Discover the best waterfall campgrounds near Franklin, North Carolina

United States
—
North Carolina
—
Franklin

97% (3139 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Franklin

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(160)

The Enchanted Forest

6 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Hayesville, NC

Five gravel, flat RV sites with electric and water, by a trout creek and dump site on property! Tiny homes on property, hammocks, fire pit and more. 30 minutes away from Lake Chatuge, local brewing companies, local shopping, wine tasting, local artist displays and Marinas on the lake. Hiking, fishing

Gateway to the Smokies

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Whittier, NC

Private campground featuring two very large campsites on our 2 acre property. The private drive and bridge that crosses over our creek has a security cable that can be locked. We are located right off of Hwy 441. 4 miles to Cherokee, 7 miles to National Park and 8 miles to Bryson City.

At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents36 acres · Balsam Grove, NC

Our property was once owned by Transylvania County Sheriff Carter McCall. 36 acres in the middle of Pisgah National Forest. “Simple Mountain Camping” is our motto. Located approximately seven miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, At the Ridge Campground is surrounded by North Carolina’s beautiful Pisgah National Forest and the North Fork River. Here you can experience what you came to the Blue Ridge Mountains for: crisp evenings, sitting around the campfire, excellent views, relaxing in nature, hiking to waterfalls and fishing, Don’t forget our favorite, just watching the water go by! All at an affordable price.

Pisgah Forest Mountain Meadows

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Pisgah Forest, NC

This 5-acre parcel was part of a larger 17-acre tract/cow pasture that was for sale in the spring of 2017. We had moved to this beautiful quiet country road the year before after spending 15 years in the hustle and bustle of West Asheville. When our neighbor put the land up for sale, we jumped at the chance to protect our view (we live across the street) and own another piece of the heaven we have come to call home. This land has a creek running through it, and is in a quiet, rural, residential area that is a mix of newcomers and families who have lived here for generations. The property has a secluded feel to it while being very conveniently located to the wonderful hiking, mountain biking, and trout fishing this area is famous for. We’re also very close to cycle shops, outfitters, groceries, restaurants, etc. We love it here and are excited to develop our plan for this space. We hope you will love it here too.

97%

(131)

Cherokee Waterfall Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Cherokee, NC

Please read the entire listing because I have updated this page and renovated the property! Pull down a paved road and get out of your car and sit down at a picnic table in front of a private waterfall! This site has a pull through, full hookup spot with 30amp for campers but tents are always welcome or a combination of the two. I've had a 33' camper, popup camper and 6 tents at this campsite all at the same time so there plenty of room for your family and friends! We're 2.5 miles from the Cherokee Casino and 3.5 miles from down town Cherokee If you're tired of crowded campgrounds then you'll love the privacy this campground offers. This is now a two site campground with each site being around 100' away from the other site with trees and vegetation growing in between, you more or less cant see on site from the other from May until November. There is a orange cone that marks the border of the two sites. One set of campers will not be allowed on the other campers campsite, if this happens you will be evicted with no refund. Check in is at 2pm and check out is at 12pm. There is a house and a church on the same road so please drive slowly. No shooting firearms, (although you may hear people shooting firearms because you will be camping in the mountains) but your more than welcome to bring your firearms. Its better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. No fireworks. No making trails or collecting firewood (This is not because I want to sell you firewood, its because I want to have the property remain as pristine as possible) Do not cut down trees alive or dead If you move picnic tables please move them back Dogs are permitted but contact before you book the site to confirm if your dog will be a good fit. If you know your dog barks constantly of other people while camping then it will not be a good fit. I charge for dogs the same as I do for extra guests There is a small Church around 200 yards from the campground. They hold services every Wednesday and Sunday. They generally start around 5pm and it lasts around a hour. If your into that they would love to have you come down. The EBCI opened a dispensary around 3 miles from the campground. It will open to all adults over 21 starting September 7th 2024. Message me with any questions you have

12 top waterfall campgrounds near Franklin

97%

(131)

Cherokee Waterfall Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Cherokee, NC

