Best Campgrounds near Brevard, NC

Pisgah National Forest surrounds Brevard, North Carolina with multiple camping options, including the highly-rated Davidson River Campground located at the forest entrance. This established campground features spacious sites along the river with electric hookups, clean bathrooms, and warm showers. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access Lake Powhatan near Asheville, Mount Pisgah Campground along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and North Mills River Campground. Private options include Black Forest Family Camping Resort in Cedar Mountain, which offers full hookups and amenities for both tent and RV campers. The region's camping landscape ranges from primitive forest sites to developed campgrounds with varying levels of amenities and hookups.

Most campgrounds in the Brevard area operate seasonally from mid-March through October or November, with limited winter camping options. Davidson River Campground typically opens March 15 and closes November 1, while nearby Mount Pisgah operates May through October. As one camper noted, "Davidson River is located right at the entrance to the forest, close to amenities such as Walmart, gas stations, breweries, restaurants, a great BBQ place and an ice cream joint." Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months and fall color season when sites fill quickly. Bear activity is common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. Cell service varies significantly by location, with many forest campgrounds having limited or no connectivity.

Waterfall access represents a major draw for campers in the Brevard area. Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, and numerous other cascades are minutes from Davidson River Campground. A visitor mentioned, "It's just a few minutes away from several easily accessible waterfalls such as Looking Glass falls, Moore's Cove Falls and Sliding Rock." Mountain biking trails connect many campgrounds, with DuPont State Forest offering additional riding opportunities. Campers frequently mention the soothing sounds of creeks and rivers as sleep aids. While most sites provide fire rings and picnic tables, several reviewers recommend bringing tarps or shelters due to frequent rainfall. The proximity to both wilderness and town amenities makes Brevard particularly appealing as a base camp for exploring western North Carolina.

Best Camping Sites Near Brevard, North Carolina (509)

    1. Davidson River Campground

    83 Reviews
    Pisgah Forest, NC
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 785-5337

    $37 - $84 / night

    "Once again, interested in checking out as many waterfalls and cascades we could locate, the water flow will be so much more dramatic amidst heavy rainfall."

    "This place has everything...wireless, showers, bike path, tennis courts and horse stables down the road. Lots to do here on sliding rock, chasing waterfalls, hiking, and fishing."

    2. Mount Pisgah Campground

    40 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 648-2644

    $30 / night

    "We decided to escape the heat and head for one of the “cooler” campgrounds in western North Carolina for a weekend. Mt Pisgah Campground is at an elevation of roughly 5300’."

    "Pisgah National Forest on the outskirts of Asheville, NC is a must stop for all ages."

    3. Table Rock State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    Sunset, SC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 878-9813

    "The alternatives #5 and #6 were close to the entrance and therefore exposed to the road, and #49 was next to the restrooms, but similar to #60, so stayed with #60."

    "One drawback is that from the campground there is no easy access to the lake- you can either drive and park (and hope to find parking) or walk on a busy road . "

    4. Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina

    62 Reviews
    Enka, NC
    18 miles
    +1 (828) 552-8040

    $37 - $135 / night

    "Right next to Powhatan Lake, but most of all, a mountain biker's dream! Hikers too, but really, all trails allow for bikers-single track riding."

    "The sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations. The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside."

    5. North Mills River

    26 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 552-8040

    $31 - $62 / night

    "I love the location for proximity to both Brevard and Asheville. The sites vary in their ability to accommodate larger rigs, so be mindful of that."

    "This campground has shade and open fields and can get crowded regularly because it is so centrally located in Pisgah national Forest."

    6. Black Forest Family Camping Resort

    18 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, NC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 884-2267

    "Very clean,natural, beautiful trees , and a nice location. It is run by a very nice family. We were close to amazing waterfalls and hikes in DuPont forest."

    "For a private organized campground, this really is one of the best spots in Brevard. Sites are all gravel. We have hammocked camped here, and this last trip, I camped in my Motorcycle trailer."

