While our trip to Standing Indian, a campground in the Nantahala National Forest in NC was from last year, it may be timely for any of you in the Atlanta area looking for a nice camping destination and a temperature reprieve.
Standing Indian is a very basic campground (no electric, no water… nada), located in a most beautiful part of North Carolina (located a few miles west of downtown Franklin). Because of its elevation (I think about 2,000+ feet but don’t quote me) it remains cool even on scorching days in Atlanta.
Great hiking, beautiful views, and quiet are really the watchwords here.
Should your epicurean voice sing out at night, swing into Franklin where Caffé Rel serves up some unbelievably great food (crab bisque is superb). I will warn you – the restaurant is located in a gas station (yes, a gas station) and it only takes cash. But get there early – no reservations and all the locals know it for what it is – fabulous!
Great post Brad. I have been to the Standing Indian area many times and that campground is a true gem. I think it is over 3,000ft. You are certainly right, it is nice and cool in the summer with that great Nantahala river flowing right through it. There is a great hike from the capground to the top of standing indian mountain with incredible views, and there is a dirt road that goes out of the back of the capground which winds it’s way up through the forest and goes by the Albert Mountain fire tower. It is a short, but steep hike to the top of Albert Mountain, but the views are absolutely phenomenal from the fire tower!
Awesome! I don’t think we made it to the fire tower but will be sure to add that next time we are there! As you know there are some trails that parallel some gorgeous streams that are just lush – and cool.