TENT CAMPING IN THE AREA:
These links are posted from the Closest to Paddle Inn, out to the Furthest out from Paddle Inn.
If you find other places to stay that you are impressed with, or someone who is recommending Paddle Inn for Rafting, please send us a note, and we’ll add them to our lists.
Nantahala Tenting
Nantahala Wesser Campground
Mrs. Pauline Dillard has passed away. The phone Number is disconnected. The Campground is currently Closed.
The link to the Swain County Chamber Website is still here, if something changes, we will post this again.
Lost Mine Campground
Lost Mine Campground Just a few minutes down river from the Paddle Inn Rafting Company.
Tent Camping and Group Tent Camping (Some Popup and Small RV Sites-Smaller than 21 foot)
They are mainly private tent sites.
They do have some group tent sites.
They do have some RV and Popup sites for RV’s smaller than 21 feet in length.
You can reach the Kings at (828) 488-6445.
Please tell them that Paddle Inn Sent you.
Big Nantahala Campground (No Website) is the only Campground located on the river.
Tent Camping, Group Camping, Some RV’s.
Nice Spots for Tent Camping, and a nice spot for larger Group Camping.
The RV’s get smaller and smaller as the season gets busier.
During the peak of the season, it is mostly limited to tent camping and popups.
JR is not taking Reservations… It is drive up only. If he has spots, he will take you.. He is not taking reservations,, Sorry..
Please tell him that Paddle Inn Sent you, if you stay with him. We can not tell you more than this.. Sorry..
10 Minutes Away
Nelsons Hideaway Campground
Nelsons Hideaway Campground is just up from the top of the river. They are about 10 miles west of the Paddle Inn.
They have Tent Camping, Cabins and can accommodate large RV’s.
It is a large campground, and the owners are very accommodating.
Mrs. Elsie and her crew can be reached at 1-828-321-4407.
Please tell him them Paddle Inn Sent you.
20 Minutes Away
Ela Campground (In Bryson City) (Most of our Groups Camp and use the Cabins Here)
Ela Campground Has Tent, RV camping and Cabins.
Tent camping is for groups of 16 or more. This is a great Place for Group Camping or Cabins.
There are quite a few Rustic style Cabins for rent. They sleep 6 and are new and very reasonable.
There are several additional amenities for groups, including a Swimming pool, Meeting Room, Covered group area.
Ask them about Group Meals.. One of the Owners is a very good cook, and cooks for lots of our groups.
Contact the folks at Ela Campground at 828-488-2410
Please tell them that the Paddle Inn sent you..
Tumbling Waters Campground
Tumbling Waters has RV, Tent and Cabins.
They have a couple of cabins, and a camper for rent.
They may still be cooking pancakes on Saturday morning.. You can ask.
A Trout pond is right on the property.
The folks there are super nice, and will make you feel like part of the family.
For more details, 828-479-3814
Please tell him them Paddle Inn Sent you.
Turkey Creek Campground
Turkey Creek Campground is located within 10 minutes of the White Water Action off of Hyw 28 by Tsali Bike Trail.
They have tent sites, and will take smaller popups and RV’s.
You can reach Michael and Ramelle Smith at (828)488-8966
Please tell him them Paddle Inn Sent you.
Smoky Mountain Meadows
Smokey Mtn Meadows Has Tent, RV camping and Cabins.
It is a large open campground and very reasonable. They are wonderful people to deal with.
They have some really good rates on their cabins. They can be reached at 828-488-3672
Please tell them that the Paddle Inn sent you..
Deep Creek Camping and Tubing Center
Deep Creek Camping and Tubing Center is right on the Deep Creek in Bryson City.
They have camping, RV’s, and a selection of older antique Cabins.
They have a general store, and you can rent tubes from them and tube the Deep Creek.
Very friendly and great owners. You can reach Jay Stearns & Kathy Hayfield at 828-488-6055.
Please tell them that the Paddle Inn sent you..
30-40 Minutes Away
Peace Valley Campground (KOA Campground) Many of our Groups Stay here also..
The Peace Valley Campground has Cabins, Trailers, RV and Tent camping.
Also has a swimming pool, game room, and group meeting facilities.
Has a creek running along the campground and tubing there.
A very nice campground and wonderful staff.
Nothing but great reviews about the find folks that run the place.
Has great group rates for our paddling groups.
For more information: 828-837-6223
Please tell them that the Paddle Inn sent you..
Cherokee KOA Campground
If you like a more Interstate type of campground, the KOA in Cherokee is close to the Casino’s, and loads of shopping.
They have tenting, RV’s and Cabins. They are very close to the Casino.
You’ll be about 35 minutes from the Paddle Inn White Water Rafting action.
They have online reservations, and can be reached at (828) 497-9711.
Please tell them that the Paddle Inn sent you..
40-55 Minutes Away
Pines RV Park and Cabins (Cabins/Camping/RV’s)
4724 Murphy Road, Franklin, NC. 28734
Phone: (828) 524-4490 Open all Year. From Tents to 45 foot RV’s and Cabins. Very nice Facility. Wifi, Satellite, etc..
Please check their site for more details.