    7. Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground

    10 Reviews
    Pisgah Forest, NC
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 577-4558

    $32 - $71 / night

    "Trout fishing, tubing, and swimming, with easy access to the Blue Ridge and local attractions along Pisgah Hwy and Blue Ridge Parkway. 10 min to Brevard, 40 min to Asheville."

    "It gets 5 stars for large sites with decent enough privacy, access to hiking and mountain biking, strict rule enforcement (you definitely won’t hear generators all night here!)"

    8. Lazy J Campground

    12 Reviews
    Rosman, NC
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 966-3834

    $20 / night

    "Close to Brevard for shopping and close to hiking in Pisgah and DuPont."

    "We fished right next to our camp site and then relaxed with a camp fire listening to the sound of the River."

    9. Jones Gap State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, NC
    13 miles
    Website

    "This campground has 19 trail side sites that are all great and not far from the Middle Saluda River which runs through the middle of the park."

    "I used site 7 because an oncoming storm made me bug out of my trailside plans. Gorgeous site, a bit chilly by the river but beautiful and close enough to still use the park bathrooms!"

    10. Devils Fork State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 944-2639

    "We had reserved a walk-in tent sight and absoulty loved it."

    "This hidden gem is a few miles off a major highway but well worth the journey. I would consider it among my top ten 'near a lake' spots in the entire US."

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Recent Reviews near Brevard, NC

2303 Reviews of 509 Brevard Campgrounds


  • Jacquelyn I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Chattooga River Lodge and Campground

    Connect with nature

    This was my first stop traveling and my converted short bus. I have been here before so I felt super comfortable being here. But I have never can’t. I am at campsite six which is perfect for a smaller rig or take camping. It’s right along the creek and very private with a short walk to the bathhouse. Through a fun trail you can make it to the lodge. This campground is surrounded by many places to hike and scenic waterfalls. It’s a must stay. The owners Mat and Teresa are amazing.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Wilson's Riverfront RV Park

    September stay

    Grass on lots high, nice concrete spots, full hookup in good shape.

  • s
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Smoky Mountain Meadows Campground

    Worst experience ever

    Absolutely the worst advertised campground I’ve ever been to in my life. They stated it was“riverside” ummmm nooooo!!! It’s basically a big open field with absolutely no privacy or shade. Picture Woodstock. The“barely there stream of water” was covered by trees at the campsite and there was basically just a huge mound of dirt where they told us to set up. We asked for a different spot and they said they were full. We paid SIXTY SIX dollars for this tent camping experience on the river!! We asked for a refund and they refused(otherwise, I wouldn’t have left a review at all. They should have made it right.) We luckily found a beautiful spot at Deep Creek Campground otherwise we would have had to drive two hours home!!! Do.not.be.scammed.

  • K
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Black Forest Family Camping Resort

    Great campground!

    As a solo traveler that doesn’t like excessive noise or want to be near kids, I just wanted peace and quiet to relax and listen to the sounds of nature. The owner, Jeanie(hopefully I’m spelling that right) understood completely and was sure to put me in a site where she knew the surrounding sites would be empty for the entirety of my stay and she was sure not to book anyone near me. Yes, the sites are fairly close together, but I stayed during the week and was able to enjoy most of the place to myself ….or at least the area of the campground that I was in. When I extended my stay an extra night, she was sure to warn me that there was a family with kids coming that night and that they’d be in my vicinity. I couldn’t have asked for a better campground host! She had all the info on waterfalls in the area which minimized my planning time/time staring at my phone. And the fact that the place is all pea gravel really makes a difference! It rained the first couple days I was there and my tent wasn’t a muddy mess which is always a plus!

    The bathrooms and showers were clean and the camp store had just about everything you could possibly need in a pinch. Firewood and ice were priced fairly, making it very convenient if you forgot to grab either one while you were out for the day. Will definitely be back! Actually, I can’t wait to go back!

