Best Tent Camping near Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina

Searching for a tent camping spot near Nantahala National Forest? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find Nantahala National Forest campgrounds for you and your tent. Search nearby tent campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Nantahala National Forest (130)

    Dana W.'s photo of tent camping at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Nantahala National Forest

    1. Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    71 Reviews
    426 Photos
    466 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

    Katie H.'s photo of tent camping at Raven Cliff Falls near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Raven Cliff Falls near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Raven Cliff Falls near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Raven Cliff Falls near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Raven Cliff Falls near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Raven Cliff Falls near Nantahala National Forest

    2. Raven Cliff Falls

    27 Reviews
    128 Photos
    398 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)
    Melissa  R.'s photo of tent camping at Burrells Ford near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Burrells Ford near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Burrells Ford near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Burrells Ford near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Burrells Ford near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Burrells Ford near Nantahala National Forest

    3. Burrells Ford

    18 Reviews
    103 Photos
    301 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
    Asher K.'s photo of tent camping at Siler Bald near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Siler Bald near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Siler Bald near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Siler Bald near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Siler Bald near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Siler Bald near Nantahala National Forest

    4. Siler Bald

    4 Reviews
    49 Photos
    46 Saves
    Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina

    A moderate 2-mile hike climbs to the summit of Siler Bald. The view is almost 360 degrees, and you’ll catch sight of several other notable peaks like Standing Indian and Brasstown Bald.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    The Dyrt's photo of tent camping at Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground near Nantahala National Forest

    5. Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground

    5 Reviews
    8 Photos
    167 Saves
    Robbinsville, North Carolina

    Stay in Comfort @ The Simple Life. A quiet / clean Mountain Retreat within minutes of; Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap, Cherohala Skyway, Moonshiner28, Joyce Kilmer National Forest, Lake Santeelah, and the town of Robbinsville. We have 13 Comfortable / Air-conditioned Tree House Cabins, 2 RV and 6 Tent Sites. Also available is a 6 person bunk-house fully loaded.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 - $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Cheoah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Cheoah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Cheoah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Cheoah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Cheoah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Cheoah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest

    6. Cheoah Bald Campground

    4 Reviews
    29 Photos
    26 Saves
    Bear Creek, North Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Firewood Available
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Wayah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Wayah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Wayah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Wayah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Wayah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Wayah Bald Campground near Nantahala National Forest

    7. Wayah Bald Campground

    3 Reviews
    26 Photos
    34 Saves
    Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Drinking Water
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Snowbird Camping near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Snowbird Camping near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Snowbird Camping near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Snowbird Camping near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Snowbird Camping near Nantahala National Forest

    8. Snowbird Camping

    4 Reviews
    4 Photos
    103 Saves
    Robbinsville, North Carolina

    Secluded backcountry camping on the banks of Little Snowbird Creek. With mountaintop views that will bring a tear to a glass eye. Best trout fishing in Western North Carolina free with campsite rental.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $40 - $50 / night

    Kristin S.'s photo of tent camping at Blue Valley Dispersed Camping near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Valley Dispersed Camping near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Valley Dispersed Camping near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Valley Dispersed Camping near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Valley Dispersed Camping near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Valley Dispersed Camping near Nantahala National Forest

    9. Blue Valley Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    16 Photos
    164 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
    Nicholas S.'s photo of tent camping at Blue Ridge Basecamp near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Ridge Basecamp near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Ridge Basecamp near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Ridge Basecamp near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Ridge Basecamp near Nantahala National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Ridge Basecamp near Nantahala National Forest

    10. Blue Ridge Basecamp

    2 Reviews
    16 Photos
    7 Saves
    Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina

    Forested 15 acre lot with a beautiful grassy meadow, and a meandering stream with shallow spots to cool off on a hot day. Pitch your tent where ever you'd like. There is fresh drinking water, on site garbage, picnic tables, firepits, firewood availible for purchase, and a well maintained portajohn.

    We are minutes away from Nantahala Lake, Nantahala River, and Appalachian Trail. Enjoy near by white water rafting, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, kayaking, zip lines and more… If you're not up for cooking there's a local restaurant on the lake 5 minutes away as well as the Nantahala Outdoor Center a short 20 minute drive.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash

    $15 - $25 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 130 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Nantahala National Forest

2673 Reviews of 130 Nantahala National Forest Campgrounds


  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Persimmon Creek RV Park near Nantahala National Forest
    Aug. 1, 2021

    Persimmon Creek RV Park

    Tent and RV Camping

    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 was very impressed with the gorgeous grassy areas along the creek providing a private space for tent camping. They also have large shaded spots for RVs in other areas. Each site has a picnic bench and plenty of room to spread out. If you are like me and prefer tent camping I would recommend staying at one of the sites near the entrance as they have an almost magical feel to them. I also like that this campground provides great access to both hiking in Nantahala National Forest as well as rafting and kayaking on one of the many rivers in the area.

  • Cindy M.
    Cindy M.'s photo of tent camping at Craig's Cherokee Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Jun. 21, 2022

    Craig's Cherokee Campground

    Pretty nice

    good experience owners help are very friendly facilities were clean pleasant atmosphere they have cabins that you can rent out and then there's tent sites and RV sites to camp from. There are even sites for tent camping along the creek. Tent site right next to the creek was my favorite because you hear the water come down the tiny fall that's there in the same to the birds chirp. I would definitely stay here again. ❤️

  • a
    John W.'s photo of tent camping at Jenny's Creek Family Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Jul. 11, 2021

    Jenny's Creek Family Campground

    Nice sites

    They have a very nice set up and are very polite. Great prices. We did tent camping with water and electricity. The tent sites are all either beside a creek or next to the pond. Large campsites fo tents, we could have easily had 3 tents comfortably. Highly recommend them!

  • S
    Shannon T.'s photo of tent camping at Moonshine Creek Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Oct. 16, 2016

    Moonshine Creek Campground

    Moonshine Creek Campground

    Owners are very friendly. Our tent campsite was very secluded, included a fire pit, picnic table, over looking deck, running water and electric. Loved hearing the running creek from our tent site. Very clean bathrooms. Highly recommended!

  • T
    Christy C.'s photo of tent camping at Lazy J Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Jul. 31, 2019

    Lazy J Campground

    We love this place

    Good people run this place. Bath houses are very clean. We have tent camped and now taken our RV. Tent sites right on the river. You can tube down and get out right at your site. Three Falls waterfall is just up the road. You can get tubes at the office. Chickens and horses on site. Playground and lots of fun. Sites are wooded and quaint. Roads are a little narrow, but passable. One of our favorite sites.

  • Abigail M.
    HAYS C.'s photo of tent camping at Enota Mountain Retreat near Nantahala National Forest
    Jan. 28, 2023

    Enota Mountain Retreat

    Scam

    I REALLY WANTED TO LOVE THIS PLACE! It was really pretty. HOWEVER The host wouldn’t allow us to use a tent site because she insisted we needed electric for our tear drop. We told her it was charged and had no need for electric for our one night stay. She then said we weren’t allowed to use a tent site due to the fact that the tear drop simply wouldn’t fit event though it totally would (gaslighting much?). There was one other family in the entirety of the tent camping area and one RV there. Upon check out what was originally supposed to be a $30 trip turned into $90 for a single night of camping along with some very off putting comments regarding my friend and I’s sexuality. Was a totally bizarre experience. Would give it zero stars if I could.

  • George & Patty C.
    Logan S.'s photo of tent camping at Vogel State Park Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    May. 31, 2017

    Vogel State Park Campground

    Beautiful Park

    We spent our three-day Memorial Day weekend at Vogel State Park. We camped in a tent. The staff is very friendly/helpful and the facilities are pristine. Our campsite (#70) was located directly across from the bathhouse and was huge for a "tent" site...we have a 17'x9' tent and the site accommodated our tent, two vehicles and a 5'x8' utility trailer with room to spare! The park has beautiful views and is only a short distance from Brasstown Bald and Helton Creek Falls. The park store had most of the supplies that you would need for camping but, if not, there is a Dollar General located just a few miles away. This is our favorite of the GA State Parks so far!! There are kayak, pedal boat, paddle board and bicycle rentals available!

  • Mike H.
    Kaleb B.'s photo of tent camping at Backside Campground at Nantahala near Nantahala National Forest
    Apr. 26, 2023

    Backside Campground at Nantahala

    How can you beat this place?

