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National Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Overview Saddle up your horses for a camping trip in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located in the North Carolina portion of the park, this campsite offers miles of horse trails with a breathtaking backdrop. Whether blanketed in bright spring wildflowers or vivid fall colors, the scenery at Round Bottom never disappoints. 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. You MUST have a HORSE to camp at R

US Army Corps of Engineers — W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Overview Keowee Park Shelter is located within Keowee Park at W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir in northwestern North Carolina. Recreation The 1,475-acre reservoir offers excellent boating, canoeing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find channel catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, threadfin shad, spotted bass, striped bass, and hybrid striped bass. Roughly 30 miles of multi-purpose trails surround the lake, including the Warrior Creek trails which are easily accessible from the shelter. All of the trails, including Warrior Creek, are now recognized as some of the best

National Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Overview Situated in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this sunny group camp offers an ideal setting for camping excursions. Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 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, this is America's most visited national park. Recreation Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from shor

National Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Overview Deep Creek Picnic Pavilion, surrounded by pristine mountain streams and clear blue skies, is the perfect mountain backdrop for your party or family get-together. Whether blanketed in bright wildflowers in the spring or vivid colors in the fall, the scenery at Deep Creek never disappoints. Recreation Picnicking is the most popular activity at Deep Creek Pavilion, but visitors also enjoy an excursion to one of three scenic waterfalls in the nearby area. From Deep Creek Campground, walk Deep Creek Trail 0.7 miles to the junction with Indian Creek Trail. On your way you can view elegant T

National Park Service — Cape Lookout National Seashore

Overview Great Island Cabin Camp sits on South Core Banks within Cape Lookout National Seashore, just off the North Carolina coast. This historic, remote camp has long been a favorite destination for fishermen and beachgoers. Because it is only accessible by water, visitors arrive either by personal boat or by reserving space on one of the vehicle ferries that cross scenic Core Sound to South Core Banks. 4WD, high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended due to deep sand on the Back Road and along the oceanside beaches. There are no paved roads on South Core Banks. An Off-Road Vehicle (ORV)

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Cedar Point Campground and Recreation Area is located in eastern North Carolina at the junction of the White Oak River and the Bogue Sound, immediately adjacent to the Swansboro Inlet. It is within 1 mile of full service shopping, and within 2 miles of NC's Crystal Coast and the barrier island beach community of Bogue Banks. The campground is extremely busy and reservations are recommended but must be made 3 days in advance. Of the 36 campsites, 4 are considered first-come, first served campsites that cannot be reserved or held, so a person must physically be there with their camping

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Please be advised: due to health and safety concerns, occupancy within Swan Cabin will no longer be permitted. However, group camping outside the cabin in adjacent grassy field is allowed. Nestled in a remote area of Nantahala National Forest, this primitive log cabin was built in 1931 by Frank Swan in a different location, then later it was moved to its current location near the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness. The cabin and the surrounding meadows are named for the Swan Family, who came to the area from Pennsylvania in the late 19th century. Swan Cabin Group Campsite offers a peac

US Army Corps of Engineers — W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Overview Boomer Park Shelter is located in Boomer Park at W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir in northwestern North Carolina. Recreation The 1,475-acre reservoir offers excellent boating, canoeing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find channel catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, threadfin shad, spotted bass, striped bass, and hybrid striped bass. Facilities This lakefront shelter offers six, 7-foot picnic tables. A water spigot can be found at the shelter but there is no electricity available. You can enjoy other park amenities which include a playground, grill, accessib

National Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Overview Located in the scenic Cataloochee Valley, tucked in a cool and shady canopy, this campground offers the best that the Great Smoky Mountains National park has to offer, including some of the most coveted horseback riding trails in the park. World-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains and the preservation of Southern Appalachian culture, the Great Smoky Mountains is America's most visited national park. You MUST have a HORSE to camp at Cataloochee Horse Camp! Recreation With access to some of the most popular trails in the area, includi

