The History of Ela Campground

For years the Ela Country Store has been a popular stop on the road between Bryson City and Cherokee. It’s a unique camp & fishing supplies store and information center that is a piece of North Carolina
history.

Originally located in the former community of Forney Creek, on the North Shore of Fontana Lake, the store was moved here in the 1950s piece by piece and then reconstructed. Forney Creek had become isolated across the lake when Fontana Dam was build in the 1940s. The store still retains the original creaky wood floors, wormy chestnut walls and board-and-batten exterior
that make it a regional treasure.

We are a family-oriented campground, and our camping community includes seasonal, monthly, weekly and overnight guests. We are centrally located to all the activities that make the Smokies a special vacation spot.

  • Trout fishing, tubing
  • Rafting, kayaking
  • Mountain biking
  • Hiking and waterfalls
  • Shopping
  • Scenic drives
  • Cherokee Indian Reservation
  • Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
  • Harrah’s Casino

Stop by for a visit!

Over the years the old store has inspired the artistic talents of friends and guests. The beautiful painting and the woodcut are on display in the store.

LEAVE A REVIEW

OUR CAMPGROUND

AMENITIES

Swimming Pool

Riverfront

Playground

Camp Store

Basketball Court

THINGS TO DO

Trout fishing
Tubing
Rafting, kayaking
Mountain biking
Hiking and waterfalls
Shopping
Scenic drives
Cherokee Indian Reservation
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

 

Campground with Satellite