Camping in the NC Mountains at Winding Stair Campground
Why Camp at Winding Stair Campground?
⛳️ Private river access steps away from your site
🐾 Pet-friendly for your four-legged friends
🌌 Stargazing at 3,380 feet elevation
🧖 Easy access to hiking trails and waterfalls
🔒 Secure, gated entrance
Looking for unforgettable Franklin NC camping experiences? Nestled at the headwaters of the Nantahala River, just 15 minutes from downtown Franklin, Winding Stair Campground offers a peaceful escape into the North Carolina mountains. Whether you’re seeking starlit nights, riverfront mornings, or rustic glamping adventures, you’ll find your happy place here.
Tent Camping in the NC Mountains
🔥 Sleep under the stars and breathe in the crisp mountain air.
✅ Secluded, shaded sites surrounded by lush forest
✅ Fire pits & picnic tables at every site
✅ Quick access to the Appalachian Trail & Nantahala River
✅ Pet-friendly camping
Available Tent Sites at Winding Stair Campground
Glass House
Tents only, above river. Glass greenhouse offers warmth, light, water, power, and shelter. Close to bathhouse. (Max 6 people)
Johnsonville
Tents only, riverfront camping site. Near Pavilion with power and seasonal water. (Max 4 adults, 3 children)
Brass Camp
Tents only, private peaceful campsite. Steps from bathhouse with power and water. (Max 4 adults, 2 children)
Group Lane
Tents, RVs, Car/Hammock camping. Spacious site with 4 RV hookups, water access, and picnic tables under string lights. (Max 16 people)
Luxury Glamping Near Nantahala Forest
✨ Experience nature with a touch of luxury.
✅ Powered & water hookup sites
✅ Spacious furnished glamping tents
✅ Full apartment rental options
✅ Real beds, linens, and cozy amenities
Available Glamping Sites at Winding Stair Campground
River House
Rustic riverfront shelter with 4 full beds, privacy curtains, wood stove, and screen walls. Onsite port-a-potty. Extra tent space. (Max 4 adults, 5 kids)
Fern Gully
Secluded canvas tent with king bed, cots/hammocks, lights, fan, and space heater. Tent space available. (Max 6 adults, 4 children)
Hey Barn
King-size bed, cots, hammocks, small kitchenette. Only site directly on the farm (no dogs). (Max 2 adults, 2 children)
Bunk Room
Located above the bathhouse. 4 twin beds, fan, space heater, water, and kitchen access at Camp Store. (Max 4 adults, 3 children)
Apartment
Cozy studio with king bed, twin bunk beds, full bathroom, Wi-Fi, and TV. (Max 4 adults, 2 children)
Franklin NC Campground Amenities
Unwind in our peaceful community spaces—discover more amenities here.
Meet Your Hosts at Winding Stair Campground
Robyn — Booking Manager
Heath — Property & Livestock Manager
Stacy & Greg — On-Site Owners
Our small team is here to make your stay unforgettable. While we’re not always onsite, we’re always nearby if you need assistance!
Plan Your NC Mountain Camping Escape Today
Discover why so many call Winding Stair Campground their happy place. Find your adventure—or your peace—in Franklin, NC.
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