Looking for the best horse camping near Balsam Grove? Whether you own a horse or are joining a tour group, equestrian camping is an adventurous and unique way to experience the city. The Dyrt can help you find the perfect equestrian sites that are scenic and easy to access.
After hours of scrolling through nature photos and majestic mountains, the urge to get out and explore is hard to ignore. We applaud the explorers and adventurers of the world who brave the treacherous elements, as well as the sweet photos that come as a result. However, for many the ideal of a fun weekend away consists less of roughing it, and more relaxing on a beach or in a warm cabin. If you’re in the latter of these groups, you’re going to love Oconee State Park.
Oconee is the idealistic place for families and friends looking for a nostalgic getaway complete with rustic charm and character. Dotted throughout the park are rustic, Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Cabins available for nightly and weekly rental. Meanwhile, a small, glassy lake lazily invites campers to disrupt its reflection with the canoes and kayaks located on shore.
The Greenville region is known for 25+ waterfalls found throughout. Closer in, the 1,100+ acre state park hosts a number of wooded nature trails snake throughout. It also serves as the trailhead for South Carolina’s 77 miles Foothills Trail. Friends and families visiting can enjoy the local wildlife, as well as the regional flora and fauna which proudly thrive in abundance.
In the summer Lake Oconee comes alive, creating the backdrop for unforgettable family vacations. Festivities begin in June, including Square Dancing, mini golf, pedal boating competitions, and so much more. However the Winter Months are just as enjoyable if you don’t mind getting cozy in a warm cabin, sipping some coco, and reading a good book. The rangers here are known for their hospitality, and are knowledgeable on the area. Stop in their lodge for a small convenience store, firewood, and great conversations.
Oconee offers all the benefits of a mountain resort without the upscale pricing. There are 140+ sites available for rent, starting at just $21/night. Cabins and lodging is available but pricing is dependent on group sizes and room choice, so be sure plan out your trip in advance before coming.
North Mills River Campground is a rustic mountain getaway in Pisgah National Forest in western North Carolina. Located just outside the popular city of Asheville, the campground provides access to a variety of cultural and natural attractions, including an arboretum, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and numerous hiking, fishing and mountain biking opportunities.
The forest is known for its hiking and mountain biking trails, several of which are near the campground. Mills River offers excellent trout fishing, as well as tubing and swimming, which are kid-friendly favorite activities. Visitors wishing to learn more about the area can attend educational programs during the summer.
The campground is situated in the Appalachian Mountains at an elevation of 2,200 feet. The surrounding land boasts mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls and slopes densely forested with hardwoods. The group camping area is adjacent to the beautiful, shallow waters of the Mills River.
Several natural and cultural attractions are within close proximity to the campground. Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls and the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway are among the most popular sites. The small town of Brevard offers various amenities and services, and visitors can take a trip to Asheville to visit art galleries, music venues, shops and restaurants.
For facility specific information, please call (828) 577-4167.
$40 - $44 / night
Located eight miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Elkmont Campground is the largest and busiest campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At an elevation of 2,150 feet, the area enjoys a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers.
The Little River runs through the campground offering visitors the option to camp waterfront. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkmont Campground. The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall. Hiking and fishing are not the only reasons for visiting the Smokies: Picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. With around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. From the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms, the Smokies are the most biologically-diverse area in the world's temperate zone. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.
Generations of campers have returned to Elkmont year after year, drawn by the sounds of the river, the tranquility of the forest, and the variety of recreational activities in the Elkmont area. Little River and Jakes Creek run through the campground, offering easy access for fishing or cool summertime splashing. Trailheads for Little River Trail, Jakes Creek Trail, and Elkmont Nature Trail are located adjacent to the campground. Historic remnants of Little River Lumber Company's logging camp and old buildings from the Elkmont resort community offer campers a glimpse of life at Elkmont nearly a century ago.
Gatlinburg, one of the Smokies' most famous tourist towns, is located about nine miles from Elkmont and offers organized rafting trips, museums, restaurants, galleries, an aquarium, skiing and more.
$30 / night
$20 / night
Cataloochee campground is located in the historic Cataloochee Valley--a relatively remote part of Smoky Mountain National Park. The secluded setting offers visitors the ability to enjoy a multitude of recreational activities like hiking and fishing, without the crowds, which are sometimes common in other parts of the park.
