Discover the best cabin rentals near Morganton, North Carolina with swimming

United States
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North Carolina
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Morganton

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The Waldhaus Resort

4 sites · Lodging60 acres · Barnardsville, NC

Waldhaus Resort is a special place surrounded by the Pisgah National Forrest. Pure nature close to a thriving metropolitan area. We offer the Sawmill and the Summit!I have been an engineer, corporate executive and world traveler all my life. Born and raised in Switzerland I speak German, French, English and a little Spanish. My passion is the outdoors, hunting, fishing and cooking . My other calling is to entertain people which share the same passions. That’s why I created the Waldhaus resort.During the past years, the Sawmill has become my favorite place to spend quality time in what I call "Cabin Living" which I love so much. Nearly every day there is a small challenge, nothing comes easy, but all the coziness and comfort is there. The water is supplied by a spring above the mill. Electricity is generated by solar technology and a generator. All refrigeration and cooking appliances are propane; and so is the basic heat (propane again) - and a very old Jotul wood stove will do the rest. I sleep a lot on the day bed in the living room so the Sawmill can be comfortably rented for up to 4 guests. The outhouse is a thing of the past, just recently I installed a compositing toilet besides the bedroom.We also offer The Summit which is a high elevation, 2-story cabin surrounded by national forest which has evolved into an off-grid living and play space located at nearly 3300 feet elevation on a 1/2 acre flat with an incredible view. There are very private old forest service trails leading directly into the Pisgah National Forest.

Adin`s river cabin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Casar, NC

My property consists of a ridge running east to west with the access road running along the south border. the land slopes up to the ridge for about 300 feet, and then down to the river for about 800 feet. The south side of the ridge has a small pond close to the road. The rest is pasture, and an orchard and small vineyard. The north side of the ridge is old growth timber, and shady and cool. The two cabins are along the river. One is perched on a ridge over looking the river and the other is right on the river. The swimming hole is 30 feet from the lower cabin. There is room for a couple campsites along the river also. The south side of the ridge was a cotton farm decades ago, but was covered in timber when I bought it 12 years ago. The north side has been in timber for the known history of the property.

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Rocky Face Camp

1 site · Lodging25 acres · Valle Crucis, NC

Nature lover’s paradise, song birds, wildlife, creek side, at the pastoral base of Rocky Face Mountain. Creek stocked for 800 feet of private fishing. Quick access to Ski Slopes and hiking trails. Plenty of room to pitch a tent to add extra guests. This is a functioning farm with horses, pigs and chickens as well as agriculture. Tiny house has WiFi, covered porch, attached bathroom- hot shower and sink, port-a-potty, kitchenette, grill and fire pit. Central to Sugar and Beech Ski Mtns, Valle Crucis and Banner Elk 10 minutes, Boone is 25 minutes away.

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joyville, camping site on elk creek

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Deep Gap, NC

Learn more about this land: camping sites on elk creek or smaller creek that feeds elk creek. trout fishing on stocked stream. mountain biking, hiking. 20 min. to Boone. n.c. Hiking trails can be fairly easy or as steep as your goat would like. there are dirt bike trails near by that can be ridden from camp site. come pan for gold in elk creek. Nice swimming hole at site, motorcycle campers welcome.

Mountain View Acres

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Flat Rock, NC

Make some memories at this unique and family-friendly place. Completely remodeled January of 2022. Our cabin sits on 20 acres with beautiful mountain views. Away from the hustle and bustle, but only 30 minutes to Asheville, and close to shopping, restaurants, hiking, rafting, waterfalls, and much, much more! Enjoy getting away as a couple, or with the kids. Just steps away from our game room with pool, ping pong, foos ball, air hockey, darts, and exercise room. Come pet the animals! This 1 room cabin includes 1 King bed, pullout queen sofa, large comfy chair, dining table for 4, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, grill, picnic table, fire pit, cooking essentials, towels, and linens. This cabin is next to a bathhouse. There is a mens and womens restroom. Both restrooms are equipped with 6 showers, 4 stalls, and 8 sinks. You will have complete access to restrooms and showers. You will also have access to the gameroom and exercise room. Across from the cabin is a large pasture and our animals.

