TOP 10 Best Parks with wildlife viewing in Cherokee, North Carolina

Located on U.S. 441 in Cherokee, North Carolina, Oconaluftee Island Park is a popular tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the culture and history of the Cherokee people. As a sovereign nation, Cherokee is situated in the heart of Western North Carolina, making it an ideal base camp for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains and indulging in arts and crafts shopping. Visitors can also enjoy viewing the native elk herd, fishing in the local waters, and immersing themselves in a history that spans millennia. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, from hiking and wildlife viewing to cultural events and historical tours. Whether you're looking to relax and de-stress or seeking an adventure in the great outdoors, Oconaluftee Island Park has something for everyone.

Cherokee Lake Recreation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Murphy, North Carolina, United States. This serene and picturesque spot offers visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With its stunning views of Cherokee Lake and surrounding mountains, this recreation area is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy fishing, hiking, picnicking, or simply taking in the scenic views, Cherokee Lake Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and connect with nature.

Sleep Inn Bryson City - Cherokee Area is a cozy and comfortable lodging option located at 500 Veterans Boulevard in the picturesque town of Bryson City, North Carolina. Situated in the heart of the Cherokee area, this hotel offers easy access to popular attractions such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Harrah's Cherokee Casino, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center. The rooms are modern and well-appointed, with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and plush bedding. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning and relax in the outdoor pool. Whether you are visiting for business or pleasure, Sleep Inn Bryson City - Cherokee Area provides a convenient and relaxing stay for all travelers.

Cherokee Bear Zoo is a popular tourist attraction located at 1204 Tsalagi Road in Cherokee, North Carolina, United States. This unique zoo offers visitors the opportunity to see and learn about a variety of bear species up close. With a focus on education and conservation, Cherokee Bear Zoo provides a fun and informative experience for visitors of all ages. Come visit and witness these majestic animals in a safe and controlled environment.

Tricorner Knob Shelter is a cozy campground and lodging facility nestled in the heart of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Cherokee, North Carolina, United States. This park offers a peaceful retreat for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to the nearby trails. Whether you're looking for a place to rest after a long day of exploring or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors, Tricorner Knob Shelter is the perfect destination for your next adventure.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile tourist attraction that runs through the Appalachian Mountains from Waynesboro, Virginia to Cherokee, North Carolina. This scenic route connects Shenandoah National Park with Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Parkway is open to private passenger vehicles and motorcycles, with no stop lights or stop signs along the entire stretch. Travelers can find amenities in nearby towns, including gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and campgrounds. Visitor centers, historic sites, and campgrounds are typically open from April or May through October, with some facilities open year-round. The Parkway is a popular destination for leisurely drives, hikes on over 120 trails, picnics at scenic overlooks, and camping under the stars. With 91 historic structures, 26 tunnels, and 281 overlooks, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a diverse experience for visitors of all interests. Whether you're a casual driver or a serious hiker, the Parkway has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Mountain Farm Museum, located in Cherokee, North Carolina, is a unique collection of historic log buildings gathered from throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can explore a farmhouse, barn, apple house, springhouse, and smokehouse to get a glimpse of how families lived 100 years ago. The museum also features a working blacksmith shop and showcases historic gardening and agricultural practices. The nearby Mingus Mill, built in 1886, is a water-powered gristmill that stands as a tribute to the test of time. The site offers a self-guided tour booklet with historical photographs and illustrations, providing a glimpse into life a century ago. Proceeds from purchases at the visitor center's bookstore are donated to educational, scientific, and historical projects in the park.

The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is a must-visit institution located at 1194 Newfound Gap Road in Cherokee, North Carolina, United States. This museum and travel agency is the perfect starting point for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, known for its breathtaking scenery, diverse plant and animal life, and rich Appalachian mountain culture. Before heading out to explore the park, make sure to stop by the Oconaluftee Visitor Center to get the latest information on road conditions, trail updates, and park facilities. Remember to obtain a parking tag if you plan on staying for longer than 15 minutes, as parking can be in high demand.

The Oconaluftee River Trail Trailhead is a serene park located in Cherokee, North Carolina, United States. Situated along the picturesque Oconaluftee River, this trailhead offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful stroll through nature. Surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sound of the river, this park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk or a place to connect with the great outdoors, the Oconaluftee River Trail Trailhead is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Located in the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Smokemont Campground is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature. With modern amenities such as flush toilets, drinking water, and RV sites, this campground offers a comfortable outdoor experience. Surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and pristine streams, the scenery at Smokemont is truly breathtaking. Enjoy hiking on over 800 miles of trails, fishing in the cool waters, or simply relaxing in the great outdoors. Learn about the rich cultural history of the area at nearby attractions like the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Smokemont Campground has something for everyone. Plan your next outdoor getaway at this unforgettable destination in Cherokee, North Carolina.

