Overview Van Hook Glade is a scenic, secluded campground in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest. Convenient for families and anglers, the campground is in close proximity to hiking trails, scenic views, waterfalls and a nearby lake. Recreation Campers can easily relax with a book or deck of cards in the shaded c…
Overview Van Hook Glade is a scenic, secluded campground in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest. Convenient for families and anglers, the campground is in close proximity to hiking trails, scenic views, waterfalls and a nearby lake. Recreation Campers can easily relax with a book or deck of cards in the shaded campsites, or seek out many activities close by. A short trail in the campground leads to the Cliffside Lake Recreation Area, which offers six hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate, as well as trout fishing, picnicking and swimming. Boating is not permitted. Van Hook glade is a short drive from Dry Falls and Whitewater Falls.Facilities Van Hook Glade offers 18 secluded sites, all equipped with picnic tables, tent pads, lantern posts and campfire rings with grills. Hot showers and flush toilets are also provided, and firewood is available for purchase on-site.Natural Features The campground is located just 4 miles from the scenic and cultural attractions of Highlands, North Carolina, offering shady campsites in a heavily wooded and secluded area situated on rolling hills. The elevation is 4,118 feet, and the calm waters of Cliffside Lake sit adjacent. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (828) 787-1980. Nearby Attractions A morning or late afternoon drive down scenic Highway 64 is sure to present visitors with amazing views. The quaint town of Highlands has a general store and various attractions, while the larger town of Franklin has shopping, a casino, grocery stores and performing arts.
Photos
Van Hook Glade Bathroom — Forest ServiceVan Hook Glade Campground 2 — Forest ServiceVan Hook Glade Waterfall 2 — Forest Service Van Hook Glade Waterfall — Forest Service VAN HOOK GLADEVAN HOOK GLADEVAN HOOK GLADE
How to Get There
From Highlands, North Carolina, follow Highway 64 west approximately 4.5 miles. The campground entrance is on the right.
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to VAN HOOK GLADE
Heading to VAN HOOK GLADE? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for VAN HOOK GLADE?
No central reservation system listed for VAN HOOK GLADE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232399) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to VAN HOOK GLADE?
From Highlands, North Carolina, follow Highway 64 west approximately 4.5 miles. The campground entrance is on the right.
