When it comes to camping, there's something to be said for roughing it and surviving on your instinct and skill. But sometimes you just want to kick back with all the comforts of home. We're not here to judge - in fact, "glamping" is growing in popularity. Here are a few places to check out.
A waterfall on Enloe CreekCherokee, North Carolina
This brief, roughly 4-mile trail in the Nantahala National Forest includes waterfalls from Enloe Creek and nearby Raven Fork River. The campsite is directly near the Raven Fork River, across a steel bridge. Those who spend the night will get to fall asleep to the gentle rumble of the flowing river. The hike has a few great vistas, such as a view of Katalsta Ridge, and has several adjoining trails connected to it for further hiking adventures.
Black Balsam KnobPisgah National Forest, North Carolina
This trail, named for famed environmental activist and Carolina Mountain Club member Art Loeb, is one of the more challenging but rewarding trails in the region. The payoff is some of the greatest vistas east of the Mississippi River, including clear views of Cold Mountain and Black Balsam Knob for stellar sunset photos. The trail is roughly 30 miles long, but can be broken up into several much shorter loops for those not up to a three-day trip.
Anna Ruby FallsUnicoi State Park, Georgia
The Smith Creek Trail travels about 9 miles and passes Anna Ruby Falls, one of the most scenic waterfalls in the state. Water tumbles more than 150 feet from Curtis Creek, while a smaller 50-foot descent of York Creek completes the falls. Numerous bridge crossings and babbling creeks make up for the lack of mountain views and cliffside vistas. During the spring and summer, Georgia's flowering plants such as lobelias and rhododendron color the hike.
Polly Branch FallsSparta, Tennessee
One of the state's less-trafficked trails, Polly Branch Falls is nonetheless a sight to behold. While nearby Cummins Falls and Virgin Falls may get all the attention, Polly Branch Falls still has excellent, serene hiking coupled with a beautiful and peaceful waterfall. Less foot traffic means more natural trails, with undisturbed flowers and wildlife throughout the 10-mile journey. The hike in isn't too strenuous, except for a river fording required to get to the bottom of the creek the waterfall spills into.