Camping near Hot Springs, NC

589 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

Search destinations
    Add dates

    Campgrounds near Hot Springs, North Carolina provide diverse options along the French Broad River and surrounding mountains. Hot Springs Campground stands as the central accommodation in the area, offering riverfront sites for tents, RVs, and cabin rentals within walking distance of the town's amenities. Creek Ridge Camping, located just outside Hot Springs, provides a mix of primitive and developed sites with tent and RV options, along with glamping accommodations. The region includes several established campgrounds spanning both North Carolina and Tennessee sides of the border, with many offering access to natural hot springs, hiking trails, and water recreation.

    Access to most campgrounds varies seasonally, with peak season typically running April through October. Several developed sites like Hot Springs Campground offer full hookups for RVs, while nearby primitive areas provide more secluded experiences. The Appalachian Trail passes directly through Hot Springs, making it a popular stop for through-hikers and weekend backpackers alike. Many campgrounds in the area have gated access, with some requiring advance reservations, especially during summer months and holiday weekends. Cell service can be limited throughout the region, particularly at more remote sites. A review noted: "The campground is now gated. The AT runs right in front of it as it passes through the adorable little town. There is a little outdoor outfitter, a couple restaurants... beautiful hikes which ever direction you go."

    Riverfront camping represents the most sought-after feature of the area, with sites along the French Broad River typically booking well in advance. Multiple campgrounds offer direct river access, allowing for tubing, kayaking, and swimming opportunities. Campers report that sites near the river provide pleasant ambient sound but may experience occasional train noise. The nearby hot mineral springs serve as a unique attraction, with several reviews mentioning the value of soaking in the hot tubs after a day of outdoor activities. While weekend visits tend to see higher occupancy rates at developed campgrounds, midweek stays often provide a more peaceful experience. A recent review mentioned, "Great clean and safe camp site for the family. They have RV, deluxe tent and primitive tent sites. Easy tubing from one end of the campground to the other."

    Best Campgrounds near Hot Springs (589)

      1. Hot Springs Campground

      4.4(29)0mi from Hot SpringsRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "The little town of Hot Springs North Carolina is a charming little place with several good food choices and an excellent brewery."

      "Walking distance to trails and town. Spa with hot spring hot tubs across the street."

      2. Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

      4.5(71)23mi from Hot Springs160 sitesTents

      "Cosby is great if you want to explore the eastern section of North Carolina sections of the park."

      "Cosby is about half an hour outside of Gatlinburg and worth every minute. A16 was big and shady. There were a few steps down to it. Plenty of trees and distance to the nearest neighbors."

      from $50 / night

      Check Availability

      3. Round Mountain

      4.8(6)8mi from Hot Springs4 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "picnic table, rocky terrain, a legit fire ring with two grill options, and a nice packed tent pad didn’t get lucky tonight as far as neighbors go, super loud and annoying groups at two of the sites nearby"

      from $7 / night

      Check Availability

      4. Creek Ridge Camping

      4.8(4)1mi from Hot SpringsTents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Lovely spot near the hot springs but it's for sale now"

      "This campsite is in the mountains so be prepared for amazing views and a steep drive up to the office to check in. We stayed in the Pavilion and loved it!"

      from $15 - $40 / night

      Check Availability

      5. Long Creek Haven

      5.0(9)13mi from Hot Springs6 sitesRVs

      "Very close to Hot Springs, TN and some great hikes in the area. Would definitely recommend a stay at Long Creek Haven!"

      "You are greeted as soon as you come down the easy to spot and welcoming entrance."

      from $35 - $55 / night

      Check Availability

      6. Rocky Bluff Campground — National Forests In North Carolina

      4.5(4)3mi from Hot Springs17 sitesRVs, Tents

      "The location is absolutely stellar. Less than 10 minutes into downtown Hot Springs with a hardware store, outdoor outfitters, gas station, two bar/restaurants, and of course lots of hiking."

      "Beautiful campground on the side of a mountain, just ouside of Hot Springs, NC."

      from $15 / night

      Check Availability

      7. Camp Driftwood Asheville

      4.0(17)18mi from Hot Springs11 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "It’s right in the heart of downtown Asheville, so there’s a ton of stuff to do (hot springs, mining, zip lining, the list goes on) but that’s if you even want to leave the campsite."