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Arrowhead Campground lies in the Badin Lake Recreation Area, a hub for outdoor activities in central North Carolina's Uwharrie National Forest. The variety of sites in the campground offer a comfortable stay for both RV and tent campers. The facility is open year-round and provides easy access to hiking, off-road vehicle riding, horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing and boating. Recreation Badin Lake Recreation Area offers many ways for campers to enjoy the lake. Popular activities include picnicking on the shore or swimming, boating or fishing on the water. About 40 miles of non

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Wash Creek Horse Camp is a small group area designed for equestrian use located two miles northeast of the North Mills River Recreation Area and Bent Creek of the Pisgah Ranger District. Recreation As part of the Pisgah National Forest, a network of equestrian trails are available in the North Mills River, Trace Ridge and Wash Creek areas and are easily accessible with space for several horse trailers. Hiking, fishing and hunting are popular activities in the area. Some of these trails are shared by mountain bikers. Routes are marked with signs and colored blazes. Facilities The campg

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview North Mills River Campground is a rustic mountain getaway in Pisgah National Forest in western North Carolina. Located just outside the popular city of Asheville, the campground provides access to a variety of cultural and natural attractions, including an arboretum, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and numerous hiking, fishing, and mountain biking opportunities. Winter Operations (November 16, 2025 - March 20, 2026): During winter months, this facility operates with limited services: No running water No electricity Pit toilets only Sites 1-13 are available on a first-come, first-served

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Large groups enjoy this cozy mountain campground in the Pisgah National Forest of western North Carolina. Ample opportunities for recreation exist in the area, including hiking, picnicking, scenic driving, swimming, fishing, mountain biking and more. Recreation This is a great place for campers to simply relax in the woods and listen to the sound of the creek. Visitors can also explore the area's numerous hiking trails, check out crystal clear waterfalls or fish for trout in the creek and a nearby lake. Facilities Kuykendall Group Camp has a shaded camping area for tents and RVs. The

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Sycamore Flats Picnic Shelter is located along the Davidson River on the Pisgah National Forest. This picnic area was named for the sycamore trees which line the banks of the river. The shelter is available on a first come, first served basis from mid-November to April 15th. Reservations are available April 16th through mid-November. Some amenities may not be available during the off-season. This is a popular destination with limited parking, please plan accordingly. Recreation Sycamore Flats Picnic Area offers excellent swimming and wading, trout fishing, and tubing opportunities on

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Rattler Ford Group Campground sits near the swift-moving Santeetlah Creek in the Nantahala National Forest. Groups of up to 25 guests can enjoy the creek, which is popular for fly fishing, as well as nearby Lake Santeetlah, which provides countless water sports and activities. Recreation The campground is located about 2.5 miles from the Avey Branch boat ramp at Lake Santeetlah, which provides visitors access to all types of water-related activities, including fishing, boating, and canoeing. Horseshoe pits and volleyball courts are available within the campground. Visitors can also en

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Balsam Lake Lodge is nestled in the center of the 39,000-acre Roy Taylor Forest within the Nantahala National Forest. The lodge overlooks Balsam Lake and offers spectacular mountain views. The lodge opened its doors to the public when the Forest Service acquired the dwelling and lake in 1982. Since then groups have rented the lodge for meetings, recreation and environmental activities. NOTE: Balsam Lake Lodge is not a campground and has no campsites available for sewer, water, or electrical hook ups. Recreation Near the 8-acre lake are three short hiking trails, several fishing piers

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview The Pink Beds Picnic Shelter is nestled within Pisgah National Forest along the scenic US 276 corridor. It sits adjacent to the historic Cradle of Forestry in America and is set within a lush woodland valley renowned for rhododendron, mountain laurel, azalea blooms, and rare high-altitude bogs—giving the area its iconic name. Recreation As part of the Pisgah National Forest, the Pink Beds area offers excellent opportunities. Visitors can pair a visit to the shelter with exploring the gentle, family-friendly Pink Beds Loop Trail—a scenic 5-mile hike through diverse habitats with boardw

