Small, family-owned RV parks surround Tusquitee National Forest in the western North Carolina mountains. Elevation ranges between 1,500 and 5,000 feet, creating variable camping conditions throughout the seasons. Most RV parks in this area offer concrete or gravel pads with modest spacing between sites, with campgrounds typically situated along creeks or rivers that provide natural white noise for campers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide direct access to stocked trout waters. Hidden Waters RV Park & Campground features a creek where campers can enjoy the sounds of running water. According to one camper, "The sounds of the running water from the creek was extremely relaxing and I slept great. The campground is very quiet and serene."
Mountain driving: The mountainous terrain offers scenic drives through backroads connecting North Carolina and Tennessee. A visitor at Valley River RV Resort reported, "Went on backroads through the mountains yesterday and ended up in Tellico TN. Great staff clean and very user friendly."
Whitewater adventures: Parksville Lake RV Campground serves as a convenient base for rafting excursions. One reviewer noted, "We stayed here for the weekend when we were rafting the Ocoee. Small Campground but perfect if rafting. We were in 35 foot trailer but some tight turns in camp ground."
What campers like
Small, peaceful campgrounds: Many RV parks in the region prioritize tranquility over extensive amenities. A visitor at Foxfire of Murphy RV Park appreciated this aspect: "Small family owned campground located in the NC foothills. Sites are spacious and meticulously groomed. If you're looking for peaceful and cozy, this is the place!"
Well-maintained grounds: RV parks near Tusquitee National Forest often feature meticulous landscaping. One camper at Peachtree Cove RV Park observed, "This is a beautiful, family owned campground. Grounds are impeccable and well maintained, customer service was above and beyond. There really isn't a bad site in the place."
Proximity to outdoor recreation: Campers appreciate the convenient access to multiple outdoor activities. A visitor to Blue Ridge RV Resort shared, "Really enjoyed the peace and quite of the campground, kids loved playing in the creek that the owners have stocked regularly with trout, nice playground and pool for the kids."
What you should know
Traffic noise levels: Some campgrounds experience road noise due to proximity to highways. A Peachtree Cove reviewer mentioned, "The only drawback we've found is the traffic noise, but this is a narrow valley in the Great Smokies so it can't be helped."
Limited cell coverage: Mobile reception varies significantly throughout the region. Top of the World RV campers noted connectivity challenges: "Cell service with T-Mobile not existent. They have WiFi but not very fast."
Mountain road navigation: Accessing some RV parks requires careful driving. One reviewer at Parksville Lake RV Campground cautioned, "Only issue with Parksville lake is that it is a tight drive into the sites. Otherwise nice and quiet campground."
Tips for camping with families
Creek play areas: Several campgrounds feature streams that provide natural entertainment. A visitor at Parksville Lake RV Campground shared: "The small loop is perfect for a family get away. Close Creek and hiking provided plenty of activity for little ones and not overly crowded like bigger campgrounds."
Farm animal viewing: Some RV parks near Tusquitee National Forest offer unplanned wildlife observation opportunities. One Peachtree Cove visitor mentioned, "Deb wants me to mention that she enjoyed watching the cows at the neighboring farm cool off in the river."
Quiet evening atmosphere: Many campgrounds enforce noise policies for family-friendly environments. A camper at Hidden Waters noted, "The campground is very quiet and serene," making it ideal for families seeking peaceful evenings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Carefully consider site dimensions when booking. A visitor at Rivers Edge Mountain RV Resort observed, "Most sites did not have much shade, keep that in mind if booking a stay here during the hot months."
Tent setup requirements: Ground conditions affect tent placement at some campgrounds. An experienced camper at Hidden Waters advised, "If tent camping I would recommend a free standing tent and a good quality sleeping pad. The pads are nice & level but the ground was difficult to get steaks anchored into."
Seasonal planning: Weather significantly impacts camping conditions at different elevations. A Top of the World RV visitor noted the challenges: "Getting to it can be tricky as TN-68 has steep grades and decent curves but is doable for all but the absolute longest if rigs."
