Top Tent Camping near Highlands, NC
Looking for the best Highlands tent camping? Finding a place to camp in North Carolina with your tent has never been easier. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Highlands campsites are perfect for tent campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Highlands, NC (117)
1. Cloudland Canyon State Park
126 Reviews•664 Photos•939 SavesResting on the western edge of northwest Georgia’s Lookout Mountain, Cloudland Canyon State Park is more than 3,000 acres—one of the state’s largest parks—of rugged geology, and offers visitors hiking, camping, rock climbing and more along the park’s most iconic feature: the deep gorge cut through the mountain (elevation varies from 800 to more than 1,800 feet!) by the Sitton Gulch Creek. Multiple waterfalls and cascades, including the uber-popular Hemlock Falls, can be found throughout the gorge, making this park feel like a hidden gem around Lookout Mountain. Staring at the geographic anomaly isn’t the only thing to do at this park, however. Beyond the countless miles of hiking, biking and horse riding trails, geology fanatics can find rock climbing, rappelling and spelunking across the park—cave tours are even offered for beginning cave explorers at Sitton’s Cave. The park holds a massive variety of camping options, including 72 spots suitable for both tent and RV campers, 30 walk-in sites, 13 dispersed sites, 16 cottages and 10 yurts, each in a different area of the park. With this many options, campers can find seclusion all around.
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$65 / night
2. Burrells Ford
18 Reviews•103 Photos•297 SavesBurrells Ford campground is open year round with no charge. A pit toilet and picnic tables are available. Walk .25 miles to camp on the Chattooga River.
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
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3. Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
73 Reviews•426 Photos•458 SavesOverview
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.
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
$50 / night
4. Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
8 Reviews•16 Photos•156 SavesDispersed camping in the Blue Valley area. Approximately 22 dispersed sites are available, and most have fire rings and picnic tables. A pit toilet is available. Please pack in and pack out. Wilson Lake is a short distance away offering fishing, swimming, a short trail, and wildlife viewing and birding.
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
5. Ammons Branch Campground
4 Reviews•15 Photos•92 Saves- Pets
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
- Picnic Table
6. Grapevine
6 Reviews•24 Photos•68 SavesPrimitive campsite. Primitive campsites are typically sites within the forest that have been designated for use based on desirable location. Most primitive sites have no amenities such as toilets or picnic tables. Stay is limited to 14 days. Saddle, pack and draft animals are not permitted at any campsite.
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7. Raven Cliff Falls
27 Reviews•128 Photos•385 SavesRaven Cliff Falls camping This trail is one of North Georgia’s most popular camping destinations. Trailhead campsites offer fantastic stream-side camping just steps from the car, and a fantastic base camp for hiking the Raven Cliff Falls Trail during the day. The trail is also dotted with many backpacking campsites on the creek’s level banks, offering a little more solitude for campers willing to backpack it in. Black bears frequent this wilderness area. Keep all food items and fragrant cosmetics out of reach in a bear canister: many years ago, we lost our camp stove, food and cookware to a trio of bears in a traditionally-hung bear bag along this trail. Campsites are free and first-come, first-claimed. Pack out everything you pack in: this is one of Georgia’s most beautiful Wilderness areas, so please, please leave no trace. (What is Wilderness, and why is it important? Read more in our guide to Wilderness areas in the South.)
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
8. Blue Valley Camp
3 Reviews•17 Photos•109 Saves- Pets
- Fires
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
9. Jones Gap State Park
16 Reviews•53 Photos•145 SavesCamping Information : Camping is allowed only on designated campsites. Camping in other than designated areas may result in a fine. No drive up campsites are available on the park. There are no water or electricity provided at the campsites. Camping Reservations : To make a backcountry trailside camping reservation, call toll-free 1-866-345-PARK (7275) or make it online by clicking Park Reservations. Reservations requested less than one (1) day in advance of check-in must be made directly through the park. For example: If today is Friday and you are making a reservation checking in on today, Friday, you must make the reservation by contacting the park directly. Trailside Camping : The Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area offers trailside backcountry camping at 18 primitive sites. Fourteen sites provide fire pits, while four allow no fires. Permits are required, and camping is allowed in designated areas only. Campers are asked to follow internationally recognized "leave no trace" camping practices. For more information on leave no trace practices, visit the official leave no trace ethics website. Campers are asked to check-in at least two hours before dark in order to safely reach their campsites. Costs are $8-20/site/night. Backcountry Group Camping: The Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area offers one backcountry group campsite. The group site can be reserved for 10-20 people. Reservations for the group campsite must be made by calling the park directly. Costs are $4.40 - 5.50/person/night. Registration is required. PETS Pets : Pets are allowed in most outdoor areas provided they are kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet. Owners will be asked to remove noisy or dangerous pets or pets that threaten or harass wildlife.