The Cataloochee Valley features an extensive trail system that is less heavily used compared to other areas of the park. The two main trails, Caldwell Fork and nearby Rough Fork Trail, run mostly parallel to one another in the central portion of the valley. Either of these trails extend alongside scenic creeks and streams and support both hikers and horeseback riders. For hikers only, the 3.9-mile Boogerman Trail forms a nice loop off the Caldwell Fork Trail and is less than a mile walk from the campground. Anglers will agree that some of the best Rainbow and Brook trout fishing in the area can be found in the Cataloochee Basin, one of the most remote sections of the park. Fly fishing is particularly good during spring months when aquatic insects hatch in large numbers. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park. A handful of which can be found in the Cataloochee Valley, including the nearby Palmer House, built in 1869, which contains a self-guided museum.
Cataloochee Campground is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and pristine mountain streams, like nearby Cataloochee Creek. Elk are common in this part of the park, during the spring and fall. At a 2,600 foot elevation, Cataloochee provides a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Whether blanketed in bright spring wildflowers or exploding with vivid fall colors, the scenery at Cataloochee never disappoints.
A number of the park's famous historical buildings, including the Steve Woody and Caldwell Houses, both built in the late 19th-century, are nearby the campground. The Steve Woody House, built in 1880, is located along the Rough Fork trail, an easy 2-mile roundtrip hike from the parking lot at the end of Ranger Station Road.
$30 / night
Panthertown Valley is a rugged and wild 6,311-acre backcountry area located on Nantahala National Forest in western North Carolina, on the eastern continental divide, between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Panthertown features a diversity of native flora and fauna, pristine headwaters of the Tuckasegee River, a rare high-elevation southern Appalachian mountain bog, dozens of waterfalls, granite cliffs and domes, and is part of Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, and Bonas Defeat-Panthertown American Black Bear Sanctuary.
Friends of Panthertown works in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service to conserve this outstanding natural resource while improving the quality and experience of recreational opportunities in Panthertown.
Panthertown is a wonderful place to explore, however there are a few things you should be aware of before visiting for your first time. We hope this list of suggestions (and cautions) will make your experience in Panthertown Valley more enjoyable:
Your safety is your responsibility. Plan ahead and come prepared.
This is a wild, rugged place with more than 30 miles of public trails spread out over 6,311 acres deep in the Nantahala National Forest. It’s easy to get lost. We recommend you bring a good map and compass, and know how to use them.
Panthertown is NOT a National Park or State Park. It’s common to not see any other people when visiting. Cell phone service here can be spotty or unreachable. Use the trails with caution and at your own risk.
Bring plenty of water to drink, or a filtration system to keep you hydrated. There are no water fountains, trash cans, or restrooms here.
Please carry out your trash and practice Leave No Trace principles of outdoor ethics when visiting.
Hiking in the forest can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced hikers. Know before you go, plan ahead, and come prepared for a fun backcountry experience.
You may get hot, cold, wet, muddy, scratched up, and dirty just from hiking and exploring in Panthertown, so dress appropriately and in layers.
Expect to hike several miles on uneven surfaces to reach the most popular points of interest, including waterfalls and overlooks.
The hike out of the valley is uphill and can be difficult. Some hiking experience is recommended. Make sure you save some energy and water for your walk back to the parking area. That’s all part of the Panthertown experience!
American black bears live here and are protected as part of the Bonas Defeat-Panthertown Bear Sanctuary. Panthertown hosts a diversity of wildlife, please do not feed the animals!
Common natural hazards to watch out for include venomous snakes and yellow jacket nests.
Friends of Panthertown volunteers only maintain the official trail system in Panthertown. There are hundreds of miles of user created footpaths that crisscross the valley. For your safety, and to protect the ecology, we recommend you stay on the marked trails and avoid short cuts through the woods. Remember, it’s easy to get lost here, and we want you to enjoy your backcountry experience.
CAMPING
Dispersed camping is primitive and no amenities are provided. Forest Service rules limit camp sites to no more than 12 people, and not within 50 feet of water sources. No permits are required for non-commercial groups.