12 top cabins sites near Morganton with swimming

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Adin`s river cabin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Casar, NC

My property consists of a ridge running east to west with the access road running along the south border. the land slopes up to the ridge for about 300 feet, and then down to the river for about 800 feet. The south side of the ridge has a small pond close to the road. The rest is pasture, and an orchard and small vineyard. The north side of the ridge is old growth timber, and shady and cool. The two cabins are along the river. One is perched on a ridge over looking the river and the other is right on the river. The swimming hole is 30 feet from the lower cabin. There is room for a couple campsites along the river also. The south side of the ridge was a cotton farm decades ago, but was covered in timber when I bought it 12 years ago. The north side has been in timber for the known history of the property.

Mountain View Acres

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Flat Rock, NC

Make some memories at this unique and family-friendly place. Completely remodeled January of 2022. Our cabin sits on 20 acres with beautiful mountain views. Away from the hustle and bustle, but only 30 minutes to Asheville, and close to shopping, restaurants, hiking, rafting, waterfalls, and much, much more! Enjoy getting away as a couple, or with the kids. Just steps away from our game room with pool, ping pong, foos ball, air hockey, darts, and exercise room. Come pet the animals! This 1 room cabin includes 1 King bed, pullout queen sofa, large comfy chair, dining table for 4, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, grill, picnic table, fire pit, cooking essentials, towels, and linens. This cabin is next to a bathhouse. There is a mens and womens restroom. Both restrooms are equipped with 6 showers, 4 stalls, and 8 sinks. You will have complete access to restrooms and showers. You will also have access to the gameroom and exercise room. Across from the cabin is a large pasture and our animals.

The Waldhaus Resort

4 sites · Lodging60 acres · Barnardsville, NC

Waldhaus Resort is a special place surrounded by the Pisgah National Forrest. Pure nature close to a thriving metropolitan area. We offer the Sawmill and the Summit!I have been an engineer, corporate executive and world traveler all my life. Born and raised in Switzerland I speak German, French, English and a little Spanish. My passion is the outdoors, hunting, fishing and cooking . My other calling is to entertain people which share the same passions. That’s why I created the Waldhaus resort.During the past years, the Sawmill has become my favorite place to spend quality time in what I call "Cabin Living" which I love so much. Nearly every day there is a small challenge, nothing comes easy, but all the coziness and comfort is there. The water is supplied by a spring above the mill. Electricity is generated by solar technology and a generator. All refrigeration and cooking appliances are propane; and so is the basic heat (propane again) - and a very old Jotul wood stove will do the rest. I sleep a lot on the day bed in the living room so the Sawmill can be comfortably rented for up to 4 guests. The outhouse is a thing of the past, just recently I installed a compositing toilet besides the bedroom.We also offer The Summit which is a high elevation, 2-story cabin surrounded by national forest which has evolved into an off-grid living and play space located at nearly 3300 feet elevation on a 1/2 acre flat with an incredible view. There are very private old forest service trails leading directly into the Pisgah National Forest.

Rocky Face Camp

1 site · Lodging25 acres · Valle Crucis, NC

Nature lover’s paradise, song birds, wildlife, creek side, at the pastoral base of Rocky Face Mountain. Creek stocked for 800 feet of private fishing. Quick access to Ski Slopes and hiking trails. Plenty of room to pitch a tent to add extra guests. This is a functioning farm with horses, pigs and chickens as well as agriculture. Tiny house has WiFi, covered porch, attached bathroom- hot shower and sink, port-a-potty, kitchenette, grill and fire pit. Central to Sugar and Beech Ski Mtns, Valle Crucis and Banner Elk 10 minutes, Boone is 25 minutes away.

joyville, camping site on elk creek

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Deep Gap, NC

Learn more about this land: camping sites on elk creek or smaller creek that feeds elk creek. trout fishing on stocked stream. mountain biking, hiking. 20 min. to Boone. n.c. Hiking trails can be fairly easy or as steep as your goat would like. there are dirt bike trails near by that can be ridden from camp site. come pan for gold in elk creek. Nice swimming hole at site, motorcycle campers welcome.