Please read the entire listing because I have updated this page and renovated the property! Pull down a paved road and get out of your car and sit down at a picnic table in front of a private waterfall! This site has a pull through, full hookup spot with 30amp for campers but tents are always welcome or a combination of the two. I've had a 33' camper, popup camper and 6 tents at this campsite all at the same time so there plenty of room for your family and friends! We're 2.5 miles from the Cherokee Casino and 3.5 miles from down town Cherokee If you're tired of crowded campgrounds then you'll love the privacy this campground offers. This is now a two site campground with each site being around 100' away from the other site with trees and vegetation growing in between, you more or less cant see on site from the other from May until November. There is a orange cone that marks the border of the two sites. One set of campers will not be allowed on the other campers campsite, if this happens you will be evicted with no refund. Check in is at 2pm and check out is at 12pm. There is a house and a church on the same road so please drive slowly. No shooting firearms, (although you may hear people shooting firearms because you will be camping in the mountains) but your more than welcome to bring your firearms. Its better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. No fireworks. No making trails or collecting firewood (This is not because I want to sell you firewood, its because I want to have the property remain as pristine as possible) Do not cut down trees alive or dead If you move picnic tables please move them back Dogs are permitted but contact before you book the site to confirm if your dog will be a good fit. If you know your dog barks constantly of other people while camping then it will not be a good fit. I charge for dogs the same as I do for extra guests There is a small Church around 200 yards from the campground. They hold services every Wednesday and Sunday. They generally start around 5pm and it lasts around a hour. If your into that they would love to have you come down. The EBCI opened a dispensary around 3 miles from the campground. It will open to all adults over 21 starting September 7th 2024. Message me with any questions you have

The Enchanted Forest

6 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Hayesville, NC

Five gravel, flat RV sites with electric and water, by a trout creek and dump site on property! Tiny homes on property, hammocks, fire pit and more. 30 minutes away from Lake Chatuge, local brewing companies, local shopping, wine tasting, local artist displays and Marinas on the lake. Hiking, fishing

Pisgah Forest Mountain Meadows

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Pisgah Forest, NC

This 5-acre parcel was part of a larger 17-acre tract/cow pasture that was for sale in the spring of 2017. We had moved to this beautiful quiet country road the year before after spending 15 years in the hustle and bustle of West Asheville. When our neighbor put the land up for sale, we jumped at the chance to protect our view (we live across the street) and own another piece of the heaven we have come to call home. This land has a creek running through it, and is in a quiet, rural, residential area that is a mix of newcomers and families who have lived here for generations. The property has a secluded feel to it while being very conveniently located to the wonderful hiking, mountain biking, and trout fishing this area is famous for. We’re also very close to cycle shops, outfitters, groceries, restaurants, etc. We love it here and are excited to develop our plan for this space. We hope you will love it here too.

At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents36 acres · Balsam Grove, NC

Our property was once owned by Transylvania County Sheriff Carter McCall. 36 acres in the middle of Pisgah National Forest. “Simple Mountain Camping” is our motto. Located approximately seven miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, At the Ridge Campground is surrounded by North Carolina’s beautiful Pisgah National Forest and the North Fork River. Here you can experience what you came to the Blue Ridge Mountains for: crisp evenings, sitting around the campfire, excellent views, relaxing in nature, hiking to waterfalls and fishing, Don’t forget our favorite, just watching the water go by! All at an affordable price.

Gateway to the Smokies

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Whittier, NC

Private campground featuring two very large campsites on our 2 acre property. The private drive and bridge that crosses over our creek has a security cable that can be locked. We are located right off of Hwy 441. 4 miles to Cherokee, 7 miles to National Park and 8 miles to Bryson City.