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10. Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area
5 Reviews•26 Photos•164 Saves- Pets
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- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 117 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In Highlands
2583 Reviews of 117 Highlands Campgrounds
Darwin R.
Traveler
Indian Grave Gap Campsite
ADV Bike Motocamping
If you’re anywhere near Helen, GA on an ADV Bike, this summit is for you. There are three routes up the mountain so you never have to double back. There are more primitive sites at the top of the mountain (not where the Dyrt pin was dropped) on both sides of the fork. Suitable for tents and hammocks. There is one site that would support a large group or even a camper (or two) if you can get them up the steep rocky hunting trail. Sites were mostly clean with rock fire pits.
Carolyn V.Traveler
Trackrock Campground & Cabins
Love love loved this campground!
Beautifully well maintained, clean grounds! Beautiful lake and stables and plenty of room ,yet campsites are tucked away to also give u a private feel as well! Pet friendly as well!
Alexandra E.
Guide
Devils Fork State Park
Best swimming hole in the upstate
I love coming here to swim. Signal is very poor for Verizon. The sites are not super private but not too close to each other. The prices per night are ridiculous imo for a non full hookup campground but hey I still pay it just to swim in lake Joccassee.
- JJulia G.Guide
Devils Fork State Park
Great spot for hammocks
Not too far from the water, which was great since we brought our own kayaks and kayaked to two water falls. Lots of trees to hang hammocks (we had 3) which is good because the only place to pitch a tent is on the pads which aren’t very large. They are basically concrete pads and we couldn’t steak the tent down well. Many dead limbs in the trees so be careful where you pitch your tent, or hang your hammock. Since the site is near the marina we could see/hear boats docking. Each site has a bear box which are roomy and were clean. The bathhouse was clean and well lit. The RV/camper sites are pretty close together with narrow roads. The park was beautiful and mostly clean. I found a tire in the water a few miles out on the way to the first waterfall and took it to a ranger the next day. He was happy to take it.
- Alexandra E.Guide
Sadlers Creek State Park Campground
Amazing views and nice campground
Very good spot near the lake. Awesome views and good signal at least for Verizon. Water pressure was a bit inconsistent so watch out for any issues that may cause
Rose J.Traveler
Smokemont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Smokemont Campground: Gateway to Adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains
Smokemont Campground, located in the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers a perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty. Situated along the Oconaluftee River, this campground features spacious sites for tents and RVs, making it ideal for families and groups.
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- Rose J.Traveler
Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Cosby Campground: A Hidden Gem in the Great Smoky Mountains
Cosby Campground, nestled within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers a serene escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush forests and vibrant wildlife, this campground features well-maintained sites for tents and RVs, making it ideal for families and solo adventurers alike
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- Rose J.Traveler
Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Cosby Campground: A Hidden Gem in the Great Smoky Mountains
Cosby Campground, nestled within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers a serene escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush forests and vibrant wildlife, this campground features well-maintained sites for tents and RVs, making it ideal for families and solo adventurers alike.
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Gillian S.GuideIndian Grave Gap Campsite
Good for Big Groups
Three campsites in the immediate area. Two are on one side of the road. You have to cross thru one to get to the other. All three have creek access. We picked the single on the other side. Not a lot of flat ground options. Each site is huge. We decided to spread out but that meant having to do a lot of walking back and forth for stuff. You can pull your car into the site easily. It’s about a mile from the High Shoals Trailhead. Both waterfalls are lovely. One has a nice swimming hole. The closest town is Hiawasee. Had a grocery and an outfitters if you need supplies. There’s only two sit down restaurants—one had an hour wait; the other had run out of food.
Stella S.
ScoutCosby 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!
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- Camen K.Scout
Sunset Campground
Unprofessional
Very rude and unhelpful said he would call me back to let me know if there was any openings. He never called back.
Cindy S.
