National Forest
Appletree Group Camp
Franklin, North Carolina
Campground in North Carolina.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Round Mountain Campground
This campground is located near the top of Round Mountain in Cocke County. Situated at 3,100 feet, it is one of the highest-elevation campgrounds in Cherokee National Forest.
Nestled in the heart of North Carolina's beautiful mountain country, Round Mountain Campground offers a peaceful retreat for RV travelers seeking an authentic forest camping experience. With just 14 sites, this intimate National Forest campground provides the perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion, allowing you to escape the crowds while still enjoying the comfort of your RV home away from home.
The campground's location within a National Forest setting means you're surrounded by pristine natural beauty at every turn. Towering trees provide natural shade and shelter, creating a cool, refreshing environment even during warmer months. The forest canopy offers a genuine connection to nature that larger commercial parks simply cannot replicate. Early mornings bring the sounds of woodland birds, and evenings offer clear skies perfect for stargazing away from city lights.
North Carolina's mountain region is renowned for its outdoor recreation opportunities, and staying at Round Mountain puts you perfectly positioned to explore them. Hiking trails wind through nearby forests, offering everything from gentle nature walks to more challenging mountain adventures. The region's natural waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and mountain vistas provide endless opportunities for photography and exploration. Fishing enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities in nearby streams and mountain waters.
The area surrounding the campground welcomes visitors with charming mountain towns, local artisan shops, and authentic regional dining. You'll discover the rich cultural heritage of Appalachia through local galleries, craft studios, and heritage sites. These communities offer a genuine glimpse into mountain life and traditions that have defined this region for generations.
Round Mountain Campground appeals to a wide range of travelers. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the forest setting and proximity to hiking and recreation. Families enjoy the safe, quiet environment and engaging outdoor activities. Retirees favor the peaceful atmosphere and manageable size. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or a longer forest retreat, this National Forest campground provides an authentic North Carolina mountain camping experience.
The campground's location within a National Forest setting means you're surrounded by pristine natural beauty at every turn. Towering trees provide natural shade and shelter, creating a cool, refreshing environment even during warmer months. The forest canopy offers a genuine connection to nature that larger commercial parks simply cannot replicate. Early mornings bring the sounds of woodland birds, and evenings offer clear skies perfect for stargazing away from city lights.
North Carolina's mountain region is renowned for its outdoor recreation opportunities, and staying at Round Mountain puts you perfectly positioned to explore them. Hiking trails wind through nearby forests, offering everything from gentle nature walks to more challenging mountain adventures. The region's natural waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and mountain vistas provide endless opportunities for photography and exploration. Fishing enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities in nearby streams and mountain waters.
The area surrounding the campground welcomes visitors with charming mountain towns, local artisan shops, and authentic regional dining. You'll discover the rich cultural heritage of Appalachia through local galleries, craft studios, and heritage sites. These communities offer a genuine glimpse into mountain life and traditions that have defined this region for generations.
Round Mountain Campground appeals to a wide range of travelers. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the forest setting and proximity to hiking and recreation. Families enjoy the safe, quiet environment and engaging outdoor activities. Retirees favor the peaceful atmosphere and manageable size. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or a longer forest retreat, this National Forest campground provides an authentic North Carolina mountain camping experience.
14
Total Sites
4.6
Rating
52
Reviews
Park Details
Total Sites
14
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Newport is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
North Carolina weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Newport.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Newport. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Round Mountain Campground Reviews
Sign in to Review
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Joseph Sturgill
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Joseph Sturgill
This is one of my favorite hidden campgrounds, it is a gem tucked away in the mountains near one of the best mountain views around. The road in is well maintained and is generally car friendly. Round Mountain Campground is a nice central hub that you can easily explore the forest from with close access to the Appalachian Trail, Wolf Creek Falls, Max Patch, and additional hiking. By far one of the... This is one of my favorite hidden campgrounds, it is a gem tucked away in the mountains near one of the best mountain views around. The road in is well maintained and is generally car friendly. Round Mountain Campground is a nice central hub that you can easily explore the forest from with close access to the Appalachian Trail, Wolf Creek Falls, Max Patch, and additional hiking. By far one of the best primitive campgrounds in this part of the forest!