99%

(217)

Mountaintop Fantasy

4 sites · Lodging8 acres · Cullowhee, NC

Selected by Outside Magazine as their Favorite Hipcamp in North Carolina and a Hipcamp Finalist in N.C. 2020, 2021, and 2022 and runner up best treehouse in 2023, you can choose among three separate and memorable experiences in our 8 acre compound: 1) a woodsy, peaceful glamping experience with million dollar views in an 6 person tent;; 2) a glampingTreehouse with W/C; and 3) the newly built 2BR 1 1/2 BA private annex to our house. Each can be all yours - this is not a commercial campground. Explore the innumerable trails and waterfalls of the Smokies; fish in the Lake or numerous rivers and streams; swim in the Lake and at the sand beach down the road; rent a pontoon boat; travel the Blue Ridge Parkway; enjoy the shopping and restaurants of nearby Cashiers and Highlands. Or just chill out. These are truly unique high altitude sites with amenities you won't find elsewhere. Both are in a gated "subdivision" that has 60 lots but only 8 houses - the rest is woods and the only place in your vicinity is our cabin. With unmatched mountain and western views, if you like the great outdoors on the mountain and in the woods, This is the place for you and your family. If you like a more camping style with tent (provided), covered camp kitchen, table and firepit ( along with the uncovered ones) check out Smoky Mountain High. Don't like tents? No problem. Check out our Treehouse with kitchen, bunks, grill, cooktop, heaters, W/C and more. Prefer indoor rustic luxury? The Glenville Aerie (4100') is a fully furnished, annex we built for our family, guests and friends who value their privacy. Walkie-talkies to facilitate mountain communications. Board games too. Access to our dock, canoes and kayak? Yep. Adult life preservers provided. Secret nature trail to our kids playground and trampoline. Hammock, kid's swing, hanging chair and dining for 6. Visit with Jake the Cat and our chickens. This area is truly one of a kind spiritual respite. These mountains are justly known for hiking, fishing, water sports, chilling out and forgetting about the Virus, politics and the nuisances of the workaday world. Our goal is to provide you and your family with an unforgettable and magical N.C. mountain experience, while reducing your blood pressure.

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!

The Woods At Sole Farm

1 site · Tent30 acres · Demorest, GA

I purchased this property in 2016 from the estate of Robert Masters. Mr. Master's and his family lived on this property since 1957 in the small red brick house at the road, Green Shutters Cottage, an Airbnb/VRBO. He raised chickens and cattle. The cows are the reason this property looks the way it does with it's magnificent trees. I suspect this piece of property has had cattle on it for 100+ years. Mr. Masters worked at the Historic Habersham Mill down the road as did many of the locals. I have named the farm, Sole Farm. (Sole is Italian for Sun) The house on the hill, my home, is the Villa del Sole. I look forward to having you come and enjoy this beautiful piece of land I call home. Learn more about this land: COVID-19: None of the camp sites are even in sight of one another. The sights are large enough so that you and your fellow campers can social distance from one another. I certainly respect your wishes and will social distance while packing you into your site with the tractor. You will pull into 495 Habersham Mill Rd, Green Shutter Cottage. There is a gravel drive that goes down behind Green Shutters Cottage. There is a Hip Camp sign pointing the way. I will pick you up there with the tractor to pack you in and I will pack you out as well. Vehicles are NOT allowed on the property. You WILL get stuck. Please be courteous and respect my time and let me know when you are going to arrive so that I can be available to assist you. A breathtaking view of the distant mountains greets you as you come on to the property as well as the majestic Villa del Sole, a Tuscan style villa on top of the hill, my home. The land drops away into rolling pastures dotted with ancient trees, some 300+!. The woodlands are filled with wildlife that surround the property where you are completely isolated from the world. There are two creeks that border each side of the property and join together and flow into Lake Habersham then into the Soque, the top trophy trout stream in the southeast. The water in these streams is pure. Please respect this and bring Earth friendly soap for washing dishes. I recommend Dr. Bonner's Pure castile soap. There is a creek by each camp site. The Woodland sites and the Meadow both have streams, fire pits, benches and latrines. I will pack you into and out of your site with the tractor. I do not allow vehicles on the property. You can walked to the sites if you like. I do welcome well behaved dogs. I have two that live here with me, Buster and Rufus. They will probably come pay a visit at some point. Depending on where you want to camp there are three possible campsites to choose from: The Meadow, 2 to 24 campers and, The Woodland site, 2 to 8, The Head Waters, 2 to 6 campers. The Head Waters site is down next to the creek and next to a meadow, very secluded, no latrine. The Meadow is best for larger groups of 8 or more. It is is a medium size meadow with flat ground suitable for spacing a number of tents out. There is a fire pit, grill/grate and three benches. It also has a creek and a latrine. The Woodland site is suitable for 2 to 8 campers but is a bit limited on places to pitch tents. It too has a fire pit, grill/grate, benches, and a latrine. It is by far the prettiest site. It's possible to sit in the creek in areas during hot weather(shallow water and COLD!. You are not completely disconnected from the world here(WIFI) but far enough away to feel isolated and private. In the bottoms, you are nestled in the woods and can see nothing around you but forest, not even the Villa and not the other campers in the meadow. You see no neighbors, houses, lights, etc. Stargazing from on top of the hill is not to be missed. I recommend Sky Watch app. Clarkesville is close by. Ingles is close by for forgotten supplies or a Starbucks fix. Yonah Cafe is great for breakfast and specialty coffees This is a small town, rural area, quiet and slow. There is plenty more to do if you just want Sole Farm camp as a base. Tallulah Gorge is 20 minutes to the north and hiking at Panther Creek. Alpine Helen is a 20 minute drive Many good hiking opps are close by, waterfalls, thrifting. The Chattahoochee is good for canoeing, kayaking and swimming. There are several stables that offer trail rides close by. You are allowed to walk all over the property using the mown paths but please respect the other campers and my privacy. I will be respecting yours.

