If you really want to soak up the spirit of the Appalachian Trail, crash for the night right where the thru-hikers do—at Nantahala Outdoor Center’s main campus. This isn’t some fancy resort; it’s that good kind of budget-friendly, no-frills, hostel-style spot sitting right on the Nantahala River. Perfect for outdoor lovers who want adventure at their doorstep—whitewater rafting, zip lining, mountain biking, paddling, you name it. The community space? That’s where the magic happens. A kitchen, a dining hall, a charcoal grill—because nothing brings folks together like a good meal after a long day in the wild.