Part of the USDA Forest Service's National Forests in North Carolina, Balsam Lake Lodge operates as an established campground with full hookups near Tuckasegee. The facility provides electric, water, and sewer connections at sites priced between $170-$200 per night, though RV length restrictions apply and rough access roads may challenge some vehicles.
The forested property sits near both creek and lake waters, with fishing available to guests. Reservations are accepted for this drive-in campground, but pets are not permitted on the grounds. Campers exploring the region can find additional places to camp around Tuckasegee for different experiences and price points.
Description
Overview
Balsam Lake Lodge is nestled in the center of the 39,000-acre Roy Taylor Forest within the Nantahala National Forest. The lodge overlooks Balsam Lake and offers spectacular mountain views. The lodge opened its doors to the public when the Forest Service acquired the dwelling and lake in 1982. Since then groups have rented the lodge for meetings, recreation and environmental activities.
Recreation
Near the 8-acre lake are three short hiking trails, several fishing piers and a picnic area. The Robinson Trail, suitable for wheelchairs, leads to a dock and fishing pier. The Malonee Trail travels approximately a half-mile beside the lake to the day use area. The .3-mile Wolf Creek Trail continues beside a stream. Anglers can fish for trout in Balsam Lake. It's also open to non-motorized boating.
Natural Features
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Balsam Lake Lodge offers a haven in the Nantahala National Forest. This mountain getaway can be reserved for weekends and weekdays from early April through late November. Reservations will be open from early April through late November. A dense forest of mixed deciduous and conifer trees hugs the shoreline of this tranquil lake.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors to Balsam Lake Lodge can explore the rest of the Nantahala National Forest, which is especially known for its spectacular waterfalls. This includes Whitewater Falls, the highest falls east of the Rocky Mountains.
Charges & Cancellations
$170 per night sunday through Thursday. $200 per night friday and saturday.
Fee Info
$170 per night. A $30 fee for each Friday and Saturday night booked.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundBalsam Lake Lodge is located in North Carolina
Directions
From Asheville, North Carolina, take I-40 west to exit 27. Go west on U.S. 23/74 to Waynesville and take exit 102. Take U.S. 276 south and turn right on NC 215 south. Take SR 1756 (Charley's Creek Road). Go 5 miles to the Balsam Lake Lodge (located on the left at Forest Service sign/gate). From the Blue Ridge Parkway, take NC 215 south for 5 miles to SR 1756 (Charley's Creek Road). Go west 5 miles to the lodge (Located on the left at Forest Service sign/gate).
Address
5464 CHARLEYS CREEK ROAD
Tuckasegee, NC 28783
Coordinates
35.2675 N
83.0194444 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 1 hr 28 min from Asheville, NC
- 2 hrs 8 min from Greenville, SC
- 2 hrs 27 min from Spartanburg, SC
