The best river, stream, or creek glamping in North Carolina

If you're looking for a unique camping experience that combines luxury with nature, glamping is the way to go. And if you're seeking to set up camp by a river in North Carolina, you're in luck! Hipcamp offers over 565 options for glamping near North Carolina rivers, with prices ranging from $20 to an average of $95 per night. Some of the top-rated campsites according to guest reviews include Starlight Hills with 627 reviews, Dark Ridge Hide Out with 422 reviews, and Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm with 388 reviews. Popular amenities like campfires, trash, and showers are available, and you can also enjoy exciting activities such as off-roading (OHV), swimming, and climbing.

98% (9K) • 311 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near North Carolina

If you're looking for a unique camping experience that combines luxury with nature, glamping is the way to go. And if you're seeking to set up camp by a river in North Carolina, you're in luck! Hipcamp offers over 565 options for glamping near North Carolina rivers, with prices ranging from $20 to an average of $95 per night. Some of the top-rated campsites according to guest reviews include Starlight Hills with 627 reviews, Dark Ridge Hide Out with 422 reviews, and Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm with 388 reviews. Popular amenities like campfires, trash, and showers are available, and you can also enjoy exciting activities such as off-roading (OHV), swimming, and climbing.

98% (9K) • 311 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near North Carolina

1. Starlight Hills

98%

(2491)

24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bostic, NC

Our Spa and Geodesic Dome Planetarium is now available for booking! Our Pond is now OPEN! We are a constantly evolving location. Our goal is to provide a genuine secluded camping experience immersed in nature in a mountainous forest with privacy and well spaced out, secluded camp sites. We also have minimal light pollution, so our skies are beautiful for viewing the stars. We offer trails through natural wooded habitat with hidden gems of nature. Wildlife viewing throughout. There are feed locations to increase viewing opportunities. A creek on the property is lovely for walking. Centered between Charlotte and Asheville we are within your reach! We offer primitive tent camping, Glamping Tents a tiny cabin and Geodesic Dome. Lodging locations have a private Mountain View, fire pit area, Queen bed, Night Stand (built in phone charger), Desk area, interior and exterior lighting, heater and fan (powered by solar system). As a part of Starlight Hills Campground you have access to filtered drinking water, common overlook (w/ BBQ pits & picnic tables), trails, bathroom and showers. Welcome to bring all your furry family members ❤️. Please Note: 2 Wheel Dr. vehicles can access all of our sites. Gravel/ Dirt road up hill.

2. Cold Spring Basecamp

97%

(177)

8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Zirconia, NC

Cold Spring Basecamp is the perfect spot to launch your adventure. Located in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Whether camping, glamping or high in a treehouse, Cold Spring Basecamp is the jumping off point for biking, hiking, paddling, zip lining, waterfalls or just enjoy our beautiful 38 acre property with mountain bike trails, hiking trails, beautiful creeks, waterfalls and endless relaxation potential. Three rustic and historic cabins recently rehabbed, but keeping all the old charm. One open wall lets in lots of light and the old wood accents the walls, kitchen, eating area, and bunk beds (with queen on the bottom and twin up top). Cook over the stone fire pit or on cast iron pots and pan on the propane stove. Full equipped kitchen for all your needs, including French press, and tea pot. Relax under the solar lights and charge your devices using our solar powered charging station. Campsites are all nestled in the woods and next to the creek and are all spacious and private. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring with grill for cooking over the fire. Additionally a water filter is provided for purifying drinking water from the creek. Launch your adventure from Cold Spring or stay on the property to enjoy the mountain bike trails, hike to the waterfall and cliffs or relax in the meadow. Minutes to the world class trails of Ride Rock Creek Bike Park and beautiful Lake Summit, just down the road from Ride Kanuga Bike Park and the world famous Green River, with class I-V rapids. We are at the back door of 86 miles of trails and dozens of famous waterfalls in Dupont State Forest. The steep, fast and fun Gorge Zipline is located in the quaint town of Saluda, along with shops and great restaurants. The shops and restaurants of Flat Rock and just up the hill and a bit further is the thriving town on Hendersonville, apple country and many of the areas wineries.

3. Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

99%

(1516)

17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Waynesville, NC

Voted #1 in NC and Top 50 in the USA!! 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! 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. No porta potties are provided b/tw Dec 15 and March 15 Please contact us in advance regarding paying for firewood ($7/5 pieces), dogs ($15 each), day vehicle visitors ($30), private farm tour ($15/person) and/or a private porta potty ($120). 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. Contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. LIMITED 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.

4. New River State Park

100%

(6)

81 sites · Jefferson, North Carolina

Relax on the river and explore the trails in this North Carolina park.

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5. Hanging Rock State Park

100%

(19)

86 sites · Danbury, North Carolina

See waterfalls, heavily wooded trails, and towering peaks in this state park.

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6. Ramble on Big Creek near HRSP

1 site · Lodging · Westfield, NC

Cabin on Big Creek — situated on a point with the stream on three sides, near the confluence with the Dan River! Close to Hanging Rock State Park, kayaking, and mountain bike trails. The cabin features a queen bed, double futon, full-size refrigerator, stove, microwave, coffee maker, and heat and A/C. Outside, you’ll find a sink and shower with hot and cold water, plus a nice outhouse. There’s also room for additional camping nearby if a group wants to come!

7. The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek

99%

(292)

3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Lexington, NC

A small homestead on the bank of Abbotts Creek near where it feeds into High Rock Lake. Peace and solitude , but close to the amenities of town. Less than a five minute drive to the grocery store, and less than a fifteen minute drive to uptown Lexington. Public access for kayaks is less than half a mile away. And the view is unbelievable! We have a corn hole board and bags now available for use, as well as a few other yard games. Please let us know if you are interested in using them. The edible landscape is available for you to enjoy. A list of current available items is posted in our greenhouse, as well as baskets for picking and foraging.

8. At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

95%

(185)

14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Balsam Grove, NC

Welcome to At the Ridge Camp – “Simple Mountain Camping” at Its Best. Nestled just seven miles from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, At the Ridge Camp offers a peaceful escape in the heart of North Carolina’s stunning Pisgah National Forest—also known as the Land of the Waterfalls. We offer 7 cozy camping cabins, 14 spacious tent/RV sites, and two convenient bathhouses to make your stay comfortable. Whether you're here to hike to breathtaking waterfalls, cast a line in a quiet stream, or simply unwind by the campfire under the stars, this is your place to reconnect with nature. And one of our favorite pastimes? Just sitting back and watching the water flow by. Come enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains—without breaking the bank.

9. TangleWood Creekside Campsites

99%

(639)

28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marion, NC

16 miles North of Marion and closer to "Linville Gorge", "Linville Falls" and "The Blue Ridge Parkway" area, we are a perfect jump off point for all your adventures including "The Apple Orchard" at Altapass, "Linville Caverns" in addition to the ones mentioned above. TangleWood Creekside Campsites offers a rocky creek winding 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 North 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.

10. Merchants Millpond State Park

100%

(5)

47 sites · Gatesville, North Carolina

Discover the serene beauty of Merchants Millpond State Park.

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11. Carolina Beach State Park

100%

(18)

81 sites · Carolina Beach, North Carolina

This state park has an obvious name with not-so-obvious sights.

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12. Nantahala National Forest

95%

(73)

438 sites · Franklin, North Carolina

Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.

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Toilets

Campfires

13. Goose Creek State Park

100%

(2)

15 sites · Bath, North Carolina

Discover Goose Creek State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

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14. Conleys Creek Campground

96%

(465)

