North Carolina
Caldwell County foothills, with Wilson Creek and Grandfather Mountain to the north.
Lenoir sits in the Caldwell County foothills below the escarpment, which puts Wilson Creek, a federally designated Wild and Scenic River, within easy reach along with the whole Grandfather Ranger District.
It is a working town rather than a resort one, and it is priced accordingly.
Nearby

A Wild and Scenic River with ridges above 4,000 feet, waterfalls, and whitewater including Boatbuster and Thunderhole.
Official site
A small campground inside the Wilson Creek corridor, south of Grandfather Mountain.
Official site
The river drops more than 2,000 feet over twelve miles through the gorge.
Official site


The Mile High Swinging Bridge and 360 degree views, within the same ranger district as Wilson Creek.
Official site