Glamping accommodations near Scaly Mountain, North Carolina range from forested riverside spots to lake-view luxury tents at elevations between 2,800 and 4,000 feet. Most of these upscale camping options operate seasonally with peak availability from April through October, though winter visitors can find year-round glamping sites at several campgrounds near the Nantahala National Forest.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The 3-mile Winding Stairs trail connects to Cherry Hill Campground and leads to Big Bend Falls on the Chattooga River. "I've camped here three times and never seen it full. Winding Stairs trail connects to the campground and offers good hiking. Just across the street is the Big Bend trail which takes you to Big Bend falls on the Chattooga River," notes Tony E.
Navigate stairs and bridges: Experience the 1,099-step descent into Tallulah Gorge at Tallulah Gorge State Park. "The hiking is fun but intense. Be prepared for lots of stairs, a bridge over the water, and rock hopping across the water," reports Jamie M. The suspension bridge provides unique views of the cascading waterfalls below.
Fishing and swimming: The Tallulah River offers accessible fishing and swimming spots just 3 miles from Tallulah Gorge. "Incredible river to fish and swim in," shares Sarah R. about her riverside campsite at Tallulah Gorge River Campground. Fishing permits may be required depending on the season.
What campers like
Proximity to multiple outdoor destinations: Campers value the central location for exploring various natural areas. "Great spot for all kinds of boating and water sports. Close to other parks with waterfalls and hiking trails," mentions Meridith M. about Oconee State Park.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Regular maintenance makes a difference to visitors. "The bathhouse was nice, and clean, and a little walk from our site. We love the upstate, so we went to see the nearby twin falls. Well worth the trip, an easy drive and hike in to this spectacular waterfall," notes Jay B. regarding his stay at Keowee-Toxaway State Park.
Family-owned operations: The personal touch at smaller campgrounds stands out. "Lou meets you at the office and guides you to your campsite and politely offers to guide you in. We used his help and he guided us in to an inch of the cement pad for our front porch," writes Nick W. about his experience at Pines RV Park and Cabins.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "We only paid $12 for a one night stay at the campsite. Verizon cell service is POOR on the primitive camping side," warns Molly A. about Ralph J. Andrews Campground, though service is better in other areas of the park.
Water level changes: Lake levels can fluctuate significantly. "Make sure to check the water level; I've had to help push boats back into the water a few times and there has also been instances when our canoe floated off when the water rose," cautions Maggie J. about her lakeside camping experience.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds don't accommodate late arrivals or walk-ins. "The only way I was able to get a site was by reservation. Eventually, I got a site, but the process of having to reserve online ahead of time is frustrating," explains Myron C. about Cherry Hill Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for tent pads: Level tent sites make family camping more comfortable. "The campsite I was at had a level tent pad, which was gravel. There was a picnic table and a freeze hydrant for water," reports Myron C. about Cherry Hill Campground, though he notes that some hydrants may not work.
Ask about activities: Unicoi State Park offers diverse family options. "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. The trail isn't too far and it has just enough woods to feel like an old school camp," shares Diane G.
Consider cabin options: Cabins provide family-friendly comfort. "We spent 2 nights in one of the cabins in this beautiful state park during a road trip through South Carolina. The cabin itself was very well kept. There was air conditioning, 2 bedrooms, 1 full kitchen, 1 full bathroom, and a fire place," describes Jessica S. regarding her family's stay at Oconee State Park.
Tips from RVers
Level site challenges: Many RV sites require careful positioning. "When we got to the park after hours and was worried we would have to hunt down the host, but he was very prompt and welcoming. Only complaint was campsites were not wide enough. No matter how we did it our steps to the trailer came right in front of the giant cement table, which was nerve wrecking with little kids," advises Amy F. about The Great Outdoors RV Resort.
Consider arrival timing: Some parks have strict arrival policies. "If you are not there by 5pm, they will not park you so don't plan to arrive after work on a Friday and hope to spend the long weekend," cautions Angie G. about The Great Outdoors RV Resort. Plan to arrive during daylight hours for easier setup.
Assess hookup locations: Check the placement of utilities before committing. "Hook ups are old but well maintained. The campground has tent to big rig spots and about a third of the sites are filled with year round or seasonal campers," notes Nick W. about Pines RV Park and Cabins.
