Murphy, North Carolina sits at the gateway to several camping areas in the southern Appalachian Mountains. Established sites include the Murphy/Peace Valley KOA with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals along Valley River. Peachtree Cove RV Park offers 26 well-maintained sites with full hookups, while more primitive options exist in the surrounding Nantahala National Forest. Camping opportunities range from developed campgrounds with amenities to dispersed sites on forest service land, accommodating both tent campers seeking solitude and RV travelers requiring electrical and water connections.
The camping season in this region generally runs year-round at lower elevations, though some forest service campgrounds like Jackrabbit Mountain operate seasonally from May through September. Summer brings warm temperatures averaging 80-90°F, while winter nights often drop below freezing. Most developed campgrounds near Murphy provide water hookups, electric service, and sanitary dump stations, though amenities vary significantly between sites. Reservations are recommended during peak summer months and fall color season when visitation increases. Dispersed camping is available on nearby national forest land with proper permits. A visitor noted that "this is a beautiful area with friendly, helpful staff at campgrounds that are well maintained and easy to find."
Water access represents a major draw for campers in the Murphy area, with many sites situated along rivers or lakes. Valley River winds through several campgrounds, providing opportunities for fishing, swimming, and tubing. As one camper described, "it was so serene just sitting there watching the water flow by." The region's proximity to the Nantahala National Forest offers additional recreational opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Campgrounds like Peace Valley KOA receive consistently positive reviews for their peaceful settings and proximity to outdoor activities, while still being close enough to Murphy for convenient access to supplies and services. Traffic noise can be an issue at some locations situated near highways, though most sites maintain a quiet, natural atmosphere.
$30 - $260 / night
"Vogel State Park was perfectly situated along Hwy 19 in the north Georgia mountains for an easy spot for the night."
"This was a great stop close to the water. Between Blood Mountain and Neels Gap, we camped for two nights at different sites. Both were primitive, non-shelter sites."
"They have worked hard to upgrade the campground which is surrounded by a river. There is a large dog run area, playground, pool in season and close proximity to the town of Murphy. Beautiful area."
"This is a great family site and it is fairly quiet, so if you are like me and you camp to GET AWAY from noise and drama, then this is the place!!"
$59 - $69 / night
"Shopping is close yet still tucked away nicely in the NC mountains."
"I informed the staff, Hana and she and her brother came to assess the situation."
"Good sized campground tucked into the mountains. I brought my dog with me and had a great time. There is a lake that you can fish in, stables to ride horses, and hiking trails on the campground."
"CAMPGROUND REVIEW As I was walking around the campground the word roughstic came to mInd. The road in was rough, the campsite was nice enough but somewhat minimal and the decor rustic."
$20 - $40 / night
"Located on Lake Chatuge in both North Carolina and Georgia, you can ride right to the biking trails or launch your paddleboard right from your lakeside site. "
"Parking is right above the steps that go down to the tent pad. This site has direct water access for swimming and fishing. This particular site has no shade between noon and 4."
$20 / night
"The lake is great for kayaking and swimming, with an easy trail around the perimeter. The gorgeous Cherohala Skyway is very close by (highly recommend!)."
"The surrounding mountains and water were breathtaking. This camp ground is close to the water if you stay in loop A. Just a short walk the water and beach."
"Each has a picnic table, fire pit/grill, and level area for 1-2 tents (a few can accommodate more if you’re ambitious), and lake views (most have lake access if you want to put in a kayak or canoe)."
"This campsite is a great little spot just across the road from the water—peaceful, scenic, and well-situated."
$55 - $900 / night
"This is a beautiful secluded site just off of Highway 64/74 not too far from the Tennessee border. The campground is very well kept and has wonderful amenities for both RV and tent campers."
"I don't have a huge point of reference, but I can give you details on everything that was smooth
- Location - Just off a 4 lane highway. Convenient with easy access to your site. "
"It was nice and quiet, chilly at night, and not too far from murphy. We also hiked up to a nearby fire tower and it was a fun little hike. 10/10 will be returning."
"Not ideal for van life, however pass the sites on your right and head up the to the peak, there is a “off the path” truck trail marked by a rusted metal post."
$30 - $50 / night
"Camped on lot 14 which was quite spacious with easy access to the water. Tent was located away from the fire pit and picnic table and the restrooms were close by."
"We were right next to the camp host, which was pretty nice – we didn’t have to go far to ask for wood or ice! Plus, there were trails leading right to the lake. "
GuideQuaint/quiet and tranquil spot. Right on the Ocoee River. Packed during the weekends with pretty right spots but it’s an awesome setting with less traffic during the week. A lot of mountain bikers and whitewater enthusiasts.
ScoutAs always its the best . The people are not only awesome but very helpful and understanding. All very kind and just a joy to be around . Facilities are perfect and everything is better than I can hope each time.
TravelerWe have stayed here many times. It is a basic state park campground with two clean bathhouses. There are really no amenities other that the wonderful setting on the shores of Lake Burton. Small and quiet with good views of the lake from most sites.
LegendSpectacular scenery. The campground has two loops, both with nicely spaced out sites. We liked the creekside loop, but lakeside looked very nice as well. The lake is small but cold and clear, probably spring fed. The playground is average and they have a mini golf course that's cool. The camp store is excellent, though a drive from the campground. Also a short drive (or 3 mile hike) away is the star of the show- the overlook, tower and rock wall. Unbelievable views and great rocks to scramble and play on. The history of the mysterious rock Wall is intriguing. A great place to spend a few hours. The trails are numerous and well marked. We didn't see any bears or snakes. Overall a great place.
