Best Tent Camping near Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee

If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent near Cherokee National Forest, look no further. Find the best information on tent camping near Cherokee National Forest, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Cherokee National Forest (74)

    Burkley W.'s photo of tent camping at Hot Springs Campground near Hot Springs, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Hot Springs Campground near Hot Springs, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Hot Springs Campground near Hot Springs, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Hot Springs Campground near Hot Springs, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Hot Springs Campground near Hot Springs, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Hot Springs Campground near Hot Springs, NC

    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
    Dana W.'s photo of tent camping at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cosby, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cosby, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cosby, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cosby, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cosby, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cosby, TN

    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

    Avery M.'s photo of tent camping at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground near Pisgah National Forest, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground near Pisgah National Forest, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground near Pisgah National Forest, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground near Pisgah National Forest, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground near Pisgah National Forest, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground near Pisgah National Forest, NC

    3. Mount Mitchell State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    83 Photos
    316 Saves
    Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina

    Mount Mitchell State Park Family camping (camping near Charlotte)

    The nine-site family campground is open from May 1 to October 31 with full facilities. Each site is equipped with a grill and picnic table. Restrooms for use during warm seasons are located nearby. Showers and hot water are not provided.

    Pack-in camping

    Campers may leave vehicles in the park overnight to backpack into the Pisgah National Forest. Visitors who leave their vehicles in the park must register on the forms provided at the trailheads near the parking area or at the park office. Leave the form on the dashboard of your car. Mount Mitchell offers a choice of trails from which to enjoy the nearby alpine woodlands.

    Ready to Reserve

    It's not uncommon to encounter black bears at Mount Mitchell State Park, particularly in warm weather months.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Anita L.'s photo of tent camping at Pisgah National Forest Dispersed near Barnardsville, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Pisgah National Forest Dispersed near Barnardsville, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Pisgah National Forest Dispersed near Barnardsville, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Pisgah National Forest Dispersed near Barnardsville, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Pisgah National Forest Dispersed near Barnardsville, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Pisgah National Forest Dispersed near Barnardsville, NC

    4. Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    29 Photos
    521 Saves
    Barnardsville, North Carolina

    The Pisgah National Forest is a land of mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls, and heavily forested slopes. Comprised of over 500,000 acres, the Pisgah is primarily a hardwood forest with whitewater rivers, waterfalls and hundreds of miles of trails. This national forest is home of the first tract of land purchased under the Weeks Act of 1911 which led to the creation of the national forests in the eastern United States. It is also home of the first school of forestry in the United States, now preserved at the Cradle of Forestry in America historic site, and boasts two of the first designated wilderness areas in the east. The Pisgah, Grandfather and Appalachian Ranger Districts are scattered along the eastern edge of the mountains of western North Carolina and offer visitors a variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains. Camping and Day-use Information Enjoy camping or a picnic at one of the many day-use areas. A list of camping and day-use areas in the Pisgah National Forest can be found here Recreation Maps Nantahala & Pisgah National Forest Maps Directions to Frequently Requested Places NC Arobretum and Bent Creek Area Blue Ridge Parkway South Blue Ridge Parkway North Pisgah Ranger District Cradle of Forestry Cradle of Forestry (Scenic Route) The Biltmore House Mt. Mitchell Be Safe The national forests in North Carolina offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. From the mountains to the sea, there are many exciting adventures awaiting your visit to these national forests. Please keep in mind that all outdoor recreational activities on the Croatan, Pisgah, Nantahala and Uwharrie national forests, including activities at recreation sites, have inherent risks due to the natural setting in which they occur. Always remember, your safety is your responsibility. Waterfall Safety for the Summer.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Sarah V.'s photo of tent camping at Big Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Hartford, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Hartford, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Hartford, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Hartford, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Hartford, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Hartford, TN

    5. Big Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    14 Reviews
    62 Photos
    187 Saves
    Hartford, Tennessee

    Overview

    Big Creek Campground is located in a remote portion of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Backcountry camping in a front country setting. There are flushing toilets and potable water. This is a tent only campground with a short walk from the parking area. The beautiful flowing waters of Big Creek parallel the campground offering the visitor a pleasant soundscape and peaceful beauty. Big Creek is an oasis for hiking, swimming, wildlife, fishing, and relaxation.

