Cabin camping near Balsam Grove, North Carolina provides access to the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 2,400 to 3,000 feet. The area features dense hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple, and hickory trees, creating cooler summer temperatures typically 8-10 degrees below nearby lowland areas. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night from November through March, making cabin heating systems particularly important for off-season visitors.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 4-mile round trip hike from Gorges State Park Campground leads to Rainbow and Turtle Back Falls. "This is one of North Carolina's best waterfall parks. Rainbow Falls, Turtle Back Falls and Bust your Ass Falls," notes Mitchell G. The trail is challenging but accessible for most skill levels.
Mountain biking: Davidson River trails start directly across from the campground. "Located right inside Pisgah National forest this campground is perfectly set for all adventures... If you're thinking of riding the mtb trails you're in luck. They start literally across the davidson river from the campground," according to Travis S.
Lake swimming: Lake Powhatan offers a designated swimming beach with showers nearby. "So much for family's to do here... Water is so clear. Site is so clean," reports Marlene V., who visited during summer months when swimming is most popular.
What campers like
Clean, modern bathroom facilities: The new facilities at Gorges State Park Campground receive consistently high marks. "The shower was one of the best campground showers we've experienced– nicely tiled, long bench, several hooks, immediate warm water, and nice water pressure," writes Lee D., who stayed in the campground that opened in November 2022.
Creek-side sites: Several campers mention the peaceful sound of running water at Blue Ridge Falls RV Resort. "Stayed 7 days in #1 from 6/25 to 7/1 with two other RVers and was a romantic peaceful time with our own waterfall and creek running around us," describes Doreen B.
Wooded privacy: Many cabin locations provide separation from neighboring sites. "The sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations," notes Heather C. about Lake Powhatan. Similarly, at Ash Grove, "the sites are scattered across a series of narrow shaded trails that you have to hike your things to," according to sydni B.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Summer months require advance planning. "During summer months, reservations are essential as cabins book quickly, especially at state parks and popular private resorts," notes one reviewer. At Davidson River Campground, Anna R. advises, "This place is packed most all of the summer now so you don't want to show up without a spot."
Road conditions: Some cabins and camping areas require navigating steep roads. At Adventure Village and Lodgings, "The Tent road... Not well maintained with large ruts from water run off, slick muddy spots and pot holes... you better have a 4WD/AWD vehicle with some clearance," warns Adam V.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier. "There was no Verizon service," reports Sherry P. about Adventure Village, while other locations may offer limited connectivity or wifi access only in common areas.
Tips for camping with families
Pack entertainment for cabin nights: Board games, cards, and books are essential as many cabins lack television or internet. "We stayed at the hard times loop, site 68" at Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina, where Roselyn T. notes it's "well maintained and peaceful" with activities focused on outdoor recreation rather than electronic entertainment.
Consider cabin proximity to bathrooms: When booking at Table Rock State Park, Ellen E. suggests checking bathroom locations, noting "Sites are kinda close but we felt very comfy with our two sites. Might have been able to get 2 tents on one site but 2 cars might have been tight."
Research swimming options: Not all cabin locations offer swimming access. At Table Rock State Park Campground, John B. points out "In the park, you can swim, hike, camp, fish and kayak." The park includes designated swimming areas appropriate for different ages.
Tips from RVers
Consider approach grades: Some cabin and RV areas require navigating steep roads. At Gorges State Park Campground, Lisa M. cautions, "This campground would've gotten five stars except for the road getting there was pretty exciting. The last 10 miles out of Brevard were curvy and had some grades. And the last 2 miles into the campground had I would guess a couple of 10% grades both up and down."
Check site dimensions and leveling needs: At Blue Ridge Falls RV Resort, sites may require adjustment. "Site was not fully level, so we had to pull out the wheel levelers and go up about 4" on one side," reports Adam V., who also noted site spacing can be tight at some locations.
Look for full-hookup cabins: Several cabin locations offer RV-style hookups. At Devils Fork State Park Campground, Devin K. suggests to "Book your trip a few months in advance, get a spot on the water. Sites are a little small, and close together, but the sunrise from your tent/site is totally worth it."