US Army Corps of Engineers — W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Overview The Visitor Assistance Center conference room is located beside the dam at W. Kerr Scott Reservoir in northwestern North Carolina. Recreation The 1,475-acre reservoir offers excellent boating, canoeing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find channel catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, threadfin shad, spotted bass, striped bass, and hybrid striped bass. Miles of multi-use trails, that allow hiking and mountain biking, surround the lake, including the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, which can be accessed from the parking lot outside the Visitor Ce

US Army Corps of Engineers — W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Overview Bandits Roost Campground is located on the south side of W. Kerr Scott Reservoir in western North Carolina. Constructed in the beautiful Yadkin River Valley, the lake offers extensive opportunities for outdoor recreational activities. Recreation The 1,475-acre reservoir offers excellent boating, canoeing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find channel catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, threadfin shad, spotted bass, striped bass, and hybrid striped bass. Miles of multi-use trails, that allow hiking and mountain biking, surround the lake, including the Overmou

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area sits in the scenic mountains of Pisgah National Forest. This is a great place for small to medium-sized groups to swim, fish, tube, hike, camp, picnic and simply relax in the cool shade of the forest. Recreation The river provides endless hours of fun for families and water enthusiasts, including swimming and tubing. Anglers can also try their luck for trout and smallmouth bass from the shore. Picnickers will enjoy relaxing in the shaded picnic shelter set amidst the deep woods. After eating, visitors can take a leisurely walk along a one-mile trail o

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Cove Creek Lower Group Camp is one of two group campsites nestled along Cove Creek in the lush forests of the Appalachian Mountains in western North Carolina. The facility can accommodate large groups of up to 60 people and offers year-round opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing and picnicking in one of the most scenic areas in the state. Recreation Campers can easily relax with a book or deck of cards in the shaded camping area, or seek out activities close by. The area is a hub for numerous hiking, backpacking and mountain biking trails, some of which can be accessed fr

National Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Overview Balsam Mountain Campground is located in a relatively remote part of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The secluded setting offers visitors the ability to enjoy a multitude of recreational activities without the crowds which are sometimes common in other parts of the park. 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 Balsam Mountain area features several trails that are less heavily used compared to other areas of the park. The campground offers a short natur

National Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Overview Big Creek Group Camp is located in the far northeastern corner of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near the Tennessee-North Carolina border. With the gentle waters of Big Creek running alongside the site, and a handful of trailheads within walking distance, this campsite offers an ideal setting for group camping excursions. Recreation Numerous hiking and horseback riding trails are accessible from the campground and in the surrounding areas. Most notably, the Appalachian Trail is easily reached via the Chestnut Branch Trail, a 2.1 mile trail for hikers only, beginning down the

National Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Overview Cataloochee campground is located in the historic Cataloochee Valley--a relatively remote part of Smoky Mountain National Park. The secluded setting offers visitors the ability to enjoy a multitude of recreational activities like hiking and fishing, without the crowds, which are sometimes common in other parts of the park. Recreation The Cataloochee Valley features an extensive trail system that is less heavily used compared to other areas of the park. The two main trails, Caldwell Fork and nearby Rough Fork Trail, run mostly parallel to one another in the central portion of the valle

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Rocky Bluff Campground offers solitude in a wooded setting located just 3 miles south of the quaint town of Hot Springs and the majestic French Broad River. The campground is conviently located off of NC Scenic Byway 209 in the Spring Creek Gorge Area. Recreation Recreation opportunities abound in and around the Hot Springs area. Located on the Appalachian District of the Pisgah National Forest, Rocky Bluff Campground itself is host to three different trail heads. If you are looking for longer-distance hiking opportunities, the famous Appalachian Trail runs right through the town of H

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Located in the Cheoah Point Recreation Area in the Nantahala National Forest, this cabin is part of a campground that includes tent and RV sites. The campground is situated on a peninsula in Santeetlah Lake, surrounded by mixed hardwood forest, and this cabin offers a view of the lake. Cheoah Point Cabin 2 is reservable from April 15-October 31. Recreation Cheoah Point Recreation Area includes a campground, swim beach and boat ramp. Santeetlah Lake is ideal for fishing, power boating, non-motorized boating, sailing, jet skiing and water skiing. Anglers can find bass, walleye, trout, c

