A
Alice W.
Scout
ScoutFS 289 Pull Off
Tranquil but out there!
Great spots out by a creek but be prepared to lose cell service driving through the park
Camping near Burnsville, NC
427 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping options in Burnsville, North Carolina include numerous riverside and mountain settings throughout the surrounding national forest land. Pisgah National Forest offers dispersed camping opportunities for tent camping with minimal amenities, while established campgrounds like Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area provide more developed facilities along the South Toe River. Mount Mitchell State Park Campground operates seasonally at higher elevations from May through December. Several campgrounds feature cabin accommodations, including Spacious Skies Bear Den and Roan Mountain State Park, which combine traditional camping with more comfortable lodging options. The region sits at the base of the Black Mountains, providing access to some of the highest peaks in eastern North America.
Seasonal closures significantly affect camping availability in the Burnsville area, with most established campgrounds operating from spring through fall. The Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area typically opens from April through October, offering riverside camping with fire rings and picnic tables. Mount Mitchell State Park's camping season runs May through December, though weather at higher elevations can be unpredictable even in summer months. Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, particularly on weekends when sites fill quickly. The region experiences variable weather conditions based on elevation, with mountain areas remaining notably cooler than surrounding lowlands. As one visitor noted, "We stayed at Carolina Hemlocks campground while taking a road trip down the Blue Ridge Parkway. Very private campground that borders the South Toe River."
The South Toe River features prominently in camping experiences around Burnsville, with several campgrounds providing direct river access. Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area receives consistently positive reviews for its swimming holes and fishing spots along the river. Campers particularly value the water access for recreation, with reviews highlighting opportunities for tubing, swimming, and fishing for trout. The campground's proximity to Mount Mitchell and the Blue Ridge Parkway makes it a popular base for exploring the wider region. Sites along the river tend to be more sought-after but often fill quickly. A reviewer mentioned that "Great camping sites right along the River. Beautiful views and clean bathrooms. Tubing, swimming and fishing. Family friendly." While some campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs, others focus primarily on tent camping with more primitive amenities, giving visitors options based on their preferred camping style and comfort level.
Best Campgrounds near Burnsville (427)
1. Spacious Skies Bear Den
"Spacious Skies Bear Den in North Carolina offers an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure for families."
"Bear den was a perfect location for the Blue ridge parkway. We stayed at a two cabin lot that had a hot tub. Bear den has everything from RV camp sites to a game room."
from $24 - $999 / night
Check Availability2. Black Mountain Campground - CLOSED INDEFINITELY
"There are wonderful sites for families big and small around the central "soccer" field and sites for small-medium trailers and tents and camper vans in "Bear Alley" around the outside."
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Campground:
Black Mountain Campground in the Pisgah National Forest, is nestled in Burnsville, NC but you must work at it to get there. https://cfaia.org/black-mountain-briar-bottom-campgrounds-in-north-carolina"
from $28 - $56 / night
Check Availability3. Mount Mitchell State Park Campground
"The campground is open from May 1 to Oct 31...but if you walk-in to the sites, as in via the trails, you can rent a site amost all year. Tent sites are small, but nice."
"There are plenty of tent camping sites along the Mountain to Sea trail and throughout the park. I camped by Commissary Ridge next to a small Creek and an excellent view of sunrise."
from $27 / night
Check Availability4. Roan Mountain State Park Campground
"Fire pits you had to walk up to but were away from tents, which I liked. Bathhouse was clean, well lit, pretty warm showers. Campground was very clean and has a lot of amenities."
"Great tent pads with running water located right next to every pad. Plenty of hiking and biking to do. Pool and playground for the kids to enjoy, a great place for easy camping."
5. Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area
"We stayed for two nights, a little away from the main camp area but was kinda glad for it. Had a great spot tucked into the woods near the water. Great path to skip rocks and just enjoy."
