6 Things to do on a Camping Trip in Cherokee, NC

Making s’mores, counting fireflies, laughing around a campfire—some of the best moments in life happen on camping trips. Our beautiful mountain scenery, abundance of fish and wildlife, and wealth of outdoors activities makes Cherokee, North Carolina, a great spot for camping.

Whether you are planning a rugged week spent tent camping in the backcountry, a weekend “glamping” trip with all the comforts of home, or a relaxing RV getaway for one month or three, here are a few of our favorite things to do on camping trips here in Cherokee.

1. Enjoy camp!

There are all types of places to camp in Cherokee, from simple tent sites to campgrounds with RV sites with full hookups. Plan on relaxing and enjoying your camping experience while you are here. Campgrounds in Cherokee offer a variety of fun, family-friendly amenities and things to do, including fire rings, game rooms, playgrounds, hayrides, mini-golf, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and bicycle rentals.

2. Fish.

Don’t forget to bring your fishing pole on your camping trip in Cherokee. From stocked fishing ponds to 30 miles of streams, Cherokee is a paradise for folks who love to fish. If you are very skilled at fly fishing, you should consider planning your camping vacation during one of the competitive tournaments that happen throughout the year here. Visit FishCherokee.com to learn more. Remember you need a tribal permit to fish within the Qualla Boundary. Outside the Boundary, you must have a valid state fishing license. Dozens of local businesses in Cherokee are authorized outlets for fishing permits.

3. Explore Cherokee’s new Fire Mountain Trails by foot or bike.

Cherokee’s new multi-use trail system is getting rave reviews from mountain bikers, trail runners, and hikers from all over the world. On your next camping trip to Cherokee, plan to an outdoor adventure day at Fire Mountain Trails to see for yourself what the buzz is all about.

4. Chase waterfalls.

You don’t have to go far to see some gorgeous waterfalls in Cherokee. Be sure to make time for visits to Mingo Falls and Soco Falls during your camping trip.

5. Go for a swim, float, or tube down the river!

There is nothing sweeter than diving into a mountain river on a hot summer day. There are local tubing opportunities on the Tuckasegee and the Oconaluftee Rivers. You can also go wading or swimming in kid-friendly Oconaluftee Islands Park right near downtown Cherokee!

6. Hop in the car and drive.

Going for a drive may not seem like a great camping activity, but it is when the road is a national park! Cherokee is where you’ll find the southern Blue Ridge Parkway entrance and exit.

Wherever you decide to stay and whatever you decide to do, we hope you enjoy some of the wonderful outdoor activities that make camping in Cherokee, NC, so special.