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Cove Creek Upper Group Camp is one of two group campsites nestled along Cove Creek in the lush forests of the Appalachian Mountains. The facility can accommodate large groups of up to 60 people and offers year-round opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing and picnicking in one of the most scenic areas in the state. Recreation Campers can easily relax with a book or deck of cards in the shaded camping area, or seek out activities close by. The area is a hub for numerous hiking, backpacking and mountain biking trails, some of which can be accessed from the campground. Hikers

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Badin Lake Campground borders the lakeshore and sits within a shaded forest, offering a year-round retreat for swimmers, boaters and anglers in central North Carolina's Uwharrie National Forest. Badin Lake Recreation Area is a hub for the area's outdoor activities, and the campground offers spacious, waterfront sites for both RV and tent campers. Recreation Badin Lake Recreation Area offers many ways for campers to enjoy the lake. Popular activities include picnicking on the shore or swimming, boating or fishing for bass, bream, crappie and catfish on the water. Anglers and boaters ha

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Harmon Den Campground is nestled on a mountainside beneath a forest of mixed hardwoods in the Pisgah National Forest. The camp is in a secluded area off of Cold Springs rd. in Haywood County, and the individual sites provide ample privacy. The upper loop is reserved for horse campers while the lower loop is reserved for tent camping and small trailers. There are no hookups, no dump station, and no drinking water at this time. There is a vault toilet facility for each camping loop as well as bear-proof garbage cans. The area trails are horse and hiking use only, NO bikes. The campgroun

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Whether traveling with an RV or tent, Standing Indian Campground is a prime place to stop for a night or spend several days in the picturesque Nantahala National Forest. The campground's many amenities provide a comfortable home base for exploring this fun and historic section of the forest. Standing Indian is located within a 20-minute drive of Franklin, North Carolina. Recreation The Standing Indian Basin is a premier hiking destination. The campground provides access to numerous trails, including the world-famous Appalachian Trail, which journeys from Georgia to Maine. Visitors who

US Army Corps of Engineers — W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Overview Berry Mountain Park Shelter is located in Berry Mountain Park at W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir in northwestern North Carolina. Recreation The 1,475-acre reservoir offers excellent boating, canoeing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find channel catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, threadfin shad, spotted bass, striped bass, and hybrid striped bass. Facilities This ADA-accessible lakefront shelter offers six, 8-foot picnic tables. A water spigot can be found at the shelter but there is no electricity available. You can enjoy other park amenities which includ

US Army Corps of Engineers — W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Overview Dam Site Park Shelter is located directly below W. Kerr Scott Dam's visitor center, and features a beautiful view of the dam & reservoir. Recreation The 1,475-acre reservoir offers excellent boating, canoeing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find channel catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, threadfin shad, spotted bass, striped bass, and hybrid striped bass. Miles of multi-use trails surround the lake, including the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, which has a trailhead a short walk from the shelter. An additional 25 miles of multi-use trails ca

US Army Corps of Engineers — W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Overview Warrior Creek is located on the south side of W. Kerr Scott Reservoir in western North Carolina. Constructed in the beautiful Yadkin River Valley, the lake offers extensive opportunities for outdoor recreational activities. Recreation The 1,475-acre reservoir offers excellent boating, canoeing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find channel catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, threadfin shad, spotted bass, striped bass, and hybrid striped bass. The Warrior Creek trail system completely encircles the campground as it scenically follows the fold of the surroundi

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Badin Lake Group Camp offers a fun, relaxing place for clubs, families and other groups to rest and play in the Uwharrie National Forest of central North Carolina. The recreation area is a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, off-road vehicle riding, hunting, horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing and boating. The group campground is open year-round and can accommodate groups of up to 50 people per site. Recreation Groups have easy access to many recreational opportunities at Badin Lake Recreation Area. The lake shore is the perfect place to watch the sunset or enjoy an afte

