Camping near Cherokee National Forest, TN

Cherokee National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cherokee National Forest, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Cherokee National Forest (383)

    1. Hot Springs Campground

    29 Reviews
    87 Photos
    407 Saves
    Hot Springs, North Carolina

    Come to where Mother Nature waved her magical wand and created one of the most natural of all wonders, Natural Hot Mineral Waters. Heated deep within the earth, these crystal clear carbonated waters are world famous for their mineral content and legendary healing powers. We pipe these waters to modern outdoor Jacuzzi type hot tubs that are drained and sanitized after each use. Hot Springs, located in the mountains of Western North Carolina, and cuddled along the banks of Spring Creek and the French Broad River, is a town rich in history and beaming with natural charm, this town serves as an intersection along the historic Appalachian Trail and is part of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. The heart of Hot Springs, North Carolina, is our 100 acre Resort & Spa. We feature modern Jacuzzi style hot tubs, positioned outside along the tranquil banks of Spring Creek and the French Broad River; our tubs are supplied with a continuous flow of World Famous Natural Hot Mineral Water. We have a nationally certified & state licensed staff of massage therapists on hand to compliment your soaks or for separate service altogether. Located across the road from the Mineral Baths is the Hot Springs Campground. Here you can find peace of mind with ease and comfort. We feature eight primitive camping cabins, over a hundred tent sites (primitive, group & sites with partial hook up) & Full RV Hookups. On site comfort station features hot showers (seasonal) and clean bathrooms. Our beautiful grounds play host to several large events per year and we have the capacity for many more. Whether you’re coming off a long hike on the Appalachian Trail or just passing through, you don’t want to miss the charm and beauty of the Hot Springs Resort & Spa. Hot Springs Resort & Spa also offers other lodging options for those looking for a relaxing getaway. We have four luxury suites that have a Jacuzzi style tub with mineral water in the room. We also have a deluxe cabin with a full size outdoor Jacuzzi style tub.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    2. Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    71 Reviews
    426 Photos
    466 Saves
    Cosby, Tennessee

    Overview

    Tucked in the mountains under a canopy of cool shade beside Cosby Creek. This group campground creates a peaceful and secluded environment for visitors, offering the best that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has to offer.

    Recreation

    Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Cosby Campground, including the Appalachian Trail, just three miles away via the Lower Gap Trail.Hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are also popular activities. White water rafting on the nearby Pigeon River. Top tourist towns of gatlinburg, Sevierville and Pigeon Forge are just 20 miles away. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy.

    Facilities

    Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Cosby Campground, including the Appalachian Trail, just three miles away via the Lower Gap Trail.Hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are also popular activities. White water rafting on the nearby Pigeon River. Top tourist towns of gatlinburg, Sevierville and Pigeon Forge are just 20 miles away. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy.

    Natural Features

    World-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian culture, Great Smoky Mountains is America's most visited national park. Whether blanketed in bright wildflowers in the spring or vivid colors in the fall, the scenery at Cosby never disappoints. At 2,460 feet, Cosby Campground provides a moderate climate, typified by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Great Smoky Mountains National Park preserves a rich cultural history of Southern Appalachia. From the prehistoric Paleo Indians to the early 19th century European settlements, the park strives to protect the historic structures, landscapes and artifacts, which tell the stories of the people who once called these mountains home.

    Nearby Attractions

    Cosby, Tennessee, located about five miles from the campground, offers convenience stores and fuel. Gatlinburg, a one of the Smokies' famous tourist towns, is located about 20 miles from the site, offering visitors tours, organized rafting trips, museums, restaurants, galleries, an aquarium, skiing and more.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Customers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $50 / night

    3. Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    45 Photos
    73 Saves
    Chuckey, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $14 - $32 / night

    4. Roan Mountain State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    204 Photos
    320 Saves
    Roan Mountain, Tennessee

    All of the park’s 106 family campsites have a grill and picnic table and are located near a *bathhouse with hot showers. A dump station is located at the campground check-in. The campground has 86 RV sites with water and electric hookups and 20 tent sites, each with water. The tent camping area does not have electric hookups. There are no sewer hookups in the campground.

    *Off-Season Bathhouse Closures: November 1st through April 15th Bathhouses 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 will be closed during the off-season. The 94 Bath House located in the lower area around sites 10 and 11 will be the only bathhouse open during the off-season.