TravelerGreat place to stay if your here anywhere from a week to a month. The prices are very reasonable. Starting at $500/month + metered electric and $200/week (electric included).
TravelerMultiple creekside spots for large groups. We have over 12 adults and 8-9 cars. No cell service. Dog friendly.
GuideBeautiful drive to get to this place once you get through the traffic jam of Sevierville. Enjoy the scenic and winding river road! dOnly loop C is open in the off season. Generators are allowed at this time of year, but must be off by 8pm.
The women's restroom was revoltingly smelly (some animal had sprayed in there, smelled like male cat x100). The sites have nice new pads (not perfectly level though) and the tent pads are spacious and flat.
Cade's Cove loop was definitely worth taking, and I would do it again and stop at every stop. Take your time, take the pull outs and let the people pass you. Make sure to get a parking pass and a brochure explaining the sites along the loop at the beginning of the drive. I saw many turkeys showing off their fan tails. And a large black bear chowing down on the sweet, fattening, tender spring grass. Also there were quite a few deer out. The scenery was magnificent!
TravelerNice campground. Bathhouse is basic but very clean. Sites are on the small side with lots of tent campers.
GuideThis is a very clean and well maintained camp site open all year, but there are a few things to consider.
During off peak (November 1st to April 1st) there's no water and the rest rooms and showers are closed.
This campsite is right next to the busy highway 19, so there's a lot of road noise especially at night.
No cell service! Take your satellite communicator or Starlink with you in case of emergency.
If you are okay with these things, then this is the camp site for you.
Dispersed camping near Murphy, North Carolina offers tent and small RV options within Nantahala National Forest. The Forest Service allows camping on most lands with some restrictions at 1,200-5,000 feet elevation. Sites are typically primitive without facilities, requiring campers to be self-sufficient with water and waste disposal. Fire regulations vary by season, with potential bans during dry periods from late summer through fall.
Fishing access: The Valley River near Murphy/Peace Valley KOA offers good fishing opportunities. "The river is right by the campground," notes a camper, with another adding that the "Valley River winds through" providing "opportunities for fishing."
Horseback riding: At Track Rock Campgrounds, horseback rides are available on site. As one visitor mentioned, "I got to enjoy a lovely horseback ride on Chubby Checker with Sonya... that was the highlight of the trip for me."
Mountain biking: The area has multiple trail systems for biking. At Jackrabbit Mountain, "The 15 miles of mountain bike trails are absolutely amazing for all skill levels," and another visitor noted there's a "1.5 mile connector dirt trail to the Jackrabbit mountain trail system, so no need to ride on the road."
Waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer direct water access. At Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites, "Each has a picnic table, fire pit/grill, and level area for 1-2 tents (a few can accommodate more if you're ambitious), and lake views (most have lake access if you want to put in a kayak or canoe)."
Clean facilities: Peachtree Cove RV Park maintains high standards. "This is a beautiful, well maintained park with a very friendly and helpful staff (family operated). The sights are level and well spaced, and the creek is charming," reports one camper.
Wildlife viewing: The rural setting provides opportunities to see local animals. At Persimmon Creek Campground, one camper mentioned "Deb wants me to mention that she enjoyed watching the cows at the neighboring farm cool off in the river."
Seasonal closures: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Jackrabbit Mountain is "open April 1 through October 1," while others like Vogel State Park Campground remain "open all year."
Road conditions: Some forest service roads can be challenging. At Long Hungry Road, a visitor advises to "drive carefully (lots of big potholes and blind curves)!" Similarly, at Track Rock, "Very steep and unlevel roads; especially when leaving."
Cell coverage: Signal can vary widely across the area. At Gibson Cove Campground, "AT&T speeds are slow in this area but Verizon works well," according to one camper's experience.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas. At Indian Boundary, "There's a lake with a sandy area," and "it was so serene just sitting there watching the water flow by" at Peace Valley KOA.
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer additional recreation beyond camping. Indian Boundary has "a large dog run area, playground, pool in season," while Track Rock Campgrounds features "a beach/pond, swings, horseshoes."
Site selection for children: Choose sites with easy water access but safe conditions. At Murphy/Peace Valley KOA, one camper was "a little concerned about my little one tumbling off the small drop off, but she was smart enough to realize it was not safe, and stayed on the camper pad."
Site sizes: Check length restrictions before booking. At Peachtree Cove, "Site 16 is long enough for a 43' 5th wheel and has suitable height clearance." Gibson Cove campsites are "staggered well to provide most with good view of lake."
Hookup availability: Service levels vary significantly between campgrounds. Persimmon Creek has "electric & water hookups" with "sites that are very spacious." At Jackrabbit Mountain, "RVers will have to rough it with no hookups, but there is access to a dump station."
Maneuvering challenges: Big rigs may face difficulties in some locations. Track Rock cautions "Fifth Wheel Owners BEWARE!," with one reviewer reporting "Our camper came in contact with the side of our bed and tailgate multiple times."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Murphy, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, Murphy, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 709 campgrounds and RV parks near Murphy, NC and 65 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Murphy, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Murphy, NC is Vogel State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 67 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Murphy, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 65 free dispersed camping spots near Murphy, NC.
What parks are near Murphy, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Murphy, NC that allow camping, notably Tusquitee National Forest and Nantahala National Forest.
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