Murphy cabin camping nestles along the southwestern edge of North Carolina where the Great Smoky Mountains meet the Nantahala National Forest. Located at elevations of 1,500 to 2,200 feet, this area experiences mild spring temperatures averaging 60-70°F, warm summer temps of 80-85°F, and crisp autumn days with lows reaching 40°F. Camping cabins near Murphy provide shelter from the region's 60+ inches of annual rainfall, with summer thunderstorms common between June and August.
What to do
Horseback riding near camp: At Trackrock Campground, guests can participate in horseback riding without leaving the property. "Horseback riding on site!! Bathhouse was clean," notes Elaine H. The campground's equestrian facilities include guided trail rides through nearby mountain terrain.
Fishing in stocked waters: Several cabin locations offer fishing opportunities directly on property. Bald Mountain Camping Resort provides a stocked private lake with catch-and-release fishing. "Catch and release fishing is allowed. The mountains are beautiful and some spots have a good view of Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia," writes Karen R.
Gold panning in creeks: The Murphy/Peace Valley KOA features a gold-bearing creek where visitors can try their hand at panning. "There is an awesome gold-bearing creek alongside the camp which is too cool," shares Debi G. Some campgrounds sell basic panning equipment, or visitors can bring their own supplies.
What campers like
Natural water features: Most guests specifically mention water features as highlights of their cabin stays. "The lake is 22 acres with trails that go along the lake. As of right now Vogel is on my top 10 list and we will certainly be returning," reports Kelly W. about Vogel State Park Campground.
Convenient location to towns: The proximity to nearby mountain towns adds value for cabin campers. "Location, just two hours from our North Atlanta home, was great for a quick getaway. Another plus to this park was the location to 'city life'. We made 2 trips to Walmart, and also picked up breakfast one day," notes Nicole B. about Murphy/Peace Valley KOA.
Historical structures: Several campgrounds feature historical buildings and exhibits. "The scenic drive increases congestion and traffic. Camp store is near campsites. Also a ranger station. Several hiking trails are accessible from campground," writes Kim L. about Cades Cove Campground.
What you should know
Variable pet policies: Pet regulations differ between cabin rental locations. "This is a KOA and even though I normally am not a fan of KOAs this place is very different. The place is pet friendly, the owner is awesome, the price is reasonable. There is an acre field for dogs to be off leash and run," states Debi G.
Limited cell service: Most cabin areas have restricted mobile coverage. "My favorite thing about this place is that there is no cell service (I have Verizon so it may be different for others). It was so peaceful and it seemed like a great place to bring kids," explains Kaity H. about Enota Mountain Retreat.
Seasonal availability: Many cabin facilities operate on limited schedules. "We spent a week here in Feb. 2017 it was a bit chilly and quiet. The sites and trails are very well maintained, all facilities were clean and the park rangers are super friendly," mentions Kelly W. about Vogel State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly waterfalls: Several campgrounds offer easy-access waterfalls suitable for children. "Been going since I was a kid, now I get to take my kids! Tons to do, tons of fun!" writes Chris R. about Vogel State Park Campground.
Open play spaces: Look for cabins near designated play areas. "My kids and I went camping at Unicoi Park in the summer and there is plenty to keep them busy. They played in the creek, on the swing set and walked the trail to the swimming section of the lake," explains Diane G. about Unicoi State Park.
Junior activities: Several locations offer structured activities for children. "Loved this park! The sites have plenty of privacy. I felt very tucked away from the activities. Which there are plenty of! The lake has a beach, you can rent a kayak or paddle boat," mentions Erin L.
Tips from RVers
Navigating mountain roads: Approach cabin areas with caution in larger rigs. "Very steep and unlevel roads; especially when leaving. Our camper came in contact with the side of our bed and tailgate multiple times," warns Anthony M. about Trackrock Campground.
Cabin alternatives: RV campers unable to secure cabins can find full-service sites nearby. "First time renting a teardrop trailer and camping in it, lot was tricky for us to back into but we managed and the set up was great with a fire ring, picnic table, potable water and hook up," notes Dallas F. about Cades Cove Campground.
Off-season advantages: Winter visits to Murphy cabin campgrounds offer greater availability. "We stayed here for almost a week. Friendly staff. The grounds are very well kept. There was wifi available so we were able to utilize our Fire TV without any problems," shares Ellen S.
