RV camping near Hayesville, North Carolina offers convenient access to both the Chattahoochee and Nantahala National Forests. Sites in this area range from 1,500 to 3,500 feet in elevation, creating significant temperature variations between valley and mountain locations. Winter campers should note that while most campgrounds remain open year-round, nighttime temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for anglers. At Valley River RV Resort, campers can fish at the private pond with its "tranquil waterfall," according to reviewer Beau R. The resort is conveniently located for both river and lake fishing.
Mountain driving routes: RV campers can explore scenic backroads from their campsite base. Ted N. mentions that Valley River RV Resort is "centrally located right outside of Murphy. Stores and restaurants close and Jeep trails near. Went on backroads through the mountains yesterday and ended up in Tellico TN."
Creek exploration: Many campgrounds feature small streams perfect for cooling off. At Peachtree Cove RV Park, Debbie V. notes that "she enjoyed watching the cows at the neighboring farm cool off in the river," highlighting the pastoral setting alongside water features.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: RV parks in the Hayesville area maintain well-kept restroom facilities. At Pines RV Park and Cabins, Michelle I. reports "the bathhouse was sparkling clean" while Nick W. confirms the overall cleanliness extends throughout the property.
Level camping spots: Most RV sites feature well-graded, stable parking areas. At Hidden Waters RV Park & Campground, Adam J. explains "the pads are nice & level" though tent campers might need "a free standing tent and a good quality sleeping pad" due to rocky ground conditions.
Personal assistance: Many parks offer hands-on help for arriving campers. Nick W. shares that at Pines RV Park, "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."
What you should know
Payment policies: Some smaller parks maintain traditional payment methods. Michelle I. notes that Pines RV Park and Cabins "only accept cash or checks" despite other modern amenities.
Road noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some parks more than others. At Willow Valley RV Resort, Lee D. reports "it was also located on a busy road, so road noise was always present." Similarly, Kathy from Peachtree Cove mentions "the only drawback we've found is the traffic noise, but this is a narrow valley in the Great Smokies so it can't be helped."
Low-clearance issues: Some sites have overhead obstructions. Geoff Y. describes his experience at Peachtree Cove: "I have a 43' 5th wheel and was assigned to spot 17, a pull through site. Length wise I fit with room to spare. However I am 13'6" in hight and there is a cable/power line over this site and site 16 that hangs a bit too low and my AC unit got acquainted with it."
Tips for camping with families
Off-season pool access: Some parks extend pool seasons longer than others. At Willow Valley RV Resort, Cameron G. highlights that "the amenities are wonderful, one being that the pool is heated!" This allows family swimming during cooler months.
Multi-activity parks: Campgrounds with diverse recreation options work best for families. Logan S. explains that Willow Valley has "full hookups, plenty to do and entertain the family." Another reviewer details the specific amenities: "playground, basketball, corn hole, soccer nets, community fire pit."
Budget-friendly options: Small, family-run parks often offer better value. At Riverbend RV Park-Campground, Asher K. notes the park "is not very large but it is well maintained" with "level gravel spots for parking your vehicle then a concrete slab with a picnic bench to hang out."
Tips from RVers
Age restrictions: Be aware that some parks cater to specific demographics. Joyce T. describes Sundowner RV Village as "a well maintained 55+ campground that has a nice ratio of RV campsites and Park Model living."
Site selection strategy: Request specific sites based on your needs. Cameron G. from Willow Valley explains, "We stayed at a premium site that backed up to the Tennessee River. Very well taken care of sites. Premium sites are paved. That's the only difference."
Local driving logistics: Mountain roads require planning for larger vehicles. Asher K. cautions about Rivers Edge Mountain RV Resort: "This is a very nice and well-maintained RV park off of the main highway. It is a great option if you are looking for somewhere to base your adventure from but I wouldn't recommend it if you are like me and looking for a more tent camping focused site."
