Camp at Rich Mountain Fire Tower

Rich Mountain fire tower is located in the Cherokee National Forest just outside of Hot springs North Carolina. Getting there is pretty easy once you get off of US 25W you drive up a gravel road for about 5 miles until you get to the tower. Once you get to the top its about a 100 foot walk until you get to the tower. This location is perfect for camping because it is secluded and you can drive straight to it. There are a couple options for camping, you can either pitch a tent at the bottom of the tower or you can hammock inside the top from the pillars. If it rains the best option is to stay at the top unless it is lighting then it is better to stay in your car. Since it is in the national forest you are allowed to have a fire as long as a fire ban is not in place.