    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. The Big Creek area offers some of the most challenging hikes within the Park. Baxter Creek trail begins near the campground and with an elevation gain of 4200' from trail head to the summit of Mt Sterling provides a strenuous work out for the strongest of hikers. The nearby Big Creek trail offers a pleasant hike along the waters of Big Creek with a beautiful waterfall along the way. Local anglers agree that Big Creek offers some of the best trout fishing in the area. Fly fishing is particularly good during spring months when aquatic insects hatch in large numbers. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 black bear living in the park, it is 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

    Located at an elevation of 1,700' Big Creek Campground is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and a pristine mountain stream. Black Bear sightings are not uncommon and some lucky visitors may spot River Otter playing in Big Creek.

    Nearby Attractions

    Nearby attractions include the Cataloochee Valley, Newport, TN, Cosby Campground, Hartford Whitewater Rafting, the Appalachian Trail and the Max Patch/Pisgah National Forest.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (423) 487-2683.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Creek Ridge Camping near Hot Springs, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Creek Ridge Camping near Hot Springs, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Creek Ridge Camping near Hot Springs, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Creek Ridge Camping near Hot Springs, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Creek Ridge Camping near Hot Springs, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Creek Ridge Camping near Hot Springs, NC

    6. Creek Ridge Camping

    4 Reviews
    18 Photos
    191 Saves
    Hot Springs, North Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents

    $15 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Old Forge Recreation Area near Cherokee National Forest, TN

    7. Old Forge Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    9 Saves
    Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee

    Are you looking for a primitive tent camping experience? Come stay at this small campground located along the banks of Jennings Creek. Large walk-in tent sites are screened by native vegetation. In the early 1900’s, this area was the site of an iron forge. Iron ore was smelted and made into materials for the railroad operation that harvested timber in the area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo at USA Raft Adventure Resort near Erwin, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at USA Raft Adventure Resort near Erwin, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at USA Raft Adventure Resort near Erwin, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at USA Raft Adventure Resort near Erwin, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at USA Raft Adventure Resort near Erwin, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at USA Raft Adventure Resort near Erwin, TN

    8. USA Raft Adventure Resort

    3 Reviews
    15 Photos
    12 Saves
    Erwin, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    Linda L.'s photo of tent camping at Bald Mountains near Flag Pond, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Bald Mountains near Flag Pond, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Bald Mountains near Flag Pond, TN

    9. Bald Mountains

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    24 Saves
    Flag Pond, Tennessee

    View from Appalachian Trail on Big Firescald Knob Most of the area is remote backcountry, including Bald Mountain Ridge Scenic Area and Sampson Mountain Wilderness. Roads are limited, but forty-plus miles of trail access the forest. The area is known for its diverse populations of wildflowers and a number of waterfalls, including 60-foot fan-shaped Margarette Falls and Sill Branch Falls. Try fishing Nolichucky River, Horse Creek, Dry Creek and Clark Creek. Horse Creek and Old Forge Recreation areas offer picnicking, water play and camping. Bald Mountains Map Bald Mountains Guide

    • Tents
    • Group
    Sydney B.'s photo of tent camping at Harmon Den Area near Hartford, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Harmon Den Area near Hartford, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Harmon Den Area near Hartford, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Harmon Den Area near Hartford, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Harmon Den Area near Hartford, NC
    Camper-submitted photo at Harmon Den Area near Hartford, NC