Please use existing fire rings and never leave a fire unattended. Make sure to properly extinguish and drown your fire and coals before leaving your camp site!
Follow these recommendations to avoid any close encounters with bears: https://panthertown.org/bears/
PARKING
There is limited parking at three entrances (Salt Rock Gap, Cold Mountain Gap, and Flat Creek), low-clearance gravel Forest Service roads, and heavy use on weekends. https://panthertown.org/directions
Drive slowly and use caution to not damage your vehicle or the road.
Equestrians please note: there are no horse trails at the Cold Mountain Gap trailheads. Horse trailer parking is prohibited there. The Salt Rock Gap entrance offers limited parking and can be difficult to turn a horse trailer around. If you use this entrance, we suggest that you park and unload your trailer on the pavement at the end of state maintained Breedlove Road.
The Flat Creek parking area off Rock Bridge Road north of Lake Toxaway on NC 281 is the largest and offers a wide horse trailer turn around with easy access to the Panthertown Valley Trail System.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Always practice Leave No Trace principles of outdoor ethics when visiting.
The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace:
Plan Ahead and Prepare
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Dispose of Waste Properly
Leave What You Find
Minimize Campfire Impacts
Respect Wildlife
Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Reprinted with permission ©Leave No Trace
Within the Pisgah Ranger District there are 65 disbursed roadside camping sites that are available on a first come - first serve basis. These campsites are located alongside gravel roads throughout the district and include a parking area, tent pad, and fire ring. Toilet facilities and drinking water are not available. Trash pick-up is not provided. Trash must be collected and disposed of properly. Failure to remove or properly dispose of trash is a crime and law enforcement officers will issue citations for littering if trash is strewn about or not properly disposed of. The following regulations must be adhered to and are strictly enforced by Law Enforcement Officers. • Roadside camping is allowed at designated campsites only. Signs designating a legal campsite show a camping_ symbol and a site number (for example "AC-3" for Avery Creek site 3). • The National Forests in North Carolina have a policy which allows for campers to occupy a roadside campsite for a maximum of 14 days out of a 30 day period. If a camper changes locations or moves to another campsite, it cannot be within 10 miles of previous site, the maximum stay limit of 14 days applies to all sites occupied. • All vehicles must be parked along road shoulders without blocking traffic. • Campfires are allowed only within the metal fire ring provided on the site, Building of additional fire rings is not allowed. AJJ camping equipment and tents must remain on the designated tent pad. • Collecting 'dead and downed' :firewood in the forest is permitted for camp fires. It is illegal to cut, chop, or saw live or standing trees or other live growth. Do not chop into or drive nails into live trees. • It is illegal to establish and set up a campsite for the purpose of reserving a camping place. The campsite must be occupied on the night it is set up by a minimum of one person. • It is illegal to leave a camp unattended for period of more than 24 hours. • It is illegal to fail to remove all camping equipment, personal property, trash, and refuse from a campsite when vacating or leaving that area or site. • It is mandatory that all human waste be buried at least 6 _inches deep and a minimum or 200 feet from a stream. trail, or campsite. • Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on Avery Creek Road (FSR 477) and Lickstone Road (FSR 97). Prohibition is 1000 feet to either side of the road, campsites, trails or roads leading off of either of the aforementioned. Warning: Unattended property and equipment in these areas can be an easy target for criminal activity. Protect your property by locking valuables out of site. Access to these campsites is easy by any vehicle. If you see anyone stealing anything from a roadside campsite or parking area near a public trailhead, picnic, or recreation area please call 911 to report it or call USPS Law Enforcement at the Pisgah District Ranger Station at 828-877-3265
Whether traveling with an RV or tent, Standing Indian Campground is a prime place to stop for a night or spend several days in the picturesque Nantahala National Forest. The campground's many amenities provide a comfortable home base for exploring this fun and historic section of the forest. Standing Indian is located within a 20-minute drive of Franklin, North Carolina.
The Standing Indian Basin is a premier hiking destination. The campground provides access to numerous trails, including the world-famous Appalachian Trail, which journeys from Georgia to Maine. Visitors who wish to get their feet wet can experience the Nantahala River, well-known for whitewater rafting, kayaking and trout fishing (fishing license required). Big and small game hunting is available in the surrounding area.