      "Campsite is very small and entrance is narrow so be on the lookout when you’re first driving in! The river is much bigger and more beautiful than we expected- great surprise!"

      from $25 - $125 / night

      Check Availability

      8. Cataloochee Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

      4.5(31)23mi from Hot Springs27 sitesRVs, Tents

      "The North Carolina part has a slightly different feel. Less of a circus and less crowded and more laid back. Loving it! Beautiful. Just wish there were showers here....lol."

      "This: Access to Cataloochee is via a narrow, winding, mountain road. A 3-mile stretch of gravel road contains many narrow, blind curves."

      from $30 / night

      Check Availability

      9. Rich Mountain

      4.7(3)3mi from Hot SpringsRVs, Tents

      "The road intersects with the Appalachian trail so you might meet up with some thru hikers. I recommend walking all the way up to rich mountain fire tower."

      "Good access and hand full of spots scattered around on NFR 31. Please pack in what you pack out."

      10. Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina

      4.7(68)31mi from Hot Springs84 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "The sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations. The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside."

      "PROS  Discounted camp fee with senior pass 

      Reserved 169 days prior to arriving 

      Friendly and helpful gate attendant 

      Nearly 100% shade at each site 

      Excellent dark sky viewing 

      Private sites with"

      from $37 - $135 / night

      Check Availability

    2026 Explorer Giveaway

    Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

    Enter to Win

    Drive Time



    Recent Reviews near Hot Springs, NC

    2666 Reviews of 589 Hot Springs Campgrounds

    • Windy W.
      Oct. 23, 2026

      Doe River Landing

      Beautiful Place, Ugly host, Oct 2026

      Let me first start by saying that this campground is absolutely beautiful. I have lived in this area my entire life and the Doe is one of my favorites. I am a avid camper and have camped all over this area. I decided to give this place a try, I own a small pop-up camper and knew it was going to get cold 10/20/2026-10/22/2026, so me and my sister rented the RV at Doe River. #1 check in is not until 3pm, I always order a load of wood from a local guy who delivers to camp sites, I do all my cooking in a Dutch oven over the fire or burgers and dogs in the fire, what is a camping trip without a nice warm fire. The owner came over to my campsite and asked if I had ordered this wood and I replied yes, she then asked what I was going to do with it all, I replied I am going to burn it. So, I told Carl (the wood guy) where to stack it, the owner then said that I need to leave it in my truck bc if I didn't use it all I would have to put it back on my truck and take it home with me, I said really? It's just a unspoken rule that if you don't use all your wood that you pay it forward and leave it for the next camper?? She said absolutely not, So we moved the wood from his truck and into mine. She then asked again why I needed so much wood and that most ppl just buy small bundles from her. And just like that I understood! Carl the wood man and his wife also made a comment about how rude she was about the wood. It does not end there, Not only does she have camaras on some of the out blds which I get, but I don't get why they are pointing directly at camp sites, We felt like we were in a fish bowl the entire time. Every single time we went to the bathroom she showed up abt 5 mins later, There is a camara right above the bathroom door, One on the pavilion, and one on each side of the bathhouse, at the entrances and who know where else. So much for privacy in the great outdoors. I didn't even feel comfortable hiking, we felt like we were being watched constantly. She was constantly there, walking her dog which was not friendly and so big she could hardly control him on the leash which was really scary, she also was driving through several times throughout the day. Then came the kicker, about 1 o'clock in the morning we were freezing, I had turned the heat on in the camper before going to bed and heard it come on, Well the propane ran out between 11pm and 1am, I called her at least 10 times we had every blanket and was still freezing, We decided we would go to the bath house bc it had a mini split hanging on the wall, Out of luck there, it was set on air conditioning with no way to change it, so we found a blow dryer trying to get warm, still the entire time trying to call the owners, We finally ended up in our car until the husband arrived. He acted so annoyed at us and said all u have to do is fip the switch on the propane tanks outside! We had never stayed in a travel trailer before and according to them all we had to do was show up and start glamping!! So, I was supposed to know to go outside at 1 am and switch over propane tanks?? No, It should have been FULL when I got there!!! With attitude he said,"Its Basic Camping" No sir it's not, what I do is basic camping, I was told on the phone that I was glamping, She, the owner also said we should have called 911 when we could not get hold of them so that Carter County police officers could come and wake them up!!! Not sure if that is putting our tax dollars to good use?? Like I said it is truly a beautiful place and has great potential, we left that second night at 11pm because again the heat was not working, we have not asked for any refund we just took the loss. it would be to much of a hassle. We just know better next time.   With owners like that they can keep it. Windy Wells/Debra Price