    10. Harmon Den Area

    6 Reviews
    18 Photos
    78 Saves
    Hartford, Tennessee

    Harmon Den is on the Appalachian Ranger District in the vicinity of exit 7 off of I-40. The area is a haven for hikers and horseback riders. It offers 54.5 miles of trails with 14.2 miles of trails designated for horseback riding and 40.3 miles for hiking. ACTIVITIES Camping Hiking: Trail Difficulty Easy: Route is easy to find and follow; trail has less than 8 percent grade; length is less than 3 miles; trail is mostly flat with few rocks. Moderate: Route may or may not be blazed; most of the trail has a less than 20 percent grade; length is usually between 2 and 8 miles; trail may be rocky and have stream crossings. Difficult: Route may require pathfinding skills; most of the trail has a 20 percent or steeper grade; length is usually more than 8 miles; trail is rocky and uneven and may have stream crossings. Horseback Riding: No trace horse hints: Take only fit, calm, experienced animals. Stay on the trail, and ride in a single file. Water horses at natural fords or from a bucket. Keep stock tethered at least 200 feet away from streams and away from trails and campsites. Avoid temporarily tying stock to trees. Use a highline with tree-saver straps to tether your animal. This prevents stock from trampling roots and chewing bark. Break up and scatter manure and fill in pawed holes when breaking camp. Pack some grain, since grazing is limited. Be certain that feed is weed-free to prevent noxious plants from spreading. Hunting: Part of Harmon Den in Haywood County, NC and the area north of US 25/70 to the Tennessee State line are bear sanctuaries where bear hunting is not allowed. Outside the sanctuaries, hunting is popular for bears as well as for deer. While the US Forest Service manages wildlife habitat, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission regulates hunting seasons and limits. A state license is required for hunting. Every hunter should get a copy of the Regulations Digest from the commission by calling (919) 662-4381 , select "regulations". Picnicking Wildlife Viewing Horse Camping: No trace horse hints: Take only fit, calm, experienced animals. Stay on the trail, and ride in a single file. Water horses at natural fords or from a bucket. Keep stock tethered at least 200 feet away from streams and away from trails and campsites. Avoid temporarily tying stock to trees. Use a highline with tree-saver straps to tether your animal. This prevents stock from trampling roots and chewing bark. Break up and scatter manure and fill in pawed holes when breaking camp. Pack some grain, since grazing is limited. Be certain that feed is weed-free to prevent noxious plants from spreading.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 74 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Cherokee National Forest

1616 Reviews of 74 Cherokee National Forest Campgrounds


  • Laura E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Nolichucky Gorge Campground
    Aug. 21, 2024

    Nolichucky Gorge Campground

    Nolichucky gorge campground fun

    My teen daughter and I had a last minute midweek opportunity to go tent camping and they were so accommodating and friendly here. Beautiful riverfront grassy tent sites are serene and peaceful. Highly recommended

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Creek Campground
    Oct. 16, 2016

    Moonshine Creek Campground

    Moonshine Creek Campground

    Owners are very friendly. Our tent campsite was very secluded, included a fire pit, picnic table, over looking deck, running water and electric. Loved hearing the running creek from our tent site. Very clean bathrooms. Highly recommended!

  • Jill G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Campfire Lodgings
    Jun. 5, 2021

    Campfire Lodgings

    Excellent location, views, & amenities for tent campers

    We stayed at Tent Site #3 in late May and early June. We have stayed at the campground twice before. We love coming back here because of the great amenities, location, and access to activities. 

    1. The amenities are great for the kind of tent camping we like to do: electric & water at each site, central bath house with individual bath suites that are cleaned regularly, and a dish washing station. 

    2. The location is excellent - you can get to downtown Asheville in 10 minutes! 

    3. The views are amazing - so many mountains and the French Broad River!

    Our pup loved the trails at the campground. I would recommend you not picking tent site #3 (the picnic table was not level) or #4 because they are right across from each other and there isn't a lot of privacy between the two. I would definitely pick tent site #2 if you want to be closer to the bath house or #5 if you want to be farthest away from the other sites.

  • Kirsten J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Linville Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
    Jul. 8, 2018

    Linville Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    Remote, gorgeous, starry campsite!

    Remote, quiet family friendly campground. It is a basic campground with both tent sites and hook-ups. We enjoy tent camping here on the large field where fireflies light up the night sky! There are sites that are close to water so you can fall asleep listening to the gurgle of the creek - and sites near the woods. The bathhouse includes toilets and sinks with a hand dryer. You can drive to the falls or drive to the visitor center and hike to the falls - a great campground!

  • Nancy R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Linville Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
    Nov. 7, 2021

    Linville Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    Great Campground Best Showers

    We camped in this quiet and comfortable campground for 4 nights. We really appreciated the warm shower rooms, large, clean and private. Though we have a 28’ Open Range with shower and septic hookup, we preferred the shower rooms. There is a beautiful area for tent camping with lovely tent sites. And some were occupied by campers who braved a couple of below freezing nights and the first snowfall. The owners are so friendly and helpful you feel like a long-time neighbor. Fully functional septic, electricity and water. Well maintained.

