Grumpy Bear Campground & Gem Mine

Hey there, North Carolina adventurers! Are you yearning for a mountain getaway where the sounds of a rushing river lull you to sleep and exciting discoveries await just steps from your campsite? Look no further than Grumpy Bear Campground & Gem Mine in beautiful Bryson City, NC. This charming, family-owned campground offers a unique blend of peaceful riverside camping with the added thrill of on-site gem mining, making it an ideal destination for your next adventure right here in our beloved Tar Heel State.

Grumpy Bear Campground & Gem Mine has quickly become a favorite for many, lauded for its friendly owners, immaculate facilities, and incredible riverside location. It’s a place where you can truly unplug and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, while still enjoying modern comforts. Unlike larger, more impersonal resorts, Grumpy Bear offers a warm, personal touch that makes every guest feel like family. The dedicated owners go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay, often providing personalized assistance that truly sets them apart.

For North Carolinians, Grumpy Bear Campground offers an accessible yet profound opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and recreational activities our state has to offer. Whether you're coming from Charlotte, Raleigh, or closer to Asheville, the journey to Bryson City is a scenic delight, leading you directly to this peaceful haven. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to get away from the daily grind, create lasting memories with family and friends, and experience the magic of the North Carolina mountains firsthand.

Grumpy Bear Campground & Gem Mine is perfectly situated at 2030 Old River Rd, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA. This address places it squarely on the banks of the picturesque Tuckaseegee River in the heart of Western North Carolina’s Appalachian Mountains. This region is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering breathtaking scenery and countless outdoor adventures.

The campground’s location is highly convenient for North Carolina residents. It’s "mere minutes from all of your favorite activities," being very close to both downtown Bryson City (approximately 5 minutes away) and Cherokee (about 10 minutes away). This proximity means easy access to local shops, restaurants, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Harrah's Casino, and the entrance to the National Park itself. The accessibility from major roads is also a significant plus, as it's just off Highway 74, making the drive relatively straightforward for campers coming from various parts of the state. The access road into the campground is well-marked. While some reviews mention the entrance being steep and tight, it is clearly manageable for RVs of various sizes with careful navigation.

The fact that it's located "right next to the rushing river" is a major highlight, offering not just beautiful views but also a soothing soundtrack to your camping experience. This blend of secluded natural beauty and convenient access to town amenities makes Grumpy Bear Campground an exceptionally attractive choice for local campers seeking both adventure and relaxation in the mountains.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: Grumpy Bear offers 19-20 full hookup RV sites with 20, 30, and 50 amp electrical connections, water, and sewer. These sites are designed to accommodate any size RV, including large rigs up to 55 feet.

• Tent Sites: 10 spacious tent sites are available, often with electric and water hookups.

• Cabin Rentals: A variety of cabins are available, including "Camping Cabins" (some with 1/2 bath, mini-fridges, microwaves, AC/heat, TVs, sleeping up to 4-6) and a "River Cabin with full bath and kitchenet" that sleeps up to six. Bedding is provided in cabins; guests need to bring their own towels.

• TeePee Rentals: Unique, hand-crafted tipis are available for a "rustic camping with a little glam" experience. They come with electric and water hookups, camping grills, and picnic tables, sleeping up to six.

• Spotless Private Bathhouses: Consistently praised as "the best bath house in the state" or "nicest I've ever seen," these facilities offer individual, private rooms with a full shower, sink, and toilet. They are new, clean, and handicap accessible.

• Laundry Facilities: Available on-site with large washers and dryers. They operate on an honor system for payment ($3.00 per load), which is reasonable and convenient.

• Wi-Fi & Cable TV: Available at sites and in cabins, keeping guests connected during their stay.

• On-Site Gem Mine: Offers an engaging activity where visitors can "play in the dirt and find gemstones, fossils, rubies, sapphires, arrowheads, and other semi-precious stones."

• Pet-Friendly: The campground is welcoming to pets.

