The best dog-friendly RV parks near Franklin, North Carolina

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.

97% (10.8K) • 680 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Franklin

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.

97% (10.8K) • 680 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Franklin

1. Cashiers Private RV Campsite

100%

(29)

18mi from Franklin · 1 site · RV

This is a stunning, single remote camper/RV site with water, electric and septic hook-ups, a hot tub, outdoor shower and breath-taking views of Whiteside Mountain and Black Rock Mountain. Our 19 acres on Brushy Mountain is nestled away in the Ellicott Rock Wilderness Area of the Nantahala National Forest, the largest of NC's four National Forests with over 500,000 acres of pristine wilderness. The famous Iron Bridge over the headwaters of the Chattooga River is just a short drive away down Bull Pen Road. You will find some of the best trout fishing and hiking trails in all of North Carolina at your doorstep. This temperate rain forest is enjoyable in every season and is exceptional in its ecological diversity and abundance. If you are interested in hiking to beautiful waterfalls, fishing in native trout streams, bird watching or star gazing, this is the place for you! And if you need supplies from town, Cashiers is the closest and is about 25 minutes away and Highlands is about a 45 minute drive. Both have great restaurants and shops to check out. Our gated, gravel driveway is steep and a half mile long. You will need an all-wheel or 4 Wheel drive vehicle to get up the driveway without spinning. There is ample space to turn around to park, but due to the nature of our driveway we limit the length of RV's to no more than 20 feet. If you do not feel comfortable maneuvering your RV up steep. winding and gravel terrain, please email me to discuss.

2. Roamstead

97%

(55)

41mi from Franklin · 77 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Roamstead was born on a family RV trip across the country. Our founders noticed their glamorous plans often ended in glorified parking lots or dirty campgrounds without amenities or thought regarding design. Alongside that, many campgrounds seemed unapproachable to those who hadn’t been before. A vision was born to reinvent 'roughing it' in a way that could welcome all adventurers to experience the magic of the great outdoors. We believe the beauty of nature should be experienced by everyone. It's good for your health, and the more we connect with and learn about the outdoors, the more we'll feel compelled to protect it. Whether you've been camping all your life or this would be your first trip, we're here for you. We aim to build a bridge (you know, a metaphorical one) to the great outdoors, where all adventures can truly feel welcome. Roamstead is committed to making our outdoor spaces accessible to everyone. At our Smoky Mountains location, we're partnering with Friends of the Smokies to do just that. Friends assists the National Park Service in its mission to preserve and protect the Great Smoky Mountains National Park by raising funds and public awareness, and providing volunteers for needed projects. They restore trails, build handicap accessible access points, and provide urban youth educational opportunities in the park, to name just a few of their many projects. A dollar of each stay at Roamstead Smoky Mountains is donated back to Friends of the Smokies to help continue their mission.

3. Riverbend RV & Tent Campground

100%

(3)

33mi from Franklin · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

Your Gateway to Adventure: Nestled by the Pigeon River below Cold Mountain and the scenic Blueridge Parkway, Riverbend is the perfect spot for family fun and outdoor adventure. Whether you're RVing or tent camping, your mountain getaway starts here!

4. Cozy Creekside Camping

40mi from Franklin · 1 site · RV

*LOT ONLY, with full hookups* This cozy creekside lot is perfect for your next outdoor camping adventure — just bring your own RV, travel trailer, pop-up or other RVIA-certified camper. Most of my photos were taken in January, but come spring, summer and fall, this lovely shaded campsite feels secluded and serene but with all the comforts of home. Site includes creekside posts for hanging a hammock and fireside hanging chair post. Located near pool, bathhouse/laundry and small playground. Located in a gated campground with many amenities including two (seasonal) pools, a coin-operated laundromat, game room and exercise facility, as well as a seasonal restaurant. *You are also welcome to book this lot through the campground’s main office, but my Hipcamp listing is cheaper.* Other things to note: Pets are welcome! However, please be aware that there is a $10 non-refundable pet fee, paid upon check in through the campground office, to cover the cost of the pet waste stations throughout the park. This is a fee through the campground itself and is not covered in the rental price paid through Hipcamp. Please let me know if you plan to bring any pets, and I will share the campground's information on pets!