    • a
      Oct. 23, 2026

      Lake Powhatan Glamping — National Forests In North Carolina

      This place is a nice campground, quiet and the guests (during our stay) respect others by keeping the noise down. The spaces are set up to maximize privacy between sites. There is no cell phone service (to do this report we are in a picnic area by a small lake and I can get cell as well as internet on my travelfi device) sos is the only access. I normally listen to audio books but not while here. On my computer I could see three others with low signals; they might have had a better device/provider. The spots tend to the small back in typically found in campsites built before RVs got really big, type. There is another camping area I haven’t been to yet and I did see a large over lander (looks indestructible and tall/long) towable head that way and the campground attendant didn’t predict any problems so perhaps there are larger spots elsewhere. This place has single person showers and nice flush toilets. The whole place is set in woodland so it isn’t like a commercial RV place that was more concerned with volume over aesthetics. This is a lovely spot with ample amenities (my space had no hookups) for our type of camping (toilets, trash, quiet neighbors, semi private spaces) just zero phone or internet.

    • M
      Oct. 22, 2026

      Winngray Family Campground

      Great family run campground

      This campground has a great location in maggie valley, close to Waynesville with plenty to do in close proximity. While it is a traditional campground, they have very competitive rates for weekly and monthly stays. For us its the perfect getaway destination for the summers and fall. The staff is super welcomming and friendly. You find a cute creek on the backside of of the campground with trout as some fisherman told me. The staff takes pride in all the flowers, landscaping and seasonal decorations. Also nice to know is you are not being looked down to with an older camper. As long as your rig is decent and functional you are admitted.

    • Bonnie H.
      Oct. 21, 2026

      Doe River Landing

      Kylie T & Andrew W. Review not accurate

      My husband and I arrived at Doe River Landing for 3 nights and enjoyed everything the resort offered. While there we read the 2 reviews posted by Kylie T, and by Andrew W, who gave the resort a 1 star rating. Not knowing the facts that caused the rating by them, and occurred prior to us, we approach the owner and asked.

      The owner showed us videos from their security cameras. These adults has stated in Kylie T review and confirm by Andrew W review that they were a group of 20 adults and "every single one of us is over 21 and family". So why are these adults playing "hide and seek" under the pavilion as they stated? Andrew W stated, "It was not blocked off", yet they had to crawl on the ground and around bushes to get under the pavilion. When the owner yelled at them approximately 10 adults that were under the pavilion crawled out which was captured on the security cameras. Andrew W stated in his review the owner called them hooligans, which is rowdy, destructive persons and from the security cameras, that description is correct. There was no mention of damages in their reviews such as the Adirondack chair they broke or possible damage to the water pipes and electric wires under the pavilion, which the owner was currently checking.

      Once we read these two reviews by Kylie T and Andrew W and saw the owners security videos, we felt future customers deserved to know another opinion based on our findings.

      These entitled adults justified their review of a 1 star by stating they paid money to use the campground.

      I would ask these adults "why do you think it is OK to treat someone else's property in this destructive way?"

    • SThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 21, 2026

      Spacious Skies Bear Den

      Seems to be a well established campground in an off the beaten path location. Roads alternately paved and gravel. The campsite is gravel in a wooded setting. Fair amount of space between sites. The bathhouse is clean but dated.

