North Carolina's Black Mountain region sits in the southern Appalachian Mountains where elevations reach over 6,600 feet at nearby Mount Mitchell. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Winter camping often sees nighttime temperatures below freezing, with occasional snow at higher elevations, particularly at Mount Mitchell State Park where temperatures can drop to the 20s even in May.
What to do
Hiking to Mount Mitchell: Access the highest peak east of the Mississippi directly from Black Mountain Campground. "From here you can climb 4000ft to the summit of Mt Mitchell. It's a great, challenging hike with many rewards along the way," notes David M. The trailhead begins within the campground itself.
Waterfalls exploration: Visit multiple cascades within a short drive. "There is a nice trail to SetRock Falls, right on the campground property...and several other foot trails to keep you busy and hiking," explains Dave V. about Black Mountain. The Roaring Fork Falls is another highlight, located a half-mile walk from a small parking lot near the campground.
Fly fishing: Cast in clear mountain streams at North Mills River. "One heads back to the reservoir for some amazing fly fishing. We've enjoyed this campground mainly for the fly-fishing," shares Shannon K. The river is maintained by local conservation groups who've upgraded walkways and fence lines to protect the water.
Swimming in natural pools: Cool off in pristine waters. "It has a beach on a swampy lake," mentions leif D. about Lake Powhatan. At Carolina Hemlocks, a visitor notes, "There is a swimming hole and a fishing hole, both well-maintained...right by the river, which makes for wonderful sleeping at night."
What campers like
Creek-side camping settings: Fall asleep to natural soundscapes at Mountain Stream RV Park. "The sound of the stream was so peaceful and relaxing. My husband did yoga every morning while I hung in my hammock and watched," shares Barbara S. Many sites feature private wooden decks overlooking the water.
Year-round accessibility: Some campgrounds operate throughout all seasons. "We stayed for six days in March. We loved everything about this campground. The sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations," notes Heather C. about Lake Powhatan. Winter campers should prepare for temperatures that can drop below freezing.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain high standards. At Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area, "The hosts were friendly and hard-working, getting firewood delivered and keeping the facilities clean, which was a miracle given the wet weather," according to Kimberly L. Many campgrounds offer shower facilities during peak season.
Community activities: Shared experiences create memorable stays. At Mountain Stream RV Park, "Each Saturday evening, Kevin serves up his special home cooked bar-b-que under the shelter at no additional cost, and many campers bring sides to share," explains Duncan C., comparing it to "having a back yard picnic with friends and family."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Half of the campground closes for the off season. Usually starting at $22 per night, after November 1st the prices get cut in half," explains Jonathan N. about North Mills River. Winter visitors should verify which facilities remain open.
Weather considerations: Mountain microclimates affect camping conditions. At Mount Mitchell State Park Campground, "The top of Mount Mitchell has its own micro-climate and is often foggy. The night we spent there was cold, windy and miserable. We were in the cloud, with strong winds and rain," cautions Katy S.
Hurricane damage: Natural disasters have impacted facilities. "Black Mountain Campground was destroyed by flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The bridge across the S. Toe River was broken and washed out. The water system is also destroyed as well as the road network in the campground," reports Robert B. in August 2025.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly. "There is no cell service on T-Mobile or Verizon inside the camp (small victory for nature)," mentions Scott K. about Black Mountain Campground, though he notes a specific spot near three trees where Verizon users can get two bars of service.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Spacious Skies Bear Den, "The campground has all the amenities you could want. It has a small lake on property to fish or swim...Playground on site for the kids," notes Chris Y. Timothy H. adds, "There are a few playgrounds and a small pond to go swimming and fishing in, and several hiking trails."
Recreation options: Activities keep children entertained. "We stayed 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," shares Charles S. about Bear Den.
Kid-friendly water features: Natural water play areas provide entertainment. At Carolina Hemlocks, a visitor mentions, "My son spent hours hopping along the rocks in the creek." The campground offers "Tubing, swimming and fishing. Family friendly...Just a wonderful place to get away."
Proximity to attractions: Location enables day trips. Bear Den is "Close to many lookouts, waterfalls, and hikes," according to Hayley B. Another camper adds it's "a perfect location for the Blue Ridge Parkway" with "great driving and hiking close by," making it ideal for families wanting to explore beyond the campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose carefully for size and privacy. At Campfire Lodgings, "The premium RV sites have the awesome views," reports John G. However, some campgrounds have space limitations, as William H. notes about Creekside Mountain Camping: "My site was next to the creek which was nice. On one side of me was a permanent trailer of someone who lives there and on the other side, nestled into a triangle was my neighbor."
Level site availability: Terrain affects setup ease. Tucker B. observed at Campfire Lodgings that "Parking spot was also quite slanted up on the hill, which was fine for my truck but may not be ideal if you are sleeping in your vehicle!" Consider requesting specific sites if leveling is a concern.
Hookup variations: Facilities differ between campgrounds. Duncan C. describes Mountain Stream RV Park as having "sites are close together, but very level, clean, and with a nice picnic table. Many of the sites now have their own wooden decks overlooking the stream, which is a nice addition."
Winter considerations: Cold weather affects systems. At North Mills River, "Only one side of campground is open in winter," notes Julie T., though she found it "very quiet" with a stream running "right by the campsite so listening to the stream as we went to bed was wonderful." Check water availability during colder months as some systems may be winterized.