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Charming tiny house on 16 acres

1 site · Lodging16 acres · Fairview, NC

Learn more about this land:20 minutes from the beautiful city of Asheville, this charming 300 square foot rustic hideaway is attached to our home, yet it has own private entrance, private bath with shower, and kitchenette with fridge, microwave, hot plate, and coffee maker. Wifi/AC. Tiny house vibes. Glamping! This truly is the best of both worlds. My husband and I built this ourselves, and we love hosting people. Electric heater easily warms this up in the cooler months. For all seasons!You'll have access to a private hiking trail, and in the warmer months, a swimming pond. Small, but spacious enough for a couple, or quiet party of 3. People always tell us how comfortable they feel here!!We provide tea, coffee and a few toiletries, as well.Comfy queen bed in roomy loft space. Enjoy lots of light, high ceilings, singing birds.Grill is also available on request.Please note, in the bathroom there is an eco-friendly , modern composting toilet by “Natures Head”. This is user friendly and modern (see picture), but does require reading simple instructions the first time you use. We can direct you through it!You'll have your own private back deck to enjoy overlooking beautiful pasture, as well as other delightful features on the property. You can enjoy different spaces on the 16 acres such as a swimming pond by a gazebo, a private hiking trail. Wildflowers and berries in season.Quiet, nurturing, and deeply relaxing. Modern, with a rustic flare. 15 minutes to Asheville. You'll be within minutes to everything you'll love about this area: Blue Ridge parkway (10 minutes) hiking (on premise, on private land, w/ many other hiking trails close by) coffee shop and breakfast spot (5 minutes), breweries and multiple food trucks all close by, restaurants, and any kind of grocery store you'll need.Private, rural studio connected to a restored tobacco barn on 16 acres of family owned land. *Where rustic meets refined. *Lines, blankets, coffee provided.*Eco friendly composting toilet*Private entrance, private bath+ cozy sleeping loft.*Perfect for a couple; couch can be converted into a single bed for one additional guest.*Modern kitchenette with coffee maker, hot plate, fridge, and microwave. *Access to private hiking trail + swimming pond.*Enjoy a beverage on a back private deck. *Mountain views w/in minutes.*Under $100 a night.*15 minutes to Asheville.

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Brex View Cottage

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Hendersonville, NC

This cozy home is tucked away but close to everything! It's on a dirt road shared with our property on 5 acres of heavily wooded land and a small creek with small waterfalls. The house offers a full kitchen/living room/dining room combined and a full bathroom and private bedroom. The front deck overlooks the lower lot and creek. The back offers a fire pit, picnic table and chairs and the creek view.

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Rooster Ridge Cabin

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Hendersonville, NC

Rooster Ridge cabin is seven years old. I had it built as a vacation rental, it's my most cozy and comfortable cabin. Centrally located between Chimney Rock and Hendersonville, NC. A 4 wheel drive is not necessary.Learn more about this land:Sensational Cabin Get Away.Looking for a great and affordable getaway in North Carolina? Look no further, this is it! The cabin at 'Rooster Ridge' is a two bedroom, two bath retreat, located mid-way between Hendersonville and Lake Lure NC. Convenient to downtown, Chimney Rock, Lake Lure and Asheville this is the best of both worlds. A private deck off the master bedroom, features a relaxing hot tub spa for your enjoyment. The rustic fireplace and comfortable living area are perfect for movie nights in front of the 42'' flat screen tv. The Cabin at 'Rooster Ridge' is cozy, clean and waiting for you.

