Swain County Map, North Carolina

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: May 05, 2026 | 06:10 ET

Map of Swain County - Swain County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. Swain County Map showing cities, highways, important places and water bodies. Get Where is Swain County located in the map, major cities in Swain county, population, areas, and places of interest.

Map of Swain County, North Carolina

About Swain County, North Carolina

Swain County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. It's county seat is Bryson City. As per 2020 census, the population of Swain County is 14136 people and population density is square miles. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 541 sq mi (1,401 km2). Swain County was established on 1871.

Swain County Facts

ContinentNorth America
CountryUnited States
StateNorth Carolina
County SeatBryson City
Largest City/TownBryson City
Established1871
Total Area541 sq mi (1,401 sq km)
Land Area528 sq mi (1,367 sq km)
Water Area13 sq mi (34 sq km)
Population14,117 (Census 2020)
Population Density27 people per sq mi
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone (ET)
Major HighwaysUS-74, US-19, NC-28
Major RiversLittle Tennessee River, Tuckasegee River
Neighboring CountiesHaywood County, Jackson County, Graham County, Macon County
Famous ForGreat Smoky Mountains, outdoor recreation, Cherokee culture
Top AttractionsGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, Nantahala National Forest, Fontana Lake, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Official WebsiteOfficial Website

About Swain County, North Carolina

Swain County is located in the western part of North Carolina, in the state of the United States, and was established in 1871. The county seat is Bryson City, which is also the largest town. The county lies within the Great Smoky Mountains region and is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and proximity to the Qualla Boundary of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Cities and Towns in Swain County, North Carolina

City/TownPopulation (Census 2020)Latitude & Longitude
Bryson City (county seat)1,46435.4300°N, 83.4500°W
Almond (CDP)20035.3800°N, 83.5800°W
Whittier (CDP)4,000+35.4300°N, 83.3000°W
Lauada (community)35.4200°N, 83.4500°W

Golf Courses in Swain County, North Carolina

Golf CourseLocationLatitude & Longitude
Smoky Mountain Country ClubWhittier35.4300°N, 83.3000°W

Roads and Highways in Swain County, North Carolina

Swain County is connected by scenic mountain highways serving western North Carolina.

  • US-74 – major route through the county connecting Asheville and Murphy
  • US-19 – runs through Bryson City and into the Great Smoky Mountains
  • NC-28 – scenic highway connecting mountain communities

Neighboring Counties of Swain County

  • Haywood County (north)
  • Jackson County (east)
  • Macon County (south)
  • Graham County (west)

Top Attractions in Swain County, North Carolina

The county offers scenic mountain landscapes, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences.

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park – hiking, wildlife, and scenic views
  • Nantahala National Forest – rafting, camping, and outdoor activities
  • Fontana Lake – boating, fishing, and recreation
  • Great Smoky Mountains Railroad – scenic train rides
  • Nantahala River – whitewater rafting and kayaking
  • Downtown Bryson City – shops, dining, and mountain-town charm

Distance from Swain County to Nearby Cities

  • Bryson City to Asheville – 70 mi (113 km)
  • Bryson City to Knoxville, TN – 60 mi (97 km)
  • Bryson City to Chattanooga, TN – 120 mi (193 km)
  • Bryson City to Atlanta, GA – 160 mi (257 km)
  • Bryson City to Charlotte – 160 mi (257 km)

FAQs about Swain County

Where is Swain County located?

Swain County is located in western North Carolina in the Great Smoky Mountains region.

What is the population of Swain County?

The population of Swain County is 14,117 according to the 2020 Census.

What is Swain County known for?

Swain County is known for the Great Smoky Mountains, outdoor recreation, and Cherokee culture.

What are the major highways in Swain County?

Major highways include US-74, US-19, and NC-28.

Are there golf courses in Swain County?

Yes, Swain County has a golf course such as Smoky Mountain Country Club.