From the Great Smoky Mountains to the French Broad River, North Carolina has plenty of natural wonders and spectacular views for those planning a nature getaway. For example, select one of the many Hot Springs, NC, rentals in the Blue Ridge Mountains to enjoy a unique spa day. Soak in a world-famous hot tub well-known for its rich mineral content and endless power source supplied deep within the Earth. Explore hiking and biking trails, kayak the Rocky River Blueway, and enjoy all the majestic wildlife North Carolina has to offer.

If you’re looking for a unique and luxurious experience in the heart of nature, consider glamping, which means you can leave the complicated and sometimes cumbersome camping equipment at home. This southern state is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, so there’s plenty to enjoy for all interests. Here are some of the most beautiful destinations to go glamping in North Carolina.

Pisgah National Forest

A sunny day in Pisgah National Forest.

Pisgah National Forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Located in western North Carolina, this forest is home to numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives. Several upscale camping options exist in Pisgah Forest, including yurts, treehouses, and cabin rentals. The forest is also home to several campgrounds, so you can choose the level of luxury that suits your needs.

With cascading waterfalls and mile-high peaks, Pisgah National Forest is the perfect spot for outdoor recreation and breathtaking scenic views.

Fun Things to Do

  • Pisgah National Forest is spread over 500,000 acres near Brevard rentals, which is known as the “Land of Waterfalls,” with 250 of its namesake to explore.
  • Go on a guided hike or group guided meditation hike and soak up all the nature to be found in Pisgah National Forest or the Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • Pisgah National Forest cabin rentals are a great way to experience this unique destination in the Appalachian Mountains.

N.C. Glamping Options

This 2018 Torque CT offers adventurers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Pisgah while having all the comforts of home.

This charming RV can comfortably sleep six people, making it perfect for a family getaway. Some amenities include air conditioning, a TV, and a kitchenette to prepare homemade meals. It is nestled in Mills River and offers access to plenty of outdoor activities.

A 2021 Winnebago Solis 59px Camper Van is also located in Mills River and is pet friendly, so you can bring your furry friends on adventures with you. Amenities include indoor and outdoor showers, an air conditioner, a two-burner stove, a fridge, and a toilet. There is a queen-size bed at the top of the van to sleep additional guests, and the downstairs area has Murphy beds to allow for more room. The camper van has plenty of storage space available to safely store all of your getaway essentials.

Asheville

Winding road of the blue ridge parkway in the Appalachian mountains near Asheville, NC.

Asheville is a vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s known for its spirited arts scene, craft breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Asheville also has plenty of glamping options, including luxury tents, treehouses, and cabin rentals. If you want a unique experience, consider staying in a converted vintage trailer or a geodesic dome. During your stay, be sure to check out the Biltmore Estate, the Asheville Art Museum, and the River Arts District, among many other attractions.

Fun Things to Do

  • Other nearby attractions include the Asheville Pinball Museum, Catawba Falls, Sliding Rock, and LaZoom Tours.
  • Check out a downtown drum circle every Friday night, go shopping in a chic boutique for indie wares, or hang out at one of the incredible craft breweries in the city.
  • Depending on what time of the year you go, grabbing one of the many Asheville rentals with a hot tub is a good way to let loose with friends or family after a long day of sightseeing.

N.C. Glamping Options

This 22-foot Airstream Sport named Bambi is a great option for glampers to consider in Asheville. It will fit the whole family and is pet-friendly, so Fido won’t have to stay home.

Some amenities include air conditioning to stay cool after a long day of hiking, a kitchenette to make your favorite homemade meals, and a TV to relax after a long day of fun and adventures.

Nantahala Lake

Two tipis in the dark with people by a far close by in North Carolina.

Nantahala Lake is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway. This pristine lake is in western North Carolina, surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest. There are several glamping options in the area, including yurts and Nantahala cabin rentals. During your stay, you can enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking. Be sure to visit the nearby Nantahala Outdoor Center, which offers whitewater rafting, zip lining, and other outdoor activities.

The lake is also popular for its whitewater sports like kayaking and rafting. These crystal-clear waters offer a tranquil spot with scenic views of the Smoky Mountains.