10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Whittier, NC

Welcome to our little slice of creekside heaven! Four years ago, we took a run-down manufactured home park and started turning it into something special — a peaceful, down-to-earth spot for campers to relax, explore, and feel right at home. It's been a total labor of love, and now we’re excited to share it with folks who appreciate the beauty of nature, good company, and a few chickens wandering by. At night, things slow down — our campground is quiet, peaceful, and perfect for stargazing. We’ve got: 3 creekside RV sites with water + electric hookups 1 creekside RV site with full hookups (water, electric, and septic) 4 first-come, first-served creekside tent spots A 38' luxury RV available to rent for a comfy glamping stay All sites are right along Conleys Creek, which is stocked with trout and perfect for fishing or cooling off in the summer. Every spot includes a picnic table and fire pit — and tent sites come with a fire pit that includes a cooking grate for easy campfire meals. Our land is totally pesticide-free and full of life — from colorful flower gardens to veggies, herbs, fruit trees, and our famous 14 free-range chickens (a.k.a. The Dixie Chicks). Guests love feeding them, petting them, and collecting fresh eggs. You’ll also find: A clean, private bathhouse A game room with ping pong + darts Outdoor yard games Fast, reliable Wi-Fi Firewood, eggs, and ice for sale A dump station for RVs We’re in a super convenient spot — nestled between Bryson City and Cherokee, just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dillsboro, Sylva, and tons of hiking, biking, kayaking, tubing, and whitewater adventures. We’re open year-round, but if you come during leaf peeping season, you’re in for a real treat — the colors are absolutely magical. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome too — we get it, they’re family! This is our home, our lifestyle, and our dream. We’d love to have you come enjoy it with us.

15. Sugarneck Glamping Resort, NC

99%

(69)

4 sites · Lodging · Broadway, NC

Situated on over 400 acres, Sugarneck has private and communal gathering areas to stay put and soak in the escape or take a short drive to great things to and places to eat. Private Amenities include: Bathrooms, Mini Refrigerators, Heat & A/C, Luxury Bedding and Private Solo Stove Campsites. Communal Amenities include: TV/Game room, Grill, Fire Pit, Walking trails and lawn games.

16. Winding Stair Campground

99%

(198)

17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Franklin, NC

Winding Stair Campground sits at an elevation of 3,380 feet, next to the headwaters of the Nantahala River and is surrounded by national forest and undeveloped private land trusts. The stunning mountain views in a remote tucked-away setting make our farm a perfect getaway! Just a 15-minute scenic drive from Franklin in North Carolina, easily accessible off Hwy 64, our campground offers a chance to enjoy nature without being far away from the public amenities of a small but well-equipped town. A few features about our property: - Working farm: Campers are welcome to meet our Icelandic sheep and take a self-guided tour of our farm, along designated pathways. - Security: The campground and farm are fenced in on three sides with the river being the fourth boundary. Personal code to the entrance gate will be given at check in. - Bath House: The restored bathhouse is split into boys’ and girls’ sides. Each side has 2 private showers, 4 flushing toilets, sinks, hot water, and gas heat. - Community Pavilion: The Pavilion is a large 40x30 ft. open sided structure overlooking the Nantahala River. It has an ample fireplace, running water sink, counter space, couches, and table with benches. - Pack Room: Where the adventure begins! A cozy hub where all guests get local information, view maps, and grab some local seasonal groceries. Also available to all campers are washing sinks with hot water, toaster oven and microwave. - Communication: Or rather, lack thereof! There's no cell service on the property so it's a great time to get away from it all. There is limited Wi-Fi available near the Pack Room and an emergency landline available. - Charging: Traveling in an electric vehicle? Recharge for free at our dedicated EV 50amp outlet when you stay at any of our sites. First come, first served. Want to know more about the history of the property? Visit the 'Our Story' section on our website. Learn more about this land:

17. Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

99%

(97)

