The gravel access road winds through Pisgah National Forest for several miles, crossing two narrow one-lane bridges that require careful navigation for larger RVs. Curtis Creek Campground sits alongside its namesake waterway, where the sound of flowing water provides a constant backdrop to the camping experience.
Campers consistently note the proximity to Curtis Creek, which flows directly beside several sites and offers opportunities for wading and fishing. The campground layout includes both standard drive-in sites in a more open area and primitive walk-in sites positioned closer to the creek bank. Elizabeth G. found that "both bathrooms were very clean and smelled nice," while a wheelbarrow helps transport gear to the walk-in sites. Sites lack privacy barriers between them, though the compact size keeps noise levels manageable during typical camping seasons.
Multiple hiking trails begin directly from the campground, with camp hosts providing information about nearby routes and difficulty levels. The road continues north from the campground, eventually connecting to the Blue Ridge Parkway through mountain switchbacks. Cell service remains unavailable throughout the area, creating a true disconnect from digital distractions. Bear activity requires proper food storage in vehicles or provided bear-proof containers.
The $10 nightly fee operates on both reservation and first-come, first-served systems from April through November. Andy B. notes the campground is "clean, very well maintained" despite the challenging access road that some reviewers describe as rough or rutted. No firewood sales occur on-site, requiring campers to purchase supplies in Old Fort before heading up the mountain.
For those seeking additional options in the region, places to camp near Old Fort provide alternatives with easier road access and different amenity levels.
Description
Overview
Curtis Creek Campground is nestled in the mountains at the base of the Blue Ridge just minutes from the quaint town of Old Fort and less than an hour from the popular city of Asheville. Located in the first tract of National Forest land in the eastern US at the site of an old Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) camp, the campground is surrounded by old growth forests and roaring trout streams. The gravel road through the campground ascends to the Blue Ridge Parkway, providing easy access to the Mount Mitchell area.
Recreation
Visitors to the campground can enjoy a variety of activities including fishing, swimming, day hiking, picnicking, and scenic driving. Curtis Creek is well known for its excellent trout fishing. Swimming holes along the creek provide wading opportunities on hot summer days. History buffs will enjoy exploring the remains of the old CCC buildings surrounding the campground. Two Forest Service trails depart from the campground. The Hickory Branch trail provides a short (approximately 1/2 mile) hike to a series of waterfalls, and longer hikes to access the backcountry area around Mackey Mountain. Mackey Mountain and the valley of Mackey Creek contain the largest unbroken tract of old-growth forest in the Pisgah National Forest. The Snooks Nose trail provides a strenuous hike to a ridge with beautiful views, eventually ending at the Blue Ridge Parkway. Many other Forest Service trails are within a short drive of the campground, including Catawba Falls and Point Lookout trail.
Facilities
The campground provides a variety of campsites. There are three loops with 25 sites. One loop is fully accessible, barrier free and can accommodate RVs up to 35ft. A second loop features dispersed tent-only roadside sites that provide a secluded forest experience. A third loop features tent-only sites in an open grassy area. All sites include a tent pad, picnic table, lantern post, and fire ring. Vault toilets, drinking water pumps, and bear-proof trash and recycling receptacles are provided. A campground host is on site to provide visitor assistance.
Natural Features
Located in rich mountain hardwood forests at an elevation of 2,000 feet, Curtis Creek Campground provides a secluded streamside setting. Curtis Creek, a popular trout stream surrounded by lush rhododendron and hemlock, runs along the east side of the campground. Old-growth forests cover the mountain peaks on either side of the valley. The Curtis Creek area provides beautiful scenery year-round, from stunning fall foliage displays to abundant spring and summer wildflowers.
Nearby Attractions
Curtis Creek Campground is six miles from the town of Old Fort, which has a variety of restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, and medical facilities. Popular attractions in Old Fort include the Mountain Gateway Museum, the Old Train Depot, Davidson Fort, Catawba Falls, and Andrews Geyser. The campground is seven miles from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, close to Mount Mitchell State Park. Visitors can make trips to nearby Black Mountain (15 miles) and Asheville (30 miles) to visit art galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
OPENING DATE FOR 2026 SEASON: May 18, 2026. Curtis Creek Campground and Curtis Creek Road are undergoing repairs from Hurricane Helene. Call the Grandfather Ranger District for more information: 828-652-2144.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCurtis Creek Campground is located in North Carolina
Directions
From I-40, take Exit 73 towards Old Fort. Take Catawba Ave. north 0.5 miles to US-70E/E Main St. Turn right on US-70E and go 1.8 miles to Curtis Creek Rd. (Curtis Creek Campground sign). Turn left on Curtis Creek Rd. and drive 4 miles to campground.
Address
109 East Lawing Drive
Nebo, NC 28761
Coordinates
35.6761 N
82.1992 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 39 min from Asheville, NC
- 55 min from Pinehurst, NC
- 1 hr 32 min from Spartanburg, SC
- 1 hr 37 min from Johnson City, TN

