    The Nantahala National Forest backs right up to the property line of this amazing campground.  The owners have leveled out 6 amazing sites - perfect for tent camping and hanging a hammock.  The one mile gravel/dirt road is so picturesque!  We found ourselves just hiking it each morning.  The creek has some of the best water!  Coming right out of the ground!  The picnic table was perfect for holding our camping stove and cooking up the breakfast bacon.  But, the real treat was sitting around the stone firepit and roasting some marshmallows after an adventurous whitewater trip down the Nantahala River.  Do it mid day - 'cause that water is COOOOLD.  We hiked a short section of the Bartram Trail and found the secret water hole for some awesome shots of the kids jumping off the cliff.  Caught lunch at the Lakes End Marina and rented a kayak for a few hours to explore the lake.  Next time we'll spend more time at the quaint little town of Andrews and maybe catch a movie and some ice cream.  The Ingles Grocery store was perfect for stocking up on some steaks and root beer.  Can't wait to return to the Backside!

  • Angela M.
    HAYS C.'s photo of tent camping at Enota Mountain Retreat near Nantahala National Forest
    Aug. 1, 2020

    Enota Mountain Retreat

    Beautiful property in the mountains with waterfalls on site!

    The property is well maintained and beautiful with waterfalls, streams, and a lodge. They have cabins, rv sites, and separate adulting tent camping. We stayed at the adult tent site 74 which is really close to one of the waterfalls. Site 72 is the closest on the side we stayed on but our site had great access to the water and was a little more secluded. The is a spot in front of the waterfall that is public space and we didn’t want people walking up to view the waterfall basically next to our site as the sites are very close together. There is another beautiful sit on the other side that I would say is best for y’all he waterfall. I checked out the other sites as we were the only tent campers as it was during the week. Site 82 is the most private still on the the water and like a little forest dream site. The facilities were nice and well kept however, there was no potable water or restrooms close to the tent camping. The lady that checked us in (not sure if manager or owner) but she was somewhat spastic and forgetful which was not pleasant but was overall friendly. Locations is super close to High Shoals Falls which was a great hike and beautiful as well as close to Helen, Georgia, and Unicoi State Park.

  • Kirsten J.
    Christy C.'s photo of tent camping at Lazy J Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Oct. 16, 2018

    Lazy J Campground

    Rural campground on a creek

    This campground is located in Rosman NC, west of Brevard. We camped here as a base camp for day hikes in the area. It is very wooded, in a valley with a creek running alongside the tent camping sites. The scenery is gorgeous and horses and chickens were sweet. The tent sites are small, smaller than average park campsites. We woke to the smell of our neighbor smoking and coughing throughout the night.

    The facilities are good, nice hot water in sinks and showers. Clean bathrooms etc. We also had a spigot and plug near our campsite if we needed them. The people were extremely friendly and kind.

    We like for our kids to be able to run, play and explore while camping and this was not the site for that. Across the creek is a busy road which was not busy during the night, but had constant travel during the day.

  • A
    Katie H.'s photo of tent camping at Unicoi State Park & Lodge near Nantahala National Forest
    Aug. 6, 2021

    Unicoi State Park & Lodge

    Tent camping

    The tent camp site was good, bathrooms and water were a close walking distance.
    We picked this state park for all the activities. We took archery lessons and did the zip line course. A must is to do all 3 zip line courses. Many go over water and the last of which is 1/2 a mile long. So much fun! It was great to have Helen close by but great to get away from the crowds. The 2 mile Lake Hike was beautiful!

  • Joel R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Katie H.'s photo of tent camping at Unicoi State Park & Lodge near Nantahala National Forest
    Jun. 10, 2020

    Unicoi State Park & Lodge

    Nice camping close to Helen GA

    Unicoi State Park is just two miles from Helen GA. It is a convenient location for visiting there, particularly in fall during the town’s Octoberfest. Unicoi is in North Georgia Mountains & includes a campground, cabins, “barrel cabins” and Lodge with a nice lake for fishing and canoeing. There are 51 RV sites with water and electricity that can accommodate 30-foot and 40-foot RVs, 82 tent sites, family tent campsites, walk-in sites and primitive “Squirrel’s Nest” sites. The park has numerous hiking trails in the Chattahoochee National Forest, plus a trail into Helen. Nearby is Anna Ruby Falls, administered by the US Forest Service. Smith Creek, a tributary of the Chattahoochee River flows from the falls to Unicoi Lake. It is a good trout fishing stream. Other activists include archery and target shooting, fly fishing, paddle boarding, boat rentals, zip lining, mountain biking and a beach.

