Discover the best tiny home rentals in North Carolina with campfires

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North Carolina

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12 top tiny homes sites in North Carolina with campfires

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CreekStone in Candler, NC

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Candler, NC

Awesome 360° Mountain Views at CreekStone’s three VISTA360 campsites for small to large RV’s/campers, a tiny home and two tent camping spaces in Candler, North Carolina. Enjoy the mountains and lots of space to roam, hike, pitch horseshoe, enjoy fires in fire pit or simply relax and enjoy the views. All three of the RV/camper spaces have both 30/50 amp electrical power, sewer and water hookup. The tent camping space has toilet facilities, access to water and trash disposal. The tiny home accommodates 2-3 people - perfect for those who want to be close to their camping friends/families but don’t have campers. This property was my childhood home and after retiring, my husband and I moved back to one of the homes on this farm where I grew up. He has since passed and my son, Todd, now helps me maintain the property and assists with ensuring the best experience for our guests. We wanted to offer this space for campers to share the awesome views and this part of North Carolina with others who enjoy nature, outdoors, and all the great things to experience in the surrounding towns. Only a 20 minute drive to Asheville where you can tour Biltmore House, Grove Park, breweries, eat at many great restaurants, enjoy rafting, zip lining and many other outdoor activities. We are 15 minutes from Blue Ridge Parkway with 2-lane, less traveled access road to get there. Bring your bikes and hiking equipment - plenty of room to ride and roam. The old red barn on property has been restored and offers relaxation loft for your enjoyment.

Mountains, hot tub, romantic

5 sites · Lodging60 acres · Bakersville, NC

Not impacted by Hurricane Helene! Our pods (arched cabins) are newly constructed tiny homes, well situated for both spectacular views as well as romantic privacy. Each home has an arched cabin style, cozy, yet well-appointed with a bedroom (queen bed), full bathroom, full kitchenette and living area with sofa and Roku TV. Homes are located close enough to enjoy a campfire with neighbors, but separated enough to enjoy that special romantic evening on your own large deck with spectacular views, or late at night enjoying the stars above. Each cabin has its very own fire pit. All cabins are outfitted with an outdoor hottub. Property is over 60 acres of onsite hiking trails, or find your special spot to sit on a bench and enjoy the view. We are just up the road from the Toe River. The famous Appalachian Trail is just minutes away, as are the Gem mines that made Mitchell County famous. Our property is historic and once a famous location for moonshine production, detailed in the book "Red Hill" available on Amazon. Or Google the "Bakersville Riots". Truly a place to enjoy hiking, or just relaxing on the beautiful large decks.

Firefly Food Forest

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Weaverville, NC

Soak under the stars in one of our spring water hot tubs. Swim laps in our spring water pool. Fall asleep to the sound of crickets and wake to the sound of birds. Camp out in one of our two tiny glamping cabins, your camper van or tent in a hidden 20-acre food forest 17 minutes from Asheville, North Carolina. Your hosts, Brad and Sara, live in the middle of the forest, which is hidden away from our neighbors at the end of our road, up a long-gated driveway. Each campsite has its own firepit.

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Tiny House in Happy Valley

1 site · Lodging300 acres · Lenoir, NC

I moved here from San Francisco, to simplify my life, and accomplish my dreams. The Tiny house was designed and built by architect, Jesse Plaster. It's a unique cozy loft style design, set back in the woods on our property. It's purposely placed next to a creek, with a nice stone fire ring to really enjoy the outdoors. In the cold months, it's heated by a wood burning stove. Also next to the house are logging roads that allow you to hike the Ripshin Mountains. The Yadkin River is near by, and so is Boone and Blowing Rock. If you like mountain biking, bring your bike to ride Kerr Scott, or Zacks Fork trails. Also, check out the workshops at Pattersonschoolfoundation.org They offer sustainable living classes such as cheese making, mushroom foraging, blacksmithing, soap making, kimchi making, etc... Also ask about our private Yoga sessions. Last but not least, there is a wood burning private sauna that your able to reserve.Come enjoy our Happy Valley! Mi casa es su casa!

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Babbling Brook Campground

10 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Moravian Falls, NC

Before the Kerr Scott Reservoir was built, in the 40's and 50's, this neighborhood was a local swimming hole and vacation area. Public buses came from neighboring communities so people could boat, swim, camp, and picnic. While we don't have access to the pond, our part of this land still is calling out to people, 'Come, rest, unload your burdens, and find peace.' When we started this project with Hipcamp, we didn't fully realize that we were reconnecting with the history on this property. So, come, take your shoes off, and wade in the creek. Read a book while laying in a hammock. Sit by the fire and chat with family and friends. Come and participate in our little homesteading project, and leave your burdens behind. LOCAL ACTIVITIES: To the west is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is 30 minutes away. 15 minutes away is Kerr Scott Dam where you can rent kayaks, pontoon boats, as well as other sporting equipment. Fish, go mountain biking on the extensive trails, and hiking. Prayer Mountain is right up the road, about 2 miles away. Heading east, you can find several fine wineries andvineyards that you can visit. There is also a moonshine distillery in town. About a half hour away is an Amish community that has several businesses open to the public, including the Shiloh Bakery and General Store. They are closed on Sunday and Monday. To the northeast, about 45 minutes away, is Stone Mountain. Absolutely fantastic hiking, it is also an old homestead that has been renovated and is open to the public. To the south, there is Rocky Face Park, where there is hiking and rock climbing. Nearby, is Emerald Hollow Mine, where you can go and find, and keep, precious stones you find in the nearby river. There is also a great disk course course, Highland Hills Disc Golf Course, one of the top 25 in the country. There is fun for all ages. Merlefest, the last weekend of April, is a world class Bluegrass festival, is located right in our town. Be sure to look at the activities section below for additional information.

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Redeemers Ridge Retreat

5 sites · Lodging, RVs47 acres · Sparta, NC

Please join us in praying for all who are suffering loss at this time here in western NC. Is 49:13 Elevate your Christian camping/glamping experience to new heights! “Share what you have with God’s people, and practice hospitality” Romans 12:13 Returning to nature isn't just enjoyable; it's also beneficial. Yet, there are times when immersing oneself in nature serves as a means to disconnect from the ordinary and reconnect with God and others, proving to be the pinnacle of rejuvenation! At Redeemers Ridge Retreat, we foster a Christian atmosphere conducive to spiritual, mental, social, and physical reconnection, rest, and renewal. Our aim at Redeemers Ridge Retreat is to provide a personally enriching experience in intimate proportions. Offering a variety of options ranging from secluded and personal to communal and interpersonal, let us know how we can best assist you. (Refer to the individual Properties page for details and to make reservations.) Bookings are now open for 2 Semi-Private RV Sites equipped with all the amenities to accommodate your needs, regardless of your RV's size or model. Coming Soon - the first "Star Gazer Dome" featuringa hard-sided (not vinyl) glamping Ecodome imported from Turkey. Spring 2025: Bookings will open for additional glamping options in “Little Big” Tiny Home, and "The Barn," a restored 1950s barn loft.

Big Cypress Farm

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · New Bern, NC

We are a family farm. Established in the 1970s we have lots of local wildlife and water fowl. We have chickens. A lake that is stocked with catfish,brim and bass The sunsets are incredible. And when the full moon is over the pond it is an amazing sight. You can relax here by the pond or venture out to explore historic down town New Bern ,or head the the beach located in Morehead, Swansboro, and the surrounding areas. Check the local Restaurants and the local shops as well. Throughout the year we are surrounded by many different festivals as well. You can listen to the crickets and the birds chirping, and watch the squirrel as they jump and run from tree to tree.we are close to the beaches and are in close proximity of the national Forrest as well. And there are quite a few golf courses near to us as well. We are a work in progress and would be considered primitive Campground. So if what you are looking for is a place to escape to from every day hustle and daily grind we are you kind of place. So check us out on Facebook and have a blessed day.

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Pink Fox Cove Cabin

1 site · Lodging13 acres · Weaverville, NC

This immaculate small cabin near Asheville is ready to treat you to a luxurious retreat experience. We are located only 15 minutes from Asheville and a few miles from the parkway, surrounded by 14 acres of forest. There is a private hot tub that is all yours! Sauna available upon request. Professional massage therapist onsite as well. The house is hand crafted with unique creative touches for your delight. We look forward to having you! This home was built in 2019 by an expert craftsman with the vision of making it cozy and spacious with sweet artistic details and lots of care and love. The home is 300 sq feet but feels much more grand inside. You will be nestled on 14 pristine acres of forest, with two decks, your own personal private hot tub, and a spring fed creek not too far down the driveway. There is a gas fireplace outdoors on the porch, and an outdoor fire pit for your use as well. The house has a queen size bed in the upper loft, a large twin day bed on the first level, and an extra loft with camping mats if needed above the day bed. The house can comfortably sleep 3 and up to 4 or 5 especially if a couple of them are children or petite people. The house has a full kitchen and bathroom, living room area and two lofts. For now there is a composting toilet that is easy to maintain and we are happy to help you with it if you’re on the land for more than a few days. The main house is about 30 yards up the hill, and although somewhat close, you will have plenty of privacy. We are close if you need us, but we try to give all of our guests ultimate privacy. The house is under a huge magnolia tree, so it stays shaded in the summer and quite cool. There is an AC unit and heaters in the house as well. There is a personal hot tub, which is screened in, and located on the front deck of the house now. You will love it! There is a back deck that is only for meditation, yoga, and bird watching, and we ask that folks stay silent on the back deck if they use it. Pets are welcome at an extra charge of $40 a night. If anything is needed down at the house we are available. Much of the time there is a massage therapist on site, so if you are interested in getting Bodywork please just inquire about prices and availability. There is also a wood-fired sauna on the property, so if you would like to sauna please let us know. And an added bonus is that you are only 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and LOTS of great hiking, great restaurants, bars, coffee shops, art galleries and more. Asheville is 15 minutes from the tiny cabin and Weaverville is 10 minutes away. On any given day you might see a family a deer, turkeys or bears in the front yard. There is a spring fed creek on the edge of the property you are welcome to soak your feet in, and there is incredible hiking just a few miles away. You are welcome to explore the 13 acres of property as well that the home is located on. This is not a place for parties. Our neighbors are about 200 yards down the hill so we try to respect their privacy and keep it quiet. That is why we have made the back deck a retreat/silent deck. Maximum of 4 guests.

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Secluded Mountain Tiny Home & Barn

4 sites · Lodging30 acres · Hot Springs, NC

When you go to sleep, there's no light except the moon and stars, no refrigerator or central heating or air conditioning noise -- only the sounds of nature -- the stream, crickets or frogs in the nearby pond, dogs or coyotes in the distance. Without the glow of a nearby city, the hot tub on a clear night, the skies are dazzling. Speaking of which, the wood-fired hot tub is made by a company called Snorkel. It's perfect for 2 and can fit 3, although tight. It's Japanese style hot tub bathing, meaning no chemicals. Also, since we're not grid tied, it relies on a firebox heating fresh spring water, which you fill it with. It takes approx. 35 minutes to fill the tub and between 3 and 3.5 hours to heat (longer when it's really cold!). There's a thermometer in it, so as it gets closer to your liking (don't let it get over 102 degrees), let the existing logs burn down, choke off the air vent sleeve and hop in. With no pump sounds and the stars above, it's incomparable. The $50 fee (per 2 night rentals) covers thorough cleaning between guests and split firewood. You will be very comfortable in Little Good Egg, even in extreme weather, simply by paying attention and taking more time for simple tasks. It sounds corny, but there is a meditative quality to thinking and doing things like heating water, keeping warm, staying hydrated, eating well and choosing to do what you really want. I'm always amazed how busy I am -- and how different this kind of busy feels -- without electronics and my technological "time savers." Odd as it sounds to say this, it's stunning and wonderful to go "offline," even for just a day, and not get hit by little chirps and incoming messages that seem to arrive now 24/7. Note: Since we opened in October, 2014, guest reviews consistently tell us us best thing about staying at Good Egg is being off the grid and the treadmill of modern life, unplugging from the dominant culture and experiencing oneself as humans did 100 years ago and more. Whether it’s the absence of electricity (in the cabin), the quiet of the country, no city glow in the night sky, or the once common experience of the natural world dominating over human-made or human-crafted things, it’s astonishing for many of us to see and feel and experience without constant communications via text and email and the distractions of modern life. Many people write that they’ve learned an enormous amount about themselves, about homesteading or permaculture, and about alternate ways of being. This Spring (2016), we’ve increased the price a bit reflect more accurately our costs to maintain and improve the buildings & the property as well as carefully and lovingly transitioning it between guests. WARNING: Under North Carolina law, there is no liability for an injury to or death of a participant in an agritourism activity conducted at this agritourism location if such injury or death results from the inherent risks of the agritourism activity. Inherent risks of agritourism activities include, among others, risks of injury inherent to land, equipment, and animals, as well as the potential for you to act in a negligent manner that may contribute to your injury or death. You are assuming the risk of participating in this agritourism activity.” N.C.G.S. § 99E-32(b).

Off-Grid Glamping Sites with Views

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Fruitland, NC

SITE #1 : Experience the exhilarating sensation of living on the edge, perched over awe-inspiring vistas. Our cliffside cabin is an immersion into a world where adventure meets serenity, where you'll feel the embrace of nature and the thrill of the extraordinary. Enjoy complete serenity while being just a short drive away from fantastic restaurants, shops, and attractions. ✔ Partially Suspended over a Cliff! ✔ Comfortable Queen Bed & Sofa ✔ Kitchenette/BBQ ✔ Deck with Scenic Views Nestled on the precipice of adventure, this cliffside cabin beckons those seeking a truly extraordinary ambiance. This one-of-a-kind retreat combines the thrill of being partially suspended over a cliff with the serenity of nature, offering a captivating blend of excitement and tranquility in a setting where modern amenities take a backseat to the beauty of the wilderness. ★ CABIN (BEDROOM, LIVING AREA, KITCHENETTE) ★ Step inside, and you'll discover a world of comfort and coziness. The cabin's interior features a plush queen bed that promises restful nights, while a comfortable sofa invites you to relax and soak in the breathtaking surroundings. The decor exudes mountain charm, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the rugged exterior. On cooler evenings, the mini wood stove adds a touch of rustic romance, filling the cabin with the crackling warmth of a real fire. ✔ Comfortable Queen-Size Bed - BRING YOUR SHEETS AND BEDDING ✔ Cozy Sofa ✔ Mini Wood-Burning Stove ✔ Dining Table with Seating for 2 ✔ Kitchenette Accessories (Spices, Glasses, Plates, Mugs, Pot, Pan) ★ COVERED DECK ★ The cabin's covered deck is an outdoor paradise with a stove and BBQ grill for al fresco culinary adventures. Enjoy the simple pleasure of cooking amidst the wilderness or savor delicious meals at the dining bar, all while perched high above the cliff. This space is ideal for enjoying the fresh mountain air and immersing yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. ✔ Outdoor Kitchen with a Gas Stove ✔ Bar with Seating for 4 ✔ 5-Gallon Springwater Dispenser ✔ BBQ Grill ★ BATHROOM ★ Just 50 feet from the cabin, you'll find a clean and well-maintained Porta Potty, ensuring your necessities are well taken care of. While unconventional, it perfectly complements the cabin's unique setting, offering a private and hygienic space for your needs. The proximity to nature provides a connection to the great outdoors that's both thrilling and serene. ✔ Porta Potty (50ft from the Cabin) ✔ Spring Water Shower (50ft from the Cabin) Escape to this unique cliffside cabin for an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of being on the edge with the tranquility of nature. Don't miss the chance to embrace the extraordinary - book your stay today and create cherished memories in this off-the-grid retreat like no other. SITE #2: Step into a world of rustic elegance, perched atop the Eastern Continental Divide in our delightful cottage. Revel in the artful fusion of stonework and rustic woodwork. While immersed in natures embrace, you're just a short drive away from renowned wineries, exceptional hiking trails, and gourmet dining. ✔ Resting Over the Continental Divide ✔ Comfortable Queen Bed ✔ Outdoor Kitchen & Built-In Fireplace ✔ Expansive Deck with Scenic Views Elevate Your Experience - Reserve Now!! The space Set directly atop the Eastern Continental Divide, our charming cottage invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey. As you ascend the beautifully crafted stonework stairs, you'll be captivated by the exquisite interplay of rustic woodwork and impressive stonework. ★ COTTAGE (BEDROOM, BATHROOM) ★ Inside, the queen bed takes center stage, with the antique cowhide chair at its feet exuding timeless charm. At every turn, your gaze will be met by the awe-inspiring views of the mountains, making this cottage an ode to nature's grandeur. ✔ Comfortable Queen-Size Bed - BRING YOUR SHEETS AND BEDDING ✔ Rustic Cowhide Chair ✔ Mini Wood-Burning Stove ✔ Full-Size Mirror ✔ Night Stands with Lanterns The cottage offers a toilet, shower for your convenience and a mini wood-burning stove that radiates warmth and rustic elegance. ✔ Walk-In Shower ✔ Toilet ✔ Vanity ✔ Essentials ★ DECK (KITCHEN, VIEWS) ★ The spacious deck is your outdoor haven, where the essential kitchen accessories create a unique culinary space with breathtaking mountain views as your backdrop. Cooking becomes an adventure, with every meal a feast for the senses. ✔ Gas Stove ✔ Mini Fridge/Freezer ✔ Kitchenette Accessories (Spices, Glasses, Plates, Mugs, Pot, Pan) ✔ 5-Gallon Springwater Dispenser It’s difficult to find proper words to describe the feeling of sitting on the stone bench by the large fireplace while the sun goes down behind the majestic mountains. ✔ Built-In Charcoal Grill Book your stay and experience the magic of life on the Continental Divide, where every moment is a masterpiece. Guest access The cottage is exclusively yours, without interruption during your stay, so relax, unwind, and make yourself at home. Other than the already mentioned amenities, our home also comes with the following: ✔ Self Check-In (Keypad) ✔ 500watt Solar Generator ✔ Free Parking Other things to note ★ OFF-THE-GRID SITE – ADDITIONAL INFO ★ Living off the grid, surrounded by a breathtaking natural environment, is a truly magical experience. However, there are some things you need to be aware of before you arrive at this dreamy haven. ☆ Electricity ☆ This site is off-grid and not connected to the electric grid. There is a solar-powered generator for cell phones and laptops. 3G is excellent, so you won’t have trouble checking your messages or texting your loved ones. ☆ Steep Access – 4 Wheel Drive Only ☆ Access is well maintained but too steep for 2-wheel drive. If you are coming with a 2-wheel drive car, you can park and hike for about 15 minutes until you reach the cottage. ☆ Kindling & Wood ☆ We supply a crate of kindling and precut wood ONLY for the mini wood stove. Additional boxes are available for $15 (cash or $ transfer). Please note we do supply wood for the outdoor fire pits. ☆ Wildlife ☆ Bears are extremely shy but hungry. Please store all the food. If you are an early riser and quieter, you may see bobcats, foxes, deer, turkeys, hawks, falcons, grouse, owls, and ravens. ☆ Linens &Bedding ☆ Bring your sheets and bedding for the queen mattress, which is hermetically sealed and disinfected for your protection. ★ ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION ON THE PROPERTY ★ Traveling in a larger group, or your preferred dates are already taken? You'll be happy to know that we offer additional unique accommodation on the property. Please browse our host profile for the complete list of gorgeous listings. ★ WEDDING & EVENT VENUE ★ Our properties offer more than just a place to stay; they provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments. For those seeking a picturesque setting for weddings, gatherings, and special events, we offer an enchanting venue that can be rented at an extra charge. Nestled amidst the beauty of nature, our event spaces ensure your celebrations are as unique as they are memorable. ★ CLEANING & SANITIZATION ★ Health, safety, and well-being of our guests are of utmost importance. For this reason, we use a thorough cleaning process after each check-out. ★ PETS WELCOME ★ We love little (and not so little) furry bundles of joy. A pet fee of $35 dollars a night will be applied for guests bringing pets. The fee is to cover the additional cleaning and maintenance required after a pet stays. ★ NO SMOKING INSIDE ★ Please refrain from smoking inside the home! Any smoking evidence will result in odor removal and furniture cleaning fees. ★ NO PARTIES/EVENTS ★ We kindly ask you to treat our home as your own to preserve its pristine condition for future guests and your return visits. Thank you very much for your understanding.

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Valley Bear Farms & Resort

32 sites · Lodging, Tents150 acres · Balsam Grove, NC

If you're looking for a unique way to enjoy nature, Valley Bear Farms is definitely worth checking out. Located just a short drive away from Brevard, NC, this picturesque farm offers a camping experience that's a cut above the rest. Spread out across 150 acres of private forest, our well-appointed cabins and wide-open spaces are the perfect place to unwind, relax, and get inspired. Get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and take the time to reconnect with what really matters. Valley Bear Farms Balsam Grove is a serene getaway spot located in Balsam Grove, NC, just an hour's drive from Asheville. Spread out across 150 acres of beautiful rolling hills and mountains, our resort features four cozy cabins that are perfect for those seeking some peace and quiet. You can explore various nature trails onsite that lead to calming streams, a pond for trout fishing, a scenic waterfall, volleyball and pickleball courts, a private garden, and more. Our cabins are designed to provide you with an immersive nature experience, with multiple windows that offer stunning views of the natural surroundings. The cabins feature a comfortable king bed or two queen bunk beds with fresh linens, as well as a private patio where you can relax and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. You can stay with us for a night or a week, and during your stay, you can recharge your batteries and reconnect with your loved ones. It's more than just camping - it's a chance to experience nature in a whole new way. We have multiple cabins available at our outpost, so your view, layout, and design may vary slightly from the one shown.

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Emberglow Outdoor Resort

61 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents72 acres · Mill Spring, NC

Come enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends in the rolling hills of Western North Carolina at Emberglow Outdoor Resort. We’ve assembled one-of-a-kind lodging options on 72 acres in a beautiful private valley, complete with spring-fed creeks and a night sky of a billion stars. We’re conveniently situated between Asheville, Charlotte, Greenville, and Columbia. Get a closer look at the beautiful Emberglow Outdoor Resort property in our photo galleries and book now to experience it for yourself. An elevated camping experience nestled in the Blue Ridge Foothills of Western NC. A CONVENIENT ESCAPE Located near Lake Lure, a less than 2-hour drive from Charlotte, Greenville, Columbia, and Asheville, we offer our guests a convenient escape from the commotion of the weekly grind. UNIQUE LODGING OPTIONS Pick your unique lodging experience or bring your own. Yurts, AirStreams, Treehouses, and more are available for rent or park your RV or pitch a tent in one of our beautiful campsites. OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS There are endless outdoor activities and attractions in nearby Lake Lure, or you can take advantage of our resort-quality amenities without ever leaving the property. At Emberglow, you can play outside on your own terms, limit your travel time, and disconnect from the daily hamster wheel. Our mission is to deliver to our guests an exceptional place to enjoy the great outdoors with a variety of comfortable lodging options and unique amenities. Book your stay today! EXPLORE OUR Unique Lodging Choose from more than 20 memorable lodging options or set up your own in one of our fully-equipped RV or tent sites, all with access to our resort-quality amenities. • Vintage Campers • Treehouses • Tiny Homes • Yurts • Glamping Pods • Safari Tent • Primitive Tree Houses • RV Rental Trailers • RV Sites • Primitive Tent Sites ON-SITE AMENITIES A resort-quality pool awaits you to kick your feet up. Take on the family in sand volleyball or hit the hiking trails. Emberglow’s premium on-site amenities are just the start of your vacation possibilities. • Resort Quality Pool • Hiking/Biking Trails • Dog Park • Pedal Kart Rentals • Free Wifi • The Jump Pad • Sand Volleyball • Bicycle Rentals (Adult + Youth Sizes) • Sport Fields • Community Fire Pit • GaGa Ball Pit • Playground

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Tiny homes in North Carolina with campfires guide

Overview

Crank up the fiddle-and-banjo tunes while driving through the High Country, where campsites and high-altitude views along the Blue Ridge Parkway are marked by mists and mountains. The parkway rolls up to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, not far from the gorgeous homelands of the Cherokee tribe. Just east in Asheville, the Ale Trail rivals the Biltmore as the top draw, though live music and a fantastic culinary scene are close behind. Drive east to the windswept barrier islands of the Outer Banks for coastal camping, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures that tear across sea and sky. Charlotte, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh anchor the booming Central Piedmont.

Where to go

High Country & the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway passes overlooks, waterfalls, and campgrounds in the rugged High Country of western North Carolina as it swoops south from Virginia. Mount Mitchell State Park, Linville Gorge, and Grandfather Mountain are Instagram-pretty while hiking and mountain biking trails beg to be explored.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park & Cherokee

Stories about Cherokee leaders and 19th-century mountain families add historic context to the mountain-and-forest views in the deep-green Smokies. Feeling social? Hit the welcoming Nantahala Outdoor Center for all-sorts of wild adventures, from rafting to ziplining. The Appalachian Trail runs along the North Carolina and Tennessee border in the national park then veers south through Nantahala National Forest.

Asheville & the Foothills

An easy detour from the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville is a mountain town that’s going places. The craft beer situation is out of control—more than 30 breweries!—while innovative chefs keep the foodie scene abuzz. Chimney Rock State Park, Lake Lure, and gorgeous waterfalls are outdoor highlights in the foothills. Mountain bikers, get your fix in Pisgah National Forest.

North Carolina Coast

Wind, water, and sunny skies set a mood for fun along the North Carolina Coast. For the best all-around beach scene head to the Outer Banks, a 100-mile stretch of rugged barrier islands marked by dunes, fishing piers, and wild horses. Try hang-gliding at Jockey’s Ridge, windsurfing off Hatteras Island, and parasailing and paddling in Corolla and Duck. For close-to-the-beach tent camping, drive south to Cape Hatteras National Seashore or ferry over to Ocracoke Island.