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Established Camping

Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites

Grandfather Mountain Campground, near Banner Elk, North Carolina, is a fantastic destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. With a mix of tent sites, RV spots, and cozy cabins, it caters to various camping styles, making it a popular choice for families and groups.

This campground is known for its stunning views and proximity to outdoor activities. Visitors rave about the nearby hiking trails and the breathtaking scenery, with one camper noting, “Absolutely beautiful views and close to a lot of fun activities.” You’ll find fire pits for evening gatherings and a creek perfect for some peaceful fishing.

While the campground offers essential amenities like electric hookups, it’s worth mentioning that some facilities may not meet everyone's expectations. However, many campers appreciate the clean restrooms and laundry facilities available on-site. As one reviewer put it, “Great stay, no issues. Clean restroom/shower/laundromat.”

If you’re up for an adventure, Grandfather Mountain State Park is just a stone's throw away, featuring some of the best hiking trails in the region. Plus, you’re close to local attractions like the Mast General Store and various dining options. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer retreat, Grandfather Mountain Campground provides a welcoming atmosphere for all who seek a taste of nature.

Description

State Park

Camping at Grandfather Mountain Campground is allowed with a permit at 13 backpack camping sites along the trail system, including the Hi-Balsam Shelter. Reservations are required at Grandfather Mountain camping for all 13 campsites. All campsites must be reserved in advance, which can be made as late as the same day. We recommend making your reservation prior to your park visit, as cellular service is not reliable at the park. A fee is charged for all campsites, and campers must have a reservation code to be able to camp. Camping fees are listed at the bottom of this page. Upon your arrival, please fill out a camping registration permit at the Profile trailhead or at the kiosk near the Boone Fork parking lot. You must register for a permit on-site, in addition to making your reservation online. Camping is permitted in the designated areas only, which are identified by signs at the campsites and with a camping icon on the trail map. There is no dispersed camping (camping off a designated site) on the mountain. All camping regulations apply to hammock campers. All 13 campsites are hike-in backcountry, primitive sites. There is no car camping. There are no facilities. The terrain is rugged and can be challenging. Trailheads are near 3,800 feet in elevation and Calloway Peak reaches 5,946 feet. Please do not disturb nearby campers. Take care to protect the terrain and plant and animal life.

Fee Info

Reservations are required for all 13 campsites. All campsites must be reserved in advance, which can be made as late as the same day. We recommend making your reservation prior to your park visit, as cellular service is not reliable at the park. A fee is charged for all campsites, and campers must have a reservation code to be able to camp. Camping fees are listed at the bottom of this page.

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Location

Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites is located in North Carolina

Detail location of campground

Address

125 Riversid Dr.
Banner Elk, NC 28604

Coordinates

36.14397461 N
81.79767636 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Electric Hookups
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • 50 Amp Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time


Reviews

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5.0

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10 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 18, 2022

Stunning!

We knew this place was beautiful based on photos! However, we were completely blown away by this park! The hiking, the views, the bridge, the animal habitat, the list goes on and on… Highly recommend this state park!

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Shana D., July 18, 2022
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Shana D., July 18, 2022
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Shana D., July 18, 2022
  • (14) View All
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2021

Best park in North Carolina

This is the most beautiful hiking trails in the world! A lot of climbing rock slopes and ladders with scenic views from 6000 ft plus elevation. Campground stays packed so make reservations unless you primitive camp in the National Forrest nearby. The Blue Ridge Parkway is rated the # 1 scenic drives in America. Enjoy these pictures, it was raining and very windy so more pictures coming!

Siteprimitive
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Mitchell G., July 9, 2021
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Mitchell G., July 9, 2021
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Mitchell G., July 9, 2021
  • (18) View All
Reviewed Apr. 22, 2021

Definitely worth the hikes!

The sites all throughout Grandfather are pretty awesome but you have to really look into the details for each site as many do not allow for a campfire, so you will want to ensure you have an alternate (approved) cooking system. We enjoy the trails out here. I will say, these are no joke especially with added pack weight so definitely advise only bringing the absolute essentials.

SiteProfile Trail site
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Julie L., April 22, 2021
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Julie L., April 22, 2021
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Julie L., April 22, 2021
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Aug. 31, 2020

Favorite N.C. Park!

Grandfather Mountain is simply amazing. The CD given to you at the gate is something we listen to often. The visitor center could be a zoo. It is full of educational information and animals. The hikes are second to none with gorgeous views. Camp sites are pristine. I wouldn’t go back everyday if I could.

  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Elizabeth V., August 31, 2020
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Elizabeth V., August 31, 2020
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Elizabeth V., August 31, 2020
  • (17) View All
Reviewed Dec. 2, 2019

Miles above the rest!

Well, one mile above the rest. Such a sight to see. Check your tour cd to verify it works before driving away from the gate. It is helpful as you drive through and not all function correctly. Plenty of hiking trails but some close in the winter months. Picnic and play areas. Educational spots for the little ones. Breathtaking views.

  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Casey W., December 2, 2019
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Casey W., December 2, 2019
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Casey W., December 2, 2019
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 14, 2019

Ranger Review: Mountain House Chicken Noodle Casserole at Profile Campsite

Campsite Review:

About 20 minutes from Boone NC, a new parking area and approach trail begin the Profile hike.  This parking area has been in the works for years and we were excited to finally see the new bathhouse and extension of the trail.  

We parked near the bathhouse and filled out our slip (required of all campers and hikers) before climbing grandfather mountain.  Several additional campsites have been added in this area, as well as some being closed due to black bear activity.  

We hiked about 3 miles, past the creek, through rhododendron tunnels and through grassy gatherings of stinging nettles.  Our son told everyone we passed not to touch them, but that they could eat them!  

We made it to the Profile campsite - about a mile from the top, but a great campsite.  There are several great trees for hanging hammocks and two good tent pads sites.  This site also has bear cables for hanging food and items that the bears would deem interesting.  We were only here for half an hour before additional campers joined us.  They entered as loud, cursing college students, but changed their language upon seeing our youngest and were very friendly.  

We enjoy the campfire pit here best as it is surrounded by rocks that block the wind and make a fire possible at this elevation, but this trip ended in a severe thunderstorm and lots and lots of rain which made that impossible this time.  There are no facilities at this campsite - but this is a great intro to backpacking site to use as the hike is reasonable, both in length and elevation.  

Product Review:  

As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get to test products.  At this campsite, I tested the Mountain House Chicken Noodle Casserole which was delicious!!  https://www.mountainhouse.com/m/product/homestyle-chicken-noodle-casserole.html

We most commonly carry our own dehydrated concoctions or more basic meals, but I was pleasantly surprised by both the texture and taste of the Chicken Noodle Casserole.  2 adults and 1 child shared this meal (listed as 3 servings) and were pleasantly satisfied.  We rehydrated 2 pouches, but ended up eating the second pouch the next morning.  There were lots of vegetables and enough flavor (and salt) to satisfy the post hiking cravings.  Our son was especially pleased with this meal, as he said it tasted like chicken pot pie, one of his favorites!  

We boiled water at the beginning of our hike so we could refill waterbottles before heading up.  We usually hike to the top after setting up camp but with the weather looking chancy, we weren't going to risk hitting the spring.  I carried the rehydrating pouch up in my pack and ate about 2 hours later and it was NOT a mushy mess.  I added exactly 2 cups of water and it was perfect.  I can't stress that enough.  I have eaten so many mushy rehydrated meals on the Appalachian Trail, I nearly expect all freeze-dried meals to do the same.  

I would strongly recommend this meal, especially if you like chicken pot pie!

SiteProfile Campsite
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Kirsten J., July 14, 2019
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Kirsten J., July 14, 2019
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Kirsten J., July 14, 2019
  • (30) View All
Reviewed Nov. 1, 2018

Beautiful Long Hikes

The profile trail is a great hike but it is 3.6 miles of mostly uphill on rugged terrain. Permits are required on this trail. They are free and available at the trailhead. We also visited the swinging bridge which was a very short and windy hike with great views.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Caroline G., November 1, 2018
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Caroline G., November 1, 2018
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Caroline G., November 1, 2018
  • (11) View All
Reviewed Jul. 16, 2018

Marvelous mountain views

This is a tough hike but well worth it! Make sure you factor in every mile may take up to 1 hr so bring plenty of water. It’s one of our favorite places to backpack and we have been and will continue to visit year round. As always pack out what you pack in!

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Laura Z., July 16, 2018
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Laura Z., July 16, 2018
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Laura Z., July 16, 2018
  • (12) View All
Reviewed Jul. 6, 2017

Grandfather Mountain

NC has a few gems and this is definitely one. I have only scratched the surface, but the 11+ trails, the animal habitats, mile high swinging bridge, and museum are just a few things families should visit. The Highland Games at McCrea Meadows is an awesome camping communal experience that I treasure. This July they just completed a new visitor center at the Profile Trailhead off Hwy 105 - beautiful facility with granite counters, detailed maps, and high pressure water pump to top off your supply. Trail is newly marked/ updated & cleared for easy tracking.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Sep. 30, 2016

Lovely CG - Some of Best Hikes in NC!

We very much enjoyed our stay at the park! Centered right on top of Grandfather mountain, the hiking was incredible! Trails all around and beautiful views of those Blue Ridge mountains - see my pictures for views from the trails. Sites fill up quick, and of course tourists are abound especially during peak weekends (ie: summer through the fall) but overall an enjoyable stay! Facilities are very nice and clean, most of the time. We very much recommend hiking the 3 peaks - MacRae, Attic Window and Calloway. A very hard and challenging trail with cables and ladders but also very rewarding views! You have to give this campground a shot!

  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Bran P., September 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Bran P., September 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites by Bran P., September 30, 2016
  • (4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites have RV hookups?

According to TheDyrt.com, Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites has 50 amp electric hookups.

What is the max vehicle length at Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites?

Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites allows vehicles up to 50 feet.

Are fires allowed at Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites does not have wifi.

Is there cell phone reception at Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is good, and T-Mobile is unknown.