99%

(77)

Wildcat Outpost

1 site · RV, Tent13 acres · Central, SC

Our homestead is home to our family, chickens, and a livestock guardian dog. We also have a small orchard and a garden. Most of our 12+ acres are wooded and our property backs up to thousands of acres of public forest land owned by Clemson University. A trail connects our backyard to the main network of hiking/mountain biking trails in Clemson Forest. For those familiar with the forest, our property is in the vicinity of Wildcat Technical, Wounded Road, and Chainbreaker trails. As private and wooded as our property is, we are only 10-15 minutes from downtown Clemson and less than 10 minutes from the small towns of Central and Six Mile. Lakes Hartwell and Keowee are also short drives. We currently offer a single campsite, which can accommodate several tents or a camper van. Our campsite features a composting toilet outhouse, and water is available from spigots at our house. Though fairly close to our house, the campsite has a very private feel due to being completely surrounded by a hardwood forest.

100%

(15)

The Quack Shack

3 sites · Lodging2 acres · Brevard, NC

This site is accessed via a short trail through the trees down a gentle, sloping hill, and finally by a short stairway, and as such it may not be easily accessible for campers with limited mobility. Located on the grounds of the Duckpond Pottery, The Quack Shack is a secluded treehouse perched along the banks of the French Broad River. The structure is an 8x10 A-frame that transforms via a hinged wall into an open-air cabana with a charming deck that affords spectacular views of the French Broad River and surrounding countryside. The interior of the Quack Shack, with its vaulted 11-foot ceiling and earthen plaster walls, provides a warm glow in a rainforest environment. It is furnished with a comfortable seating area surrounding a coffee table that can be easily converted to a full-size queen bed at night. On the outside deck are beach chairs and a chimenea available for use. The quack shack has electric power (1 outlet only). Amenities include a bathroom located a short walk away at the main building as well as an open-air on-demand shower located off the bathroom on a deck overlooking the French Broad River. Morning coffee and tea is available at The Tea Hut located just a hop, skip, and jump from the treehouse. NOTE: The Duckpond Pottery is a working studio pottery and gallery that is open to the public. It is also home to occasional open-air house concerts on the deck at the pottery. The host generally blocks concert dates, however, it is worth double-checking with the host that there will not be a concert if you desire a quieter experience.

98%

(104)

Wooded Camping at Pond

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Cleveland, GA

Private camping surrounded by woodland and tranquility just above pond. Helen attractions within 15 minutes near Chattahoochee River: Yonah Mountain, Hiking Trails, Waterfalls, Wineries & Vineyards, and much more! - Upper site is just past gated entrance and perfect for tents and small campers. - Lower site (seasonal) is very unique, tucked into hillside. 4WD is recommended for lower site. * If bringing a RV or small camping trailer, please read details about size limits.

98%

(83)

Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents108 acres · Cullowhee, NC

Four years ago I purchased my dream retirement.... 108 acres in the beautiful college town of Cullowhee, NC. Nestled up to the Great Smoky Mountains National park, this property is unique in everything it offers. Riverside on the renowned fly fishing river, the Tuckasegee River, or ridge top on Cullowhee Mountain, elevation 3850'. There are improved camp sites, a yurt, or free range camping and hiking. The fall views are spectacular, wherever you decide to locate. We implement " Leave no trace" rules and welcome respectful 4wd access to our ridge top. We are currently endeavoring agroforestry techniques to respectfully harvest the bounties of the woodlands in our Living Mountain Farms online store. Our hope is to one day make this magical mountain sustain those who reside upon the reserve, and provide a most memorable stay for our guests!Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

95%

(65)

Nantahala National Forest

Franklin, North Carolina

98%

(52)

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Blairsville, Georgia

100%

(10)

Black Rock Mountain State Park

Mountain City, Georgia

75%

(8)

Sumter National Forest

Joanna, South Carolina

97%

(142)

Pisgah National Forest

Burnsville, North Carolina

98%

(134)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

100%

(13)

Table Rock State Park

Pickens, South Carolina

96%

(41)

Cherokee National Forest

Mountain City, Tennessee

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Waterfall camping near Franklin guide

Overview

Nestled in the Nantahala National Forest, Franklin is home to tall trees, mountain peaks, and waterfalls with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains that wrap the town. Explore the infamous Appalachian and Bartram Trails, whitewater raft through wicked waters, or scour the lands for rocky treasures. Known as the Gem Capital of the World, Franklin features many mines filled with sapphires, rubies, and other precious stones waiting to be mined. Campers are welcomed throughout the seasons to campsites, glampsites, cabin rentals, and mountain retreats year-round. Whether searching for summertime sun or hoping for snowy slopes, Franklin campers indulge in this nature-filled oasis.

Where to go

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Blending the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an action-packed nature playground north of Franklin. Featuring frontcountry and backcountry campsites, group camping, and horse campsites, campers can hike or horseback ride the surrounding trails from base camp. Cyclists will need to stick to the lower Deep Creek Trail, Gatlinburg Trail, and Oconaluftee River Trail, or enjoy the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road. On any adventure, keep a lookout for black bears, elk, deer, and warblers.

Gorges State Park

Head east of Franklin to Gorges State Park for an epic environment of rivers, waterfalls, and gorges. Offering multiple routes to travel, consider the south route towards Highlands, NC and make a pit stop at Bust Your Butt Falls—a roadside waterfall popular for swimming, sliding, and cliff jumping. Upon arrival, choose from cabins, tent and backpacking campsites, or RV sites (some with hookups). Known for its backcountry recreation, Gorges State Park backpackers and horseback riders can be found forging through the 8,000 acres of temperate rainforest landscapes.

Nantahala National Forest

Step into the largest nearby national forest just moments from Franklin. Offering on-site campgrounds with tent sites, cabin rentals, RV campsites, and group camping, Nantahala National Forest provides serenity year-round. Home to over 600 miles of trails, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and off-highway vehicles are popular throughout the area. With winding rivers and plenty of waterfalls, the forest also hosts fishing, hunting, and white water rafting. Picnic areas throughout the park make this the perfect place for a single-day trip or multi-day getaway.

When to go

Franklin’s unforgettable environment provides campers with adventure every season. Late spring to early fall sees warmer temperatures ideal for tenting, backpacking, and RVs without heat. Reaching average highs over 80°F in the summer months and average lows dropping to the 40s in the shoulder months, campers should plan ahead to enjoy some of the area’s water activities comfortably. The winter months bring highs around 50°F and drop below freezing overnight, so cold weather camping experience or cabin rentals are recommended this time of year.