Top Tent Camping near Croatan National Forest

Looking for the best Croatan National Forest tent camping? Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Croatan National Forest, including sites, reviews, and tips. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Croatan National Forest, NC (101)

    Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    1. Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    71 Reviews
    426 Photos
    457 Saves
    Cosby, Tennessee

    Overview

    Tucked in the mountains under a canopy of cool shade beside Cosby Creek. This group campground creates a peaceful and secluded environment for visitors, offering the best that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has to offer.

    Recreation

    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 Cosby Campground, including the Appalachian Trail, just three miles away via the Lower Gap Trail.Hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are also popular activities. White water rafting on the nearby Pigeon River. Top tourist towns of gatlinburg, Sevierville and Pigeon Forge are just 20 miles away. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy.

    Facilities

    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 Cosby Campground, including the Appalachian Trail, just three miles away via the Lower Gap Trail.Hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are also popular activities. White water rafting on the nearby Pigeon River. Top tourist towns of gatlinburg, Sevierville and Pigeon Forge are just 20 miles away. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy.

    Natural Features

    World-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian culture, Great Smoky Mountains is America's most visited national park. Whether blanketed in bright wildflowers in the spring or vivid colors in the fall, the scenery at Cosby never disappoints. At 2,460 feet, Cosby Campground provides a moderate climate, typified by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Great Smoky Mountains National Park preserves a rich cultural history of Southern Appalachia. From the prehistoric Paleo Indians to the early 19th century European settlements, the park strives to protect the historic structures, landscapes and artifacts, which tell the stories of the people who once called these mountains home.

    Nearby Attractions

    Cosby, Tennessee, located about five miles from the campground, offers convenience stores and fuel. Gatlinburg, a one of the Smokies' famous tourist towns, is located about 20 miles from the site, offering visitors tours, organized rafting trips, museums, restaurants, galleries, an aquarium, skiing and more.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Customers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $50 / night

  • 2. Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground

    5 Reviews
    8 Photos
    166 Saves
    Robbinsville, North Carolina

    Stay in Comfort @ The Simple Life. A quiet / clean Mountain Retreat within minutes of; Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap, Cherohala Skyway, Moonshiner28, Joyce Kilmer National Forest, Lake Santeelah, and the town of Robbinsville. We have 13 Comfortable / Air-conditioned Tree House Cabins, 2 RV and 6 Tent Sites. Also available is a 6 person bunk-house fully loaded.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 - $32 / night

  • 3. Snowbird Camping

    4 Reviews
    4 Photos
    99 Saves
    Robbinsville, North Carolina

    Secluded backcountry camping on the banks of Little Snowbird Creek. With mountaintop views that will bring a tear to a glass eye. Best trout fishing in Western North Carolina free with campsite rental.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $40 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
  • 6. Mountain Creek Rest

    2 Reviews
    12 Photos
    39 Saves
    Robbinsville, North Carolina

    Heartstone tent site at Mountain Creek Rest is a stunningly beautiful, romantic, and very, very private campsite. You won't want to leave, but if you do there are many recreational opportunities in the area such as hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, and more! Enjoy the fresh, much, much cooler mountain air, and the beautiful, private setting! It is perfect for 2, but 2 additional guests are an available option! Heartstone is located on a gently pitched, terraced slope where a divided mountain stream, the tumbling Squally Creek rejoins itself! The sun light filters down through the forest canopy providing a warm, inviting glow!! There is a 9'-6" x 10' tent platform, a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility all within 30' of your private parking! There is also a nice fire pit area with benches overlooking the fire pit and creek ! Explore upstream on the 500' island trail, or go down stream 75' to a nice pool for dipping!

    Bring friends!! There is also a large tent pad available on site for extra guests!

    !!!Heartstone is a "Leave No Trace" site! Please be sure to leave it as clean or cleaner than you found it! The next guest will love you! Thanks!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Santeetlah Lake Primitive
    Camper-submitted photo from Santeetlah Lake Primitive
    Camper-submitted photo from Santeetlah Lake Primitive
    Camper-submitted photo from Santeetlah Lake Primitive
    Camper-submitted photo from Santeetlah Lake Primitive
    Camper-submitted photo from Santeetlah Lake Primitive
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartram Trail Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartram Trail Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartram Trail Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartram Trail Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartram Trail Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartram Trail Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Island — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Island — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Island — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Island — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Island — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Island — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Showing results 1-10 of 101 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Croatan National Forest

2368 Reviews of 101 Croatan National Forest Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    October 4, 2024

    Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Discover Adventure and Tranquility at Cosby Campground in the Great Smoky

    Cosby Campground sounds like a gem for those seeking a peaceful yet adventure-filled getaway in the Great Smoky Mountains! The mix of serene camping, hiking access to renowned trails like the Appalachian Trail, and proximity to tourist towns like Gatlinburg makes it a great spot. With opportunities for fishing, wildlife spotting(1,500 bears– wow!), and rafting on the Pigeon River, it offers something for everyone. Plus, its rich history and biodiversity make it an even more unique experience. Definitely worth checking out for anyone craving both nature and nearby attractions!

