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Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground, near Franklin, North Carolina, is a fantastic spot for groups looking to escape into nature. With spacious sites and large pavilions, it’s perfect for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers.

The campground is equipped with essential amenities like warm showers and clean restrooms, making it comfortable for everyone. Visitors rave about the massive fire rings and the nearby Nantahala River, which is great for fishing. As one camper noted, “The kids ran in a large field from sunrise to sunset,” highlighting the fun atmosphere for families.

For those who love hiking, you’re in luck! The Bartram Trail runs right by the campground, offering stunning views and access to nearby fire towers. Plus, the peaceful, remote setting means you can truly unwind without the distractions of cell service. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your RV, this campground is a solid choice for a memorable outdoor experience.

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Location

Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground is located in North Carolina

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Franklin, NC follow US 64 west and turn right at the LBJ Corps/Wayah Bald sign. Take the first left beside Loafer's Glory gas station onto Wayah Road (SR1310). This goes over Wayah Gap and passes Nantahala Lake. After passing Lake's End Store take first right onto Junaluska ROad (SR 1401), toward Andrews for about 2.5 miles to the campground entrance. Be sure you have the combination to the lock.

Coordinates

35.22461173 N
83.66001175 W

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Connectivity

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    No Coverage
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    Verizon
    No Coverage
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    AT&T
    No Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Wesser Bald Fire Tower

Wesser Bald Fire Tower

21 min away

Wayah Bald Shelter

Wayah Bald Shelter

30 min away

Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups

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Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 14, 2020

Great and remote group camp!

Our friend planned a group family camping trip here.  We had an amazing time and are planning to make this an anual trip  There are 4 group sites that are all pretty big with plenty of space to spread out.  They allow 1 RV per site which is how we camped (17ft TT) but there are no hookups or dump station.  Each site has a large pavillion, massive fire ring, water spigot and toilets.  There is a bath house with warm showers on site.  Near the campsites is a large field that all the kids ran in from sunrise to sunset.  The Nantahala river runs through the campground for fishing and Bartram trail for hiking.  The AT is also near by and several hikes bring you to fire towers for amazing views.  This site is very remote (no cell service) and was very peaceful and relaxing.

SiteSite B
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground by Jeffrey S., September 14, 2020
  • Review photo of Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground by Jeffrey S., September 14, 2020
  • Review photo of Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground by Jeffrey S., September 14, 2020
Reviewed Jun. 15, 2019

Very quiet

This was a cool campground. There was nobody at the office when we arrived we did not have reservations. The note on the door just said to find a campsite and set up and just come to the office in the morning. There is absolutely no cell phone service. Backing the pop up in was rough as we had to back up hill into the site on wet grass but we made it.

Reviewed Jul. 7, 2018

Best campground!

This is definitely my favorite campground I've ever camped at. My church used to do a youth camp up here every summer and the grounds are spacious, providing pavilions, showers, firepits, and water spickets. It's in a beautiful location, very close to the mountains and the Nantahala river. Definitely worth it!

Reviewed Aug. 26, 2016

Very spacious and beautiful!

Appletree was a wonderful campsite with lots of room and area to camp. There was also a large field next to the camping area that could be used for various activities. The facilities (covered picnic area, bathrooms) were great. The ranger who manages the site was incredibly friendly as well. Would definitely recommend. Great hiking right from the site as it is located right on the Bartram Trail.

  • Review photo of Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground by Ethan K., August 26, 2016
  • Review photo of Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground by Ethan K., August 26, 2016
  • Huge field area!
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Reviewed Jun. 6, 2016

Riverside

The campgrounds are very nice and spacious and have huge fields that are great for groups.

  • Review photo of Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground by Asher K., June 6, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I see photos of Appletree Campground before visiting?

You can view photos of Appletree Campground by checking the campground's official page on the National Forest Service website. Additionally, camping platforms like The Dyrt feature user-submitted photos that show the campground from a visitor's perspective. Social media platforms and review sites often contain images that can help you get a feel for the campground's layout, facilities, and surrounding environment. For the most current visual information, contact the Nantahala National Forest office directly, as they may have recent photos or can direct you to official resources.

What facilities are available at Appletree Group Campground in NC?

Appletree Group Campground offers excellent facilities for campers. The campground features covered picnic pavilions, bathroom facilities, and shower houses. Water spigots are available throughout the grounds for easy access. You'll also find fire pits for evening campfires. The campground provides spacious camping areas alongside large open fields perfect for group activities. While the facilities are well-maintained, note that there are no hookups for RVs, though one RV is permitted per site. The campground is managed by a ranger who is known to be friendly and helpful to visitors.

What camping options are available at Appletree Campground?

Appletree Campground offers four spacious group camping sites that accommodate both tent campers and RVs. Each group site allows one RV but without hookups or dump stations. The sites are generously sized with plenty of room to spread out, making them ideal for family gatherings, church groups, or other organized camping events. The campground features large adjacent fields perfect for activities and games. These well-designed group sites can host multiple tents and provide a communal camping experience in a beautiful mountain setting near the Nantahala River.