    • Kyle T.
      Oct. 20, 2026

      Doe River Landing

      Unprofessional hosts that ruins a place with good potential

      We brought our whole family out and rented almost every cabin on the property, plus the event center, for the weekend— we gave this place a lot of business. And honestly, the stay itself was great— nice place, no complaints about the cabins. The owner is the problem. He came flying in in his blue F-150 doing 20–30 mph where the posted speed limit is 5, and started screaming at us over something that could've been handled with a simple conversation. His exact words:"Where are your parents? This is a family establishment. I will not have hooligans running around here." Every single one of us is over 21 and family. All we were doing was playing hide and seek— which isn't against any of the property's rules— and there were no other guests to disturb, since we had the entire area rented. He still threatened to call the police, even though it wasn't even quiet hours. Before anyone could get a word in, he peeled out so fast the gravel sprayed up at us and our cars. Then on his way out he drove the wrong way down the property's one-way road, so apparently the rules only apply to guests. It's sad, because the property itself is great, and we were never anything but nice to the owners the whole weekend. To be treated in such an unprofessional manner— screamed at, threatened, and never given so much as an apology afterward— put a real dent in the weekend. We won't be back

    • A
      Oct. 20, 2026

      Doe River Landing

      Beautiful place ruined by unprofessional ownership

      Our group of about 20 rented nearly every cabin at Doe River Landing for my friend's wedding weekend, with the reception held on site. The cabins were nice and well-equipped, and the only other guests were in a cabin half a mile away through the woods. Unfortunately, the hosts ruined the stay. One night, some of us were playing hide and seek in an area that wasn't blocked off or against any rule. The host's husband came speeding in at roughly 30 mph(the posted limit is 5), jumped out of his truck screaming that he"will not have child hooligans running around the campground," told us to"go back to the motel we crawled out of," and demanded to see our parents— despite all of us being adults in our twenties. He then peeled out so aggressively he sprayed gravel at us and our cars. It wasn't even quiet hours, and we weren't disturbing anyone. Afterward, the host called us again, passive-aggressive, and questioned our ages— even though you have to be 21 just to rent a cabin there. The property is lovely, but the hosts' behavior put a real damper on what should have been a joyful wedding celebration. It's a shame they treat people paying good money this way. We won't be back.

    • N
      Oct. 17, 2026

      Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground

      Busy but Nice

      This worked well for us while we were visiting Dollywood in our trailer, but we wouldn't stay here if we had been in a different type of site. Cons: Unless you have a site up against the river or on patriot park, you are packed in VERY TIGHT with other people, sometimes with your sliders only a foot or two away from your neighbor's sliders. We were in a site that was "on patriot park", but the few first sites of that type are really just behind the trolley parking lot and pick up with a path behind you (including ours). People are on the other side of the fence walking about two feet behind you all day and pretty late in to the night. Pros: There are lot of trees and campground is very pretty. Super close to Dollywood and other Pigeon Forge points of interest.

    Guide to Hot Springs

    Hot Springs, North Carolina sits in the Pisgah National Forest at approximately 1,300 feet elevation where the French Broad River and Appalachian Trail intersect. The camping season typically runs April through October with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Winter camping opportunities exist at several year-round sites, though facilities may be limited during colder months.

    What to do

    Soak in mineral springs: Just steps from Hot Springs Campground, visitors can enjoy therapeutic hot mineral springs. "Dirt site by the River all hook ups. They also have small cabins and tent sites. Walking distance to trails and town. Spa with hot spring hot tubs across the street," notes Karen P.

    Hike to mountain views: The area offers access to numerous trails beyond the Appalachian Trail. At Cosby Campground, "there is a Mount Cammerer Trailhead right there, which is a fabulous hike. There is a stream nearby also!" says Jessica L.

    Swimming holes: Natural water features provide cooling relief during summer months. "The tents sites along the river were great... Loved the spa. Amazing views open air hot tubs. Great hiking across the river and cute little town to explore," reports Tra C. about the riverside options at Hot Springs Campground.

    Wildlife viewing: The surrounding mountains host diverse wildlife populations. Jodie K. explains, "We spent 5 nights and watched them early am and afternoons every day. They will get up close-and-personal. The rangers keep a watch out, tho, and try to warn u if they are coming too close."