Balsam Mountain Campground is a serene and picturesque destination located in Cherokee, North Carolina, United States. Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, this campground offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a variety of lodging options, including tent and RV sites, as well as charming cabins, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay surrounded by the beauty of the surrounding park. The campground also features hiking trails, fishing spots, and breathtaking views of the mountains, making it the perfect destination for a peaceful getaway. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or explore the great outdoors, Balsam Mountain Campground has something for everyone.

Winngray Campground is a peaceful retreat nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Located in Haywood County, near Maggie Valley and Waynesville, our campground offers guests stunning mountain views and the relaxing sounds of Jonathan Creek. Bordering the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Winngray Campground is the perfect place to explore the beauty of nature. Our spacious RV sites and tent areas provide full hookups, 30 and 50 amp service, and a dump location for your convenience. Clean and well-landscaped grounds surround our sites, with paved roads for easy access. Guests can enjoy amenities such as bathroom and shower facilities, propane, ice, and laundry services.

Eagle's Nest is a real estate and travel agency located at 248 Buddys Way in Bryson City, North Carolina, United States. Owned by Michelle and Shannon, this institution offers vacation cabin rentals with stunning views of Fontana Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The property sits on 12 acres surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest, providing a peaceful and secluded atmosphere for guests to enjoy. The cabins, named "Eagle's Landing", "Eagle's Nest", and "Tiny Tuck", offer a unique experience for visitors looking to explore the beauty of the area. Conveniently located near local attractions such as Alarka Marina, Cherokee Indian Reservation, and Nantahala Outdoor Center, guests have plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you're a fisherman, nature lover, artist, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, Eagle's Nest provides the perfect setting for a memorable and rejuvenating stay. Enjoy the breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and unique experiences that this magical paradise has to offer.

Black Bear Lodge Smoky Mountains is a unique lodging institution located at 465 Oak Ridge Lane, Whittier, North Carolina, United States. Nestled on the border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cherokee Indian Reservation, our custom tipis offer a one-of-a-kind experience in nature. Owned by Barbara and Kevin, who fell in love with the serene beauty of the area and decided to share it with others, Black Bear Lodge provides a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by stunning views and wildlife, our tipis offer a cozy and unique accommodation option for guests looking to connect with nature.

Nature Trail is a serene park located in Cherokee, North Carolina, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding area. With well-marked trails and informative signage, visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna that call this park home. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Nature Trail has something for everyone. So come and experience the tranquility and beauty of the great outdoors at Nature Trail in Cherokee, North Carolina.

The Hive Lodge is a unique lodging experience located at 2450 Sam Dills Road in Whittier, North Carolina. This rustic farmhouse-style mountain cabin has been recently renovated to provide a comfortable and relaxing retreat for large families. With 8 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and the capacity to sleep 20 people, The Hive Lodge offers plenty of space and seclusion for guests to enjoy. Situated just 10 miles from Cherokee and Bryson City, this North Carolina Mountain Cabin was originally built as a schoolhouse and now serves as the perfect getaway for families visiting the Smokies. The property features themed bedrooms with custom hand-made art and decor, as well as modern amenities such as a pool table, fire pit, and hammocks.

Tow String Horse Camp is a picturesque campground and lodging facility located in Cherokee, North Carolina, just a few miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, this campsite is perfect for horse owners looking for a unique camping experience. With miles of horse trails and a breathtaking scenic backdrop, visitors can saddle up and explore the beauty of the park on horseback. Please note that you MUST have a horse to camp at Tow String Horse Camp. The campsite offers traditional woods camping, providing a perfect getaway for those looking to reconnect with nature. With a moderate climate characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers, visitors can enjoy the great outdoors year-round.

Backcountry Camp 48 is a serene and rustic campground located on Chasteen Creek Trail in Cherokee, North Carolina. Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, this institution offers a unique camping experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a variety of lodging options including tent sites and cabins, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding park while enjoying the tranquility of the wilderness. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or simply relax in nature, Backcountry Camp 48 provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

White Tree Court is a charming lodging institution located at 1724 Paint Town Road in the picturesque town of Whittier, North Carolina, United States. Surrounded by the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, this cozy retreat offers comfortable accommodations and a peaceful atmosphere for guests to relax and unwind. With its convenient location near popular attractions such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Harrah's Cherokee Casino, White Tree Court is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway in the heart of nature. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors or simply enjoy a quiet retreat, White Tree Court welcomes you with warm hospitality and a serene environment.