  • Isabelle C.
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Indian Creek Campground

    Excellent Campground

    Indian Creek Campground in Cherokee, NC is a hidden gem. Nice hosts, clean facilities in the woods. We have a 25 ft pull behind camper and sites are big enough for slide-outs. Picknick table and campfire ring was on site. We had a 30 amp full hook-up site. Campground has tent sites, RV sites, cabins, clean bathhouse and is dog friendly.

  • Casey W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Keowee-Toxaway State Park

    Great spot!

    The only reason I dinged it from five stars is because of the road noise. Other than that this place is beautiful! Great hike to a beautiful lake! Simple amenities. Great drive up tent spots surrounded by trees. Nobody else was here during the week so I had the place to myself! The rangers were incredibly helpful and friendly! I will be back!

  • Zoey W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    Great campsite, you guys are pansies though

    great spot, can see the stars super clearly and its pretty much just open woodland once youre there.

    you dont need 4 wheel drive or a truck like some of these people are saying, i did it fine in my honda civic, just dont have anything with worse clearance than that, and be ready to get some branch scratches which is kinda expected for wood roads

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Gorges State Park Campground

    CAUTION: steep grades and curvy road

    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. Other than that, this campground was super nice. Has the nicest showers I have ever seen in a campground. All the sites for RVs are on concrete pads with electric, water, and sewer. This was a great staging point for our trip up to the great Smoky Mountains. The visitor center was very informative.

  • Robert N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Campfire Lodgings

    Tent camping

    Tent camping sites are walk in, down hill, obviously thar means hauling your stuff out uphill when you leave. RVers have a great view from the ridge top. But a difficult day camping is far better than any day at work.


Guide to Brevard

Camping spots near Brevard, North Carolina sit within the Appalachian Mountains at elevations ranging from 2,100 to 5,000 feet, creating distinct temperature variations between valley campgrounds and mountain ridge sites. The region receives approximately 67 inches of precipitation annually, making it one of the wettest areas in the eastern United States. Summer evening temperatures often drop 15-20 degrees from daytime highs, requiring campers to pack both warm and cool weather clothing even during summer months.

What to do

Trout fishing access points: The region offers multiple fishing opportunities, especially along the Davidson River. North Mills River Campground provides excellent access as one camper notes, "This is a great campsite if you like fishing! We stayed here and were close to some amazing spots to fish! The campsite was great, not very crowded."

Trail connections for all skill levels: The area features interconnected hiking and biking routes accessible directly from campsites. At Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina, "There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside. The staff was very helpful and friendly. The campground is 15 minutes from downtown Asheville and 5 minutes from the North Carolina arboretum."

Waterfall exploration beyond the popular sites: While Looking Glass Falls gets crowded, numerous lesser-known cascades exist within short drives. One camper at Table Rock State Park Campground shared, "There are many waterfalls in the area and many places to hike. We saw deer, squirrels, birds, snakes, and many salamanders."

What campers like

Cooler temperatures at higher elevations: During summer months, higher elevation campgrounds provide natural relief from heat. A camper at Mount Pisgah Campground explained, "Spacious sites arranged for privacy. Over 5000 ft in elevation which means cool nights in Summer. Trees all around for privacy."

River-adjacent sites for natural sound barriers: Campsites along water create natural white noise that masks other campground sounds. At Lazy J Campground, campers appreciate that "We camped right along the river. It felt like we were camping deep in the woods and the Fall leaves were still clinging to the trees and made it absolutely beautiful. We fished right next to our camp site and then relaxed with a camp fire listening to the sound of the River."

Off-season price reductions: Several campgrounds offer significant discounts during shoulder seasons. A North Mills River visitor shared, "Usually starting at $22 per night, after November 1st the prices get cut in half, so I stayed for $11 (hard to beat)! To pay you fill out a permit envelope, tear off the receipt, include your payment and insert it into a mailbox of sorts."

What you should know

Limited winter camping options: Most campgrounds close or reduce services substantially during winter months. As one camper at North Mills River noted, "I went camping here on November 2nd, just after half of the campground closes for the off season."