  • Nate C.
    Shannon T.'s photo of tent camping at Moonshine Creek Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    May. 17, 2020

    Moonshine Creek Campground

    Nice spot for families

    Moonshine creek is a nice campground with something for everyone. Minutes from the parkway for hiking, 2 miles away from a creek on the WNC fly fishing trail, and plenty of space to get out and walk around the grounds. Nice, well stocked camp market, many bathrooms around the grounds, and laundry/shower facilities that were very clean. The creek runs right through the middle of the campground and can be heard from any site you are on.

    Multiple options for tent camping, but we chose the ones away from the creek due to them having shelters over the tent pads to set up under. We stayed at site 62 which had plenty of room for the tent shelter and two vehicles. We brought an 8 person tent that was a little big for the shelter, so we had to turn it sideways leaving the tent exposed to the elements. Unfortunately the fire pit was directly behind the shelter, and we chose not to have a fire on our site because of the fire hazard it posed. Even if we had we chose to start a fire there would’ve been little chance that 6 of us could’ve gathered around it. The pit was small and was backed by a steep embankment, and the side had a large tree in the way. There were other tent sites near the the creek that had shelters, but we had a truck with roof top tent that we wanted on the same site, and that just wasn’t possible with the parking situation for standard tent sites. For those, there is an unloading area with wagons to load in with. The tent sites are on opposite sides of the creek than the parking and unloading areas. All of the tent sites seemed to have water and electric which was nice, but not necessary.

    The ‘waterfall’ on property is kinda silly. It’s a culvert pipe coming underneath the train tracks. I’m sure it sounds nice at night, but it isn’t pretty to look at. Also, there is a playground that had the kids excited, but it only consisted of a couple of baby swings.

    The badminton/volleyball area was nice. It’s right near the group camping area which was wide open. Gave the kids plenty of room to play. The camp office had racquets and volleyballs to use. The creek was nice for the kids to play in. The pond is not for fishing or swimming.

    All in all it was a nice place. Very clean and family friendly. Would like to return again, but hope the fire pit situation could be remedied.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    John L.'s photo of tent camping at Appalachian Pond Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    May. 31, 2021

    Appalachian Pond Campground

    Back to Nature Campground to Get Away from it All

    For tent campers, I would rate this campground with five stars. For RV campers, I would rate it with one star. There are no hookups for RV campers, but there is a place to park a small RV camper that is self-contained. I loved this campground. It is everything you need for tent camping. It is remote in the mountains of western North Carolina and has lots of shade. It has a small pond, it is quiet, and the owners are very nice. One of the owners apologized for the grass being so high, but I assured him it was all right(and it wasn’t really that high). 

    There are several tent sites back in the woods, but they are spacious and not on top of each other. Some of them have access to running water, and at least one has electricity.  There is also a small cottage by the pond, and a camper that can be rented.   At night, all you will hear are crickets, the wind through the trees, birds, and frogs—just the way I like it. This campground truly is off the beaten path. 

    As far as facilities, it has a shower. There is a portable toilet across the path. Although it sounds primitive, which it is, the quaintness of the shower house and the fact that it has both a shower and a portable toilet is good enough unless you are looking for luxury accommodations. This campground may be remote, but it is not far from many hiking trails and sites, including but not limited to Purchase Knob, Hemphill Bald, the old Ferguson Cabin, Cataloochee Valley, the Great Smoky Mountains, and much more. 