"It is tucked in next to the South Toe River with an excellent swimming hole, rapids for tubing, great trout fishing, and a good launching off point for hikes into the Black Mountains and Mt Mitchell."
from $28 - $70 / night
Check Availability6. Asheville East KOA
"As typical of a KOA, they shove you in there so you are very close to your neighbors. The stars of the park are the riverfront sites."
"My only gripe (and I know it’s not a huge deal) is the trailer park situated right by the fence that separates from the KOA."
from $50 / night
Check Availability7. Crabtree Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
"On the Blue Ridge Parkway, nestled in the trees and mountains of North Carolina, this campground is an older style NPS campground, but has been well maintained."
"This review (just as future reviews to this page should be) is about the Crab Tree Falls Campground that is in North Carolina along the Blue Ridge Parkway and is managed by the National Park Service."
from $10 - $20 / night
Check Availability8. Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
"I am from the area, but I love to go up the hill and get away from everything. If you get there early in the week, you should have the place to yourself."
"Trails out the wazoo! Our doggies love the trails & there are quite a few family friendly paths."
9. Curtis Creek Campground
"I would not recommend this for someone unfamiliar with driving a rig but once we got there it was amazing."
"Was able to get two sites right next to each other outside the main campsite area which was great."
from $10 - $20 / night
Check Availability10. Toe River Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
"We went to downtown Burnsville and were pleasantly surprised. It had restaurants, a cute downtown, and neat playground called kid mountain."
Drive Time
- 40 min from Asheville, NC
- 56 min from Johnson City, TN
- 1 hr 13 min from Kingsport, TN
Recent Camping Photos near Burnsville, NC
760 Photos of 427 Burnsville Campgrounds
christy S.
Toe River Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
cat L.
Mila's Bunny Farm
John L.
Maple Camp Bald
Michelle S.
Bear Creek Mountain Glamping
Cassidy A.
Victor Road Dispersed
Alyssa F.
Mount Mitchell State Park Campground
Chrissy M.
Campgrounds at Little Switzerland
Anita L.
Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
Kelsey M.
Crabtree Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
Jake M.
Fox Grape Farms
Anna R.
Black Mountain Campground - CLOSED INDEFINITELY
Jonathan Mark F.
Celtic Camp
Recent Reviews near Burnsville, NC
1781 Reviews of 427 Burnsville Campgrounds
- kkathy U.Scout
Buck Creek
Amazing
I’m thrilled to give this campground my highest recommendation! The owners and staff couldn’t have been more accommodating, helpful and kind! We called that morning because the campground we were booked at turned out to be awful. They fit us in and then we ended up extending our stay. We had to keep moving sites because they had other campers coming in, but it was worth it! Our favorite sites was 54 and 27. Some sites are close, but all are on the creek so you don’t notice it at all! Nothing better than waking up to the sound of water! The campground location is perfect, 20-30 minutes from things to do like hiking and wineries.
Jim S.
GuideMount Pisgah Campground
Cool Change
Typical National Park Campground.Sites are small but spread apart.Not many that we could fit 28 foot Airstream .Clean restrooms and free showers. The rangers are very friendly. Very professional and helpful. The restaurant is great but you need to make a reservation.
Mike F.ScoutDoe River Landing
Ahhh-mazing
We arrived and easily got to our spot. There’s a river just behind our spot and only a handful of RVs and cabins. Our GPS wanted us to pass the turn to the campground, we had to make a U turn to get in…. Of course, on the second approach we saw the entrance signs (my bad). It looks like it is best to approach from the west (Hampton?), it was a sharp turn entering from the east (Roan Mountain). We settled in and got to relaxing quickly.
- SSara M.Guide
Doe River Landing
What a fantastic find - small, family-owned campground in mountain heaven
Doe River Landing is a small, delightful RV and cabin camping park that sits on the banks of the Doe River in the Roan Mountain valley of TN. We enjoyed our stay enough that we extended a few extra days. Five shaded, landscaped RV sites offering water/electric are located about 20 yards from the river’s edge. An additional site offers a fully-outfitted rental RV. Sites are pea gravel and mostly level. Luxury rental cabins(5) are available along with a truly awesome rental pavilion outfitted for larger group gatherings. The friendly hosts live in a home nearby and were around daily during our stay.
