









Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
(865) 436-1200
https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/balsam-mountain.htm
For those of us living in North Carolina, the allure of the Great Smoky Mountains is undeniable. When the call of the wild whispers, and you’re looking for a refreshing escape into nature without venturing too far, Balsam Mountain Campground in Cherokee, NC, presents itself as an ideal destination. Nestled within the breathtaking beauty of our state, this campground offers a quintessential outdoor experience, blending rustic charm with essential comforts, making it a beloved spot for both seasoned campers and those new to the joys of sleeping under the stars.
Balsam Mountain Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the mountains. It's a place where the sounds of nature replace the everyday hum, and the crisp mountain air invigorates your spirit. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a memorable family trip, this campground provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories right here in our backyard. Its welcoming atmosphere, coupled with its convenient location, makes it a top choice for North Carolinians seeking an authentic outdoor experience.
Balsam Mountain Campground is conveniently located in Cherokee, NC 28719, USA. For anyone in North Carolina, this means a manageable drive into the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Situated within the National Park, accessibility is straightforward, typically involving well-maintained park roads. While specific directions from various parts of North Carolina will vary, the general route will lead you towards Cherokee, a town well-known for its rich cultural heritage and as a gateway to the National Park.
The drive itself is part of the experience, offering scenic views that hint at the natural beauty awaiting you. Keep an eye out for local wildlife on your journey, as many campers have reported seeing animals on the drive up to the campground, setting the tone for a truly immersive nature experience. The proximity to hiking trails, either a short walk or a short drive from the grounds, further enhances its appeal for those looking to explore the vast network of paths within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While you might feel wonderfully secluded, you're never too far from the amenities and attractions that the Cherokee area has to offer, striking that perfect balance between remote adventure and convenient access.
As a National Park campground, Balsam Mountain Campground operates under the guidelines of the National Park Service. Therefore, specific promotional offers or discount programs typically align with national park passes or senior/access passes rather than independent campground-specific promotions. Visitors who possess a valid America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass (including annual, senior, access, military, or 4th-grade passes) may receive discounts on camping fees where applicable. It's always recommended to check the official National Park Service website or contact the campground directly for the most up-to-date information regarding any potential discounts or specific offers that might be available for your visit. Remember, planning ahead and checking official sources ensures you have the most accurate information for your North Carolina camping adventure.
Address: Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
Phone: (865) 436-1200
Mobile Phone: +1 865-436-1200
For North Carolinians seeking an authentic and accessible outdoor escape, Balsam Mountain Campground stands out as an exceptional choice. Its location in Cherokee, within the embrace of the Great Smoky Mountains, means it's a manageable drive for many across our state, offering a convenient yet utterly transformative getaway from daily life.
What truly makes this campground suitable for locals is its balanced blend of rustic charm and essential amenities. We appreciate the straightforward approach to camping, and Balsam Mountain delivers. The consistently clean bathroom facilities are a huge plus, ensuring comfort even in a natural setting. The spacious sites, complete with picnic tables and fire rings, provide everything you need for a comfortable stay, whether you’re pitching a small tent or setting up a larger family shelter. The flexibility to accommodate both tents and RVs means it’s a welcoming space for various camping styles, catering to the diverse preferences of our local community.
Furthermore, the genuine friendliness and helpfulness of the camp hosts create an inviting atmosphere that resonates with our Southern hospitality. Knowing that you can bring your furry friends (on a leash, of course!) makes it even easier to plan a complete family adventure. The overwhelming consensus from past visitors highlights a peaceful environment, even when the campground is at capacity, which speaks volumes about the thoughtful layout and the respectful nature of fellow campers.
Perhaps most compelling for North Carolinians is the direct access to the unparalleled beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. With hiking trails just a stone's throw away, you can easily immerse yourself in our state's natural wonders, from invigorating treks to serene nature walks. Balsam Mountain Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's a gateway to exploration and relaxation right here in our own backyard. It’s a place where we can truly disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature, making it a perfect, reliable choice for our next local adventure.
We camped here one night and enjoyed it. We only slept here and didn't spend any time on the grounds since we found parking lots with a view to make our backpacking meals. The bathrooms were very clean and the hosts were very kind. We would stay here again when we visit the Smokey's next time. (Photos of wildlife were from the drive up to the campground.)
Aug 21, 2021 · Kendra DorseyWonderful experience. Stayed at site #10. Tent pads are flat and solid. Site comes with a very large picnic table, and a fire ring with grate to cook on. Plenty of room for a canopy to go over top. A nice mix of RV's and tents. Many folks had large 3-8 person tents that the sites accommodated nicely. Some sites have perfect trees to set up a hammock, too. There are bathroom facilities on each end of the grounds, so not far to walk in either direction. Keep in mind, no shower facilities. Small and quaint. The camp hosts were so incredibly pleasant and helpful. Lots of hiking either a short walk or short drive from the grounds. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash/tie-out. The grounds had full reservations, but I never felt like it was overcrowded. All the other campers were very pleasant and friendly. This was my first experience camping at a campground, and I'm happy I chose this location to be my first.
Jul 29, 2019 · Christina WoodsThis is an amazing place to get a break from the intense heat of the summer in NC. During the day if you stay up in the mountain it will never get pass the 80’s and the night will drop in the 50-60’s, making it ideal to have a little fire and sleep comfortably. I would give 5 stars if they had showers and if the camp site had more space between them. 17$ a night very quiet campsites with clean toilet bathrooms it’s perfect for a 2-3 days adventures. Plenty of trails and you can bring your fishing poles too. This is a campsite that you will want to comeback too!
Oct 20, 2020 · Sebastien PilonBeautiful campground. Wonderful camp hosts. Very nice and helpful people. The campsites are really cramped however. Temperatures are cool, which feels good. Bring some fall clothing for chilly nights which is between 50 - 60 degrees in July. Bathrooms clean. No showers, but hey... This is camping. Lots of elk, wild turkey. Grounds well cared for.
Aug 03, 2019 · Virginia PrenticeIt is the best campground in GSMNP for those who like elevation, hiking, cool days and nights, cell phone signal, and wildlife. It is very small. Has several sites without tent pad and rangers may let you put two tents in one site. Some sites are extremely close to each other. Very clean and beautiful place with spectacular views on the way to the campground!
Jun 03, 2018 · Dmitry Voylov
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