    An additional feature is the old barn owned by the same people, which can accommodate special events, such as weddings and other venues in a beautiful rural setting. Would I recommend this campground? Absolutely!!!!… especially for tent campers.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Samantha R.'s photo of tent camping at Keowee-Toxaway State Park near Nantahala National Forest
    Sep. 1, 2020

    Keowee-Toxaway State Park

    Good State Park Campground for Water Activities

    My favorite part of staying at this park was not actually camping, although I always love camping. My favorite part was hiking the trails, especially the Natural Bridge/Palmetto Trail. It is a loop trail, but you can opt to get on a longer trail along the loop. The hike seems easy at first, especially going down to the“natural bridge.” However, when you hike down, you have to hike up, and there were sections on the return that were steep. Along the way, not only do you see the natural bridge, but there is a small waterfall as well. As far as camping, there are RV sites and tent sites. I chose tent camping this time, and there was a large gravel pad. The sites seemed a little too close for me, but at least they were not on top of each other. The day that I went, the other tent sites were all reserved as far as I could tell. I found that surprising for a Tuesday night. Unfortunately, with so many people camping that close together, you never really get to sleep early since some people are up late talking. Nevertheless, once the talking died down, I went to sleep listening to the tree frogs. The bath house is a short walk away and is AIR CONDITIONED!!! Since I went in July, this was important. I was hoping to get in some canoeing, but there were strong thunderstorms and rain. As a matter of fact, I waited for a break so I could put up my tent. There is a camp store, and I enjoyed looking at the relief map in the visitor’s center. It also has displays in the visitor’s center with local history. There is also a boat ramp a short drive away from the campground. Even though I didn’t get to take full advantage of it, it is a lot better than many of the boat ramps I have seen. The biggest attraction for this park, other than the hiking trails, is obviously its access to Lake Keowee. Overall, it is a pretty good place to camp. I’m not fond of how close the sites were, but it’s a lot better than many campgrounds I have been to.

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Myron C.'s photo of tent camping at Cherokee-Great Smokies KOA near Nantahala National Forest
    Oct. 12, 2018

    Cherokee-Great Smokies KOA

    Everything but the kitchen sink

    If you are looking to dabble in the Smoky Mountains without losing all cell service, camping at this location is perfect for you! I found that while traveling when you want to be removed from civilization but still able to touch base you can't beat a good KOA. This one is a great example of just that, offering amenities for you to enjoy but proximity to easily drive to an adventure just ahead.

    This place was pretty nice to say the least, it had that rustic mountain feel but with modern amenities. You could stay here in a cabin or RV or take it down to the tent camp, like I usually enjoy doing. The cabins here though were a little touch of magic and I would recommend these for a holiday away or a Christmas cabin, they were just so cute.

    Unlike a lot of KOA camps this one has year round access to pool and hot tub as well as sauna room. But the list of perks doesn't stop there, this is more of a resort feel than campground. They offer bike rentals, shuttle tours to the mountains, fishing, giant checkers and game boards, a clubhouse area, children's activities and both wifi and cable.

    So what is the catch to this near perfect sounding place? The only one I could find is that tent sites are limited. Yep, only thing I could find!

    There are 4 different cabin options, tons of rv spaces but less than a dozen tent sites in this HUGE mega park. They even offer a grill at this location... you can't beat all that!!

    So back to the tent sites.... there are two types available in very limited quantities and they vary vastly despite being placed in the same section of the park only feet from one another. Deluxe sites are $52.99 a night a little to much for me, and while they looked nice with a sandy tent pad and bear boxes along with electricity and water, I was content with my grassy pad and no water or electric at a $30 savings. Sorry KOA you can't have $30 just so I can sleep on sand instead of grass that is what a sleeping pad is for.

    So as you can see by my rating even though there was that sharp gouge in price from one site to the next I still gave them a 5 stars. Why you might ask? Well because this campground literally was a resort on a paupers budget staying in my grassy tent site. I had access to every amenity there was to offer, staff was friendly, nothing was left a mess by other campers (or if it had been staff cleaned it up before I knew it) and facilities were very nice.