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Israel Estrada
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Israel Estrada
Motorcycle riders beware, stayed recently and the drive up is dirt covered in gravel with 10-60 ft drop offs. Bike slid coming down and came about 4 inches from the edge… idk if I would go again but I’ve never felt so grateful to be on solid road after. NOT FOR BEGINNER RIDERS!
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Israel Estrada
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Israel Estrada
Motorcycle riders beware, stayed recently and the drive up is dirt covered in gravel with 10-60 ft drop offs. Bike slid coming down and came about 4 inches from the edge… idk if I would go again but I’ve never felt so grateful to be on solid road after. NOT FOR BEGINNER RIDERS!
G
JB
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by JB
Please clean up after yourself. Trash cans are literally within 30 yards of each site. Other than the random litter, this is my new favorite campground. Plenty of space and everything I was looking for (which was mostly a peaceful and quiet place with high enough elevation to escape the heat). Takes about ~10 to drive to max patch and about 5 minutes to lemon gap. I filter my water from the campgr... Please clean up after yourself. Trash cans are literally within 30 yards of each site. Other than the random litter, this is my new favorite campground. Plenty of space and everything I was looking for (which was mostly a peaceful and quiet place with high enough elevation to escape the heat). Takes about ~10 to drive to max patch and about 5 minutes to lemon gap. I filter my water from the campground streams through a charcoal filter. This is a true backcountry car camping site.
G
JB
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by JB
Please clean up after yourself. Trash cans are literally within 30 yards of each site. Other than the random litter, this is my new favorite campground. Plenty of space and everything I was looking for (which was mostly a peaceful and quiet place with high enough elevation to escape the heat). Takes about ~10 to drive to max patch and about 5 minutes to lemon gap. I filter my water from the campgr... Please clean up after yourself. Trash cans are literally within 30 yards of each site. Other than the random litter, this is my new favorite campground. Plenty of space and everything I was looking for (which was mostly a peaceful and quiet place with high enough elevation to escape the heat). Takes about ~10 to drive to max patch and about 5 minutes to lemon gap. I filter my water from the campground streams through a charcoal filter. This is a true backcountry car camping site.
G
JB
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by JB
Please clean up after yourself. Trash cans are literally within 30 yards of each site. Other than the random litter, this is my new favorite campground. Plenty of space and everything I was looking for (which was mostly a peaceful and quiet place with high enough elevation to escape the heat). Takes about ~10 to drive to max patch and about 5 minutes to lemon gap. I filter my water from the campgr... Please clean up after yourself. Trash cans are literally within 30 yards of each site. Other than the random litter, this is my new favorite campground. Plenty of space and everything I was looking for (which was mostly a peaceful and quiet place with high enough elevation to escape the heat). Takes about ~10 to drive to max patch and about 5 minutes to lemon gap. I filter my water from the campground streams through a charcoal filter. This is a true backcountry car camping site.
G
Amanda Morgan
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Amanda Morgan
This is a nice little camp ground that is pack everything in and out. Has vault potties they are for the most part clean and in order. We love it since it is not typical busy. Very peaceful and best part no cell service!
G
Amanda Morgan
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Amanda Morgan
This is a nice little camp ground that is pack everything in and out. Has vault potties they are for the most part clean and in order. We love it since it is not typical busy. Very peaceful and best part no cell service!
G
Amanda Morgan
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Amanda Morgan
This is a nice little camp ground that is pack everything in and out. Has vault potties they are for the most part clean and in order. We love it since it is not typical busy. Very peaceful and best part no cell service!
G
Kim Woodfin
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kim Woodfin
Very peaceful there. Bathrooms and camping sites clean. Great place to enjoy nature and relax
G
Kim Woodfin
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kim Woodfin
Very peaceful there. Bathrooms and camping sites clean. Great place to enjoy nature and relax
G
Kim Woodfin
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kim Woodfin
Very peaceful there. Bathrooms and camping sites clean. Great place to enjoy nature and relax
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