  • V
    Camper-submitted photo from Roan Mountain State Park Campground
    Jun. 10, 2018

    Roan Mountain State Park Campground

    Roan Mountain in June

    Sites #1-40 are for tent camping and the rest are for RVs. We camped with tents in the RV section because it was all that was available. It was definitely tough to find places to put our tents in our site (86), but the designated tent sites were large and flat. It was pretty crowded while we were there and campsites are close together.

    The campground has lots of amenities—a pool, amphitheater, camp store with firewood and ice for sale, flush toilets, laundry machines, etc. They put on lots of fun activities like group hikes and educational talks. We went to the see the live music at the amphitheater Saturday night and it was charming. There are lots of hiking trails you can walk to, but we didn‘t have time to check them out.

    The highlight of the trip was hiking the grassy balds starting at Carver’s Gap. Get there early! Parking was tricky when we got there at 9:30am and impossible when we left around 2pm. The scenery was absolutely beautiful. Overall a nice weekend in Roan Mountain State Park!

  • Nate C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Creek Campground
    May. 17, 2020

    Moonshine Creek Campground

    Nice spot for families

    Moonshine creek is a nice campground with something for everyone. Minutes from the parkway for hiking, 2 miles away from a creek on the WNC fly fishing trail, and plenty of space to get out and walk around the grounds. Nice, well stocked camp market, many bathrooms around the grounds, and laundry/shower facilities that were very clean. The creek runs right through the middle of the campground and can be heard from any site you are on.

    Multiple options for tent camping, but we chose the ones away from the creek due to them having shelters over the tent pads to set up under. We stayed at site 62 which had plenty of room for the tent shelter and two vehicles. We brought an 8 person tent that was a little big for the shelter, so we had to turn it sideways leaving the tent exposed to the elements. Unfortunately the fire pit was directly behind the shelter, and we chose not to have a fire on our site because of the fire hazard it posed. Even if we had we chose to start a fire there would’ve been little chance that 6 of us could’ve gathered around it. The pit was small and was backed by a steep embankment, and the side had a large tree in the way. There were other tent sites near the the creek that had shelters, but we had a truck with roof top tent that we wanted on the same site, and that just wasn’t possible with the parking situation for standard tent sites. For those, there is an unloading area with wagons to load in with. 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.

    The ‘waterfall’ on property is kinda silly. It’s a culvert pipe coming underneath the train tracks. I’m sure it sounds nice at night, but it isn’t pretty to look at. Also, there is a playground that had the kids excited, but it only consisted of a couple of baby swings.

    The badminton/volleyball area was nice. It’s right near the group camping area which was wide open. Gave the kids plenty of room to play. The camp office had racquets and volleyballs to use. The creek was nice for the kids to play in. The pond is not for fishing or swimming.

    All in all it was a nice place. Very clean and family friendly. Would like to return again, but hope the fire pit situation could be remedied.

  • Lori H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee Dam Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
    Jun. 2, 2020

    Cherokee Dam Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)

    Pristine camping

    Cherokee Dam campground is literally one of the most beautiful campgrounds in the area! The grounds are so well-kept, and the lake is just breathtaking. The campground is near town, so you can grab some bbq or hit the local hardware store for anything you need. The campground also had a camp store for essentials. They even delivered firewood to our site.

    The people running the campground were just amazing. So nice and helpful. Most of the sites have lake views. We were in site #36, and we were in our camper. Lots of space, no shade at all in this one. Most of the sites had some shade though. Picnic tables and fire rings at all.

    I’ve noticed the TVA campgrounds don’t have many showers, so I was glad to have that in our camper, just be aware, you might have to wait for one if you are tent camping. The tent sites were awesome, right on the water, and a short walk from the parking lot. If you have a rooftop tent, you won’t be able to park at your site, so you’ll be sleeping in the parking lot, but you could make it work.

    There’s a swimming area, boat launch, and walking trails. This is a great spot to have a great time on the lake!

