Nantahala National Forest

Nantahala National Forest

Paddle cold mountain rivers and camp beneath hardwood forests in the southern Appalachians.

Best time
May – October
Duration
3–5 days
Avg. budget
$110 / day
Scenic score
9 / 10
Camping score
9 / 10

Reservation needed

Moderate

Book peak-season stays early

Nearest airport

AVL · 2 h 23 min drive

Asheville Regional Airport

Nantahala campgrounds sold out? You still have options.

Private campsites and glamping just outside the park often stay open when park campgrounds are full. Availability is set by each partner.

RV parks near Nantahala National Forest on RoverPass

Price on request
Check datesPartner link · RoverPass

Campsites near Nantahala National Forest on Campspot

Price on request
Check datesPartner link · Campspot

Going in May? Book campsites around Nov, any entry permit around Jan, and your RV or car around Mar. Always check official park rules for exact release dates.

Where you'll want to sleep

View all stays

Checks availability with the partner directly — not a confirmed booking on our end.

Minialife may earn a commission when you book through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Learn more

RVs, campervans & cars near AVL

View all rentals

Checks availability with the partner directly — not a confirmed booking on our end.

The moments you came for

View all activities

Plan your road trip

From Asheville Regional Airport

2 h 23 min

about 101 miles by car · times vary with traffic and road closures

Get directions

Download offline maps before you go — signal drops near the park.

Stays near the end of your drive

Gear worth bringing

View all gear

More destinations you'll love

View all destinations