Established Camping
Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground
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.
Description
Sleep under the Stars. Looking for a campsite for a group of people near the Nantahala River? The four sites at Appletree Group Campground accommodates two sites (A and D) for up to 25 people each and two sites (B and C) for up to 50 people each. Each site has its own picnic shelter, outdoor group gathering area with a fire ring and lantern posts, restroom with flush toilets, water hydrant, designated parking area and a grassy field for tents and activities. The campground offers a shower house. Open April 1 – October 31, the campground is most popular during summer weekends and quieter on the weekdays. Reservations are required at 828-524-6441. Only the occupants have access through a combination lock on the gate. Follow the Trail. Hike near the campground on more than 20 miles of interconnecting loops. Nearby, catch a section of the long-distance Bartram National Recreation Trail, named for William Bartram, an American naturalist noted for his botanical expeditions in the late 1700s. Get in the Water. Avid anglers can cast their lines for rainbow, brown and native brook trout that live in the cold mountain streams near the campground. State fishing regulations apply, and licenses are required for fishing in national forest streams. Nantahala Lake is 10 minutes away. If you enjoy the thrill of whitewater rafting, use your personal craft to raft the lower section of the Nantahala River or use local outfitters’ services. Check out the Sights. From Appletree Campground, you can sightsee along the 61-mile Mountain Waters Scenic Byway. This scenic drive links U.S. 19 and U.S. 64, and it winds through the Cullasaja and Nantahala River gorges, passes Nantahala Lake, Wayah Bald’s restored fire tower, numerous waterfalls and the rural countryside. Be Safe. Your safety is your own responsibility. Check out the brochure.
Location
Nantahala National Forest Appletree Group Campground is located in North Carolina
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
Detours Nearby
Wesser Bald Fire Tower
21 min away
Wayah Bald Shelter
30 min away
Drive Time
- 1 hr 39 min from Asheville
- 1 hr 55 min from Gainesville
- 2 hrs 35 min from Knoxville
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
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