• Shuttle Service: The owner, Jerry, has been known to offer complimentary shuttle services to downtown Bryson City, a greatly appreciated convenience for guests not wanting to move their vehicles.

The comprehensive services at Grumpy Bear Campground cater to a wide range of campers, from those in large RVs to tent campers and those seeking unique lodging like cabins or teepees. The dedication to cleanliness, particularly the "exceptional" bathhouses, and the personalized service from the owners are recurring highlights that truly set this campground apart.

• Riverside Camping: The most acclaimed feature is the ability to "camp right next to the rushing river." Guests love "sitting outside and watching the river" and "being able to hear it through the windows at night," providing a deeply calming and immersive natural experience.

• Exceptional Cleanliness: The campground is "very well maintained" and "free from trash." The "clean private bathrooms" are a consistent highlight, often described as the "best" campers have encountered.

• Friendly and Accommodating Owners: Jerry and his wife are frequently praised for being "very helpful and friendly," "super nice," and "accommodating." Their personal touch, including offering rides to town, creates a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

• On-Site Gem Mine: The "NOW OPEN GRUMPY BEAR GEM MINING" provides a unique and fun activity right at the campground, perfect for families and curious visitors looking for a memorable souvenir.

• Variety of Accommodations: With RV sites (full hookups, 50/30/20 amp), tent sites, and diverse cabin and teepee rentals, the campground caters to different camping styles and preferences.

• Strategic Location: Its proximity to downtown Bryson City, Cherokee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and attractions like the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad offers endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

• Unique Site Features: Many sites boast "very cool rock firepits," and some even have "swings over looking the river," enhancing the outdoor living experience.

• Pet-Friendly Environment: Welcoming to furry family members, making it easier for pet owners to enjoy their vacation.

• Honesty-Based Laundry System: The honor system for the "very nice, very large washers and dryers" speaks to the trust and community atmosphere fostered by the owners.

While some sites are noted as "super small" or "close together," the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many guests expressing their intent to "definitely be back!!!" The unique combination of riverfront beauty, top-tier facilities, engaging activities, and unparalleled hospitality truly makes Grumpy Bear Campground a standout destination.

Address: 2030 Old River Rd, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA

Phone: (828) 788-2095

Mobile Phone: +1 828-788-2095

Email: grumpybearcampground@gmail.com

Having multiple contact methods, including both phone numbers and an email address, makes it incredibly convenient for prospective campers to reach out. The direct contact with the owners, Jerry and his wife, who are consistently praised for their helpfulness, ensures that inquiries about reservations, specific site features, or any special requests can be addressed personally and efficiently. This level of accessibility and responsiveness is a significant part of the positive experience at Grumpy Bear Campground.

For North Carolina residents, Grumpy Bear Campground & Gem Mine represents an outstanding local escape that truly encompasses the best of our state’s mountain charm. Its prime location in Bryson City, nestled by the Tuckaseegee River and mere minutes from major attractions, makes it an easily accessible destination from across North Carolina. This means less time traveling and more time enjoying your well-deserved break amidst nature.

What makes Grumpy Bear particularly suitable for locals is its unique combination of serene riverfront camping and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re an RVer seeking full hookups, a tent camper desiring a rustic yet clean experience, or a family looking for cabins or unique teepee stays, there’s an option for everyone. The on-site gem mine adds an exciting dimension that makes the campground a destination in itself, perfect for entertaining kids and adults alike. The "spotless private bathrooms" and the genuine, helpful nature of the owners further elevate the experience, offering comfort and hospitality rarely found elsewhere.

Choosing Grumpy Bear Campground & Gem Mine means embracing a truly North Carolinian adventure. It’s an opportunity to create cherished family memories, fish in a rushing river, discover hidden gems, and experience the warm, personal touch of a beloved local business. For those seeking an unforgettable mountain escape that combines relaxation with adventure, all within the beautiful borders of our state, Grumpy Bear Campground is undoubtedly a top recommendation.

Grumpy Bear Campground & Gem Mine

2030 Old River Rd, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA