Forest camping in North Carolina with swimming

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Outer Banks, your adventure is waiting.

95% (9415 reviews)
95% (9415 reviews)

Popular camping styles for North Carolina

Available this weekend

Under $50

12 top forest campgrounds in North Carolina with swimming

99%
(954)

The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres · Yadkinville, NC
Our new BATHHOUSE is now completely functional with toilet, sink and SHOWER!! 🛖 It is centrally located in front of the office at the pond. WE LOVE OUR CAMPERS! ❤ Our new CAMP STORE offers meats and eggs from our farm, drinks, Amish made ice cream and jams/jellies/preserves, hammocks, hammock chairs, smoked dog bones, soaps (made right here), and MUCH MORE! Please note that all our sites are reserved with a one vehicle limit. Some sites are large enough to accommodate additional vehicles but each additional vehicle will incur a $10 per night charge. Free parking for additional vehicles is located at the office/store. Check us out for your next camping experience. We promise we will do everything within our power to make it great! Two new nicely wooded sites with pond view are now available to provide easy access even during periods of heavy rain. One is already set up with a new shade tent so you don't even have to bring your own! 🏕 Looking for a camping experience with a little luxury to boot? Look no further than our Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms! You can drive right up to most sites, weather permitting. You will have access to a fire ring and picnic table (located at each site), firewood for sale on site (please do not bring firewood from off-site), clean well water (located near the pond), the creek to explore, our stocked pond to fish, and wooded trails to hike. Once roamed by Native Americans and now farmed by the same family for over 6 generations, Harmon Creek Farm is a working farm of over 150+ acres. Peace, quiet, tranquility and privacy are overflowing along the creek, and hiking throughout the hills on the backside of the farm (and on the other side of the creek) leads to interesting and abundant flora and fauna. The stocked, spring fed pond is 'brimming" with angler challenges🎣 Our cows, pigs, sheep, donkeys, chickens, ducks, quail, and geese are all eager to meet you, as are we! We currently have fresh eggs, pork and beef for sale on site as well. Like us on Facebook (Harmon Creek Farms of NC) for the latest on what's going on here at the farm. :)
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$21.60
 / night
99%
(387)

TangleWood Creekside Campsites

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents170 acres · Marion, NC
A rocky creek winds through the woods at the base of several hikable peaks hidden just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Wildlife enthusiasts are encouraged to explore, on foot or mountain-bike, anywhere within our 170 acres (or the adjoining 250 acres owned by the US Forestry Service off our Western border) and are likely to catch glimpses of turkey, beaver, deer, fox, eastern box turtle and the many species of songbird and raptor. The location is convenient to tons of local attractions for sightseeing and outdoor activities as well as shopping, dining, even wine tasting. We would be happy to supply a comprehensive list of the various local attractions upon request but the following are a few of our favorite things to do within a short drive: visit Linville Falls, Caverns, Gorge and/or Winery; drive the Blue Ridge parkway; tube/kayak down the Catawba river; hike beautiful Crabtree Falls; cross Grandfather Mountains mile high bridge and explore the nearby towns of Spruce Pines or Little Switzerland. The scenic drives to Asheville, Blowing Rock or Banner Elk make them each wonderful day-trip destinations.
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$40
 / night
99%
(1316)

Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents95 acres · Waynesville, NC
Voted 2nd in NC!! We are a Mangalitsa farm in The Smoky Mountains of western NC. The entire property is oriented toward private farmland views, a half mile of river and surrounding mountains. It's really quite remarkable to be so accessible yet feel so remote! Come swim, fish, cook and play! Check out www.smokymtnriverranch.com for more information. PLEASE NOTE, our rate is based on the number of vehicles in your group. The first vehicle is included in the nightly rate and admits 4 campers. WE CHARGE FOR ADDITIONAL CARS. The charge will be added to your booking once you select the number of vehicles at checkout. Please note that each additional car admits four campers. For EXAMPLE, 2 cars = 8 campers total. If you only have two cars but more than eight people, YOU MUST select the "Extra Person" Extra for each night they are camping. Please select these extras at checkout. If you have questions about this PLEASE message me prior to booking. Our 95-acre farm was once owned by the Davis family who predominantly raised dairy cattle. We now raise the wooly Mangalitsa pig and sell to the best chefs and restaurants. We sell our pork at the farm too! All of our campsites are next to running water except the two hilltop sites. Two porta-potties are on the farm and private porta-potties are available for rent. Groups of eight or more are required to rent a porta potty should you not bring your own toilet system with you. We do not allow the use of our small wooded areas as toilets. Please review the Extras options as we offer river lifts, firewood and dog stays; thank you! Quiet hours are from 10pm to 9am. Checking in before 5 pm is requested. Later times may be available with prior arrangements. Our farm is very dark and navigating at night is difficult. Please contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. NO CHECK-INS AFTER DARK. We are 1 mile off of I 40, 17 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 15 min. to Maggie Valley, 10 min to the Elk at Cataloochee, 25 min to Cataloochee ski area, 10 min to Lake Junaluska and 15 min to downtown Waynesville. Asheville is 20 miles to our East.
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$51
 / night
99%
(185)

Candy Mountain Goat Farm

10 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Murphy, NC
Our six-acre solar-powered goat farm is a quiet and peaceful slice of paradise away from the chaos and noise but close to so many places to adventure. Hurricane Helene completely missed the farm. Everything looks fantastic with trees ready for the fall colors. Feed and play with the goats, picnic along our grass-covered brook, hang out around the large fire pit, and rejuvenate while being close to the many Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountain activities. We have two custom-built RV pads with 15 and 30-amp service plus water and four grass tent locations overlooking a small brook in a forest-shaded park-like setting. Internet is provided by Starlink Business - high speed, low latency, and great for remote workers. We provide solid service throughout the entire property. Work from the top of a mountain!! IP service is available throughout the property - perfect for Van Life or van living. 200-300 down and at least 20-30 up!! Nearby are numerous hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, and other outdoor activities such as tubing, white water rafting, and boating. If you want to chill, you can check out a local swimming hole. For the next few months we have a kayak guide on-property who can take you and your group through some of the lakes and streams nearby. Contact us for availability and pricing. We have several options for our guests at the farm, including a small zipline, farm activities, loop trail, massage services (20+yr licensed), spring trail, wine tastings, weekly outdoor movies (on request), and our petting area where you can interact with very friendly goats. RV/CAR/VANLIFE We can help by recommending and using local mechanics, on-site RV repair (they come to us), solar and power troubleshooting, and good old-fashioned southern kindness. STORMS/BAD WEATHER Located on the campground is a tiny home shed that is being converted to a studio but is open and available during harsh weather.
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$15
 / night
98%
(201)

Creek side

4 sites · Lodging, Tents18 acres · Hot Springs, NC
Picturesque meadow on what once was a tobacco farm. All campsites are waterfront along the year round babbling creek. Stocked with trout three times a year. Property located very close to Max Patch for hiking or just to watch the amazing sunset. Each site comes with a fireplace, picnic table and charcoal bbq. Porto potty and outdoor shower on property.
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$25
 / night
97%
(97)

Appalachian Pond Campground

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Waynesville, NC
Get back to nature at this incredible private campground nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina! This tranquil campground offers a peaceful place to unwind while listening to the wonderful sights and sounds of nature at its best! There are 11 unique and cozy campsites to choose from as well as a shower and portable potties. This campground has a pond for fishing and swimming, a creek running along the campsites and is surrounded by the most magnificent and beautiful foliage and wildlife! Prepare to have the most peaceful sleep under the glorious celestial stars of Western North Carolina! *We also have a sink for dishes alongside the shower house as well as a drinkable well water spicket in the back of the campground! *We are also located close to stores for your convenience as well as many nearby attractions! * Please contact us regarding pets before booking… *We recommend checking in before 10 pm…. The property gets really dark and hard to navigate at night without being shown where to go! If for any reason you will be getting here later please inform us upon booking so we can plan for your arrival! *During the months from November to April we cannot guarantee our shower will be operational due to freezing temperatures. However, during warm periods during those months we do have our shower available. If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of life and return to the simplicity of nature this is your spot! We hope to see you soon!!
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$27
 / night
99%
(132)

Asheville Area Luxury Solo RV'ing

1 site · RV1 acre · Fletcher, NC
Asheville Area Luxury Dwellings offers a gated year round solo RV site with full hook ups, firewood, kindling, bike wash or pet wash station, and trash service provided by your host in the nightly rate. ADDITIONALLY, you can enhance your stay by adding any of the FIVE EXTRA AMENITIES before checking out. Extras which are available for a one time fee are onsite which include a partially covered lighted outdoor shelter with a grill, bar sink, bar stools, and infrared heater above the couch to warm up on those chilly nights. This outdoor covered porch can be added to your stay in the extras sections if you so choose. The hot tub and outdoor shower are also available for rent for a one time charge under the extras section. Working remotely? Add wifi in the extras section. Rv'ing with a friend? No problem, you can add one additional RV to your booking. Our site can accommodate two large rigs. If these items are not needed then you can still use the site only at the nightly price. Remember, your nightly rate includes a bike wash or pet wash station to clean up after a day of exploring the Asheville area, firewood, kindling, and trash service are always included in your nightly price. 0ur site is only 10 miles to downtown Asheville and 8 miles to the Biltmore Estate. Come relax by the outdoor fire pit and listen to the sound of the natural spring flowing down the mountain. Come enjoy our RV site in beautiful Asheville Area. We are glad to offer a one of a kind private mountainous solo RV site.
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$65
 / night
100%
(175)

Mountain Creek Rest

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents41 acres · Robbinsville, NC
Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic campsite for 2! There is a new, large tent pad if you have children! Islandsite is an equally beautiful tent site ideally for two, but the 10x12 platform can accommodate a 6-man tent, best for 2 adults and a couple of kids! The Diamondstone site is a unique, beautiful, one-of-a-kind tentsite, EXCEPT a beautiful, furnished, shelter cabin is provided for you instead of your tent!!! Leave your tent and set-up at home! There is also room for a tent and your children out front, right beside the creek! You won't want to leave, but if you do there are many recreational opportunities in the area such as hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, and more! Stays of 6 days or more get a big discount! Enjoy the fresh, cooler mountain air, and the beautiful, private settings! Heartstone is located on a modestly pitched, terraced slope where a divided mountain stream, the tumbling Squally Creek rejoins itself! The sunlight filters down through the forest canopy providing a warm, inviting glow!! There is a 9'-6" x 10' wooden tent platform, and if needed a new, larger tent pad! Islandsite is located at the top of the island where the tumbling Squally Creek divides! Access is provided by the 40' long fallen tree bridge! Islandsite is unique, private, and very romantic! Diamondstone, Heartstone, and Islandsite feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility all within a short walk from your private parking! Enjoy evenings at the new fire pit area with benches overlooking the fire pit and creek! Explore the island on the 400' island trail, or go downstream to a nice pool for dipping! Contact me for discounts when staying more than 6 nights! The gravel road is uneven, and 5" of clearance is recommended. Extra guests are an available option! The property is spacious and there is parking for a second vehicle nearby if needed!
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$39
 / night
97%
(46)

Trout Lily Creekside Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Weaverville, NC
This sweet 4 acre property lies on a gorgous s-turn of Reems Creek, 1 mile from downtown Weaverville. There is a porta-potty provided and a hose attached to our house campers are welcome to. We have 3 large, friendly dogs who you will definitely meet. So, dog lovers only. Reems creek is known for it's great trout fishing so bring a fishing license and your poles! The water is pristine and great for swimming as well. Fire ring and wood, swings, hammocks, and corn hole provided.
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$36
 / night
99%
(140)

Spruill Conservation Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Roper, NC
(Note: Fireworks, crackers, sparklers, garbage burning are not permitted) Tip: check out the 'Phases of the Moon' calendar in photos before booking! Formerly: Spruill Farm Conservation Project The Spruill Farm belonged to the Spruill Family for over a hundred years and has just been set up as conservation easement protected land. It includes hardwood forest, swamp, a beautiful swimming beach* on the Albemarle Sound - one of the largest freshwater sounds in the world-, acres of farmland, vegetable garden and perhaps the largest fig orchard for hundreds of miles around. The purpose of the Spruill Farm is to further environmental research, promote ecological education and sustainable practices, and provide access for the public to the ever-diminishing shoreline experience. Please enjoy the incredible sunsets and woodland views, while respecting the serenity of this unique gem on the inner-banks. Wildlife on the property include Red Fox, River Otter, and 95 species of birds, including Bald Eagles (2 nests on the farm), nesting Osprey, Wood Ducks. Visit the 'Spruill Farm Conservation Project' on inaturalist(dot)org to see all 95 species, and upload any images from your observations. Because it is a nature preserve, please read the guidelines and rules closely if you choose to book with us. *Note: the shoreline changes with the wave action and the seasons. This makes the Bobby Wilkins shoreline trail so beautiful- always changing. If your expertise and interests coincide with the mission of the Farm, feel free to propose collaborative projects to julia@thepeanutfactory.org
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$35
 / night
99%
(74)

Bull Mountain Ridge

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Asheville, NC
The site's first appeal is the amazing view of Bull Mountain Ridge. Beautiful all year long, but particularly in late October when the leaves are in their richest colors. The site is roomy for small to mid-sized RVs and offers a private water hook-up, 30 amp, and 20 amp power outlets. It feels private and tucked away, but is very accessible to all of what the Asheville area has to offer. Downtown is a 15 minute drive; ride services and shuttles* are both easy to secure and quite affordable. Additional parking is available for a fee. The backdrop of the site is forested and easy to relax in - the understory is maintained for guest use, providing cooling shade with a stunning view. I usually try to say hello to folks and make sure they get settled in alright, but let me know if you'd prefer just to come in and have privacy. Don't feel the need to come to the house unless you can't get a hold of me via text and you need assistance. I may not be available when you arrive, but I'll try to get back in touch with you as soon as I'm able. *If I am available, I can offer boat, bike, and hike shuttling for a fee. I also have a one-person kayak, and a two-person canoe that are usually available and camping gear. Contact me beforehand if you are interested in renting any of these items. **Please be aware that this section of North Carolina has a particularly large population of American black bears. Any food stuffs, or other "smell-ables" will potentially attract bears. Refer to: https://www.nps.gov/articles/bearsafetyfood.htm ...for proper treatment of potential attractants.
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$34.40
 / night
99%
(455)

DuPont Bike Retreat

15 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Brevard, NC
DuPont Bike Retreat is located 1/4 mile from the Fawn Lake Access area into DuPont State Forest. The DBR is 37 acres and has a pond with a dock and numerous camping sites available. The property used to hold Glass Feather Studio, which was a glass art studio and is now Glass Feather Lodge. The mountain view from the indoor porch is amazing and there are several places to relax and enjoy this view. There is an outdoor shower and bike wash station behind the lodge and two indoor bathrooms (one with shower) off the porch. The lower Pond Area of the property has a port-a-john near the pond. Starter bundles of firewood are included, and additional can usually be purchased on-site. Come enjoy the forest straight from your campsite!
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$50
 / night

Dog-friendly getaways

Star Hosts in North Carolina

Value Prop
Value Prop

Forest camping in North Carolina with swimming 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.

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