Picturesque Cottage on a Beautiful Farm

1 site · Lodging11 acres · Morganton, NC

Born and raised in Morganton, I love calling this beautiful place home. After living in Charlotte and Asheville, NC for nearly 10 years, I convinced my husband, Tyler, to move to Morganton to raise our family. It has always been a dream to start a farm. As a registered dietitian, nutritious, clean, real food is important to me, and Tyler is in his happy place on his tractor or with the animals. It has been so rewarding (and a lot of work) growing our own veggies & fruits and raising animals. It is a joy to watch our kiddos collect eggs daily & understand where our food comes from. We have traded the city life for a much slower pace.Learn more about this land:The cottage at Henry River Farm is your perfect restful retreat. Nestled between the South Mountains and Henry River, the peaceful cottage makes for a tranquil getaway. The studio cottage is equipped with all the amenities including a queen bed, kitchen, full bathroom, lovely little dining table, A/C and TV (with DISH network). Take it easy and relax on the spacious patio while you take in the South Mountain hills. Come enjoy the simple farm life.The spaceLet's talk about the space! Ship Lap on the walls from the floor to ceiling sets the scene, and beautiful hardwood floors line the cottage.The large patio area includes a picnic table, patio furniture, and rocking chairs. Perfect for curling up with a good book and a cup of coffee.Nothing beats the outside charm of the eleven-acre farm. Take a stroll around the space and catch a glimpse of our farm friends including cows, pigs, goats, chickens, and ducks. (*electric fence surrounds the cows and chickens)Enjoy private access to the Henry River for fishing (NC fishing license is required) and swimming.Approximately 15 minutes to downtown Morganton. Less than 15 minutes to South Mountain State Park. Enjoy all the other attractions Morganton has to offer including Lake James, Table Rock, & Linville Falls.Guest accessGuests have access to the river and walking around the farm. We keep the field to the left mowed with a walking path.Other things to notePlease note there is electric fencing on the property considering this is a working farm. Please be aware of electric fencing around the large pasture in front of the cottage & around the chickens.

Casa Nola

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Weaverville, NC

Homesteaders, nature lovers, two and four legged beast tamers and huge fans of laughing. We are a reasonably crunchy family that relocated right outside Asheville NC to build our dream, sustainable, homesteading property and LOVE it. We are big foodies, trained in nutrition, world traveled and a conscientious, mindful familyLearn more about this land:The tiny house was built with a lot of love and a bohemain flare in mind. It is an upscale glamping experience with electricity, a super comfortable Queen sized memory foam bed encased in a mattress protector, small efficiency kitchen to prepare light meals and a huge outdoor deck and outdoor compostable flushing toilet.There is no shower at this time, so please check back if this is a deal breaker for you, as we are in the process of configuring an outdoor shower. We are always working on the landscape, but it is reasonably organic (read as wild!)- tons of berries, fruit trees, nut trees and grapes during the warmer months, which you are welcome to explore and pick! We hope to have this transformed by next year and are committed to organic permaculture. We provide filtered gravity fed spring water in the kitchenette, which is some of the purest to drink and mineralize your body with. The sink is plumbed in, but there is no hot or running water besides the 5 gallon glass jug that sits atop the sink. The tiny house is across from our art studio and up the hill from our main house and other rental 'The Cottage at Casa Nola, so if you are looking for complete seclusion this may not be the best spot for you, as you may occasionally glimpse one of our four or two legged children :) That being said, we have worked to create upmost privacy in the tiny house and it feels worlds away from anyone! The entire property sits on 3 acres and is a mere 16 minute drive to downtown Asheville. You might see us coming or going, as we are a busy family, however we deeply respect your privacy and we recognize the fact you may be here to get away and are as unobtrusive hosts as possible! Our main house, cottage, tiny house and studio are all relatively close, but we’ve designed it for maximum privacy for all! That being said we are happy to help out with anything you might need, please just let us know, but otherwise we won’t bother you! The bed is a queen sized memory foam in a loft and requires climbing a very sturdy ladder, so please make sure you are agile enough to do this. The couch folds into a twin bed if need be, but is far less comfortable than the loft.***PETS***We are pet friendly and would like to remain that way, so we ask if you are bringing a pet, to be a responsible, rule abiding pet owner. If you would like to bring your pet, please send us a request beforehand with pet breed, size and age along with acknowledgement that you have read pet rules.We charge a non-refundable $50 pet fee per pet.Pets CANNOT at any time be left unattended. We offer an additional low-fee pet sitting service, please contact us if you’d like more information as we have a separate site. We ask that only well behaved, fully house trained, non-aggressive pets stay, so we can remain a pet friendly space for other people. Please do clean up after your pet. We do have our own dogs on the other side of the fence and kids, so please no animals that will be a problem for. There are some trails in the back of the property that can be walked as well as a long dirt road. Please read full pet rules, in rules section.We do our best to keep the tiny house stocked with housewares and extra goodies to make your stay more comfortable. If it is there, you are welcome to use it. There is an electric tea kettle, mini- fridge, hot plate and french press. It is fully stocked with dishware and pans along with coffee, tea and simple meal prep condiments.The deck is absolutely huge and in general our property is amazing for star gazing! There is a window fan in the top of the lofts to circulate air, a stand up AC in the warm months and small space heater in the colder monthsWe hope that you will love the space and the area as much as we do! We recently relocated here and it’s been the best decision ever! Great weather, food, art, fun and people!We are proud to be LGBQ friendly and don’t discriminate based on race, gender or religion. The only thing we discriminate against are people who hurt children or animals, because hey-that’s not cool!