The campground is surrounded by 5,000' peaks and crossed by several natural streams. It sits at an elevation of 3,880 feet at the headwaters of the scenic Nantahala River, amidst lush forests of evergreen trees and rhododendrons.
There is not a premium type site available but there is some nonelectric double site that is $40.00 per night.
$40 / night
Bent River Equestrian is a small horse farm at the foot of the Pisgah National Forest and *less than *4 miles from DuPont State Recreational Forest.
The farm is in a small neighborhood, so appropriate for families, couples, and small groups to use as a base camp for their adventures. We are only a few miles Oskar Blues, The Hub, and Ecusta Brewing! Additionally, Brevard has many restaurants and a bit of night life, with bands playing at 185 King St. regularly. Sunsets in the Fall and Spring are amazing on the farm, but we normally recommend you spend afternoons in the shade of the woods or river.
There are two Farm Hands/Backpacking Guides who live on site in their own tiny homes, and my small home is on site. Campers have an unobstructed view of Looking Glass Rock, Mt. Pisgah, and you can see up to The Devil's Courthouse.
$30 - $900 / night
Ranger
Large campground but had level, shaded, and private camp sites. Flush toilets clean but no showers. Traffic was a beast but there were good hiking trails from campground. I was on a loop that allowed generators but very few were in use. Nice creek runs through campground. Campground fairly close to visitor center and nearby hiking trails but wickedly crowded. Very strict rules regarding food storage and park has managed to control bears and raccoons. Dump station on site.
Scout
My wife& I stayed at Oconee State Park Oct. 28th-31st in a Cabin. For 90% of the stay, we had a wonderful time in the Cabin and walking/viewing the Lake, etc. However, there were several events that occurred in the Cabin that were disgusting and resulted in a BAD Situation and which I would assume is also occurring throughout the entire Oconee Park Cabin locations. On the 1st Night: We killed a"huge" Brown Recluse in our bathroom, on the floor near the sink wall. Luckily, I captured it and threw it in the fire. Next Morning: I noticed a big Fat Worm about 2-3" long of some unknown type on the bathroom floor near the sink area again. Obviously disposed of it. That afternoon, we went to the Station and told the Ranger attendant guy about our 2 experiences already. He searched and gave us a white Orkin Glue Strip to use and explained that Pest Control occasionally visits the Cabins?? Really?? Apparently not ours! 2nd Night: After placing the Glue Strip in the bathroom near the sink wall, I could not believe that, after hearing my wife scream, I discovered a Mouse partially trapped by the glue trap and only able to barely crawl toward the log wall with its front legs. I cautiously picked-up the glue trap from behind and threw the critter outside, still attached. 3rd Morning: Once again, another type of unknown Big Fat Worm in the bathroom near the sink and about 2" long. Again, disposed of. I cannot believe that, as nice as the rest of our Cabin#5 was, that there were that many insects& Varmints freely entering the Cabin walls. That was truthfully, DISGUSTING& VERY DISAPPOINTING. It is apparent that this Oconee State Park Cabin(s??) is managed by Gross Oversight& Negligence by someone. These four(4) unpleasant events greatly disturbed our stay and left a Very Unpleasant Taste in our Minds due to these occurrences. Imagine how uncomfortable you might be trying to slip into your bed linens at night with this invasion happening!!! If this State Facility is using any kind of Pest Control Measures, then obviously it is NOT WORKING and someone should be Disciplined or Fired! We have already filed a Complaint with the Oconee Park Manager several weeks ago and with the SC State Parks but as usual& expected, NO RESPONSE FROM ANYONE! NO ONE! Obviously, SC Parks and their Park Manager could care less about their customer’s bad experience, or the terrible condition of their specific cabins. All they want is YOUR MONEY$$$ and then you can leave!
Guide
One of my all-time favorite campsites. Great for accessing the mountain bike trails at Tsali. The entire campground is first come first serve, never had a problem finding a spot, but does fill up by the weekend. Roomy camp spots, decent privacy between spots, clean bath houses, all in a beautiful location. Ride right out of your campsite and hit the trails, or easy access to Lake Fontana. Campsite is always well-maintained. All the spots have dedicated tent area, picnic tables and fire rings. Multiple bear proof trash cans and water spickets on both loops and easy to access. Only downside is it closes mid October until April.