    This KOA set the bar high for others of the same brand and made me realize sometimes why I just enjoy doing the commercial camping thing... sometimes you want rugged... then sometimes you want to have a nice comfortable night that reminds you of home or a hotel...lol

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Melina B.'s photo of tent camping at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Dec. 31, 2022

    Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground

    Beautiful views but wonky campground layout

    General: Many options including 4 backcountry primitive sites, 12 walk-in tent sites, 48 electric/water sites, and 10 cabins. Access to this park is up a steep and winding road. I honestly don’t know how some of the larger 5th wheels and RVs we saw navigated it! We were warned that this park is an active bear area and while we did not see any, a woman I spoke with said she had seen a baby bear scoot through the campground (without Mama). An interesting thing about Georgia state parks is that when you arrive and check-in, you become eligible for a senior or military/veteran “rebate” which is not available when reserving. 

    Site Quality: The sites are (too) close together with little or no separation between them. In my opinion, the sites in Section 2 are a bit nicer. Driveways are gravel and vary in length. Some are very long while others are much shorter. Unless you have a small car and are tent camping, I would avoid Site 26! Even though there was plenty of room for our 18-foot van, it took us at least a half dozen attempts to back into the site due to the very steep and narrow road where the pavement drops off. Site 37 is no more than a parallel parking space alongside Site 38. 

    Bathhouse: It was heated and clean. The flush lever was different for each toilet and instructions were posted by each. The showers looked to be very clean, but I did not use so cannot comment on their quality. 

    Activities/Amenities: Fishing, boating, and hiking. The Nantahala Lookout provides gorgeous views. There is a conference center. Laundry facilities are by the bathhouse, but we were told the appliances were due to be upgraded and were not in the best shape. 

    This is a beautiful park but due to the sites being close together and our challenges accessing Site 26, my rating is three stars.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Shari  G.'s photo of tent camping at Horse Cove near Nantahala National Forest
    Mar. 6, 2018

    Horse Cove

    Best Sleep Ever!

    This cute little national forest roadside campground is situated in the Nantahala National Forest, just due south of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is well-kept, and allows for access to a variety of outdoor activities* in the greater area. It’s just about a mile from a boat launch on Lake Santeetlah, a beautiful reservoir for fishing, canoeing, SUPing, or sea kayaking, and very close to some great hiking in the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. The famous Tail of the Dragon (Highway 129) between here and Tennessee, with twists and turns and beautiful views…very popular among both cyclists and motorcyclists. The closest town is Robbinsville, NC which is about 30 minutes away and has all the basics you need. Nothing fancy or special, though the people are extremely nice. Don’t expect to get a signal in the campground, as you are deep in a gorge.

    *If you are a whitewater kayaking enthusiast like my husband, be sure to watch the release schedule for the Cheoah River. The day after we arrived, we saw dozens of vehicles with kayaks and the campground went from empty to completely full overnight!

    Most of the creek-side campsites are on the small side and designed for tent camping, but they are the only ones open in the winter months. With some creativity, we were able to get our little adventure rig and truck into the parking area. It’s great to sleep near the creek, though, as it blocks out nearly every sound from the road and other campers. There are about a dozen other sites on the uphill side of the highway which are open during the main season, but only a few large enough for mid-sized RV’s.

    Each site is well-maintained with nice flat, well-drained tent pads, cooking areas (1 grill and 1 firepit per site), a picnic table, and not 1 but 2 poles to hang lanterns, shower bags, etc. Lots of trees around for hanging hammocks, too. There are 3 well-kept pit toilets – 1 close to the creek-side sites and two others in the main campground uphill and across the road. During the main season, drinking water is available, but during the winter months, you need to filter from the creek. Camping price is reduced in the winter due to no drinking water, but the creek was actively running.

    No reservations necessary, or even possible. This is a first-come, first-served campground with an iron ranger for payments. During the winter, we only paid $5 per night to camp here, which is absolutely amazing given the quality of this little campground. It is normally $10 per night during the main season, but we saw a posted sign about possible fee increases in the future. Check out our blog on The Dyrt's Online Magazine about our experience in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Ashleigh S.'s photo of tent camping at Winngray Family Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Nov. 1, 2019