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Imagine Equus Farm

2 sites · Lodging28 acres · Columbus, NC

I first saw this property in 2009 and fell in love with it. The property is gorgeous and the land has a magical feel. Situated in the foothills of the Blueridge Mountains we are in horse and wine county! The area is also part of the isothermal belt so the weather is always better than the rest of the South or the Mountains. The land is about 1/2 pastures and the remainder are beautiful forests with trails, creeks and even our own waterfall. The animals and equines living here make the place even more special.Learn more about this land:Tiny home cabin on 28 acre horse farm with creeks, woods, and incredible pasture views. Your cabin is set in a grove of pine trees with gorgeous views from your deck and inside the home. We are in the horse and wine country of Polk County. There are 5 wineries within minutes. We are 7 miles from the new and fabulous Tryon International Equestrian Center. We are just over 20 minutes to Saluda with awesome kayaking and tubing on the Green River, hiking, biking and ziplining too. We are excited to add that we now are part of the Art of the Horse tour through Our Carolina Foothills! The Tryon Chalet and Imagine Equus Farm are the new proud owners of Mil Flores, a beautiful horse painted by artist Mary Tolles. Mil Flores now adorns the front of the farm! The cabin has 1 queen sized bedroom and 1 bath, plus a full kitchen, living room and dining area. You will have all of the comforts when you are inside with wifi, cable TV, a mini-split for heat and air conditioning, a fireplace and a dishwasher. We keep the cabins stocked with everything you will need for your perfect getaway. We feature high in beds and 100% organic cotton sheets. The cabins are new and stylishly designed. The property is private and quiet. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a home base for TIEC horse shows, wine tastings or a quiet retreat. You will see miniature donkeys, horses, goats and even a duck roaming the pastures from your cabin. We want your time here to be wonderful, so we have strived to create a peaceful oasis.