Scout
Big Creek Campground, located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers a peaceful tent-only camping experience alongside the beautiful Big Creek. With amenities like flushing toilets and potable water, it combines backcountry charm with essential comforts. The area is a hiker's paradise, featuring over 800 miles of trails, including the challenging Baxter Creek Trail and the scenic Big Creek Trail with its stunning waterfalls. Anglers can enjoy excellent trout fishing, especially in spring, while wildlife enthusiasts may spot black bears and river otters. At an elevation of 1,700 feet, the campground is surrounded by picturesque mountains and pristine streams, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration. Nearby attractions include Cataloochee Valley and the Appalachian Trail, enhancing the outdoor adventure experience. Overall, Big Creek Campground is a fantastic destination for nature lovers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Regards
Stella Smith
Founder of Bombitup
TravelerWe had an amazing time, the campground is beautiful and the park rangers were awesome. Hoping to come back soon.
Guide
We frequently visit this campground for weekend trips as it is close to us. It is easily accessible and does have areas for your garbage but there are no bathrooms which puts a small damper on a family visit. The water is pretty clear and has an abundance of trout so it is great for fishing and swimming.
Traveler
My son and I decided to go camping and needed a place the same day. We were looking for a place that was wooded and near a river or stream and lucked up at Lazy J. The staff answered our call right away and were both friendly and informative. Our site was across the path from the French Broad, had water and power access and felt secluded and mountainous. The bath house was clean and well maintained. We really enjoyed staying here and plan to go back soon.
Traveler
Definitely high clearance 4x4 or bikes. Sketchy but that's our style Great date night.
ScoutIt looks so good so far. Thank you so much for sharing. Have a very good day!
Traveler
They have a long term camper they refuse to run off and he will steal from you. Camp at your own risk, watch your stuff like a hawk. I'd really recommend Sunburst or Big Ivy instead of North Mills really.
ScoutMy family of five camped three nights at Elkmont the last week of March 2024. High was in the 50's and 60's and low in the 30's. It was windy and cold at nights. I did a ton of research attempting to book a"private" site at this campground--but now I'll share what I have learned-- there are none! We had site A-7, which is"walk-in", but the walk is incredibly short and not far from your car. All of the campsites are extremely close together, and there is no brush to divide them. That said, the campsite is gorgeous and I do recommend it. Despite having no visual privacy, the sound of the rushing water masks all the sounds of talking, etc. and I slept great with the rushing water. Considering the walk-in sites are no more private than any other, I think my highest recommendation would be the B sites. Otherwise try to book any site along the river.
The bathrooms were adequate--sinks and toilets and cleaned daily (no showers). We did one of our hikes from our site--the Little River Trail to Cucumber Gap at it was beautiful. While the technical distance of that loop is 5 and a half miles, it was 7 miles total from our site. I recommend doing Little River Trail first, as it is a gradual uphill on a gravel road. While the wide road is not ideal, it is along the beautiful river. Cucumber Gap trail is single track with some nice views. The final portion of that loop, Jakes Creek Trail to the Elkmont Historic District is STEEP--so I was glad we were going down, not up.
Scout
I tent camped overnight as it was half way to my destination. I got there just in time to see a beautiful sunset and say hello to the horses. The host is fantastic. I would definitely stay again.
Traveler
Me and a friend came camping here this second weekend in January. The campground itself was well maintained and the hook ups, dump station and bathhouses were easy to find and use. We had only 2 complaints, the gate to get in closes at 10pm, unfortunately I85 was shut down on our way up so our 3 hr drive became 6hrs. We did not make it before the gate closed and had to stay at Walmart. No code no exceptions. Secondly, there are no trashcans anywhere, on the grounds or in the bathhouses. The trash dump is in a completely different part of the park. It was inconvenient with picking up after my dog. Besides those two things, beautiful lake camping with affordable campsite prices!
