RV Rental Bryson City, NC

Book a motorhome rental in Bryson City and drive north to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sprawls across more than 500,000 acres along the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, with both short and long hikes available along parts of the legendary Appalachian Trail. Trek to the peak of Mount Le Conte to take in the panoramic views across this wilderness area or delve into its industrial history while exploring the historic buildings of Cades Cove.

Bryson City also serves as a gateway to the Nantahala National Forest, which is divided into a number of wilderness areas. Its name translates from Cherokee as the “Land of the Noonday Sun,” with plenty of recreational opportunities to revel in its sunshine and natural beauty. Stretch your legs along the trail that leads to Cullasaja Falls or marvel at the ancient tulip poplar groves, with fishing also available in the waters of Balsam Lake.

Just over an hour’s drive east will land you in the Pisgah National Forest, which is comprised of the Linville Gorge Wilderness, the Middle Prong Wilderness, and the Shining Rock Wilderness where you can get active while hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. It’s traversed by the 30-mile-long Art Loeb Trail that’s renowned for its sweeping views, as well as the long-distance Mountains-to-Sea Trail that extends from Jockey's Ridge State Park to Clingman’s Dome.

Pick up your travel trailer rental in Bryson City and head to Big Bear's RV Park, which lies just to the north of the downtown area. There’s a good selection of spacious pull-through sites available (including full hookups) and easy access to the natural pursuits on offer in the area.

Another nearby option is the Grumpy Bear RV Park and Campground to the east of the city center where you’ll find a variety of RV sites with 20, 30, or 50-amp services. Pets on a leash are welcome to stay with you, and there’s a modern shower and bathroom facility to take advantage of.

Alternatively, book a site at the Country Girls RV Park, a pet-friendly campground that has a peaceful setting along the Tuckasegee River to the east of Bryson City. There are just over 50 sites to choose from, with picnic tables, fire rings, and laundry facilities also available.

You can also make the 20-minute drive to Sylva and its Walmart where you may be able to set up for a night or two with the manager’s permission.

Book an RV rental near Bryson City and enjoy a ride along the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of Western North Carolina. Scheduled excursions run from the historic depot in Bryson City to either Nantahala or Dillsboro, with themed trips planned throughout the year. You can indulge with a gourmet dining experience in their First Class Cars or enjoy a more laid-back train ride with a barbecue and beers on the Fontana Trestle Train.

Railway enthusiasts should also make a point of visiting the Smoky Mountain Train Museum. Browse the collection that includes around 7,000 Lionel engines, cars, and accessories, or let the kids run loose in the hands-on children’s activity center. Another museum of note is the Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians where you can admire their impressive range of vintage fishing gear that includes 19th-century fly rods.

If you’re traveling with kids, make a point of visiting the Smoky Mountain Gold & Ruby Mine where they can try their luck at gold panning and gem mining. Search for shimmering emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and topaz, then have them identified by one of the resident professionals. You can also have your stones cut and polished to create your very own jewelry or just browse the unique gifts they have for sale.

Bryson City is home to numerous supermarkets where you can pick up grocery supplies, as well as a good selection of fast food restaurants and eateries for dining out. There are also gas stations if you want to fill up your campervan in Bryson City.

Whether you’re visiting Swain County for its wilderness areas or railroad history, book an RV in Bryson City and start exploring.