5. CreekStone in Candler, NC

98%

(308)

43mi from Franklin · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Awesome 360° Mountain Views at CreekStone’s three VISTA360 campsites for small to large RV’s/campers, a tiny home and two tent camping spaces in Candler, North Carolina. Enjoy the mountains and lots of space to roam, hike, pitch horseshoe, enjoy fires in fire pit or simply relax and enjoy the views. All three of the RV/camper spaces have both 30/50 amp electrical power, sewer and water hookup. The tent camping space has toilet facilities, access to water and trash disposal. The tiny home accommodates 2-3 people - perfect for those who want to be close to their camping friends/families but don’t have campers. This property was my childhood home and after retiring, my husband and I moved back to one of the homes on this farm where I grew up. He has since passed and my son, Todd, now helps me maintain the property and assists with ensuring the best experience for our guests. We wanted to offer this space for campers to share the awesome views and this part of North Carolina with others who enjoy nature, outdoors, and all the great things to experience in the surrounding towns. Only a 20 minute drive to Asheville where you can tour Biltmore House, Grove Park, breweries, eat at many great restaurants, enjoy rafting, zip lining and many other outdoor activities. We are 15 minutes from Blue Ridge Parkway with 2-lane, less traveled access road to get there. Bring your bikes and hiking equipment - plenty of room to ride and roam. The old red barn on property has been restored and offers relaxation loft for your enjoyment.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Slightly dig in uphill tires and put downhill tires on 2 high ramps to get level

K

Kathryn

December 2025

21 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

...WOW. This was absolutely perfect for us, but may have TOO MUCH privacy for some folks. You are truly alone here. Incredible hardwood property. Beautiful hikes, fishing, and drives in the area. We made it up - no problem - with a 21' camper (25' true length) and a crew cab 2500, but this is about max length (2-3 steep, narrow gravel switchbacks -- 4x4 mandatory). Bring extra leveling blocks and 30' of sewer hose. For the right people with the right rig, this spot simply can't be beat. Thank you for sharing!

Brooks

December 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Host was very helpful and the site was beautiful. This is one of those HIPCAMP jewels that I want to keep to myself, but its too good not to share. You won't be disappointed.

E

Elizabeth

November 2025

15 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Amazing location! We absolutely loved the privacy and beautiful view. The hot tub was especially nice in the cold evenings.

B

Brandy

November 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

3 nights at Roamstead

We will definitely be coming back. The property was well maintained. The facilities were clean and well kept. Camping here definitely met my expectations of a quiet and relaxing getaway that we needed.

Jonathan

November 2025

20 ft campervan

3 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

My wife and I stayed at Lees site for 4 nights. We just left today and I have to say we did not want to leave. We are avid campers and have stay a lot of places up down the eastern US. This site by far takes our top stay. The availability of well water, power hooks up, and firewood just helped us to tent camp for 4 nights. But how could we not bring up the view? The view of the white rock mountains was so beautiful. It almost makes the site not feel real. It feels like a hallmark movie. The fact that Lee chose to add a hot tub just adds to the site. My wife and I enjoyed our coffee every morning in the hot tub. And if you want seclusion this is it. The drive up to the site from the gate feels like 2-3 miles of driving and you don’t hear a car or a person the whole time you’re there. So 5 stars. Lee does a great job. Clean site and very communicative also. We don’t have a bad thing to say and we will be back. If you’re reading this right now. Stop reading. Go book the site. Oh and make sure you stay 3 nights and have 2 full days there. 1 day there wouldn’t be enough. Trust me.

Casey

November 2025

10 ft campervan

2 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Beautiful spot surrounded by wildlife and mountain scenery. The campsite is perfectly situated on a comfortable clearing. The host was incredibly helpful with any and all questions and I am thoroughly pleased with our stay. The best Hipcamp site I’ve experienced so far. Highly recommended if you really want to get away and enjoy the best North Carolina has to offer.

The firepit made evenings nice and cozy!

P

Patti

November 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to CreekStone in Candler, NC

The campsites are well maintained with easy access to utilities. The communal barn is exceptional! A perfect place to get away from it all. Cell service is spotty, but the barn has Wi-Fi. Louedith was a great host! We will definitely be back.