For a small family campground the amenities are super nice. The top-notch children’s playground and toy shed obviously delighted guest’s children. Wi-Fi signal is strong enough for streaming. Nice, clean bathhouse. Public grills are available. Hiking trails meander along the river and up through their woods.
There are few places we enjoy more than the Roan Mountain area for camping. The location is fantastic and even peak summer temperatures are usually comfortable. Roan Mountain State Park is minutes away for hiking and a slew of activities, while the top of Roan Mountain houses the famous wild Rhododendron Gardens. The AT and multiple hiking trails run along the top of the mountain.
There were only a few considerations with this venue.
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The sites are mostly level although we needed two OxBlocks in each of the sites we stayed in. One needed leveling front-to-back, the other side-to-side. When Hurricane Helene scoured the area it likely left some dips in the parking pads.
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The bathhouse contains one toilet and shower, both housed in the same room which can tie them up for long periods.
3) There may be some day and night traffic noise as large trucks involved in repairs from Hurricane Helene are still active.
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The approach is rather challenging. New lighted signage helps identify where their single-lane entrance road takes a HARD fork off US-19E. Be sure to check the Directions tab on their website. If you are arriving from the north (through Elizabethton) you will be able to pull directly onto Bob Ray Rd.(entrance to the right of the little Bible church). Approaching from the south on US-19E is more difficult. Bob Ray Rd basically runs parallel to US-19E which requires essentially a U-turn across 2-3 lanes to accomplish. The host suggests turning through the closed fruit stand parking lot(on the left within sight of the entrance) but we weren’t sure about it given on-coming traffic. We elected to drive~ 2 miles further down 19E and U-turn across the left shoulder.
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Bob Ray Rd is a single-lane road. Based on timing for check-in/check-out you are unlikely to meet another RV coming at you(thankfully!)
Multiple choices for food in the area. The Whiteway Grill– less than 5 minutes away- offers fabulous breakfasts. Smoky Mountain Bakers is beyond awesome! Wood-fired pizza for dinner and breakfast plates from simple sandwiches to breakfast burritos, pancakes and French toast. We find excuses to eat here during the week. Every meal we’ve had at Puerto Escondido Mexican restaurant was huge(as in leftovers) and tasty.
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Rachael F.
Travelerwash Creek Dispersed Campsite #3
Be aware of your neighbors
If I was reviewing for just the location and how beautiful it was I’d give a 4 stars for a dispersed campsite however your neighbors do impact your experience.
The site itself I really loved. I was about 200 -300 feet from where you park your car right off the road (the roads by the way are definitely passable by most vehicles but keep in mind I was there in May). While there was alot of traffic going by (cars and bicyclists) the way it was set up it gave more privacy than most especially if you put your tent in the right place.
It was nice to have some distance between the car and the campsite with the large black bear population. Highly recommend keeping all food far from your site and washing any dishes as far from where you sleep as much as you can. Also keep all soaps, perfumes, or toiletries out if your tent. That also attracts.
Wash creek was close by. So accessing water for filtering for use was very easy. I used a 0.01 Micron, 6-Stage, portable BKLES (BKLES Camping Water Filter –... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGLHX2JK?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share) for the two weeks and had no health issues or otherwise. The water tasted great.
There was a hiking trail that was between the site and the path to the creek. I never saw anyone while I was there (2 weeks) but it’s something to consider if your a solo camper as other campers could easily travel it to access your site without you being aware. I had Portable Outdoor Perimeter Alarm... (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FXGJRD2K?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share) to keep me safe and alert at night which I can’t recommend enough. It ended up saving my life. Towards the end of my stay for the first time all four alarm sensors put in several different places yards apart were going off. It continued off and on for over an hour. I did not risk opening my tent to see what it was.
