Best Tent Camping near Highlands, NC

Looking for the best Highlands tent camping? Find the best information on tent camping near Highlands, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Highlands, NC (112)

    Camper-submitted photo from Burrells Ford
    Camper-submitted photo from Burrells Ford
    Camper-submitted photo from Burrells Ford
    Camper-submitted photo from Burrells Ford
    Camper-submitted photo from Burrells Ford
    Camper-submitted photo from Burrells Ford

    1. Burrells Ford

    18 Reviews
    103 Photos
    297 Saves
    Highlands, North Carolina

    Burrells 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.

    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    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

    2. Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    73 Reviews
    426 Photos
    459 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

    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping

    3. Blue Valley Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    16 Photos
    157 Saves
    Highlands, North Carolina

    Dispersed 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.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Firewood Available
    Camper-submitted photo from Ammons Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ammons Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ammons Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ammons Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ammons Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ammons Branch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Grapevine
    Camper-submitted photo from Grapevine
    Camper-submitted photo from Grapevine
    Camper-submitted photo from Grapevine
    Camper-submitted photo from Grapevine
    Camper-submitted photo from Grapevine

    5. Grapevine

    6 Reviews
    24 Photos
    68 Saves
    Long Creek, South Carolina

    Primitive 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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Raven Cliff Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Raven Cliff Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Raven Cliff Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Raven Cliff Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Raven Cliff Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Raven Cliff Falls

    6. Raven Cliff Falls

    27 Reviews
    128 Photos
    388 Saves
    Helen, Georgia

    Raven 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.)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Camp

    7. Blue Valley Camp

    3 Reviews
    17 Photos
    110 Saves
    Highlands, North Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Jones Gap State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jones Gap State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jones Gap State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jones Gap State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jones Gap State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jones Gap State Park Campground

    8. Jones Gap State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    53 Photos
    147 Saves
    Cedar Mountain, North Carolina

    Camping 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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Jocassee Gorges Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Recreation Area Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Recreation Area Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Recreation Area Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Recreation Area Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Recreation Area Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Recreation Area Camping

    10. Panther Creek Recreation Area Camping

    9 Reviews
    61 Photos
    97 Saves
    Turnerville, Georgia

    Enjoy a picnic, hold a Boy Scout troop meeting or have a family gathering within the historic CCC structures of this wooded recreation area. Directly adjacent to the picnic pavilions visitors can can follow their picnic with a mesmerizing day-hike to the awesome falls on the 6.6 mile Panther Creek Trail.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $4 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 112 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Highlands

2619 Reviews of 112 Highlands Campgrounds


  • Randall C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Magical Mountain Resorts, The Enchanted Forest
    Nov. 16, 2024

    Magical Mountain Resorts, The Enchanted Forest

    Lives up to its name!

    This place is truly magical. So much effort has been put into themed cabins, unique art work, and detail. Kids and adults can spend time in a fantasy world of their choice. Kids can explore the magical grounds, play in the large creek, and get to know the resident goats, pigs, miniature horse, etc..

  • Jake S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mile Creek County Park
    Nov. 13, 2024

    Mile Creek County Park

    Nice Place to camp by the water

    Each campsite has wonderful views of the water. there is a playground by the entrance and near the farthest campsites as well. we enjoyed our stay.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stonebridge RV Resort
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Stonebridge RV Resort

    A Very Weird Vibe

    First, I give grace that this place is still suffering a bit of disarray being 2-3 weeks after Hurricane Helene. It just felt a bit weird compared to every other park we've stayed at. There were a lot of places that looked like long-term stays that were not particularly well-cared for and currently un-occupied. We stayed in section A, which seemed rather desolate, even though it was the weekend. I did not find campers to be particularly friendly, and this felt simply like a place to park the RV for a few nights.

  • Michele D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Chatuge Dispersed
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Lake Chatuge Dispersed

    Wrong coordinates

    The coordinates take you to Nottley Dam. We had to drive 37 minutes farther to Lake Chatuge and hopefully we find some campground since it is very dark at the moment. We ended up having to spend over $200 for a hotel. I'm going to delete my acct as other friends have similar issues with Dyrt

  • Darwin R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grave Gap Campsite
    Nov. 1, 2024

    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Trackrock Campground & Cabins
    Oct. 25, 2024

    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Devils Fork State Park Campground
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Devils Fork State Park Campground

    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.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Devils Fork State Park Campground
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Devils Fork State Park Campground

    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sadlers Creek State Park Campground
    Oct. 18, 2024

    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.
    Camper-submitted photo from Smokemont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Oct. 14, 2024

    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.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Oct. 14, 2024

    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

    For further if anyone want to know about SSO ID visit here https://ssorajasthanlogin.in/

  • Rose J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Oct. 14, 2024

    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.

    For further if anyone want to know about sso visit here https://ssoidportalrajasthans.in/

  • Gillian S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grave Gap Campsite
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Indian 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.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Oct. 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/

  • Camen K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunset Campground
    Oct. 1, 2024

    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes at Lake Hartwell
    Sep. 24, 2024

    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tsali Campground
    Sep. 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.

  • Cindy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stonebridge RV Resort
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Stonebridge RV Resort

    Great place to stop

    This place is ok if you have to stop. Bathrooms are clean. Sites are small. People are living here full time.

  • Stella S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Sep. 22, 2024

    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

    http://bombitupapp.in/

  • Alexandra E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Creek Campground
    Sep. 21, 2024

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

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  • Angie B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fontana Village Resort and Campground
    Sep. 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.



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 Burrells Ford with a 4.2-star rating from 18 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Highlands, NC?

    TheDyrt.com has all 112 tent camping locations near Highlands, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.