Cell service varies dramatically: Coverage can change within short distances based on terrain. A visitor to Jones Gap State Park Campground mentioned, "Unlike other state park campgrounds, each spot is about a quart mile from the next, so you feel like you have the mountain to yourself."

Bear activity requires proper precautions: Most campgrounds provide storage options but require vigilance. Mount Pisgah campers are advised, "Bears occasionally enter campground but I have never had trouble with them. Keep all food secure in bear box provided at each site."

Reservation timing varies by season: Summer and fall color weekends require months of advance planning. At Devils Fork State Park, campers recommend, "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."

Tips for camping with families

Swimming access options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas suitable for children. A visitor to Devils Fork State Park Campground shared, "There are some fantastic places to swim connected to the campground. The tent spots are by far the best and just a short walk in from the parking area."

Animal encounters as natural entertainment: Some campgrounds feature farm animals that engage children. At Lazy J Campground, families enjoy "Chickens and horses on site. Playground and lots of fun. Sites are wooded and quaint."

Playgrounds and activity planning: Several campgrounds offer structured recreation facilities. Black Forest Family Camping Resort provides "a heated swimming pool and they do lots of things for kids like ice cream socials. They have a little shop in case you forget some necessities."

Weather preparation essentials: The region experiences frequent afternoon rain showers during summer months. One experienced camper at Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground advised, "Don't forget headlamps and flashlights (tree coverage is heavy so it gets darker faster), and rain jackets (it rained almost daily in the afternoon)."

Tips from RVers

Limited full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer only partial hookups or limited full-service sites. A reviewer at Black Forest Family Camping Resort noted, "This family invested money in infrastructure and they have quite a few full hook up sites. The host led us to our site, gave us a newsletter of events."

Generator restrictions: Several campgrounds limit generator use hours. A Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground visitor warned, "Generator hours are very limited. If you are traveling during warmer months or must have AC, this is not the site for you."

Dump station access concerns: Some facilities have challenging waste disposal setups. One RVer mentioned, "I rated a 4 star because the dump site is very tight, and lacking. That was the only thing on this campground I feel needed some work."

Leveling requirements: Many mountain campgrounds feature uneven terrain. A Black Forest camper advised, "Sites are all gravel. We have hammocked camped here, and this last trip, I camped in my Motorcycle trailer. Most sites have electric and water. You will likely need to level anything you bring."

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Brevard, NC?

Davidson River Campground is consistently rated as one of the best camping options near Brevard. Located in Pisgah National Forest, it offers electric hookups, clean facilities, and access to numerous outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and cycling. The campground is conveniently situated near popular attractions like Sliding Rock and multiple waterfalls. Another excellent option is Indian Creek Campground, known for its private, lush creekside sites, meticulously maintained grounds, and exceptionally clean bathhouse. The campground store carries essential supplies for campers who may have forgotten items.

Are there camping cabins available in Brevard, NC?

Yes, cabins are available near Brevard for campers seeking more sheltered accommodations. Lake Powhatan Campground offers cabin options in a beautiful lakeside setting with access to excellent mountain biking and hiking trails. The campground is surrounded by scenic forest and provides a great base for exploring the region. Additionally, Black Forest Family Camping Resort near Cedar Mountain (just a short drive from Brevard) provides cabin rentals along with traditional camping sites. For cabin availability, reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons when accommodations fill quickly.

How much does camping cost in Brevard, NC?

Camping costs around Brevard vary by amenities and location. At Palmetto Cove RV Park, you'll find full hookup sites at reasonable rates in a scenic valley setting with mountain views. For those seeking public land options, Smokemont Campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park typically charges $25-30 per night for sites that can accommodate tents and RVs. Primitive camping is available for budget-conscious campers, with some free options in Pisgah National Forest. Generally, expect to pay $20-30 for basic sites and $30-45 for sites with electric hookups throughout the Brevard area.