I decided to go to an air bnb the next night. when I returned my tent was riped in several places and my dewalt tool box I was using for storage had what looked like puncture marks and was opened (full disclosure - I forgot I had some dried chick peas in it). Pretty safe to assume I was visited by a bear. I went back to the air bnb waiting for things to dry up before packing.
Upon returning items were stolen. A few things were taken with a note from a nearby camper with his cell (no name ?) letting me know he was keeping them safe for me. When I was at the site inspecting things he showed up. Was nice enough and did return some of my items but my portable firepit and large propane tank were gone.
Granted I had left the site unattended for a few days after the seeing my tent ripped up and was waiting for things to dry (as it had been raining for several days) before packing. Having said this the stolen items could have been because the more permanent folks living in the area thought I had just abandoned my things. I’ll leave it up to you to decide.
So while the spot itself was profoundly beautiful the neighbors add an element that should be considered in your decision to come.
On a positive note, I did see blue ghost fireflies several nights during my stay. I Eastern Tiger Swallowtails two days in a row my site had maybe 50-100 right next to my tent. Then the Spicebush Swallowtail, and Azures decided to join. One day a cardinal sat right on the rock in the middle of the campsite 10 feet from me. If you love rocks like I do be prepared for some really truly beautiful gems (pun intended) if you go wading in the creek. I forgot to mention I accidentally caught a fish when trying to fill my bucket up in the evening (how did it taste? Well, unfortunately I don’t have the skills to prep fish like that so I quickly released it but tells you a bit about the water nearby 🌞)
- KKane G.Traveler
Weaver Bend Road
Great riverside spot
Overall, a decent dispersed camping spot. I saw and heard no one my entire time at this spot. It’s right on the river which is great. The drive in is mostly paved, but a little narrow. Please pack your trash out though. It seems like no matter the state I camp in, people leave their trash. This site was particularly bad. It’s good to go now, but bring a bag and leave it nicer than you found it.
- SSherry S.Traveler
Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
Very nice!
I camped on Forest Road 982. There were quite a few people camping along this road, but I found a really good spot by the large creek. The campsites are pretty far from each other so the privacy is good. I stayed one night. Will definitely go back.
- KKatie M.Scout
Dark Ridge HideOut (Adults Only)
Awesome private campground!
The owner was super nice and gave us all the info we needed! Very close to the falls to swim at and hike to (wear hiking shoes to get to the falls) over all great quiet little campground!
Guide to Burnsville
Camping sites near Burnsville, North Carolina provide access to some of the highest terrain in the eastern United States, with elevations ranging from 2,000 to over 6,600 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with temperature differences of up to 20 degrees between valley floors and mountain summits. Winter nights frequently drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer evenings rarely exceed 70°F even during July and August.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: 2.5-mile loop trail at Crabtree Falls Campground offers moderate terrain leading to impressive cascades. "I recommend you hike in a clockwise direction, starting from the B loop and ending in the A loop. This leaves the bulk of the strenuous climbing for the end, rather than descending sharply at the beginning," notes one visitor who appreciates the trail layout.
Creek-side relaxation: South Toe River at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area provides multiple swimming and fishing spots. A camper reports, "My family and I have been camping at Bearden since 1995 and it has always been great," while another states, "This campground is small and comfortable. It is tucked in next to the South Toe River with an excellent swimming hole, rapids for tubing, great trout fishing."
Mountain summit exploration: 4,000-foot elevation gain when hiking from lower campgrounds to Mount Mitchell's peak. According to one hiker at 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."
What campers like
River access for recreation: Many campers value riverside sites for the constant sound of flowing water and recreational opportunities. At Toe River Campground, "Best campsite in the place for a small rv or tent is site 56! It's short and wide but lots of River front access and two trees to hang a hammock from! You can fish right off your camp site for trout!"
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank high on camper satisfaction. A visitor to Roan Mountain State Park noted, "The campground is very well maintained, and the bathroom was spotless. The staff, rangers and volunteers, were super friendly. If you forgot something, there is a little camp store on the property."
