Cabins for camping near Bear Creek, North Carolina sit at elevations between 1,800-3,500 feet within the Nantahala National Forest region. The area receives approximately 60 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forest conditions. Cabin availability varies seasonally with most facilities operating from April through October, though some remain open year-round.
What to do
Bicycle riding at Cades Cove: On certain days, the 11-mile loop road through Cades Cove closes to vehicles, allowing cyclists exclusive access. "What a great campground!! This is away from the craziness of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. On certain days they close off the loop of Cades Cove for bicycles to be able to ride. At the store near the campground they rent bikes for a reasonable rate," notes a visitor at Cades Cove Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Observe black bears, deer, and turkey from safe distances in their natural habitat. "This is a very unique spot in the smokies. I have never seen more black bear. It was a very safe distance we watched them about a football field away across a field pretty amazing experience," reports a camper at Cades Cove.
Visit historical structures: Explore preserved cabins and churches within a short drive from camping areas. "Go on the car tour loop and make sure to stop and look at the cabins and church. History at its finest," recommends a visitor to Cades Cove Campground.
Tubing on Deep Creek: Rent tubes directly from Deep Creek Tube Center & Campground for cooling off in summer months. "We tent camped at an electric site and it was awesome. Just a short drive into the GSMNP, we did hiking during the day, explored Bryson City, then enjoyed the campground at night. Would love to go back in the summer and tube."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many cabin and tent sites feature water access for natural ambient sound and recreational opportunities. "We stayed in site A14, beside a branch of the Little River with a large tent pad, fire ring, picnic table, and paved, slightly sloped, parking pad," notes a visitor at Elkmont Campground.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities at many campgrounds. "Bath house & rest rooms were super clean and extremely well stocked. Towels, soaps, shampoo, heck even hair dryers. Washer and Dryers, you name it, if you needed it they had it," reports a camper at Kickstand Lodge.
Varied accommodation options: From basic tent sites to fully-equipped cabins with amenities. "The property is beautiful with a stream, campsites, cabins & lodge. Perfect location for many rides. Good food, fire pit, bathroom/showers, etc.," shares a visitor at Iron Horse Motorcycle Lodge & Resort.
Proximity to hiking trails: Many cabin locations offer immediate trail access without driving. "Stayed here many times and is my favorite campground in the Smoky Mountains. Great location with easy access to Gatlinburg but secluded as well. The campground is beautiful with rivers running through it. Is usually very crowded year round, but there is plenty of space between the campsites. Great hiking trails nearby," reports a camper at Elkmont Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most cabin facilities operate on limited schedules. "November is when the leaves are changing. Temps cool at night, moderately nice during the day...got snow at Clingman's Dome however during the day!" notes a visitor at Cades Cove.
Cell service limitations: Limited or no connectivity exists throughout much of the region. "Cades Cove was fairly quiet and the site was slightly wooded. Picnic table, fire ring and grill, sand tent area, level driveway- all make for a good choice for any type of equipment. No cell service for Verizon and none for many miles on the drive to the site."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "Make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!" advises a camper at Cades Cove.
Terrain challenges: Mountainous terrain means significant elevation changes and sometimes difficult access. "This campground is in the beautiful Nantahala Forest. A very scenic drive and quite remote. Most of the sites are double sites so you're essentially sharing a campsite with your neighbor," reports a visitor at Cheoah Point Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation choices for children. "This is a great campground, but can get a little busy. If you want nature, love community, and want someone for your kids to play with, this is perfect," shares a visitor at Cades Cove Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several cabin locations offer ranger programs and historical learning experiences. "The ranger led activities have always been enjoyed by my kids," notes a camper at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds feature playgrounds and specialized children's areas. "This was a great family campground. Plenty for the kids to do, including gem mining, feeding goats and several playgrounds. Plus you can rent tubes and drive a short distance into the national park for some fun tubing," explains a visitor at Deep Creek Tube Center & Campground.
Safety considerations: Bear-safe food storage is essential and required at many locations. "Very strict rules regarding food storage and park has managed to control bears and raccoons," reports a camper at Elkmont Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many cabin and RV sites have limited space and require smaller rigs. "The tent sites are nice, especially the ones on the point. The rv sites are a bit small with no shade," notes a camper at Cheoah Point Campground.
Utility availability: Electrical hookups, sewer connections, and water access vary widely between locations. "This campground has a wonderful area and the history of the place is amazing," shares a visitor to Elkmont Campground, which offers limited hookups for RVs.
Road conditions: Mountain roads can present challenges for larger vehicles. "Had a great stop at this campground! Took a while to get into and out of though. Long and windy road to get to the area," reports a visitor at Cades Cove.
Dump station access: Limited dump facilities mean planning for waste management. "Dump station on site," notes a visitor at Elkmont, while many smaller cabin locations lack this feature entirely.