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Ace's Place

1 site · Lodging30 acres · Spruce Pine, NC

Relax. Unplug. Unwind. What if you charged your soul as often as your cell phone? This one is for the artists, nature seekers, and those that want or need to be disconnected from this busy world. Wonder what it would be like to be completely off-grid? Electricity from the sun? Water from a well? A hot shower under the stars? Soak into the calming sounds of nature, catch your dinner steps away, hike the miles of trails, and enjoy the wildlife on your own piece of 30-acre paradise. Enjoy. The space: Wake up to the breathtaking, calming river views just steps from the cabin door. Hike around the rock cliffs, hike up to the ridge to watch the sunset over the views, venture along the riverfront, or take a trip just 12 miles to the Blue Ridge Parkway for a serene drive and ample hiking options. Take a quick day to trip Asheville or Boone to visit the breweries, restaurants and hiking, if you ever want to leave! The cabin has two bunk beds - both have comfortable queen sized beds on the bottom bunk and 2 twin beds on top, a small refrigerator (you may wish to bring a cooler with ice for perishables or for additional items that won't fit in the fridge), outdoor charcoal grill, a flat top grill, propane "camp stove" (outside use ONLY), and a wood stove for heat if you're feeling off-grid. There is no bathroom inside of the cabin, but an "outhouse" 10 feet away. The spa-like, spacious, outdoor HEATED :) shower is just steps away from the river. The hot water is provided by a tankless hot water heater and the well provides the water! We know you're wondering about the bathroom situation... The restroom features a compostable toilet system that is very efficient and easy to use. There is NO SMELL (so long as you use it as directed) and it is extremely clean. We understand this may be new to you as it is to us, but trust us, being 100% off-grid and engulfed in nature make the worries and conveniences of the modern world drift away. There are very clear instructions on the door. Top off the night with a nice glass of wine, or roast s'mores on the patio fire pit. At Ace's Place, you will not only enjoy the breathtaking views and the melodies of nature but also unwind to the sound of the North Toe River just steps away from the Cabin. Firewood provided! You will need to bring your own drinking water. The well water is NOT safe for drinking. Ace's Place is equipped with WiFi (Verizon Hotspot) and a TV with streaming services included. But feel free to hide the password and the remote; it is our hope that this provides a much-needed escape from the world and that you will enjoy being off the grid. **What we provide: -Sheets and all bedding -Cooking supplies & utensils -Eatery & silverware -Gas & charcoal grill -Charcoal -Firewood -French press & pour-over coffee *basic coffee provided* -Teapot -Small flashlights -All biodegradable shower necessities (Bring your own towels!!) -Cards, board games & coloring books -Tubes for enjoying the river -WiFi -TV with all streaming services -Small Bluetooth speaker **What you should bring: -Cooler and ice for more storage of your perishables -Towels!!! -Phone or laptop chargers -Drinking water -Fishing equipment (ultra-lite rod with 2-4lb test is ideal) -Bathing suits We LOVE dogs like family and we know firsthand how hard it is to find a place to vacation with them. Potty trained, well-behaved dogs of any size are welcome! Dogs CANNOT be left unattended in the cabin (for their safety). Please pick up after your dogs as a common courtesy. Keep in mind this is secluded acreage in the mountains where there WILL BE wildlife of all kinds. We have seen turkeys, deer, raccoons, and neighbors have seen bears and bobcats. Also, bugs are to be expected! - this is not the Ritz. **All Military, Police, EMS, and Firefighters will receive a 15% discount on all weekday stays. Thank you for your sacrifice and service!** Guest access Cabin is located on 30 acres of private land. Where the state-maintained road ends, it turns to dirt. The road is steep in spots, narrow and there are some rough patches leading to our cabin. 4x4 or AWD is recommended, but you know the capabilities of your vehicle best. If there is snow on the ground or snow in the forecast, please take that into consideration. We would not recommend booking in the winter without a 4x4 or AWD vehicle. We are NOT responsible for damage to your vehicle or the cost to get you out if you find yourself in a "stuck" situation. If you have questions, message us :) As for parking, we recommend no more than two vehicles even though there is room for more. The road in is the same road out and there is a small turn around spot. There will be a gate with a code to enter the driveway to the cabin and a lockbox code will be provided upon booking. PLEASE DO NOT PASS "NO TRESPASSING" SIGNS OR GATES. The property boundaries are all very clearly marked and there is a map provided in the cabin. The dirt roads are all public right-of-way and hiking trails UNLESS there is a gate or clearly marked "NO TRESPASSING" signs on both sides of the road. Please be respectful of our land and our neighbors. Other things to note *****VERY IMPORTANT TO READ BEFORE BOOKING***** We recommend AWD or 4x4, but you know your vehicle best. There is no bathroom in the cabin, only a compostable toilet steps away in the "outhouse." There is a luxurious, outdoor heated shower. Small fridge but NO running water inside. No cooking permitted inside the cabin. Outdoor sink as well for fish, and other needs. The cabin is off-grid and powered by solar. Please refrain from using large personal appliances such as a hairdryer, straightener, or other heating elements as it uses a large amount of power THESE ITEMS WILL TRIP THE BREAKER. Charging cell phones, speakers, etc is just fine. Please understand the more you use lights and have items charging, the more Solar Power is used. Although we have the property equipped so you do not run out of power, please be mindful of your energy usage. There is a small fridge provided, but if you think you will need more space, bring your cooler and ice. BRING TOWELS. Please clean up after your pet. This helps us keep our lovely cabin pet friendly! PLEASE DO NOT PASS "NO TRESPASSING" SIGNS OR GATES. There is a train track across the river. It does not run at predicted times and can be loud! It usually runs a few times during the day and sometimes at night, sometimes it does not run at all! We have not had ANY complaints about it and the kids love it.