H

Heath

October 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

5 nights at Riverbend RV & Tent Campground

Me, my wife and our dog had an excellent time. Peaceful and quiet. Highly recommend

J

Jeffrey

October 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Awesome place and view, no neighbors in sight or earshot. Super private place where you can really feel alone and away from it all. The drive is pretty steep and somewhat tight in a spot or two in the dark, but we had no issues, just put it in 4wd at the bottom and eased up to the top.

K

Ken

October 2025

40 ft fifth wheel

With pets

4 nights at CreekStone in Candler, NC

We had a great time there. Louedith’s place is great. Chris was a gem! We loved that y’all invited us up for some music and we even got to sing some karaoke! Joan had a good walk around the area and we enjoyed church right there in walking distance of our site. But we drove over anyway. We felt so at home! I’m sure we will be going back.

Kelli

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

5 nights at CreekStone in Candler, NC

We enjoyed how quiet and peaceful it was. Louedith was very responsive and when we had an issue with our sewer hose she and her husband responded immediately and tried to help remedy our situation. We enjoyed exploring trails and waterfalls in the Pisgah National Forest. Would definitely stay here again.

D

Deena

October 2025

23 ft travel trailer

4 nights at CreekStone in Candler, NC

We love this spot! It is convenient to both Asheville and Waynesville but has the peace and quiet of the country. The views of the mountains are wonderful. We camped in a 23’ travel trailer and had plenty of space for truck and trailer. Site 1 is next to the Airbnb but everyone has plenty of privacy with the way they both are situated and a privacy wall that has been built between the 2. Site 1 is gravel and well packed and very level. He didn’t have to do much more than pull in and park. Hook ups are good but a longer water hose (50’) may be needed. The barn is charming and gives another hang out space when you don’t want go go nowhere but don’t want to be in the camper. Louedith is a wonderful host. She is very welcoming and genuinely wants you to enjoy your stay. We will be back.

Mary

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

7 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Four wheel drive must have! Once you conquer the drive in, you have made it to a pure private slice of what the wilderness area is all about, only with very bougie accommodations. Our stay was a peak leaf change and wow what a spectacular show with a phenomenal view that is unbelievable. Already booked next year's trip.

Jessica

October 2025

22 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Cashiers Private RV Campsite

We LOVED this site. It’s definitely steep, our Jeep Cherokee almost didn’t make it… they’re not joking about needing 4WD. But this was definitely one of our favorite spots!

Charlene

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cashiers Private RV Campsite

This is a really special place. The views and the hot tub were both amazing! There are lots of nature trails to explore nearby if you want to venture out. We had a great weekend and appreciate the host offering this place for others to experience it.

E

Emily

October 2025

50 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to CreekStone in Candler, NC

Very welcoming hosts! Beautiful views and very peaceful area. We would definitely visit again!

Candace

September 2025

22 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Cashiers Private RV Campsite

Incredible views, hot tub and shower were such a nice luxury. Great grassy area for the dogs to enjoy. Will definitely return!

S

Stephen

September 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cashiers Private RV Campsite

It was a great place to stay. Definitely gonna book it again asap!

D

Dan

September 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

6 nights at CreekStone in Candler, NC

We really enjoyed staying at Creekstone. Very quiet and peaceful. Getting turned around and into the Vista 2 was a puzzle, but we managed really enough. Extra cords and hoses are a must depend on your trailer/RV.

Site 1 - Note the water connection at the very back

Jenifer

September 2025

29 ft travel trailer

4 nights at CreekStone in Candler, NC

We thoroughly enjoyed spending time at Louedith's property. Though our site was right next to a house she rents out via AirBnB & VRBO, there were no guests staying while we were there and so it still seemed pretty private for being in a small neighborhood. The view was breathtaking and we spent our evenings next to the communal firepit. The hosts provided well-seasoned firewood bundles for $10 and even let us buy extra for the next leg of our trip. Louedith was very responsive to all of our questions and provided great directions to the property. As hosts ourselves, we appreciated the detailed information. If you are in the area and are looking for a break from the big RV campgrounds, I highly suggest checking out one of Louedith's Creekstone sites.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best dog-friendly RV parks near Franklin guide

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.