    What campers like

    Riverside sites: The sound of flowing water creates a peaceful camping experience. At Camp Driftwood, "All of the campsites are right on the river. Dean is extremely nice and helpful. Tons of firewood is available for $10 (he accepts cash or PayPal)," according to Mark R.

    Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots despite proximity to town. At Rocky Bluff Campground, "Each campsite has a ~10x10 level tent pad, a nice picnic table & fire box. There's a mix of more open campsites (if you want a few next to each other for a larger group) or a little more secluded," explains Theresa P.

    Proximity to trail access: Several campgrounds provide direct trail connections. According to Lori H., "The trailhead for Mt. Cammerer via Low Gap leaves from here also, and that was a great hike, the first 3+miles are rough and steep, but once you hit the AT it gets easier."

    Budget-friendly options: Court M. reports about Rocky Bluff Campground, "I can't believe it is only 8 bucks a night. If you're on the fence stay a night and you won't want to leave. This campground is in danger of being shut down due to revenue loss and park funding cuts so come show it some love!"

    What you should know

    Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigation of unpaved roads. For Round Mountain Campground, Jim M. notes it's "Very primitive campground but great for a night's stay while exploring the Pisgah National forest."

    Reservation requirements: Many sites require advance booking, especially during peak season. Katrin M. explains about Big Creek Campground, "The campground is very small with only 12 campsites. Each one has a firepit, picnic table, lantern pole, and a very large tent pad. There are no RV's allowed."

    Bear precautions: The area has active black bear populations requiring proper food storage. Theresa P. warns, "The negative bit is I got absolutely eaten alive by chiggers at this campsite, so make sure you apply bug spray!"

    Shower availability: Limited shower facilities exist at most campgrounds. As allie G. notes about Camp Driftwood, "The ONLY drawback is there's only one shower (but I say being dirty doesn't count if you're camping.)"

    Tips for camping with families

    Water play options: Multiple campgrounds offer safe spaces for children to enjoy water activities. At Big Creek Campground, "A very nice feature is how close the campsites are to the creek. It was great for the dogs to cool off. There are also swimming holes nearby," reports Katrin M.

    Educational opportunities: Historic structures provide learning experiences throughout the region. Myron C. explains, "If you like hiking, there are miles of hiking trails, especially since this campground is located in a national park. There are also several historic structures in the area--a school, a church, barns, old houses, etc."

    Quiet time enforcement: Family camping requires awareness of noise levels. One camper at Round Mountain Campground reported challenges: "Minimal privacy but sites were not on top of each other. Nice path to walk and explore along stream which is very beautiful."

    Site selection tips: Choose sites strategically based on amenities and privacy needs. Nicole D. recommends finding a campground "on the side of a mountain, just outside of Hot Springs, NC. Very well designed & built campground so each sight has privacy and a view of the smokey mountain forest all around you."

    Tips from RVers

    Limited large rig access: Many hot springs nc campgrounds have restrictions on vehicle size. Sonya A. notes about Hot Springs Campground: "Nice clean gated park. Nice big spots. Only 3 fifty amp full hook up sites. Lots of 30 amp and tent camping. Right on the river."

    Seasonal considerations: RV camping opportunities vary throughout the year. At Lake Powhatan, Ben F. reports, "We had plenty of room and great separation from fellow campers. No hookups at our site," highlighting the importance of checking hook-up availability.

    Road navigation challenges: RV travelers should research route conditions before arrival. One camper warns about Cataloochee access: "The road is quite the trip just in a car, and I can't imagine driving a large RV on it. There are two approach roads."

    Reservation timing: Secure sites well in advance during peak seasons. Nancy advises about Lake Powhatan, "Book ahead-the guy said they'd been completely full since June."

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What camping is available near Hot Springs, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Hot Springs, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 589 campgrounds and RV parks near Hot Springs, NC and 30 free dispersed camping spots.

    Which is the most popular campground near Hot Springs, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hot Springs, NC is Hot Springs Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 29 reviews.

    Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hot Springs, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 free dispersed camping spots near Hot Springs, NC.

    What parks are near Hot Springs, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 parks near Hot Springs, NC that allow camping, notably Cherokee National Forest and Pisgah National Forest.