Banner Elk's location in the Blue Ridge Mountains provides camping at elevations around 3,500-4,000 feet, creating significantly cooler summer temperatures compared to surrounding lowland areas. The region typically experiences 15-20°F lower temperatures than nearby cities, making it a popular summer destination for pet owners seeking relief from heat. Most campgrounds in the area sit on mountainous terrain with varying degrees of slope, requiring leveling equipment for many sites.
What to do
Hiking with dogs on the Blue Ridge Parkway: Julian Price Park Campground offers access to numerous hiking trails including the Boone Fork Trail, a 5-mile loop right across the parkway. "Cushy campsites with electric and water. Rent a canoe here and take it out on the lake! Or hike the Boone Fork Trail, a 5 mile loop right across the parkway. Beautiful anytime of the year," notes Jolie L.
Fly fishing with pets: The Banner Elk region offers multiple water access points for fishing enthusiasts and their dogs. At Roan Mountain State Park Campground, campers can try their luck at the Doe River. "Doe River runs through so fly fishing is available. Husband did catch a rainbow trout near group tent sites. Several small brookies near the history center," reports Tracy D.
Mountain exploration with dogs: The wilderness areas surrounding Banner Elk provide rugged terrain for adventurous dog owners. Multiple trails offer different difficulty levels for varying abilities. "There are a lot of things to do in the area. Some of the hiking trails even start in the campground. You can also explore the grist mill with a nature trail or an old homestead. You have access to the AT about 10 miles away," according to Katrin M.
What campers like
Fenced dog exercise areas: Spacious Skies Bear Den provides dedicated pet facilities that go beyond standard pet relief areas. "Spacious Skies Bear Den in North Carolina offers an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure for families. With clean facilities, friendly staff, and activities for all ages, it's perfect for camping enthusiasts," writes LewisTurner.
Creekside camping with dogs: Many campers appreciate the natural water features that provide cooling spots for pets during hot days. "We were in campsite 62. Our loop was very private and shaded. The only negative point was the street light right across from us. It was pretty bright at night. Our campsite had a picnic table, a fire pit, a water spigot and electricity. There is also a little creek nearby, which was perfect for the dogs," shares Katrin M.
Pet-friendly cabins: For those seeking more comfort with their pets, several campgrounds offer cabin options. Grandfather Campground provides various accommodation types. "The camping cabins are really nice and spacious. You have to be careful to book the correct kind of tent site if you want to be in a more wooded area," mentions Julie L.
What you should know
Weather considerations for pets: The mountain climate brings sudden weather changes that affect pet camping. "In late July it was cool in the evenings. Some of the fire rings have 'flip over' grills which were super convenient. My 95 lb dog was welcome also," explains Nicole L.
Trail difficulty with dogs: Not all trails are equally accessible when hiking with pets. At Grandfather Mountain State Park Campsites, some routes present challenges. "Plenty of hiking trails but some close in the winter months. Picnic and play areas. Educational spots for the little ones," notes Casey W.
Campground noise levels: Some campgrounds experience road noise that might disturb sensitive pets. "The worst part I discovered about sites in the A loop is that you can hear traffic from the Blue Ridge Parkway all day long except for two to three hours in the middle of the night (about 1:30 to 4:30). On average, you can count on about twenty-five vehicles every five minutes," reports Myron C.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly activities for kids: Flintlock Campground offers natural play areas where children and pets can enjoy together. "Flintlock is easy to get to but you'll still feel like you are camping. Staff is friendly and facilities are clean. There's a beautiful mini river running through the campground with a lot of rocks to jump on. My children spent hours every day exploring," shares Robyn C.
Playground proximity for monitoring pets: Select sites that allow supervision of both children and pets simultaneously. "We camped at C13 which was right across from the large playground in November. No noise issues, but it was dark by 6:30pm. May be different in the Summer. My daughter had a blast and we could keep an eye on her while we worked/played at the site," explains Charles S.
Family-oriented pet events: Some campgrounds organize activities that include pets. "My two teenage boys and I stayed in a 'Cozy Cabin'. They are bigger than they look in the picture. There is a countertop next to the front door and plenty of room for all of our gear. The resort is kind of small but there are a few playgrounds and a small pond to go swimming and fishing in, and several hiking trails," reports Timothy H.
Tips from RVers
Pet relief areas accessibility: When choosing RV sites with pets, consider distance to relief areas. "Semi private sites for tents. Some RV sites are on the edge of the road. Clean restrooms and showers. Great hiking trails nearby beginning in the campground. Dog friendly. If you have a National park pass you get a discount," advises Gary C.
Site spacing for pet containment: Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping offers more room for pets that need space. "Lots of pull offs off a dirt road. Beware if you're coming from the south google tries to take you through private property. Take 221 to linville falls, right on 183, and right onto kistler memorial highway. It's a dirt road but no issues with my Subaru Forester," notes Justin L.
Hookup considerations with pets: RV sites with pets require planning for climate control. "We stayed up the hill, where there are three lanes of diagonal pull thru sites sloping up the hill. The sites are fairly level, long but a little narrow. Because of the slope, there isn't much 'yard' space, just a platform with a picnic table," explains Erin S.