GuideStayed here in the Fall of 2023. It was perfectly quiet at night which was great. The bathrooms are clean and there’s a dish washing room as well. Due to the amount of black bears in the area they’re very vigilant about keeping trash in trash cans (apparently bears break into the bathrooms… so there’s ZERO trash cans in the bathrooms and you have to walk your paper towels or other items to the big dumpsters)
Coming from the Rocky Mountains where black and brown bears are also very active, I was surprised to see that there were no bear boxes of any kind.
This minor complaint won’t affect most people. but to those who need a bear boxe to store items while away from their campsite or perhaps while they’re there, just keep that in mind. 😊
GuideElkmont is a big campground located on little river. I spent the weekend here, and had a great time with cool weather. Warm during the day and just above freezing at night.
I drove up to clingmans dome at sunrise and caught a brief amazing glimpse before clouds covered up the whole view. It was really interesting the way the conditions changed so quickly. I made a short youtube video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5LIvzDiSY4
I fly fished around the campground, but didn't have much luck until I walked a good distance upstream on the little river trail. It was a great afternoon, and all fish I caught were rainbows and about hand size. Nothing remarkable, but time well spent and very enjoyable.
I would love to bring my son here, and look forward to trying to get a spot next year to bring him here.
As a note, I drove through gatlinburg early morning and the traffic was awful. I turned left after gatlinburg and rather than having to head back through town there was a bypass, which was a huge time saver.
TravelerThis is one of our favorite local campgrounds. Sites are first come, first serve, most sites are in the open with a few more private sites around the edge. A great spot for mountain biking on the Tsali trail system, close to the Appalachian Trail, close to the Nantahalad river for kayaking and rafting. Good access to Lake Fontana for kayaking, SUPing and swimming.
GuideVery clean. Very nice. We will be back
Legend
Our visit to Tricorner Knob Shelter marked the third night of our backpacking trip. As we arrived at this Appalachian Trail(AT) shelter, it became evident that it was bustling with AT thru-hikers who were embarking on their journey northward. Unfortunately, the shelter and its surrounding camping areas were not able to accommodate the influx of hikers. Space was at a premium, and it felt exceptionally crowded. The terrain posed an additional challenge, as the site was highly sloped. Finding a suitable spot to set up a tent without the constant risk of sliding proved to be a significant challenge.
While the shelter itself was inviting and well-maintained, it filled up rapidly, even though we had arrived fairly early, around 2 p.m. Those who arrived later faced a struggle to secure a comfortable spot. Some unfortunate campers were left with no choice but to set up their tents near the pit toilet, a less-than-ideal arrangement.
Speaking of the toilet, it was clear that the facility was not designed to handle the high volume of traffic it receives. It was brimming with waste due to the site's popularity and suffered from inadequate maintenance. To safeguard against bear encounters, bear cables were available and necessary to hang all food overnight. Additionally, there is a water source available at the site.
Despite the crowded conditions, it was nice to interact with fellow hikers, and most people were friendly and accommodating. However, the noise from so many people made it challenging to sleep in. To ensure we got to our next site early enough to secure a good space, we decided to rise early the next morning.
Overall, Tricorner Knob Shelter can be a challenging stop for hikers, especially during peak thru-hiker season. While the shelter itself is pleasant, the limited space, sloped terrain, and crowded conditions can make for a less-than-ideal experience. Despite these challenges, it's still a good experience to stay here, and its location at the intersection of multiple trails makes it an ideal stop for hikers. Campers should be prepared for the possibility of overcrowding and limited camping options, and be sure to adhere to the bear safety measures in place.
LegendBig Creek Campground, situated at the northernmost tip of the Smoky Mountains, offers a tranquil camping experience by a beautiful creek. Located at the base of the Baxter Creek Trail, which leads to Mount Sterling, this drive-in campground provides a picturesque backdrop for nature enthusiasts. The campground boasts clearly marked sites for each reservation, ensuring you'll find your designated spot easily. There's a bathroom structure with running water, and two of the restrooms are wheelchair accessible, enhancing accessibility for all visitors.
One thing to note is that reservations are essential, and this caught us off guard as we hadn't realized it needed to be done in advance. Unfortunately, finding a campground host or staff member can be a challenge, and the lack of internet connectivity near the campground makes it difficult to seek assistance for reservations. During our springtime visit, the flora along the creek was in full bloom, creating a stunning natural landscape. The temperature was perfect for outdoor activities, and the creek provided a soothing background soundtrack to our stay. Picnic tables were scattered throughout the campground and near the trailhead parking, offering a perfect spot to enjoy meals amidst nature's beauty.
