Several designated glamping sites near Whittier, North Carolina sit at elevations between 1,800 and 3,000 feet, creating distinct four-season camping conditions. Most glamping accommodations remain open from April through October, though a few offer year-round options. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing at night, while summer days average 75-85°F with cooler evenings.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls near Cherokee: Visit Indian Creek Campground for easy access to Mingo Falls. "Mingo Falls (a short 0.44 mile round trip hike up 161 stairs, then a relatively level trail to the base of a beautiful waterfall," notes Steve G. The trailhead is just minutes from camp.
Tubing adventures: Deep Creek Tube Center & Campground offers equipment rentals right on site. "You can put in your tube at one side of campground and float to end of tent sites to get out (15-20 minutes total float) or drive up the road a bit to Smoky Mountain Deep Creek entrance for a longer run of about 2-3 hours and end up back in camp," explains Christy C.
Train excursions: Take the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad from nearby Bryson City. "From there you can book a ride on the Smoky Mountain Railroad, or you can drive into the national park down Lake Shore Drive (a.k.a. 'The Road to Nowhere'). It is a pleasant six mile drive and has an overlook to view the beginning of Fontana Lake," writes Myron C.
Fishing opportunities: Try creek fishing at Moonshine Creek Campground where multiple access points let you cast right from camp. "The creek runs through the middle of the campground and has plenty of places to play in the water or sit on the benches provided in the water," shares Betsy B.
What campers like
Tipi accommodations: The tipis at Grumpy Bear Campground feature water and electricity hookups. "The bath houses are kept very clean. The owner is very friendly. The fishing is great and so is the environment," notes Holly S.
Riverside glamping sites: Greenbrier Campground offers premium river-adjacent sites. "Great location on a river, quiet, well maintained… even has a Gatlinburg trolley stop on the grounds so makes day trips into the town easy!" says Richard C.
Private bathroom facilities: Many glamping sites feature improved bathroom access. "Bathrooms we big, but hot water was inconsistent. Cabins were ok, but need some cleaning. Great location in relation to Great Smoky Mountains NP," explains Hannah S. about Cherokee-Great Smokies KOA.
Quiet locations: Smaller campgrounds provide more peaceful stays. "We enjoyed a River side site during the off season and during the week. Was very quiet and enjoyed the River," writes Lea B.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain weather can change rapidly. "Despite traveling during the last weekend in March, we encountered very wet and cold weather for the region, and a warm meal was a welcome bonus," notes Erin H. about Greenbrier.
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for popular glamping options. "Sites are booked in advance through recreation.gov so make sure you book, during nice weather this place is very busy, even during the week," advises Crystal C. about Elkmont Campground.
Bear safety protocols: All glamping sites enforce food storage rules. "Very strict rules regarding food storage and park has managed to control bears and raccoons," shares Kim L. about Elkmont Campground.
Insect preparedness: Bring bug spray, especially after rainfall. "Mosquitoes not much of a problem but there are no-see-ums that can be annoying after a rain but citronella candles(available at store) and bug spray did the trick," explains Steve G.
Tips for camping with families
Choose activity-rich locations: Yogi in the Smokies offers extensive kid programming. "This is a wonderful family campground with lots of activities for kids including tubing, trout fishing, swimming, and an arcade," explains Erin C.
Pack for mountain temperatures: Even summer evenings get cool. "I do recommend the option of renting an air conditioner for the tipi if you are staying in one during the summer," a visitor suggests for more comfortable sleeping.
Plan around peak seasons: School breaks bring increased crowds. "This is a great family campground if you don't require a swimming pool or recreation activities offered by some of the larger franchise campgrounds," notes a camper about riverside locations.
Consider creek access: Indian Creek Campground features tent sites along water. "To have found this place is one of the reasons I love this app so much. This campground is a GEM tucked away from the tourism hustle and bustle. Close enough to be convenient but more than half away for some peace and quiet and a beautifully dark sky full of stars," writes Abby L.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose glamping sites carefully based on your needs. "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," notes Nate C.
Seasonal planning: Consider mid-week visits during shoulder seasons. "We were on a loop that allowed generators but very few were in use. Nice creek runs through campground. Campground fairly close to visitor center and nearby hiking trails but wickedly crowded," writes Kim L.
Hookup availability: Check utilities before booking. "Our site had a nice tent pad next to my picnic table and grill area. It was not the biggest of the sites at the location but plenty large enough for me, and not far from the restroom, which is a personal preference (I don't like to wander around in the dark for long distances because of animals)," explains Crystal C.