Fun Things to Do

  • Enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or the Joyce Kilmer Forest.
  • Go mining for gems in the Franklin area or enjoy a hike up the Appalachian Trail to admire the view on top of the Fontana Dam.
  • Waterfront Lake Nantahala rentals are a nice way to cool off and relax after a long day of hiking.

N.C. Glamping Options

Little Red is a glamping spot located in Nantahala that offers glampers the opportunity to enjoy basking in nature surrounded by scenic views. Don’t let the name fool you — Little Red’s amenities include an air conditioner, a hot tub, a private patio, barbecue facilities, and a fire pit to make s’mores at night while enjoying some stargazing.

This tiny house allows glampers to easily explore locations like Bald River Falls, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Mingo Falls, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, and much more.

Bryson City

A scenic overlook of Clingmans Dome Trailhead.

Bryson City is a charming town located in western North Carolina, near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. There are several glamping options available, including luxury tents, treehouses, cabins, and Bryson City rentals with mountain views. During your stay, be sure to take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, which offers scenic tours through the mountains.

This gateway to the Smokies is the perfect destination for glampers looking for fresh-mountain air, wide-open spaces, and plenty of outdoor activities. It is popular for its majestic mountains and lively downtown. There are also many parks to explore and enjoy a picnic in.

Fun Things to Do

  • The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad offers spectacular train rides through the Smoky Mountains.
  • Popular outdoor activities in Bryson City include whitewater rafting, mountain biking, boating in Fontana Lake, and tubing through the Smokies.
  • For a unique adventure, consider going horseback riding, kayaking, canoeing, zip lining, or swimming in the Smokies.
  • Bryson City cabin rentals are a great way to commune more closely with nature but not have to rough it on a camping trip.

N.C. Glamping Options

Glamping in NC is a breeze at the Ft. Wilderness RV Park & Campground, located in Qualla.

This campground offers easy access to popular attractions such as The Island in Pigeon Forge, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Dollywood, Parrot Mountain, and much more. Some of the amenities at this location include free Wi-Fi, a fireplace, an outdoor swimming pool, a barbecue area, an air conditioner, and a kitchen. It is also pet-friendly so you can bring your furry friends along!

Charlotte

Camp North End during sunset in Charlotte, NC.

Charlotte is a bustling city located in central North Carolina. It’s known for its museums, restaurants, and shopping. If you’re looking for a glamping experience near the city, consider staying at one of the nearby campgrounds or cabins. During your stay, be sure to check out the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Levine Museum of the New South, and the U.S. National Whitewater Center.

The Queen City is known for its vibrant nightlife and ample outdoor activities, and you can’t go wrong with any of the many Charlotte vacation rentals currently available. From hiking down beautiful scenic trails to enjoying the fresh mountain air while indulging in a picnic basket, Charlotte cabin rentals, rentals with pools, or pet-friendly rentals offer plenty of ways to make the most of your getaway.

Fun Things to Do

  • Tour the city’s past at the Levine Museum of the New South or the Charlotte Museum of History, and then follow the Charlotte Liberty Walk.
  • Take a spooky ghost tour by lantern-light of Uptown Charlotte with Carolina History & Haunts.
  • In the summer, head to the nearby Lake Wylie or Lake Norman to cool off.

N.C. Glamping Options

This 2021 Coleman RV is a Coleman bunkhouse that sleeps seven people and offers the perfect opportunity for glampers to explore the Carolinas. Some of the amenities include air conditioning, a kitchen, a TV, an electric fireplace, a dining table area, a full-size fridge, and a bathroom. This location is pet friendly.

Little Miss Sunshine is a charming custom-converted 2017 Ford Transit. It works great for weekend excursions, and some of the amenities include a full-size extendable bed, a full kitchen, a laundry area, a propane heater, and a chemical toilet. It is also pet friendly.

Plan Your North Carolina Glamping Adventure

North Carolina has some of the best glamping spots in the country. With its beautiful mountain scenery and numerous outdoor activities available year-round, it’s no wonder the Tar Heel State is becoming such a popular destination among glampers and vacationers of all kinds. Use VacationRenter to book the perfect North Carolina rental for you and your family below.