need ideas, rafting and 1 night camping in NC

I have just an extended weekend coming up in a couple weeks. Thinking of taking my son (13) to the mountains. He's not into backpacking and as much as I'd like to do a 2-3 night backpacking trip, I also don't want to hear the belly aching.
So
I was thinking of just doing some whitewater rafting
maybe at NOC?
and instead of a hotel maybe just do one night of camping somewhere not too far from a trailhead.

Any suggestions of a great place to camp?
something maybe with some bouldering to explore, or something more than just boring trail
or would you just do a campground someplace?
I'm even thinking of just doing a cabin someplace..... any ideas for that?

not necessarily the AT, in fact I'd prefer to stay off the AT.

thanks

Q

Quote:

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Originally Posted by blw2

I have just an extended weekend coming up in a couple weeks. Thinking of taking my son (13) to the mountains. He's not into backpacking and as much as I'd like to do a 2-3 night backpacking trip, I also don't want to hear the belly aching.
So
I was thinking of just doing some whitewater rafting
maybe at NOC?
and instead of a hotel maybe just do one night of camping somewhere not too far from a trailhead.

Any suggestions of a great place to camp?
something maybe with some bouldering to explore, or something more than just boring trail
or would you just do a campground someplace?
I'm even thinking of just doing a cabin someplace..... any ideas for that?

not necessarily the AT, in fact I'd prefer to stay off the AT.

thanks

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Ocoee in Tennessee would be perfect. The BMT and other trails are close.

My rafting of NC experience is limited but I will provide for what it is worth.

I have gone to Hot Springs, NC for about 10 weekend vacations and it is an outstanding experience every time. And the French Broad River goes right thru town. I had an A+ experience witht he rafting company there, very family friendly.

Camping: Lovely campground right on the river within walking distance to restaurants and shops, but out of eyesight.

Now for the hiking, what can I say, the AT goes right thru the middle of town, I read and understand you would prefer no AT but it is what it is.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by blw2

I was thinking of just doing some whitewater rafting
maybe at NOC?
and instead of a hotel maybe just do one night of camping somewhere not too far from a trailhead.

Any suggestions of a great place to camp?

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There's good rafting on the Nolichucky, which is only about an hour's drive from the Roan Highlands.