Star-gazing opportunities: Higher elevations offer exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. A Mount Mitchell camper shared, "Our first night on this trip, the sky was clear and we could see the milky way! We left home and the temperate was well into the high 90's, however the temperate on top of the mountain never came above 62!"
What you should know
Campground closures are widespread: Many camping areas near Burnsville have been affected by recent hurricane damage. A camper reported about Mount Mitchell State Park Campground: "If you are looking for camping around Mount Mitchell, check out Black Mountain Family Campground at the base of the mountain."
Weather variations by elevation: Pack for temperature swings of 10-20 degrees between day and night, regardless of season. "Check weather reports. These mountains make their own weather. And remember, for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, temperature decreases by 3 degrees," advises a camper.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal to no mobile reception. One visitor noted, "There is no cell service on T-Mobile or Verizon inside the camp (small victory for nature). BUT, let's say you have a Verizon phone, and you really really need to talk to someone - well, here's the hint of the day. Walk down the main access road toward the junction with your phone on."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. A visitor to Roan Mountain State Park shared: "They have a very nice playground area and the beach access by the river was also very nice. Very well maintained campground."
Kid-friendly water areas: Look for designated swimming holes with gradual entry points. "The camp has a swimming hole on the South Toe River in the campground just beyond the end of the riverside sites. It has a small sandy 'beach' area and a neck deep refreshing hole," reports one camper.
Nearby town attractions: Burnsville offers family activities within a short drive. A visitor mentioned, "We went to downtown Burnsville and were pleasantly surprised. It had restaurants, a cute downtown, and neat playground called kid mountain."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all campgrounds accommodate big rigs. At Spacious Skies Bear Den, a visitor advises, "Hint here if pulling a camper, don't follow the Bearden sign, go to Linville to get on the parkway and go left. This way you will avoid the steep curvy road going up a mountain."
Road access challenges: Mountain roads can be steep, narrow, and winding. "The road to get to the campground made me nervous, but once there, I could have stayed for weeks!" notes a camper about Curtis Creek Campground. Another adds, "The road is a little rough to get there, but even a car should have no problems - just might need to dodge a few potholes."
Advance planning for hookups: Most campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. "The sites come with a nice fire pit and picnic table, there is water available and the pit toilets were immaculate on that visit. There is good access to Curtis Creek for fishing or hanging out, and the little bit of traffic on the adjacent road was not obtrusive," shares an RV camper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Burnsville, NC?
What are the best campgrounds in Burnsville, NC?
Burnsville offers excellent camping options, with Mount Mitchell State Park Campground standing out for its stunning elevation and access to the highest peak east of the Mississippi. The Black Mountain / South Toe River Area is another top choice, featuring well-maintained roads along the South Toe River with peaceful, uncrowded trails. Both offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, with Mount Mitchell providing reservable sites and Black Mountain offering more secluded experiences in the Pisgah National Forest region.
Are there RV rental options available in Burnsville, North Carolina?
Are there RV rental options available in Burnsville, North Carolina?
While Burnsville itself has limited RV rental services, several RV-friendly campgrounds in the area accommodate rented vehicles. Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina offers spacious sites with asphalt parking pads suitable for RVs, along with hookups and clean facilities. Julian Price Park Campground off the Blue Ridge Parkway also welcomes RVs. For rentals, check with RV rental companies in nearby Asheville (about 30 miles south) that offer delivery services to campgrounds. Most renters will need to arrange delivery or pickup from these larger towns.
What camping options are available near Burnsville, NC?
What camping options are available near Burnsville, NC?
Near Burnsville, you'll find diverse camping experiences from developed sites to backcountry adventures. Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry offers beautiful 6000' elevation dispersed camping along the NC/TN state line with spectacular views, though firewood is scarce. For more amenities, Spacious Skies Bear Den provides clean facilities, friendly staff, and family activities. Additional options include the serene Green Willow Farm Camping and the stunning dispersed sites along Old NC 105, perfect for boondocking with mountain views.
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