Ranger
Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell
Beautiful Lakeview Sites
Campsite surround the lake. Sites are plenty big and lead to the lake. Campground was very peaceful. We had a small walk to bathroom with showers.
Robbie B.Guide
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.
- Stella S.Scout
Big Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Review of Big Creek Campground
Big Creek Campground, located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers a peaceful tent-only camping experience alongside the beautiful Big Creek. With amenities like flushing toilets and potable water, it combines backcountry charm with essential comforts. The area is a hiker's paradise, featuring over 800 miles of trails, including the challenging Baxter Creek Trail and the scenic Big Creek Trail with its stunning waterfalls. Anglers can enjoy excellent trout fishing, especially in spring, while wildlife enthusiasts may spot black bears and river otters. At an elevation of 1,700 feet, the campground is surrounded by picturesque mountains and pristine streams, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration. Nearby attractions include Cataloochee Valley and the Appalachian Trail, enhancing the outdoor adventure experience. Overall, Big Creek Campground is a fantastic destination for nature lovers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Regards
Stella Smith
Founder of Bombitup
- Alexandra E.Guide
Paynes Creek Campground
Hidden gem!
I loved everything about this campground. The sites all have beautiful views and lake access, they are decently apart from each other. And has great signal! I was getting consistent 5G 3 bars at least with Verizon. The bathrooms don't have showers so plan accordingly
- Rose J.Traveler
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.
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TIMOTHY O.Guide
Black Rock Mountain State Park
Fall Break
Absolutely breathtaking views! Clean facility and campground. Friendly staff as well.
- sstaci B.Scout
Trackrock Campground & Cabins
We love this place!
We’ve stayed several times. The people are so kind. The only property is gorgeous and it’s always a great stay!
Angie B.Traveler
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.
Michael T.GuideBlack Rock Mountain State Park
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.
Christina R.Scout
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. .
Linda F.Traveler
Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
Blue valley
I went in July and it was cool in day and cold at night nice , secluded
Margaret L.Traveler
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.
Tara C.TravelerElkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Beautiful
We had an amazing time, the campground is beautiful and the park rangers were awesome. Hoping to come back soon.
- Rose J.Traveler
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.
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- AAngela A.Traveler
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.
rhett T.Guide
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.
Guide to Highlands
Camping near Highlands, North Carolina, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds in the area that cater to all types of campers.
What to do:
- Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Campers at Cades Cove Campground rave about the nearby hiking opportunities, with one reviewer noting, "The sites were pretty close to each other but the store was convenient and awesome proximity when we biked the loop."
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Davidson River Campground mentioned, "Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground."
- Fishing: Enjoy some fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes. Campers at Greenbrier Campground appreciate the access to fishing spots, with one saying, "The river ran close enough to our site that we didn't feel like we needed a premium spot."
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground noted, "Campground facilities are clean and very well kept."
- Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views. One visitor at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground said, "The views are amazing."
- Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Vogel State Park Campground offer plenty of activities for kids. A camper mentioned, "The kids had loads of fun playing by the little rivers."
What you should know:
- Crowded Campgrounds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A visitor at Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground shared, "It's a very busy campground with close together spaces."
- Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in many areas. A camper at Lake Powhatan mentioned, "We had very little cell service (Verizon)."
- Bear Encounters: Wildlife is abundant, including bears. A camper at Cosby Campground recounted, "An assertive mother bear and her three cubs showed up at dinner time."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. Campers at Greenbrier Campground enjoyed the "bounce houses, multiple playgrounds, and a lazy river with a swimming hole."
- Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A family at Davidson River Campground found that "the park has a very nice and well-stocked visitor center."
- Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and outdoor activities. A camper at Cades Cove Campground suggested, "Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just irritates the bears."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground's site dimensions. A reviewer at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground warned, "A bigger RV may not be able to make the trip."
- Use Dump Stations: Familiarize yourself with dump station locations. A camper at Lake Powhatan appreciated that "dumpsters were within walking distance."
- Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground mentioned, "There is no camp store for extra supplies, but they do sell ice and plenty of firewood at the gate."
Camping near Highlands, North Carolina, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin. With beautiful scenery and plenty of activities, it's a perfect spot for families and adventurers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Highlands, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Highlands, NC is Cloudland Canyon State Park with a 4.8-star rating from 126 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Highlands, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 117 tent camping locations near Highlands, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.