5 sites · Lodging · Bakersville, NC

(HELP IN PLANNING THE BEST HIKES IN WESTERN NC (SUNRISE, SUNSET, 6000FT PEAKS, BIRD WATCHING, ETC! INCLUDED) Escape to the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains at our unique retreat in Bakersville, NC. Nestled on over 60 private acres amid some of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi—including nearby Mount Mitchell (6,684 ft)—our five distinctive arched cabins offer the perfect blend of modern comfort, privacy, and breathtaking views. Each fully equipped cabin is a cozy tiny home featuring: A comfortable queen bedroom Private full bathroom with shower Well-appointed kitchenette (sink, microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and essentials) Spacious living area with sofa and Roku smart TV Step outside to your private deck with a bubbling hot tub—ideal for stargazing or soaking in panoramic mountain vistas. Gather around your personal campfire pit (firewood provided) for cozy evenings under the clear Appalachian skies. Cabins are thoughtfully spaced for romantic seclusion while close enough to share the magic with friends or family. Adventure awaits right on the property with miles of private hiking trails winding through forested ridges and scenic overlooks. As local hiking experts, we're passionate about guiding you to the best trails—easy strolls, moderate paths, or challenging hikes reaching elevations over 6,000 feet on the iconic Appalachian Trail (just minutes away at Carver's Gap or Roan Mountain). Explore nearby gems like the sparkling North Toe River for fishing or tubing, world-famous Mitchell County gem mines, and the stunning Roan Mountain balds (famous for June rhododendron blooms). Our historic land adds a touch of intrigue—once part of the area's colorful past. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, outdoor adventure, or peaceful relaxation, our arched cabins provide an unforgettable mountain escape. Book your slice of Blue Ridge paradise today!

18. Magical Mountain Resorts

99%

(198)

16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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

19. Easy Bend River Farms

100%

(11)

5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · East Bend, NC

Private riverside camping and tree house cabin. We are a Blackberry agro tourism farm offering 3 river front camping options equipped with warm shower, off grid shelter, river access and miles of trails to explore- completely private, but also close to many local wineries.- Camp by the river, or opt to stay above the river in the "rivernest" treehouse - which sleeps up to 4 and offers kitchenette and bathroom!

20. Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

99%

(115)

7 sites · Lodging · Marion, NC

You've been given the key. Come experience 60-acres of private mountain land off the Blue Ridge Parkway with big mountain views, lush Appalachian forest, & our very own waterfall! Inspired by the tale of a young gnome who discovers the power of gratitude in the forest. We bring Hoot Owl Ridge to you with in the same spirit. We are within 15 min of three magnificent waterfalls (Crabtree, Grassy Creek, & Tom's Creek), and only 25 mins from Linville Gorge! Though we are very secluded in the mountains, Walmart is only 5 mins down the road. Spruce Pine is 10-15 mins and has food, grocery, gas, hospital, and a brewery. Marion is a bigger town with mostly anything you could be looking for and is about 20mins away down the mountain. If you want some city buzz, head to vibrant Asheville under an hour away, where you'll find endless art, restaurants, breweries, live music, and more. Live closer to the earth, the mountains, the curious creatures, and return home with some gratitude!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Sierra

2 weeks ago

With pets

4 nights at Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

I decided last minute that my pup and I would spend the week leading up to Christmas here and it was the best decision ever. We absolutely loved everything about it. The trails on-site, the driveway with amazing views of the blue ridge mountains, beautiful sunrises every single day. The first night it was in the 20s and the heaters were great at keeping us warm. If you’re unsure whether or not you want to book this place, this is your sign. My dog didn’t want to go home and that hasn’t happened before.

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Thanmaya

2 weeks ago

With kids

1 night at Sugarneck Glamping Resort, NC

Overall good, best if you can manage cold during winters. Carry some space heaters although they provide some. No activities in winter so plan for some.

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Ellen

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek

Our hosts were fantastic and supplied every possible convenience for us. As mentioned before, Jack the donkey is very friendly, and the stars at night are fantastic. The cabin is facing the rising sun, so be prepared for a lovely sunrise as well. :). We were looking for a "Little House on the Prairie" experience and this cabin didn't disappoint . The downtown is cute and the museum has hands-on things for kiddos. My kids are already asking to come back!

A

3 weeks ago

2 nights at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

I love the camp site! The host was incredibly accommodating and genuinely kind and pleasant!

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Rene

3 weeks ago

3 nights at TangleWood Creekside Campsites

This little cabin was so perfect for us! The bedroom was so cozy and the place was very warm and inviting. Finding it was very easy. It is about a 50 minute drive to Asheville from it. It’s right in the middle of wonderful views, beautiful drives and other places to visit. Highly recommended for a romantic getaway with simple needs and lots of rest needed as it was quiet. Love love love!