    If anyone wants to download this amazing sms app then visit here https://bombitupapp.in/

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cove Creek RV Resort
    September 23, 2024

    Cove Creek RV Resort

    Quiet and convenient

    We stayed 3 nights in one of the creekside sites. Very nice. Staff was very friendly. Water, electric, and sewer all worked. Great location outside the chaos of Pigeon Forge. Townsend and Cades Cove were easy drives.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tsali Campground
    September 22, 2024

    Tsali Campground

    Tsali - one of the best!

    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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge Landing RV Resort
    September 22, 2024

    Pigeon Forge Landing RV Resort

    Love this place

    Highly recommended this place. New facility clean bathroom with offers solid doors for privacy. Right in the middle of the attractions. Loved this place.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    September 21, 2024

    Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Cosby Campground, located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers a serene escape into nature with its lush surroundings and access to scenic trails. Featuring 26 sites, it provides a peaceful camping experience, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and proximity to attractions like the Cosby Nature Trail. With amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings, it’s a perfect spot for a memorable camping adventure in the heart of the Smokies.

    If anyone want to know about hayat carpentry services visit our website  https://hayatcarpentry.com/services/

  • Camper-submitted photo from Fooshee Pass Campground
    September 13, 2024

    Fooshee Pass Campground

    Beautiful and well maintained!

    Ample space, gorgeous views of the lake, and super friendly staff. We stayed in space 19. It is sized for a smaller rig which was perfect for us. We got to watch fish jump and a crane fishing in the morning. Only caught small fish, but the kids had a blast swimming. The lake is shallow with a slow grade which was perfect for our young children. Everyone was friendly and respectful. The bathrooms were clean and it was a nice bonus to have a no-charge shower available for tent camping.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Fontana Village Resort and Campground
    September 10, 2024

    Fontana Village Resort and Campground

    Favorite Vacation Spot

    We have stayed at the Campground for 15 years!  Love Beth who helps with Reservations. I really like the fact it is a very small campground, sitting back a long way off the main road.  Sites are spread out. Shower house easy access from all sites. Very few, if any kids when we go.  Having all the amenities of Fontana Village Resort is icing on the cake. I've already made Reservations for 2025.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground
    September 7, 2024

    Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground

    Tranquil, Well Maintained Park in the Mountains

    We really enjoyed our stay at Black Rock. Despite being at full capacity for Labor Day weekend, the park did not feel overly crowded. The staff attending the lodge store were welcoming and knowledgeable. There was a good selection of necessities available, along with ice and firewood. The comfort station was clean and well-appointed and there was never a wait for facilities. While privacy of sites varied, we spotted a few with really lovely mountainside views. The Tennessee Rock Trail to the summit and overlook is the perfect distance for a morning hike and not too strenuous. The Black Rock Lake Trail is very scenic and well worth the 20–30 minutes it takes to walk the circuit. There are also day facilities such as picnic tables and grills. Highly recommend.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier Campground
    September 6, 2024

    Greenbrier Campground

    WONDERFUL

    Spent Labor Day weekend there. Awesome trip! Super clean campground and showers. Lots for the kids to do. Trolley that goes into Gatlinburg. Friendly, Christian atmosphere. Great Sunday service. .

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hornsby Hollow Campground
    September 2, 2024

    Hornsby Hollow Campground

    Beautiful Sites!

    The campground was one of the most scenic I've been to. Some of the lakefront spots had their own access to the lake and plenty of trees. The camp host was amazing!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    September 1, 2024

    Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Elkmont Campground

    That's a great recommendation! Elkmont Campground sounds like a wonderful place to experience the Great Smoky Mountains. The variety of accommodation options makes it accessible to campers of all preferences. Therefore SRSLY Low Carb helps me stick to a diet and it reflects well on my body. I love active recreation. However, I always take care of my diet because I have health problems. Have a nice trip and take care of your health.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    August 22, 2024

    Cades Cove Campground

    Awesome time

    If you're looking for peace and quiet, then this is the place to be. Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground. Note... Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just erritates the bears.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    August 21, 2024

    Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Cosby Campground, located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers a serene and less crowded camping experience. Surrounded by lush forests and scenic trails, it provides access to popular hikes like the Hen Wallow Falls and Mount Cammerer.

