Tent camping near Asheville, North Carolina provides access to diverse forest ecosystems ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 feet in elevation. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby cities. Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests contain over 1 million acres of public land with variable camping policies depending on location and time of year.
What to do
**Creek exploration: Cosby Campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers easy water access. "The rushing river and dense foliage with mountain laurel makes the air seem so fresh. I love just coming here and hiking upstream and playing in the river," notes one visitor at Jones Gap State Park.
**Mountain biking: Several areas provide direct trail access for cyclists. "If you are on a bike there are a few trails right on site and the campground is close to mills river, Pisgah, and DuPont state forest," explains a camper at The Bike Farm.
**Waterfall hiking: Many campgrounds serve as starting points for waterfall treks. "Check out Rainbow Falls a 90ft free falling waterfall that's about 2 1/2 miles from the campsites," recommends a reviewer about Jones Gap State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the sense of solitude. "Unlike other state park campgrounds, each spot is about a quarter mile from the next, so you feel like you have the mountain to yourself," writes one visitor about Jones Gap.
Water features: Many campers enjoy the soothing natural sounds. "I tented along the river and the only thing you could hear was the river. Great sleeping conditions," reports a reviewer at Blue Ridge Motorcycle Campground.
Community gatherings: Some campgrounds foster social interaction. "There is a nightly group bonfire, but no individual camp fires allowed due to being in a government watershed area," explains a camper at Blue Ridge Motorcycle Campground.
What you should know
Reservation policies: Site availability varies widely. "The sites are well maintained as well as the bathrooms. Please note than none of the campgrounds within GSMNP have showers," advises a camper at Cosby Campground.
Variable road conditions: Access to primitive sites can be challenging. "The dirt road to get there as well as the pull off for the campsite are rough and a bit dangerous for low/regular cars. It's doable but you should go very slow and watch out for giant holes and ridges," warns a camper at Mills River Dispersed.
Seasonal closures: Weather impacts accessibility. "Right after the North Mills River Campground Yellow Gap road is gated and closed due to damage from Helene in Sep 2024," reports a recent visitor to Mills River Dispersed camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Stream safety: Keep children supervised near water. "There are several camp site along the trail but they are well spaced so you get lots of privacy. The site is very close to the stream and there are two good shores for filling your water bottles," notes a camper with experience at Jones Gap.
Closest walk-in options: Some sites require minimal hiking with gear. "Love the privacy of this spot (#8) which is the closest walk in spot from the Parking area. We were able to hike in a ton of gear (coolers, dog bed, etc) with a little work and a few trips," shares a parent who camped with a toddler at Jones Gap State Park.
Educational opportunities: Look for ranger programs. "At night they set up a camp fire where all visitors can meet and greet, have a beer, or eat some burgers. The place offers a lot," explains a first-time camper at Hot Springs Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Full-service sites are scarce. "Nice clean gated park. Nice big spots. Only 3 fifty amp full hook up sites. Lots of 30 amp and tent camping. Right on the river," advises an RVer at Hot Springs Campground.
Alternative accommodation options: Some tent-focused areas offer cabins. "There are also lot's of cabins if you prefer. Facilities are ok, could be cleaner and better maintained, but the host is trying," mentions a motorcycle camper at Blue Ridge Motorcycle Campground.
Road access considerations: Vehicle type impacts site selection. "The campground we were going to stay in was full-up, and a bike riding ranger suggested this place just a few miles down the road," shares a Blue Ridge Motorcycle Campground visitor, highlighting the importance of having backup plans during peak seasons.