, 27546, United States

Nestled within Raven Rock State Park, this modern campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its thoughtfully designed layout and diverse accommodation options. Choose from 9 full-service RV sites with spacious gravel pads that easily accommodate large rigs and multiple vehicles, 15 scenic drive-to tent sites featuring generous camping pads, or 6 cozy cabins that blend rustic charm with modern comfort. Each cabin invites relaxation with a queen-size bed, bunk beds for the kids, and the luxury of electricity, heating, and air conditioning – perfect for those seeking a touch of comfort in the wilderness. A convenient bathhouse serves all camping areas, ensuring a comfortable stay for every guest in this recently developed outdoor haven.