Best Camping near Highlands, NC
Camping near Highlands, North Carolina
Highlands, North Carolina, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape into nature. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this area offers a variety of camping experiences, from primitive sites to established campgrounds with modern amenities. Whether you're seeking a peaceful riverside retreat or a family-friendly campground with plenty of activities, you'll find it all near Highlands.
With its lush forests, scenic waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, camping near Highlands provides a perfect backdrop for hiking, fishing, and simply relaxing in the great outdoors. Here’s a guide to some of the best campgrounds in the area, along with tips and insights from fellow campers.
What to do
Camping near Highlands offers a plethora of activities to keep you entertained. From hiking and fishing to exploring waterfalls and enjoying the serene beauty of the mountains, there's something for everyone.
For hiking enthusiasts, Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground is a must-visit. The park features trails that lead to breathtaking views of the gorge and waterfalls. Marianne M. shares, "Next morning we got up and run walked to get a permit to walk the stairs down to Tallulah gorge and to walk over, we got the permit and walked back to get breakfast, and after that, we walked all the stairs down."
Fishing is another popular activity, especially at Burrells Ford. Kenny T. notes, "Great spot if you're into primitive camping with emphasis on backpacking. Campsites can be found along the Chatooga river which is a gorgeous river full of small day hikes to waterfalls."
For those who enjoy water activities, Devils Fork State Park Campground offers access to Lake Jocassee, where you can rent boats and explore the lake. Rhedonda L. says, "Our trip to Lake Jocassee at Devil's Fork was beyond anything we had imagined. The lake was beautiful! So many fun things to explore with it being so big and all by boat."
What campers like
Campers appreciate the natural beauty, peaceful settings, and variety of activities available near Highlands. Many campgrounds offer unique features that enhance the camping experience.
At Standing Indian Campground, campers love the spacious sites and family-friendly atmosphere. Felisha W. shares, "My family (my husband, 7-year-old twins, and myself) love staying here. Great place to escape the summer heat! My kids love walking around the loops and playing in the river."
The scenic views and well-maintained facilities at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground are also a hit. April J. mentions, "The views are awesome at this park. The staff was friendly and the park clean."
For those seeking a riverside retreat, River Falls at the Gorge is a favorite. David B. notes, "River Falls at the Gorge is a great private RV park near Tallulah Falls, GA. We stayed 3 nights. Many of the sites have some shade. The park was clean and quiet, and the staff was friendly."
What you should know
Before heading out to camp near Highlands, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Some campgrounds, like Burrells Ford, require a bit of a hike to reach the campsites. Ashly T. explains, "You drive up and park then walk a mile and a half to the campsites. Very well maintained. Peaceful and most of the fellow campers are very kind."
It's also important to note that not all campgrounds have modern amenities. For example, Standing Indian Campground does not have electric hookups or showers. Louis B. advises, "Standing Indian is wonderful. Our site was about 30 feet away from the Nantahala river. The bathrooms and showers were spotless. Keep in mind that it’s far from any store or restaurant so bring food along. No cell service."
Additionally, some campgrounds have specific rules and regulations. At River Falls at the Gorge, Michelle S. warns, "The camp site they rented us was too small for our RV. We rented over the phone and trusted management to give us an adequate site. Their water and sewer connections were on the site adjacent to ours (not even on our site). When we explained this to management, they refused to refund or credit our stay."
Tips for camping with families
Camping with kids can be a rewarding experience, especially when you choose a family-friendly campground with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
Oconee State Park Campground is a great option for families. Swain K. shares, "There are plenty of tent and water/electric only sites. Those are suited mostly for smaller rigs. There are 2 lakes with easy trails around both. A swimming area, putt-putt course, and a park store. Many adventures in the area to be had, waterfalls, hiking, history, and other state parks."
For a more rustic experience, Burrells Ford offers primitive camping with beautiful views. Ashly T. notes, "The views are amazing! Really made the mile and a half hike from where you park to the campsite worth it. It’s primitive camping. So no running water or electricity. Just you and the trees."
If your kids love water activities, Devils Fork State Park Campground is a fantastic choice. Rhedonda L. says, "We got to see and climb up the waterfalls, jump off cliffs and swing off rope swings with very few people to have to share it with. The bathrooms were very, very well maintained and they were super cute might I add."
Tips from RVers
RVers will find a variety of campgrounds near Highlands that cater to their needs, from full hookups to scenic pull-thru sites.
At Lazy J Campground, Nicholas O. shares, "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."
For those looking for a more luxurious experience, River Falls at the Gorge offers a range of amenities. David B. notes, "Stayed in pull-thru campsite #A28 which was somewhat shady but very level, especially front to back. It was a gravel site with grass on either side. There was plenty of parking for my 34 ft TT and truck."
If you prefer a quieter, more rustic setting, Standing Indian Campground is a great option. Mitch + Kristi N. explain, "We loved this campground. The location is fantastic. Secluded with access to awesome hiking but close enough to town to get supplies. The staff here is incredibly friendly."
Camping near Highlands, North Carolina, offers a diverse range of experiences for all types of campers. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly campground, a peaceful riverside retreat, or a scenic spot for your RV, you'll find it all in this beautiful region.