    For if anyone want to know about Bombitup download visit here https://bombitup.in/

  • Camper-submitted photo from Andrew's Cove Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest
    August 19, 2024

    Andrew's Cove Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest

    Nice primitive camping

    This is a primitive campground with a picnic table, lantern pole and a firepit with a grate. It is pack in-pack out as there are no trashcans or dumpsters. Water is available via a hand water pump across from site#8 and the toilets are vault toilets but were well kept and did not smell horrible. The stream is gorgeous stream and loud enough to drown out most road noise. There are some hazardous trees and one 6inch tree did fall while we were there this weekend during a thunderstorm. At the back of the campground is a~2 mile trail that connects to the AT. Most sites have a tent pad that will accommodate a 10’x10’ tent. Sites 2, 4, and 8 driveways can really only accommodate 1 car and there are no extra parking spots. Driveways for sites 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 10 can accommodate 2 cars. Site 1 is adjacent to the road and is going to be impacted by road noise. There is no campground host so be prepared to either scavenge wood or buy it in town, same goes for ice.

  • Camper-submitted photo from KOA (Kampgrounds of America)
    August 17, 2024

    KOA (Kampgrounds of America)

    Nice but crowded

    It was a nice campground. But it is set up to be too crowded. Not my kind of camping. But they stated was friendly. The restrooms weren’t so bad considering how many kids was there. Couldn’t let the dogs walk free so that sucked.

  • Camper-submitted photo from The Crosseyed Cricket
    August 17, 2024

    The Crosseyed Cricket

    I like it

    I prefer playing cricket for physical exercise rather than virtual games like Nulls Brawl. It's a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, especially in beautiful locations like The Crosseyed Cricket Campground in Tennessee.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground
    August 15, 2024

    Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground

    Awesome location, very busy

    We were there on a Saturday night in August and it was completely sold out. It's a very busy campground with close together spaces but that's to be expected at that time and place. The staff was awesome and it's a great facility, shockingly with that many people it was absolutely silent at night. If you want to be in that area at that time it's pricey but hard to beat; however, I have no desire to be in that busy of a campground. There is a good chance we would like to see it in the off season.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Backside Campground at Nantahala
    August 9, 2024

    Backside Campground at Nantahala

    Backside is a fitting name

    This "campground" is two camp sites max being sold as like 6 "LARGE" sites. My brother and I were genuinely confused because it's essentially two group sites with individual sites being grouped together sharing a fireplace. The individual "sites" themselves are not level and barely big enough for a tent. My brother and I took one set of sites and the other person that showed up with small children took the other set of sites thankfully. I'm not trying to be crammed in with other people's small children while I'm camping. Was not expecting that to be a possibility. Any other people had shown up to the campground my brother and I would have just left. The porta potty is an absolute nightmare of spiders and insects. Don't bother opening it. No water supply

  • Camper-submitted photo from Timberlake Campground
    August 3, 2024

    Timberlake Campground

    Great secluded spot!

    Joe was amazing. Great guy. The free ice and firewood made the nightly stay virtually half price! Great if you are looking for calm, quiet and laid back.



Guide to Croatan National Forest

Camping near Croatan National Forest, North Carolina, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. One camper mentioned, "We did one of our hikes from our site—the Little River Trail to Cucumber Gap, and it was beautiful." This trail is a great way to experience the stunning scenery.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. A visitor at Cades Cove Campground shared, "Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground."
  • Fishing and Swimming: Many campgrounds are near rivers or lakes. A review from Smokemont Campground noted, "The sound of the flowing river is wonderful," making it a perfect spot for a refreshing dip.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One camper at Indian Boundary said, "The campground can be very crowded, but it is very beautiful, almost right on the lake."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms are a big plus. A visitor at Gee Creek Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms were clean, and the dishwashing room was nice."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers appreciate helpful staff. A review from Townsend-Great Smokies KOA highlighted, "Everyone that worked there went above and beyond to help out."

What you should know:

  • Site Privacy: Some campgrounds have close sites. A camper at Elkmont Campground noted, "All of the campsites are extremely close together, and there is no brush to divide them."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have showers or electric hookups. A visitor at Abrams Creek Campground mentioned, "There are bathrooms, but no showers."
  • Bear Awareness: Bears are common in the area. A camper at Cades Cove Campground warned, "Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone! Doing so just irritates the bears."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. A review from Gee Creek Campground mentioned, "The kids loved the playground, and the fairytale story walk."
  • Family Activities: Choose a campground near fun activities. A camper at Deep Creek Campground said, "There are three waterfalls on site and more hiking trails than you can hike in a few days."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on the kids, especially near water. A visitor at Smokemont Campground advised, "The creek was just across the road, so we really drowned the majority of their noise."

Tips from RVers:

  • Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Cades Cove Campground noted, "Most sites won't support the length."
  • Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with dump stations. A review from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA mentioned, "The bathrooms are clean, and there’s a dump site."
  • Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to keep the peace. A visitor at Abrams Creek Campground shared, "It was packed on the Sunday we stayed there, but it was still a pretty spot."

Camping near Croatan National Forest, North Carolina, has something for everyone. With beautiful scenery, friendly staff, and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Croatan National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Croatan National Forest is Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 71 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Croatan National Forest?

    TheDyrt.com has all 101 tent camping locations near Croatan National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.