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South Mountains State Park

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Hiking down Roan mountain on foggy morning.

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Roan Mountain State Park

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Lake Norman State Park

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Cabins near Morganton with swimming guide

Overview

Camp in the Eastern Appalachian Mountain foothills around Morganton to become immersed in the nature of North Carolina. Tent and RV campers can find multiple riverside campgrounds right next to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and bike, hike, or paddle into the backcountry from their campsite. Catawba River flows west through the city toward Lake James State Park, where shoreline camping, swimming, and fishing are popular in summer. Winter travelers can try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing while backpacking in Elk Knob State Park, then warm up at a cozy cabin rental back in town.

Where to go

Elk Knob State Park

Just over an hour outside Morganton, Elk Knob State Park offers primitive camping opportunities in the backcountry. Backpack 1-2 miles in for an overnight stay, and register your visit in the box at the trailhead. Then, set up at a campsite next to New River streams. Or take a daytrip and hike 5.5 miles up to the Elk Knob overlook to see panoramic views of North Carolina’s high country. Winter campers can try snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on a mile of ungroomed trail in Elk Knob, as well.

Stone Mountain State Park

Stone Mountain, a 600-foot granite dome and National Natural Landmark, is the chief attraction at Stone Mountain State Park. Here, campers can explore waterfalls and creeks, spend the day rock climbing, or learn the history of the area at the restored 19th-century Hutchinson Homestead farm at the base of Stone Mountain. Some park campsites are ADA-accessible with hot showers, firepits, and 50-amp hookups. There are also hike-in primitive campsites available. Many nearby campgrounds are also close to horseback riding trails and trout fishing streams.

Lake James State Park

Just a half an hour west of Morganton along the Catawba River, Lake James State Park offers shoreline camping along Paddys Creek or Catawba River streams. Campers can boat and fish in Lake James waters, or take canoes and kayaks to primitive paddle-in campsites. Prepare for bears in some areas of the park. Most campsites in the park have firepits and picnic tables, and potable water is available throughout the park.

When to go

Morganton has hot, humid summers that start in May and last until mid-September. Average daily temps are generally above 80°F, and water sports at nearby campgrounds are popular during these months. Most rainfall happens during summer, as well—prepare for wetter days and set up at campsites with paved pads or rain covers. In the winters, moderate snowfall between December and March is perfect for mountain snow sports. An average winter temperature of 58°F makes skiing and snowshoeing enjoyable for campers who visit this time of year.