KIMSEY CREEK GROUP CAMPGROUND

Closed — Closed for the season. Reopens April 1, 2026. Reservations required for all group sites. No walk-in camping available.

About

Kimsey Creek Group Campground offers a pleasant setting for group camping within the larger Standing Indian Campground in Nantahala National Forest. The campground features three group sites, each accommodating between 10 and 25 people, available by reservation only at $75 per night. Located at the headwaters of the scenic Nantahala River, the campground sits at 3,880 feet elevation surrounded by 5,000-foot peaks and lush forests of evergreen trees and rhododendrons. The campground is bordered by the Nantahala River, a native trout stream that provides excellent fishing opportunities. Numerous hiking trails lead to adjoining mountain peaks, and the Appalachian Trail is easily accessible from the area. The campground is accessed through Standing Indian Campground, located about a 20-minute scenic drive from Franklin, North Carolina. Big and small game hunting occurs in the surrounding area during appropriate seasons. Kimsey Creek Group Campground does not have restrooms or potable water at the group sites themselves. Campers should plan accordingly and may have access to facilities at the main Standing Indian Campground including flush toilets, showers, and drinking water. The campground operates seasonally from April through November, closing during winter months.

Directions

From Franklin, take US 64 west for approximately 12 miles through Winding Stair Gap. Near the bottom of the mountain, turn left on West Old Murphy Road (SR 1448) and go 1.9 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 67 at the Standing Indian Campground sign. Go 1.7 miles and turn right into Standing Indian Campground. Continue through the campground to Loop 3 and proceed 0.5 miles to the back of the loop. Turn right onto the gated road into Kimsey Creek Group Campground.

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