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Jessica

December 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to TangleWood Creekside Campsites

Great private campground. This safari tent is right on the creek. Instructions are easy to follow. Lots of storage to put your stuff. Plenty of space inside. Our kid loved the bunk bed. Everything is exactly as you would expect it.

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Ian

December 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

I stayed in one of the MTG sites and it was great! The heater works very well in the winter and was super clean for me and my party. The views were great and the restrooms were clean. I’ve been here multiple times and always enjoy coming back. I would highly recommend this campground.

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Jordan

December 2025

3 nights at Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

Super unique little yurt camp out in the NC Blue Ridge. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for an easy glamping experience that's a very affordable way to stay in the area really nearby Little Switzerland, Linville, Grandfather mountain, etc..The property itself still feels remote as it is situated on the side of a nearby mountain. That being said, be prepared to drive carefully on the property, especially if you have a smaller car, as the drive is a bit rugged. Very doable even in our little hybrid 2 seater, but take your time in inclement weather (even in early December, we still had a lovely time, and enjoyed the tranquility). Would totally return if we come back through the area!

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Amanda

December 2025

With pets

2 nights at The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek

This place was Amazing 👏 From the animal's to the water, this is a place you can't go wrong with!!! Good vibes Wonderful host, just a place you dont want to leave...

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Denise

November 2025

3 nights at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

I loved the small cabin #1 on Carrie and Tom's land. It was the perfect amount of space for two people. Tom was super friendly and made his rounds everyday to make sure we had everything we needed. The river was so close we could walk right down and fish. The grounds were well kept, clean and always kept warm in 20 degree low temps with plenty of heaters and an extra blanket to hang over our door for extra warmth. We will be coming back in the spring and summer and bringing friends for sure to enjoy with us! A+++++

Bedtime is nice with the solar lights inside and out (can be turned off if desired)

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Wolf

November 2025

2 nights at Cold Spring Basecamp

I was looking for a place to disconnect and do a little writing and couple of days at Bill's Cabin did the trick. If you don't mind limited electricity and cell service as well as fetching your water from a spring, this rustic cabin is the perfect place to escape and enjoy some downtime. Hartwell was extremely accommodating and with a good sleeping bag, it was plenty warm in late November. Highly recommend!

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Heather

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Sugarneck Glamping Resort, NC

Loved your facility! Everything was so neat,clean, had everything you could need. Absolutely beautiful property and very accomodating! Can't wait to come back.

CASSANDRA

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

My family and I loved this glamping experience! The yurt was spacious and cozy, and the beds were super comfortable and it was easy to find/navigate to. The space had all the amenities and supplies you need on site, which made packing a breeze. We enjoyed sitting around the fire and stargazing, the mountain views from the deck, and playing the games provided. Would definitely recommend this experience!

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Travis

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek

Me and my son had a great time! Cabin was great, bed was comfy and they had everything you could need. We enjoyed the animals and exploring. The hosts were very accommodating.

Tyler

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

Great camp spot for the family and dog! Great views and quick access to hiking. We really enjoyed the views and common space. Highly recommended.

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Jose

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

Amazing property, with thoughtful planned out campground. I love to sleep outside in the hammock and this was an extraordinary experience for my wife and daughter staying at Luna Glamping spot. Great showers, the spa spot is so ingeniously tucked away while having the freedom of enjoying a beautiful evening under the stars. Will definitely return.

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Kelly

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

The campground is well organized, clean, and has beautiful views. The only downside is if you are staying towards the back of the property the bathroom is a long walk away, but the scenery is so lovely we didn’t mind! Highly recommend!

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Christine

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

The yurt was well appropriated with conveniences, but best of all the view of the Blue Ridge Mountains was awesome.

Best fire pit around, surrounded by creek, ferns and woods

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Tiffany

November 2025

2 nights at Cold Spring Basecamp

This was my second time staying here, and it was, once again, a great experience! The cabin provides just the right amount of amenities and feels very private. It's the perfect setting to relax and connect with nature!