  • Julia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Campfire Lodgings
    Aug. 23, 2022

    Campfire Lodgings

    Rude Property Manager and BEWARE of BEARS

    This campground DOES have bears who visit the campground for food. There are no bear boxes provided and the property manager, Jason, will assure you it’s your fault if they come into your campsite and you left something out that is square in shape. Anything square apparently, so store everything in your car. He also does NOT want this information shared. He accused my family of chasing away business when we were honest about having seen bears but in fact had encouraged the fellow camper’s they were safe. 

    Tent Campsites leave a lot to be desired.

    Campground is well maintained and view from BATHHOUSE is beautiful, but not from tent sites. 

    Bathrooms leave a lot to be desired. Old, Stained and Mildewed, low lighting and poor ventilation. 

    Note: We left out a cube shaped plastic water jug and lost our tent as a result. We didn’t even complain to management or say a word, but still were treated horribly because when asked, we were honest and told a fellow camper the truth about bears destroying our campsite because of the cube shaped waterjug. We assured them it was our fault. Still the property manager accused us of driving away business. Very Rude. Never listened to us. We packed up and left a day early as that is not the kind of place we wanted to be, or people we wanted to be around.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Campfire Lodgings
    Sep. 15, 2023

    Campfire Lodgings

    Best overlook area

    This campground has one of the best overlook areas I’ve seen. I could sit for hours and stare at the mountains and the French Broad River. Well-worth a stop here just for this. Details: this is a small campground - about 15(?)ish RV sites, plus a few tent sites, some yurts and a rental house. The Premium sites are paved and have fantastic long-range views. The downside to these is that they get the full brunt of the afternoon sun - not a huge downside in winter but absolutely a consideration during the summer! The gravel Deluxe sites are shaded and slightly larger. They’re only a few seconds walk to the community overlook area, which is equipped with seating. The yurts are down a hill and in the woods, so excellent for privacy. The tent sites aren’t the best, in my opinion, and are the furthest from the small (and dated) bathhouse. I don’t think I would choose to tent camp here. They are expanding and adding another dozen rv sites - though I haven’t heard if they also plan to add another bathhouse or expand what they currently have. The wifi works okay, but we stuck to using our hotspot. T-mobile signal was adequate, ATT signal less so. The campground location is very good - 15 min drive will get you into Montfort or downtown Asheville - or into Weaverville in the other direction. It’s also close by the River District. Head over to High Five Riverside Dr to get great coffee or a beer and sit at a table next to the French Broad while you drink it. If you have dogs, there’s a little dog bar down the road called Wag Bar - it was some nice off-leash time for our dogs. An important note: the campground is at the top of a small Knob, so the road up is steep and a little curvy - it is gravel and narrow, so they ask you not to arrive until after 2p in order to ensure that arriving rigs don’t meet up with departing rigs on the road - when that happens, one rig driver will be really unhappy when they have to back up on that road. There is not enough room for two RVs to pass! This was our 3rd trip, and we will return again. We love the peace and quiet and natural feel.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Appalachian Pond Campground
    May. 31, 2021

    Appalachian Pond Campground

    Back to Nature Campground to Get Away from it All

    For tent campers, I would rate this campground with five stars. For RV campers, I would rate it with one star. There are no hookups for RV campers, but there is a place to park a small RV camper that is self-contained. I loved this campground. It is everything you need for tent camping. It is remote in the mountains of western North Carolina and has lots of shade. It has a small pond, it is quiet, and the owners are very nice. One of the owners apologized for the grass being so high, but I assured him it was all right(and it wasn’t really that high). 

    There are several tent sites back in the woods, but they are spacious and not on top of each other. Some of them have access to running water, and at least one has electricity.  There is also a small cottage by the pond, and a camper that can be rented.   At night, all you will hear are crickets, the wind through the trees, birds, and frogs—just the way I like it. This campground truly is off the beaten path. 

    As far as facilities, it has a shower. There is a portable toilet across the path. Although it sounds primitive, which it is, the quaintness of the shower house and the fact that it has both a shower and a portable toilet is good enough unless you are looking for luxury accommodations. This campground may be remote, but it is not far from many hiking trails and sites, including but not limited to Purchase Knob, Hemphill Bald, the old Ferguson Cabin, Cataloochee Valley, the Great Smoky Mountains, and much more. 

