A one-mile gravel and dirt road leads into Backside Campground, a privately managed property where the Nantahala National Forest backs up to the boundary line. Nightly rates run $25-$75, reservations are available, and the campground allows pets, campfires, and alcohol. Reviewers disagree on site count and layout: one visitor counted six usable sites, while another found the space configured more like two group areas with individual spots sharing a fire ring. Leveling varies, and at least one reviewer noted the portable toilet was heavily infested with insects. A creek runs through or near the property, and the Nantahala River is within reach for whitewater paddling. Book ahead and confirm site layout directly with the owners before arrival.
Description
We can't adequately describe how peaceful it is to listen to creek and the birds while watching the sunset turn the sky purple over the Smoky Mountains at our "Backside" campground. With 6 acres of complete solidarity one mile from the nearest paved road, evenings around the firepit w/ the stars are simply magical! Local activities include cliff jumping at a secret swimming hole, hiking the Appalachian and Bartram trails, waterfall bathing, kayaking on the lake, & whitewater rafting the Nantahala River. There are 6 large tent campsites with 2 shared fire pits, a porta-potty, a fresh water creek, & picnic tables. The lack of Cell Reception means this site is for true adventurers who want to Disconnect in order to Re-Connect with the ones they bring.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBackside Campground at Nantahala is located in North Carolina near Nantahala National Forest
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 38 min from Cleveland, TN
- 1 hr 42 min from Asheville, NC
- 1 hr 58 min from Gainesville, GA
- 2 hrs 32 min from Knoxville, TN