    Dumpsters and recycling bins are also located at the campground check-in. Wi-Fi is available throughout the campground. A cell phone booster is also located at the campground check-in that Verizon Wireless customers may use to assist with cell service.

    Four group sites, which will accommodate approximately 25 people each, are available. The group sites are located just south of the individual tent-only camping area of the Roan Mountain State Park campground. They have large gravel tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and water spigots at each site. There is no electricity, camping is only allowed on the gravel pads (not in the surrounding grassy areas), and it is approximately a 1/4 mile walk to the nearest bathrooms/shower houses. These four sites may be reserved up to 12 months in advance.

    Located on TN Hwy 143 at the base of the majestic 6,285 Roan Mountain, Roan Mountain State Park encompasses more than 2,000 acres dominated by rich hardwood forest along rugged ridges. The cool, clear Doe River winds its way through the center of the park and supports a healthy population of trout. Wildflowers and wildlife inhabit the hollows and ridges of the Roan foothills in abundance.

    There are 30 comfortable cabins, as well as RV and tent camping at the 106-site campgrounds. Each cabin has a front porch with rocking chairs, fully outfitted kitchen, full bath, wood burning stove and gas/electric heat. Each campsite has a grill and picnic table and is located near a bathhouse with hot showers.

    Visitors can hike along the creeks and ridges, tour the century-old Miller Farmstead or enjoy cross-country skiing in the winter months. There are approximately 12 miles of hiking trails and 2.25 miles of mountain bike trails. Difficulty levels range from easy to strenuous.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $14 - $54 / night

    5. Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina

    60 Reviews
    184 Photos
    13 Saves
    Enka, North Carolina

    Overview

    __Glamping sites are now available at Lake Powhatan! Experience nature and outdoor recreation without sacrificing the comforts and luxuries of home. Choose one of 12 custom designed, fully furnished canvas platform tents in the heart of the national forest for your next mountain adventure, only 10 minutes from downtown Asheville, NC. Learn more about glamping near Asheville . To book your glamping site, click here. Located just minutes from the popular city of Asheville, North Carolina, Lake Powhatan has something for everyone. The campground is convenient to a variety of cultural and natural attractions, including art and music venues, shopping and dining in Asheville, scenic driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway, numerous hiking trails and lakeside recreation.

    Recreation

    Visitors have a number of different activities to choose from. Kids love the lake's sandy swimming beach and anglers enjoy the calm waters for trout fishing. The French Broad River, popular for fishing, is also nearby. Note that use of personal watercraft is STRICTLY PROHIBITED in the lake due to potential introduction of foreign material to the Lake Powhatan riprarian ecosystem. The forest is known for its hiking and mountain biking trails, several of which are located near the campground.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated in a heavily wooded area on the banks of Lake Powhatan in the Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina. The elevation is 2,200 feet. The surrounding land boasts mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls and slopes thickly forested with hardwoods and conifers.

    Nearby Attractions

    Among the more popular nearby destinations are Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, The NC Arboretum and the Biltmore Estate.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (828) 577-7278.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Any cancellations must be taken care of directly with recreation.gov. Note that this facility does not provide refunds for No Shows or incliment weather.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $35 - $110 / night

    6. Asheville East KOA

    52 Reviews
    107 Photos
    219 Saves
    Swannanoa, North Carolina

    Whether you're looking for a peaceful weekend in the mountains or an extended stay in western North Carolina, this KOA is the perfect choice. Head for the city sights of historic Asheville (just 14 minutes away) and tour the famous Biltmore House or shop at the brand-new outlet mall. Take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway and enjoy the breathtaking views. Or you can hike one of the numerous trails to check out the views and even waterfalls. Perhaps you'd prefer to simply relax and stay at your campsite and fish in one of KOA's two lakes. Your kids will love tubing and splashing in the Swannanoa River, which winds its way through the middle of the campground. Other on-site activities include paddleboats, a swimming pool, volleyball, basketball, horseshoes and cornhole. Pool: May 6 - September 11. Max pull thru: 70 feet.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $50 / night