    An additional feature is the old barn owned by the same people, which can accommodate special events, such as weddings and other venues in a beautiful rural setting. Would I recommend this campground? Absolutely!!!!… especially for tent campers.

  • Jenny C.
    Camper-submitted photo from North Mills River
    Sep. 4, 2018

    North Mills River

    Great place to tent camp!

    Great place to go tent camping. There are large flat grassy areas are available with places to build a fire . There is also a clean flowing river right beside the tent camping sites. I thoroughly enjoy bringing my dog and spending time here. Know that there are fees for parking and camping.

  • Dave V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Mitchell State Park Campground
    Aug. 29, 2017

    Mount Mitchell State Park Campground

    Lofty Blue Ridge Experience

    Mount Mitchell State Park, highest peak east of the Mississippi...6,684ft elevation... is located on The Blue Ridge Parkway, but it is still a bit of a climb (for foot or vehicle traffic) to get to the summit. https://www.ncparks.gov/mount-mitchell-state-park

    Getting here the day after the solar eclipse, it was still pretty busy...and if you are traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway...speed is only 45 mph, so do your calculations. There are only nine, yes, count them...nine tent camping sites. So reservations are a must if you want a site! The campground is open from May 1 to Oct 31...but if you walk-in to the sites, as in via the trails, you can rent a site amost all year.

    Tent sites are small, but nice. You get a timber lined tent pad, a crushed limestone area with picnic table, wooden lantern post, and a fire ring with flip grate...and a bear secure food storage bin. There are flush toilets between sites 3 and 7... and two water spigots nearby.

    If campsites are full and you desire to hike the trails, you can register your vehicle with office, leave it there in the parking lot and locate a place to make camp along the trails. There are also several free roadside sites marked with a brown plastic post with a small tent emblem on them. Ordinarily these are along a stream where you can gather water (filter it!)...but it is primitive (LNT!).

    The park has a restaurant, a museum, gift shop and an observation tower at the summit. Pretty cool that the observation tower is ADA...but steep.

    Check weather reports. These mountains make their own weather. And remember, for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, temperature decreases by 3 degrees (roughly...there is constant debate). So pack wisely. Surprisingly, though reports called for rain...we saw none.

    Great hiking and long mountain views are one of the draws. The walk up the Observation trail is paved but steep, so give yourself some time if you are wanting to capture the sunset. If hiking, there are a myriad of sites that offer maps, levels of difficulty and recommendations. Did I mention that if you are planning to hike for the day...plan and pack for weather?

    A worthwhile place to pitch your tent, but there are also several other campgrounds at lower elevations that also have great trails and more amenities.

  • Rachael H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs Campground
    Oct. 31, 2020

    Hot Springs Campground

    My favorite place

    Across the road from the “resort and spa” that houses the rent-by-the-hour hot spring hot tubs. Situated along the beautiful French Broad River. They offer cabins (primitive to full amenities), RV sites, tent sites with electric, tent sites without and primitive tent sites way at the beach with no tables or fire rings. Plenty of shade and trees. Bath houses. The campground is now gated. The AT runs right in front of it as it passes through the adorable little town. There is a little outdoor outfitter, a couple restaurants... beautiful hikes which ever direction you go.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Winngray Family Campground
    Nov. 1, 2019

    Winngray Family Campground

    Great Campground for RVs and Great Views for Tents

    I had wanted to stay at this campground for several years, and I finally got the opportunity to do so. It looked inviting every time I passed by it. When I looked on the website, it showed tent sites, but most of the sites are for RVs. I was surprised to see that the best sites are along Jonathan Creek. These do not have water or electricity, but that didn’t matter to me. There are tent sites that have water and electricity, but they are behind the office, which is part of the main building. I am guessing that there are well over 100 RV sites. Most sites(if not all) have water, electricity, and sewer hookups. There are not many tangible amenities; there is no pool or playground, basketball court, etc. However, this campground is all about location. Not too far from the campground is Cataloochee Valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Hemphill Bald(mountain and trail), the Cataloochee Divide Trail, and the natural beauty of the mountains. There is also Jonathan Creek, which is known for trout fishing. The tent sites along the creek are beautifully arranged in a line with enough space not to be crowded. Unfortunately, most of them do not have fire rings, but I found one at T5 that did have. I am guessing that the picnic tables at the entrance to the tent sites are for the tents since only one or two tent sites had picnic tables and it is close to the end of the season. My favorite part about the tent sites is that you can sit facing the creek and look at the mountains in the background, although you will see a few houses in the mountains. Another advantage of the tent sites by the creek is that you hear the creek all night long, which drowns out any road noise. This campground is privately owned and not part of a franchise. It is good to see that they still welcome tent campers.