Big Creek Campground offers a plethora of hiking options, catering to various skill levels. For those seeking a challenge, the climb up to the firetower at Mount Sterling is a must-try adventure. However, be prepared to start early, as it's a full-day endeavor to ascend and descend before dark. Alternatively, you can opt for lower-elevation hikes along the creek, providing a more leisurely experience. Our visit was part of a loop, taking us from Mount Sterling to Tricorner Knob, then back via Cosby Knob and Mount Cammerer.
In summary, Big Creek Campground offers a serene camping experience by a beautiful creek, located at the northernmost tip of the Smoky Mountains. The amenities, including cold running water and well-maintained restrooms, enhance the overall stay. Just remember to make reservations in advance, and if you're up for a challenge, don't miss the climb to the Mount Sterling firetower. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a nature lover seeking a peaceful escape, this campground has something to offer everyone.
GuideFirst come, first serve here. There were plenty spots available in late September. This campground is extremely well maintained. Fire ring with grate, picnic table, bbq grill, a bear pole and a lantern pole at each site. Heard coyotes on each side of us the night we were here. That was fun. Make sure you don’t park under a black walnut tree. Black walnuts fall constantly, and will add fashionable dents to your vehicle. Quiet hours are definitely not proactively enforced. Campsite spacing varies. Some sites have more privacy than others. Overall, a great place to stay. Based on the proximity to Fontana Lake, we would stay here again.
Guide
We were looking for a place to spend the night. There isn’t cell service, so be sure to plan your next move before you head in for the evening. The sites are pretty close together, not a lot of privacy, but a very quiet and calm campground. Covered by trees, only a few sites get touched by minimal rays. They do have a few water stations for filling up, flushing toilets and running water in the bathroom sink! It was a good spot to post up for the night.
GuideCampground is super easy to find, with plenty of signage. Go to the visitor’s center first and get your parking permit if you plan on doing any exploring by vehicle. $5/day or $15/weekend. Zero cell service past Laurel Falls (Verizon). Firewood and other essentials on site for purchase. They take cash or credit! Everything is within a good 20 minute drive. B7 is right on the river. Sounds of the water drown out any neighbors, which makes up for the sites being pretty close to each other.
ScoutGreat place to spend a couple of nights. Went over Labor Day weekend with 5 or 6 other groups and still felt like we had full privacy. Fire pits, an outdoor shower, and a porta-potty. Cute horses and barn cats to pet and watch
Scout
This location was amazing. We couldn’t have been happier with a spot. The host was extremely gracious, there is an outdoor shower, the camp fire setup is awesome, and the animals are friendly. It is easy to find and you’re only 20-ish minutes from Asheville. We’ll certainly be back!
ScoutI love this place. It really is remote. However I stopped at the spot right before the wider creek. Walked a long ways and never saw another spot.
Lots of rocks, creeks and tight spots to make for a fun time.
TravelerThe sites are good with picnic tables, fire rings, and gravel tent pads. Also, the trees provide plenty of shade and bear-proof trash containers. Also, no bright street or area lights are shining into the tent all night long.
Although there are not any shower facilities, which didn't bother me, the toilets are not that great!
Two big problems for me. 1. A lot of generator noise and 2. No one respected the 5 mph speed limit which was a big concern with the young children running around, and the number of wild animals around.
If you are a tent camper, I recommend looking for tent only camp sites in this area.
TravelerNice campground in a good location in the park. Decently close to cade’s cove, and really close to laurel falls. Even though there are no showers, you can access the river in tons of spots even if you don’t have a waterfront site. Another thing that might bother some people would be bugs in the bathrooms, but most of them are dead and all of them are harmless, just a little gross. Overall pretty solid campsite if you’re willing to lose some comfort.
Horse camping in North Carolina offers a unique blend of scenic trails and equestrian-friendly facilities, making it a perfect getaway for horse enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Balsam Grove, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Balsam Grove, NC is Oconee State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 43 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Balsam Grove, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 36 equestrian camping locations near Balsam Grove, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
