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, NC (127)

    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

    1. 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 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

    2. 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 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

    3. 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 Siler Bald
    Camper-submitted photo from Siler Bald
    Camper-submitted photo from Siler Bald
    Camper-submitted photo from Siler Bald
    Camper-submitted photo from Siler Bald
    Camper-submitted photo from Siler Bald

    4. Siler Bald

    4 Reviews
    49 Photos
    38 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
    Camper-submitted photo from Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground

    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 from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cheoah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wayah Bald Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Snowbird Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Snowbird Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Snowbird Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Snowbird Camping

    8. Snowbird Camping

    4 Reviews
    4 Photos
    99 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

    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

    9. 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 Blue Ridge Basecamp
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Ridge Basecamp
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Ridge Basecamp
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Ridge Basecamp
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Ridge Basecamp
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Ridge Basecamp

    10. Blue Ridge Basecamp

    2 Reviews
    16 Photos
    6 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

Showing results 1-10 of 127 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Nantahala National Forest

2665 Reviews of 127 Nantahala National Forest 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.

  • 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

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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.

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  • 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!

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  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Creek RV Resort
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Cove Creek RV Resort

    Quiet and convenient

    We stayed 3 nights in one of the creekside sites. Very nice. Staff was very friendly. Water, electric, and sewer all worked. Great location outside the chaos of Pigeon Forge. Townsend and Cades Cove were easy drives.

  • 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.

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

    Pigeon Forge Landing RV Resort

    Love this place

    Highly recommended this place. New facility clean bathroom with offers solid doors for privacy. Right in the middle of the attractions. Loved this place.

  • 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/

  • 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.

  • Michael T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground
    Sep. 7, 2024

    Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground

    Tranquil, Well Maintained Park in the Mountains

    We really enjoyed our stay at Black Rock. Despite being at full capacity for Labor Day weekend, the park did not feel overly crowded. The staff attending the lodge store were welcoming and knowledgeable. There was a good selection of necessities available, along with ice and firewood. The comfort station was clean and well-appointed and there was never a wait for facilities. While privacy of sites varied, we spotted a few with really lovely mountainside views. The Tennessee Rock Trail to the summit and overlook is the perfect distance for a morning hike and not too strenuous. The Black Rock Lake Trail is very scenic and well worth the 20–30 minutes it takes to walk the circuit. There are also day facilities such as picnic tables and grills. Highly recommend.



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 73 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 127 tent camping locations near Nantahala National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.