  • Anna R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Creekside Mountain Camping
    Jul. 16, 2018

    Creekside Mountain Camping

    Nice amenities

    This is a good family option with a pool, store, and laundry. The tent sites are removed enough that you can feel private if you need to. Snag a tent site by the creek and enjoy fishing and hopping in the clear water. My son spent hours hopping along the rocks in the creek.

  • Kaitlyn F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier Campground
    Oct. 16, 2020

    Greenbrier Campground

    Not my thing

    So I use this app to find tent camping sites. To me, that’s kinda what a campground is. A good variety of both. This turned out to be mostly RVs and then three tents, one including mine. Needless to say, it was loud. For what it was, it was great. For what I thought it would be, it wasn’t. They have a lot of cool amenities and I will totally come back if I ever get a camper. But I wouldn’t just tent camp there again I don’t think.

  • Pam L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Roan Mountain State Park Campground
    Jun. 1, 2019

    Roan Mountain State Park Campground

    Excellent SP

    I'd have given RM a 5 star review except for the RV sites are small and so close together. We have a small camper, 15" including the tongue and I felt the site too small. The tent sites are lovely., large and more private. Next time we''ll see if we can get a tent site since our camper is so small. No hook ups on the tent sites, but hey we're camping. The staff was friendly and extremely accommodating. We had some severe weather during our visit. 45mph, horizontal rain and a power outage. The staff was right out after the storm to clean up and help out. Our traveling companions were in a tent and their site was in standing water. The staff hauled in gravel and made an elevated pad as well as helping to move the tent. Great service! The area is spectacular and has something for everyone.

  • John G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Campfire Lodgings
    Aug. 20, 2019

    Campfire Lodgings

    Best sunset view from an Asheville campground

    The campground is situated on a mountainside overlooking the French Broad river. Most of the sites are for RVs but they do have an assortment of tent sites. The premium RV sites have the awesome views. The tent site we stayed at had a nice carpet of grass and a good deal of space to spread out. Overall the campground was clean, quiet and a great place to chill out after a long day of hiking, rafting or whatever.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Creek Campground
    May. 20, 2022

    Moonshine Creek Campground

    Great little campground

    Tent sites have a short walk from the parking to the tent sites across the creek. Some are quite remote. They have a few with some lean-to's to get tables or tent out of the weather. A lot of the trailer sites are taken by seasonal campers. The bath-house is very nice and clean, it includes washers and dryers (quarters required). The owner has done a great job restoring the beauty of the creek and planting additional trees natural to the area.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeside Getaway on Douglas
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Lakeside Getaway on Douglas

    Great stopover or getaway

    I was passing through on my way north and this was midway. I picked this site because it met my criteria for quick tent camping and has the awesomely easy instant book feature. More of that please!

    The hosts were really great and what they’ve done with the campsite and what they are working on is amazing. The views of the lake were amazing. There is a sitting area and a dock with paddle sport launches. There is a wash house with toilet and sink but no showers yet.

    I was tent camping. There were tents/yurts for rent. A few other tent campers, a full size RV motorhome and a camper van. There was plenty of room and it was peaceful and quiet.


Guide to Cherokee National Forest

Tent camping near Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Tips for tent camping near Cherokee National Forest

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy the calming sounds of the French Broad River while tubing or kayaking, especially near Hot Springs Campground.
  • Explore the picturesque trails of Cherokee National Forest, with easy access from Old Forge Recreation Area.
  • Visit the charming town of Hot Springs for local food and drinks after a day of hiking, conveniently located near Creek Ridge Camping.

Some prices for tent camping range from $10 to $30

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cherokee National Forest?

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

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Cherokee National Forest?

    TheDyrt.com has all 74 tent camping locations near Cherokee National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.