    Winngray Family Campground

    Great Campground for RVs and Great Views for Tents

    I had wanted to stay at this campground for several years, and I finally got the opportunity to do so. It looked inviting every time I passed by it. When I looked on the website, it showed tent sites, but most of the sites are for RVs. I was surprised to see that the best sites are along Jonathan Creek. These do not have water or electricity, but that didn’t matter to me. There are tent sites that have water and electricity, but they are behind the office, which is part of the main building. I am guessing that there are well over 100 RV sites. Most sites(if not all) have water, electricity, and sewer hookups. There are not many tangible amenities; there is no pool or playground, basketball court, etc. However, this campground is all about location. Not too far from the campground is Cataloochee Valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Hemphill Bald(mountain and trail), the Cataloochee Divide Trail, and the natural beauty of the mountains. There is also Jonathan Creek, which is known for trout fishing. The tent sites along the creek are beautifully arranged in a line with enough space not to be crowded. Unfortunately, most of them do not have fire rings, but I found one at T5 that did have. I am guessing that the picnic tables at the entrance to the tent sites are for the tents since only one or two tent sites had picnic tables and it is close to the end of the season. My favorite part about the tent sites is that you can sit facing the creek and look at the mountains in the background, although you will see a few houses in the mountains. Another advantage of the tent sites by the creek is that you hear the creek all night long, which drowns out any road noise. This campground is privately owned and not part of a franchise. It is good to see that they still welcome tent campers.

  • Kaitlyn F.
    Kristen B.'s photo of tent camping at Greenbrier Campground near Nantahala National Forest
    Oct. 16, 2020

    Greenbrier Campground

    Not my thing

    So I use this app to find tent camping sites. To me, that’s kinda what a campground is. A good variety of both. This turned out to be mostly RVs and then three tents, one including mine. Needless to say, it was loud. For what it was, it was great. For what I thought it would be, it wasn’t. They have a lot of cool amenities and I will totally come back if I ever get a camper. But I wouldn’t just tent camp there again I don’t think.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo at Wildcat 1 near Nantahala National Forest
    Oct. 2, 2018

    Wildcat 1

    primitive

    this place was a great place for fishing, exploring and hiking, great place to back pack into and tent camp.

  • c
    Mary M.'s photo of tent camping at Ash Grove near Nantahala National Forest
    Oct. 25, 2021

    Ash Grove

    Wonderful Campground

    Tent camping comfort with mulched level sites…WiFi available…Owners live onsite,and always available…clean restrooms,hot shower…

  • Olen B.
    Sep. 7, 2020

    Hurricane Creek Horse and Primitive Campground

    Always a great stay, if you’re the more secluded adventurer...

    Always great staying at this (somewhat) primitive campground tucked away in the southeast corner of Nantahala National Forest. Although close to the more popular (and slightly more luxurious) Standing Indian Campground, Hurricane creek offers a slightly more secluded atmosphere with access to the same great backcountry trails. This site should be high on your list of overnight adventure destinations.

  • Sean7
    David's photo of tent camping at Indian Boundary near Nantahala National Forest
    Nov. 11, 2021

    Indian Boundary

    Great Choice for Anyone

    Great experience tent camping in the overflow lot, all the amenities were amazing and the area was beautiful! This is a must visit location.


Guide to Nantahala National Forest

Nestled in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest, tent camping offers a serene escape into nature, complete with stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and hiking trails at Siler Bald, where you can set up camp and take in panoramic mountain views.
  • Experience the thrill of motorcycle-friendly routes while camping at Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground, which is conveniently located near popular biking trails.
  • Explore the crystal-clear waters and natural beauty at Wildcat Creek Campground #2 Upper, perfect for fishing and relaxing by the river.

Local attractions to enhance your camping experience

  • Visit the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where Double Island offers a unique boat-in camping experience on a remote island.
  • Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes along the Bartram Trail, with a great camping option at Bartram Trail Backcountry.
  • Take a short drive to the Nantahala Outdoor Center for exciting whitewater rafting adventures, with Mountain Creek Rest as a cozy base for your outdoor activities.

Tips for tent camping near Nantahala National Forest

  • Be prepared for primitive camping at Cheoah Bald Campground, where you can enjoy the peace of nature without modern amenities.
  • Bring plenty of water and supplies when visiting Wildcat 1, as this site does not offer drinking water or other facilities.
  • For a secluded experience, consider Snowbird Camping, where each campsite is spaced out for privacy and tranquility.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Nantahala National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Nantahala National Forest is Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 71 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Nantahala National Forest?

    TheDyrt.com has all 130 tent camping locations near Nantahala National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.