    7. Spacious Skies Bear Den

    57 Reviews
    667 Photos
    222 Saves
    Spruce Pine, North Carolina

    Escape to Spacious Skies Bear Den, your gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains, located within the stunning Pisgah National Forest. Choose from fully equipped RV sites, rustic tent spots, or cozy cabins for your perfect stay. Hike scenic trails to hidden waterfalls, explore playgrounds, the rec hall, or relax by the swimming lake. Conveniently located near Milepost 324.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Bear Den offers easy access to breathtaking views at the Bear Den Overlook and endless mountain adventures. With full hook-up sites, water/electric options, and cabin rentals, we cater to every camper. Enjoy modern comforts like a camp store, bathhouses, and laundry facilities, ensuring a perfect blend of nature and convenience. Book now and experience your unforgettable Blue Ridge Mountain adventure!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $25 - $999 / night

    8. Greenbrier Campground

    70 Reviews
    225 Photos
    708 Saves
    Gatlinburg, Tennessee

    Greenbrier Campground TN is surrounded by the Little Pigeon River and offer RV sites, tent camping, RV rentals, cabins, and bell tents. Located only 6 miles from downtown Gatlinburg and 8 miles from the entrance to the GSMNP, we are convenient to all area attractions.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $258 / night

    9. Baileyton KOA Holiday

    13 Reviews
    40 Photos
    28 Saves
    Ducktown, Tennessee

    Mountains and streams provide the quiet country backdrop for this 50-acre KOA, with quick and easy access from I-81. There's so much to enjoy here: Tee up a bucket of balls at the on-site driving range, swish a pan in the gem mining sluice, cast a line in one of the spring-fed ponds, stroll along wooded hiking trails or join in planned themed activities (seasonal). For your stay, choose from a variety of RV Sites, Tent Sites, Cabins and even a tiny house. Visit historic Greeneville (a half-hour south), home of President Andrew Johnson. Race enthusiasts will discover roaring good fun at the nearby Volunteer Speedway dirt track or at Bristol Motor Speedway (less than an hour away). It's an easy day trip to the theme rides, live music shows and family entertainment at Dollywood. Pool: April 1 - September 15. Max pull thru: 75 feet.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    10. Nolichucky Gorge Campground

    12 Reviews
    17 Photos
    60 Saves
    Erwin, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 383 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Cherokee National Forest

1848 Reviews of 383 Cherokee National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Cherokee National Forest

Camping near Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax in nature, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: The area is known for its stunning trails. Campers love the access to trails like Hen Wallow Falls and the Appalachian Trail. One reviewer mentioned, "It is also probably a 15-20 min walk to the Appalachian trail" at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds are near rivers and lakes, perfect for fishing. A visitor at Hot Springs Campground said, "Great fishing in the Nolichucky River, but very dangerous river, DO NOT SWIM IN."
  • Exploring Local Towns: Check out nearby towns for food and shopping. One camper noted, "Highly recommend the Hot Springs hot tubs, Big Pillow Brewing Co for food/drinks" while staying at Hot Springs Campground.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground highlighted, "Very clean facilities. Friendly staff and quick check-in."
  • Secluded Spots: Many enjoy the privacy of certain campsites. One camper at Roan Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are well maintained and flat on the lower section."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Asheville East KOA offer activities for kids, with one reviewer stating, "There is a pool, playground, gaga ball pit, golf car rentals, fishing and splashing in the Swannanoa River."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Asheville East KOA noted, "It was comfortable during the weekdays, but started to get crowded during the weekend."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell coverage in some areas. A camper at Black Mountain Campground mentioned, "No cell service whatsoever even with a booster."
  • Weather Changes: The weather can shift quickly in the mountains. A reviewer at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground advised, "Be careful with the weather. It can change very quickly."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One parent at Asheville East KOA said, "There are fun events for kids on the weekends."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make things easier. A camper at Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground mentioned, "Do your shopping before arrival, there’s nothing close to the park."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: With kids, it's good to have downtime. A visitor at Roan Mountain State Park Campground noted, "During our mid-week visit it was quiet."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground said, "Pay attention to the site size as some RVs had issues getting their larger RVs in their sites."
  • Be Ready for Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A camper at Asheville West KOA mentioned, "The interstate noise was insane."
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground noted, "The camp store has a small offering of RV accessories and ice for $2.00."

Camping near Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Cherokee National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Cherokee National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 383 campgrounds and RV parks near Cherokee National Forest and 27 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Cherokee National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cherokee National Forest is Hot Springs Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 29 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cherokee National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 27 free dispersed camping spots near Cherokee National Forest.

  • What parks are near Cherokee National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 parks near Cherokee National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.