Horse Cove Campground, Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest 0
Horse Cove Campground, Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest 1
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Horse Cove Campground, Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest Introduce

Horse Cove Campground is a charming camping destination nestled within the Cheoah Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest, located at Joyce Kilmer Rd, Tapoco, NC 28771, USA. This serene campground offers a mix of nature and convenience, providing visitors with an ideal base for exploring the surrounding wilderness. With its picturesque setting along the river and access to diverse outdoor activities, Horse Cove Campground is perfect for families and nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.

Our campground features well-maintained campsites that cater to both tent and RV enthusiasts. While some areas may have limited availability due to maintenance or natural conditions (such as the currently closed upper loop), the lower loop offers stunning riverside camping opportunities. We operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended to secure your preferred spot. The campsite fees are affordably priced at $15 per night, making it an accessible option for all.

Visitors can enjoy a range of recreational activities nearby, including hiking, fishing, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. The campground’s riverside location is particularly favored by families, as children often delight in the freedom to swim and explore the natural surroundings. Additionally, our staff is dedicated to ensuring your stay is enjoyable, with occasional interactions that highlight the community spirit of camping.

  • Family-Friendly: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts with children who enjoy swimming and exploring nature.
  • Location: Nestled within Nantahala National Forest, offering access to hiking trails and water activities.
  • First-Come-First-Served: Plan to arrive early to secure the best campsites, especially during peak seasons.
  • Affordable Rates: Campsite fees are set at $15 per night for a budget-friendly experience.

Customer Feedback: Our visitors have shared wonderful experiences about their stays at Horse Cove Campground. Many highlight the beauty of the campsites and the convenience of riverside access, making it a perfect spot for family trips. One visitor mentioned being impressed by a ranger’s gesture of refunding their payment after discovering their campsite was free, adding to the positive camping experience.

Location

North CarolinaGraham CountyTapocoJoyce Kilmer Road

Customer Reviews

4.0
41 reviews
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Phillip Hogan
Apr 29, 2024

Beautiful campsites here. The upper loop is closed due to a water leak but the lower loop along the river is still open (I'm sure most people want to camp along the river anyways). This is first come first serve so come early to get a good site. Fees are 15$ a night now.

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aaron reed
May 13, 2020

Awesome place to camp. I have been three times. Twice in the same spot. I went and paid for my spot and the ranger happened to be there when I did. Went back to my camp site and the ranger came back and gave me my money. He said the spot I was occupying was a free site. I thought that was pretty awesome. Our spot the last two times was right on the water. The boys enjoyed waking up and swimming in the lake. Great place to take the family and get away from the city.

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Rodrick Calles
Mar 20, 2018

We recently stayed a night at the lower sites on the way back from Daytona Bike Week so that we could get more riding in on the way home to Michigan. We did not want to leave! The lower sites have fire rings and very large picnic tables and a good sized bathroom (No sink, lighting, or shower) if needed. We we're over 40' with truck and trailer but managed to have a few choices to pick from since everything was empty. I imagine this can change over the summer season, but for the inexpensive cost per night.. it's definitely a place I would return to if I get the chance. The running creek at night was very relaxing but keep in mind it gets VERY dark with no lighting. Perfect off the grid camping.. you'll have no cell or internet service. Pick up some firewood locally and you should be good to go.

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TheMaloney
Oct 15, 2023

It’s a beautiful spot offered on a first come first serve basis. The location is amazing, but the campsites are pretty close. The bathroom is also broken and there is no running water. Might be an issue for some, but was fine for me.

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Clay Godfrey
Sep 14, 2019

Joyce Kilmer NF is walking distance from here, the fishing is good & wildlife is abundant. My wife saw a huge salamander an hour later a bald eagle dove into the water at the fishing hole to snatch it up.