Camping options near Almond, North Carolina range from streamside sites to mountain-view accommodations within the southern Appalachian highlands. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 1,600-2,500 feet, providing moderate temperatures during camping season. Many sites throughout the region feature gravel pads with concrete areas for picnic tables, especially in facilities designed for RVers.
What to do
Creek exploration: Try wading in the streams at Nantahala RV Resort & Campground, which offers creek access from most sites. "We got here around 6 pm after a shopping round since we had some issues with the power in our van we needed a extended cord to run our coffee mashine. Great spot, just for the night and near the rafting area and check in for that early next morning," notes a visitor.
Hiking: Access multiple trails within 20-30 minutes of Franklin. "Staying here you will be super close to some amazing hiking and also the many activities on the Cullasaja river. You can easily go out for the night in Franklin and explore the rest of the beautiful area," according to one camper at Riverbend RV Park-Campground.
Floating and tubing: Enjoy water activities during summer months when temperatures typically reach the mid-80s. "You can float the river if you want. If you want to play games you can," states a visitor who notes the river access available at several campgrounds in the area.
What campers like
Fire pit setups: Many sites include well-designed fire areas that enhance outdoor cooking and evening relaxation. "The sites are very spacious and have cute rock fire pits with benches set around it. The creek is beautiful," one camper shared about their experience.
Proximity to supplies: Most campgrounds are within 10-15 minutes of basic provisions. "It's pretty close to downtown and grocery stores," notes a camper about Nantahala Tiny Homes & RV Park, adding, "Quiet creekside setting with level sites, clean restrooms and nice hosts."
Green space: Communal areas between sites provide room for activities. "There is a large green space in the center of the campground and a small creek accessible from most of the sites," mentioned one visitor describing their experience.
What you should know
Campground size variations: Several parks in the region are compact with limited sites. "This is a smaller campground, so there isn't an on site office or store, but it's pretty close to downtown and grocery stores," explains one camper.
Limited facilities at some locations: Not all parks offer complete amenities. "This is one of the nicest RV Parks in the Dollywood area IF you don't need a bathhouse, toilet, swimming pool, etc. The sites are some of the largest in the area, the grounds are meticulous, cable TV and Wifi is good and the park is easy to access," explains a visitor to an RV park in the broader region.
Variable management presence: Some locations have limited on-site staff. "We were left to find our own sites using our reservation confirmation. The sites are a decent size, but all loose gravel. It's difficult to walk on, and no grass for the dogs," notes a visitor to The Great Outdoors RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Look for parks with recreational spaces: Some campgrounds offer additional activities beyond camping. "They have an amazing playground with an activity center. They always hold events for families. They have everything you could possibly think of," explains a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort Yogi Bear in the Smokies.
Consider creek-adjacent sites: Water features provide natural entertainment. "My kids loved playing by the river. It's close to all the areas attractions but far enough where it feels like you are camping in the wilderness," shares one family.
Check for seasonal activities: Many parks offer special events during peak seasons. "We camped around halloween and the entire campground has trick or treating for the kids on Saturdays. Clean, friendly and really great for kids," reports a camper.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions may differ from stated capacity: Verify measurements before arrival. "Our site said it would fit a 32 ft camper and it really doesn't; we had a super hard time getting in and thought we might have to leave. So just beware that your site might not be as big as stated," warns a visitor.
Ask about leveling requirements: Many sites need some adjustment. "Gravel pads; may require some levelling," notes one RVer at Pines RV Park and Cabins where "Lou meets you at the office and guides you to your campsite and politely offers to guide you in. We used his help and he guided us in to an inch of the cement pad for our front porch."
Cell reception varies by location: Coverage can be inconsistent. "Starlink had obstructions with the trees but we put it 20 feet up on a pole to help and it worked well enough for work and Netflix," reports one tech-savvy camper about their connectivity experience.
