Franklin sits at 2,100 feet elevation in the Nantahala National Forest, creating moderate summer temperatures that average 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby lowland areas. The Little Tennessee River flows through the region, providing water recreation options alongside mountain hiking trails. Campgrounds near Franklin typically operate from April through October, though several remain open year-round.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail segments: Access trailheads near Standing Indian Campground, which sits at 4,000+ feet elevation just 20 minutes from Franklin. "Standing Indian is located at 4000+ feet, 20 minutes from Franklin, NC. It's a hikers dream with the Appalachian Trail skirting the campground and several other trails crossing through the campground," notes Phil L.
Explore historic structures: Visit the Daisy Town ghost town near Elkmont Campground, where abandoned vacation cottages line the road. "Once you've set up camp, walk or drive down the road toward the Little River and Jakes Creek trails. Follow the signs for additional parking and you'll find yourself at the end of a road lined with assorted cottages and cabins that used to be vacation homes," shares Jean C.
Fish for trout: The headwaters of the Nantahala River flow through several campgrounds, offering fishing opportunities. "A branch of Nantahala river offers trout fishing with NC fishing license," reports Vickie T. about Standing Indian Campground. The Little Tennessee River also provides multiple fishing access points within short driving distance of most Franklin campgrounds.
Gemstone mining: Several campgrounds offer on-site gem mining experiences, reflecting Franklin's nickname as the "Gem Capital of the World." "Very nice pool, dog park and gem mine on site," notes Kevin A. about his stay at Rose Creek Campground.
What campers like
Natural water features: Campers consistently praise the streams and rivers running through Van Hook Glade Campground, located near Highlands. "We could hear the stream from our site at night. Exactly what we were looking for," writes Chrissy R. about camping at Standing Indian. Similarly, at Deep Creek Campground, Nick C. notes, "The creek is so refreshing."
Clean, well-maintained bathhouses: Facilities receive positive reviews across multiple campgrounds. "The bathhouse was sparkling clean," reports Michelle I. about her stay at Pines RV Park. At Black Rock Mountain State Park, Aly E. appreciated the "Hot showers and clean bathrooms!"
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the separation between sites at certain campgrounds. "Trees and bushes on 3 sides," notes Katrin M. about site 15 at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground, adding it was "in our opinion the best one."
Weather advantages: The higher elevation provides relief from summer heat. As Paul T. notes about Van Hook Glade: "The temperature here in the hot summer is outstanding... it's 15-20 degrees cooler than elsewhere in the state due to high elevation."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Standing Indian Campground runs from "April 1 to October 30" while Black Rock Mountain State Park operates from "March 16 to December 17." Check availability when planning off-season trips.
Limited cell service: Reception varies widely across the area. Paul T. warns about Van Hook Glade: "There is no TV or cell service. I drive into Highlands, (about 4 miles) to get a cell signal (T-Mobile)."
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Deep Creek Campground, "The road is a steep grade up to the campground," according to Katrin M. For Rose Creek, Kevin A. notes: "Road coming is dirt and could use some grading."
Site selection matters: Reviews frequently mention significant differences between sites at the same campground. Mark D. describes tent camping at Black Rock Mountain: "It was only 50ish yards, but it was not an easy 50ish yards. So lugging a ton of gear up into the woods was a challenge."
Tips for camping with families
River play areas: Peaceful Cove Campground offers easy water access for children. "Having the river steps away to fish and let the dogs swim was absolutely perfect!" shares Jamie N. Similarly, at Deep Creek Campground, Nick C. mentions, "You are right by the creek for a dip anytime."
Dog-friendly accommodations: Many Franklin area campgrounds welcome pets with designated facilities. Kevin A. notes that Rose Creek has "a cool little dog park my dogs loved!" Most pet-friendly campgrounds require dogs to remain leashed throughout the property except in designated areas.
Educational opportunities: Nearby nature centers provide learning experiences. James H. recommends: "Make a trip over into highlands to the 'Highlands Biological Station, Nature Center, and Botanical Gardens'. It worth the drive!"
Campground activities: Some locations offer on-site recreation beyond hiking. Nancy R. shares about Standing Indian: "The headwaters of the Nantaha River flow through the campground providing a gathering place for families to enjoy playing in a cold mountain stream."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Many campgrounds have limitations on larger RVs. John K. advises about Standing Indian: "Wonderful place to tent camp, van camp, or tow a SMALL trailer to (a pop-up would be perfect). The road to this campground is very narrow, the hill is very steep, and there is at least one very tight hairpin turn."
Personal guidance available: Several RV parks offer personalized assistance. At Pines RV Park, Michelle I. appreciated that "Lou insisted on helping me back into my site so that my door was perfectly placed on the picnic table pad. He showed me the hookups and amenities of the camp."
Level sites available: Many campgrounds feature prepared pads. "Sites were gravel and level," reports Katherine about Rose Creek Campground, while Nick W. notes Pines RV Park has "Hook ups are old but well maintained."
Year-round options limited: For winter camping with RVs, Nick W. mentions that Pines RV Park operates "All year" while many other campgrounds close seasonally. This makes advance planning essential for off-season visits.