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Van Hook Glade is a scenic, secluded campground in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest. Convenient for families and anglers, the campground is in close proximity to hiking trails, scenic views, waterfalls and a nearby lake. Recreation Campers can easily relax with a book or deck of cards in the shaded campsites, or seek out many activities close by. A short trail in the campground leads to the Cliffside Lake Recreation Area, which offers six hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate, as well as trout fishing, picnicking and swimming. Boating is not permitted. Van Hook glade i

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Located just minutes from the popular city of Asheville, North Carolina, Lake Powhatan Glamping is the perfect, all inclusive getaway. The campground is convenient to a variety of cultural and natural attractions, including art and music venues, shopping, breweries, restaurants, and scenic drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Onsite you'll enjoy numerous hiking and biking trails as well as lakeside recreational opportunities. Learn more to prepare for your trip HERE . The custom designed glamping sites are brand new at Lake Powhatan! Choose one of 12 fully furnished canvas platform tents

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in 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

US Army Corps of Engineers — W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Overview Fish Dam Creek Shelter is located directly adjacent to W Kerr Scott's Dam. This shelter features horseshoe pits, and has a panoramic view of the reservoir. Recreation The 1,475-acre reservoir offers excellent boating, canoeing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find channel catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, threadfin shad, spotted bass, striped bass, and hybrid striped bass. Miles of multi-use trails, that allow hiking and mountain biking, surround the lake, including the Dark Mountain Trail which can be accessed from the shelter. The Warrior Creek and Over

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Briar Bottom Group Campground is the perfect getaway for visitors to enjoy mountain scenery and easy access to hiking trails. The campground sits at the base of Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, in Pisgah National Forest. Recreation With the South Toe River located near the campground, visitors will have no shortage of things to do, including picnicking, day hiking, scenic driving and trout fishing. Hikers will be pleased with a variety of trails from which to choose, including a leisurely half-mile walk through the forest or a challenging 5.6-mile hike up

National Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Overview Saddle up your horses for a camping trip in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located in the North Carolina portion of the park, this campsite offers miles of horse trails with a breathtaking scenic backdrop. 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 mountain culture, Great Smoky Mountains is America's most visited national park. You MUST have a HORSE to camp at Tow String Horse Camp! Recreation With access to several of the Smokies' popular horseback riding tra

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Located in the Cheoah Point Recreation Area in the Nantahala National Forest, this cabin is part of a campground that includes tent and RV sites. The campground is situated on a peninsula in Santeetlah Lake, surrounded by mixed hardwood forest. Cheoah Point Cabin 1 is reservable from April 15- October 31. Recreation Cheoah Point Recreation Area includes a campground, swim beach and boat ramp. Santeetlah Lake is ideal for fishing, power boating, non-motorized boating, sailing, jet skiing and water skiing. Anglers can find bass, walleye, trout, crappie and bream. The Wauchecha Bald Trai

US Army Corps of Engineers — W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Overview Fort Hamby Park is located on the north side of W. Kerr Scott Reservoir in western North Carolina. Constructed in the beautiful Yadkin River Valley, the lake offers extensive opportunities for outdoor recreational activities. Recreation The 1,475-acre reservoir offers excellent boating, canoeing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find channel catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, threadfin shad, spotted bass, striped bass, and hybrid striped bass. Miles of multi-trails, that allow hiking and mountain biking, surround the lake, including the Overmountain Victory

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

Overview Jackrabbit Mountain Campground offers scenic lakeside camping in the beautiful Nantahala National Forest of southwestern North Carolina. Campers can breathe the fresh air of the forest while enjoying numerous recreation activities, including hiking, picnicking, mountain biking, fishing and water sports at Jackrabbit Recreation Area. The campground contains three seperate camping loops; Loops A is open May - September, and Loop B and C is open May - October. Recreation Lake Chatuge has more than 130 miles of shoreline and plenty of water for recreation. Popular water activities include

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

RV and tent camping, campground host on site.

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

RV and tent camping, campground host on site. Flush toilets and shower are available. Picnic shelter on site.

USDA Forest Service — National Forests in North Carolina

This site is not maintained but can still be used. Campers must hike in to the developed areas, and all sites are primitive. No electric hook ups, no toilets, no running water available.