Julian Price Park Campground offers varied camping experiences just 3 miles east of Blowing Rock, North Carolina along the Blue Ridge Parkway. At 3,400 feet elevation, summer temperatures typically range 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. The campground's loop design provides both lake-adjacent sites and more secluded wooded options for tent campers seeking natural surroundings.
What to do
Fishing at Julian Price Park: The 47-acre lake supports hatchery-stocked trout fishing with easy shoreline access. "Julian Price Park is right on a gorgeous lake. There is a spot within the park to rent kayaks which was great. There is a hiking trail that goes around the lake," shares Danielle L. from Julian Price Park Campground.
Creek exploration at Flintlock: Kids can wade and play in the small stream running through the property. "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," notes Robyn C. from Flintlock Campground.
Visit nearby waterfalls: Multiple waterfalls within 20 minutes of Spacious Skies Bear Den offer natural swimming holes during summer months. "The campground is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains...so beautiful! One of the hiking trails leads to a waterfall. Close to an apple orchid, which is so cool to visit (they're dog friendly) and not too far of a drive from the Linville Falls," explains Emily B.
What campers like
Mountain temperature relief: Blue Bear Mountain Camp sits at higher elevation, providing natural cooling during summer months. "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat. The campsites are very spaced out," reports Kristen J. from Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Convenience to town: Honey Bear Campground offers proximity to shopping and dining while maintaining natural surroundings. "This is a cute little getaway down hwy 221 outside of Blowing Rock. Far enough away to make it worth it," writes Lee S. from Honey Bear Campground.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature natural vegetation separating camping areas. "The sites vary from small and close together, to medium size with established plumeria shrubs separating sites for some privacy. All style sites include a picnic table and fire ring," notes Steve V. at Honey Bear Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigating steep mountain roads. "Follow the websites directions! You do NOT want to venture onto just any road up here, some of the roads are rough. Print directions before leaving home. The shortcut back dirt road between here and Blowing Rock is an adventure for a truck (only)," advises Sara M. from Starlite Trailer Lodge.
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes quickly, with temperature drops of 20+ degrees possible after sundown even in summer. "We stayed at site A4, and I chose this site for a few reasons. It was close to the lake, but unfortunately, we couldn't see the lake from the site," explains Myron C. at Julian Price Park Campground.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds offer limited facilities. "The restrooms in A loop are old and need updating. There are no showers in A loop. The only showers are between B and D loops, which are on the other side of the Blue Ridge Parkway," continues Myron C.
Tips for camping with families
Check swimming options: Steele Creek Park offers creek-side swimming areas suitable for children. "We had the best weekend at Steele Creek! We went the 3rd weekend in October and the fall leaf color was gorgeous! We saw several kids playing in the creek and it looked fun," shares Kimberly H. from Steele Creek Park & Campground.
Seek organized activities: Some campgrounds coordinate family events throughout summer. "The staff was friendly and accommodating to our needs. My kids enjoyed the activities and the stream. Everybody there seemed to be having a great time.... Kids, parents, couples, groups, college kids, older rv's, and staff," describes Joseph P. at Honey Bear Campground.
Reserve early for popular sites: Peak season (June-October) glamping near Blowing Rock, North Carolina fills quickly, especially lakeside spots. "The campsites are at the base of a mountain with tons of great hiking trails within the park. They even had a food truck most days, so you really don't have to leave the campground unless you want to," notes Kristen W. at Thousand Trails Green Mountain.
Tips from RVers
Water access considerations: At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, RVs must fill tanks at entry rather than having direct hookups. "Some things to know before you go! They do not have water hookups- you fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups. They have a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out," explains Mandy R.
Leveling requirements: Mountain terrain often means uneven sites requiring additional equipment. "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," advises Erin S. at Grandfather Campground.
Turning radius challenges: Navigating mountain campgrounds requires careful maneuvering. "When you turn into the campground, you will cross a narrow 1-lane bridge across Watagua Creek. The office is located around a circle and there are several sites backed up against the creek," continues Erin S.
