Balsam Mountain Campground

Cherokee, NC

4.6(176 reviews)

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About this campground

Balsam Mountain Campground is located in a relatively remote part of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The secluded setting offers visitors the ability to enjoy a multitude of recreational activities without the crowds which are sometimes common in other parts of the park. Balsam Mountain Campground offers 42 campsites for a traditional outdoor camping experience with the added convenience of flush toilets and drinking water. There are no hookups or showers at the campground. No lights are available in the restrooms at this campground. For campers' safety use of a flashlight, lantern or headlamp is recommended when accessing these facilities after day light hours. Balsam Mountain Campground is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and pristine mountain streams. Elk are common in this part of the park during the spring and fall. Located at 5,310 feet elevation, Balsam Mountain's daytime temperatures rarely exceed 70 degrees F and night time temperatures may dip into the low 50's.

What campers say

Balsam Mountain Campground is a small, quiet, high-elevation site favored for cool days and nights, strong wildlife sightings (elk, deer, bears, wild turkey), clean vault toilets, and friendly camp hosts. It's secluded with scenic approach roads and nearby trail access, though reaching major visitor centers or Cherokee requires a roughly 30-35 minute drive. Practical tradeoffs: there are no showers, some sites are tight or lack formal tent pads, and cell service is carrier-dependent. Well suited to hikers and wildlife observers seeking a peaceful mountain stay, but may feel cramped or limited for families wanting more space and on-site amenities.

Our summary of 176 traveler reviews.