Camping near Sapphire, North Carolina puts visitors in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,000-4,500 feet. The region features granite cliffs, numerous waterfalls, and dense hardwood forests that provide vibrant fall colors from mid-October through early November. Summer nights typically cool down to the 50s, even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, making extra layers essential for campfire comfort.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Jocassee: At Devils Fork State Park Campground, the clear waters offer excellent paddling opportunities. "Beautifully located on Lake Jocassee! Camp sites paved, wooded and nicely spaced. The lake is gorgeous. Boat ramp and trailer parking. Kayak rentals available," notes Carissa D.
Mountain biking trails: Davidson River Campground serves as an ideal base for bikers. "Located right inside Pisgah National forest this campground is perfectly set for all adventures. If you're looking to ride the mtb trails you're in luck. They start literally across the davidson river from the campground," according to Travis S.
Waterfall hikes: Within a 30-minute drive from most campgrounds, dozens of waterfalls range from roadside accessible to multi-mile hikes. "The hikes to the waterfalls are easily accessible and totally worth it," reports Todd S. about trails near Gorges State Park.
What campers like
River campsites: Burrells Ford offers free primitive camping along the Chattooga River. "Great for swimming and Hammocking!" notes Elise W. The sites require a short quarter-mile walk from the parking area but reward with riverside solitude.
Panoramic views: Camping at higher elevations provides exceptional vistas. "This spot is the highest on the third 'island' out from the mainland. It has epic 360 views," writes Adam V. about site #49 at Mile Creek County Park.
Heated facilities: Winter campers appreciate that many campgrounds maintain comfortable bathhouses year-round. "Bathhouses are nice and have hot water and are heated," Jennifer K. reports about Mile Creek County Park, while another camper notes Davidson River has "heated bathrooms" during winter months.
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears are common throughout the region, especially in backcountry areas. "Be aware that the bears here are extremely bad. I actually had an encounter with a very large bear who charged my group and destroyed a tent," warns Phoebe A. about Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for waterfront sites. "Book your trip a few months in advance so we got all the spots we wanted," advises one camper about Mile Creek County Park, while another notes Devils Fork requires reservations "well in advance."
Trail navigation challenges: Some areas have confusing trail systems. "Bring a good map and stick to the trails that your map covers. It's an easy place to get lost because of all the unofficial trails," advises Tony E. about Panthertown Valley.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming: Look for campgrounds with gradual entry swimming areas. "The area very serene, quiet and pretty. Nice hiking area and swimming area. If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town," notes Ashley S. about Oconee State Park Campground.
Playground proximity: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Each campsite has wonderful views of the water. There is a playground by the entrance and near the farthest campsites as well," reports Jake S. about Mile Creek County Park.
Cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. "We spent 2 nights in one of the cabins in this beautiful state park during a road trip through South Carolina. And let me say, 2 nights was not enough! The cabin itself was very well kept. There was air conditioning, 2 bedrooms, 1 full kitchen, 1 full bathroom, and a fire place," shares Jessica S. about Oconee State Park.
Tips from RVers
Satellite challenges: Tree cover at most campgrounds limits satellite reception. "Being regular tent campers, we understand that sometimes you are at the mercy of your neighbors," notes Jay B. about camping at Oconee, though he adds this particular campground has good cellular service.
Site levelness: Many campgrounds in the mountains feature uneven sites. "Be aware, however, that camper pads on the odd-numbered tent sites (5, 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15) are not level, but Sites 1 and 3 plus the even-numbered sites have level parking pads," advises Lee D. about Gorges State Park Campground.
Access roads: Some campgrounds require navigating steep, narrow roads. "While the spot is very level, be very weary that the drive up to this spot is steep and curved. We barely made clearance with a 23' trailer that has a lift kit on it. This spot requires backup skills and the right equipment," warns Adam V. about certain sites at Mile Creek County Park.
