Tent camping in Connelly Springs, North Carolina offers primitive camping experiences at elevations between 1,200 and 3,000 feet in the Pisgah National Forest and state park lands. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during the day, dropping to 60°F at night. Creek-side camping options typically require water filtration systems rated for giardia protection, as natural water sources contain microorganisms common to southern Appalachian watersheds.
What to do
Swimming at creek access points: In the Wilson Creek area near Mortimer Campground, visitors find multiple swimming spots. "There is a spot nearby where a lot of people like to float on tubes kind of like a lazy river type thing," notes one camper who adds, "My family and tried swimming at the base of Thorp's Creek Falls here, but the cray fish chased us out."
Hiking to accessible waterfalls: A half-mile round trip trail leads to waterfalls directly from Steele Creek campsites. "This area is beautiful and pure peace compared to the others in the area," writes one camper who particularly enjoyed "the creek, it is a great spot to swim so we are excited about that...a walking trail at the end of the road about 100 feet from our site, that had the best swimming hole at the end of it, where you can jump in."
Fishing in mountain streams: Fishing opportunities exist throughout the camping areas around Connelly Springs. At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, one visitor reports, "The hike to the pond was a little more strenuous than we anticipated but once you get there, there is a nice creek and we caught a trout in the pond right away."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacing between camping spots varies significantly across the region. At Little River Backcountry Campground, "The four sites were well-spaced so we did not see other campers, with the exception of site 1 which is right off the entrance trail."
Cool mountain temperatures: Higher elevation camping offers relief from summer heat. One camper at Blue Bear Mountain Camp appreciated that "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," specifically noting temperatures of "70-80 in July!"
Clean bathhouses: When available, well-maintained facilities receive positive attention. At Black Bear Campground, campers note "The restrooms are in immaculate condition" and another mentions "They have clean bathrooms and individual showers."
What you should know
Road conditions to remote sites: Many primitive camping areas require driving on unpaved roads. At Steele Creek, "The road is pretty well maintained other than a few spots that you have to crawl through on the corners specifically. I drive a Toyota Camry that sits fairly low and I made it fine."
Wildlife presence: Camping in this region means sharing space with local wildlife. Ticks and mosquitoes are common at lower elevations. One camper at Steele Creek reports, "I did get eaten alive by mosquitos and I found a tick on my chair so be on the lookout."
Water filtration requirements: Access to potable water varies by location. For most backcountry sites, campers must filter creek water. At Little River Backcountry Campground, one visitor notes the "closest water source is a creek 0.6 miles (1.2 miles round trip) away- filter it- the walk back to camp is a steep uphill."
Tips for camping with families
Look for shorter hiking options: Some backcountry sites offer easier access for families with children. At Shinny Creek, one reviewer describes it as the "Perfect trip if you have kids…or just want something close by. It's only a bit over a mile to these four sites nestled by a stream. Clear, flat sites. Bear box. Critter-proof trash bin. Pit privy. Water access from every site within ten paces."
Consider trekking poles for steep trails: Many trails in the South Mountains area feature significant elevation changes. Trails are described as "broad and veeeeeery hilly in places. If your knees complain, bring the trekking poles. You'll thank me."
Check swimming area proximity: Sites near water features provide natural entertainment. At Mortimer Campground, one camper notes "There are trails and even a waterfall within half a mile from camp. Very peaceful place."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options available: Most camping around Connelly Springs is tent-focused with few RV accommodations. At Black Bear Campground, "All sites have tent pads and 2 parking spots. Many of the sites are a short walk from the car which affords privacy."
No hookups at many sites: Even campgrounds that accommodate smaller RVs often lack amenities. At Steele Creek, "Maybe I missed this in the reviews, but all but 1 site were best for tents. I drove in to camp in my car and there was only 1 spot, which is by the creek crossing, and it was already taken."
Road access limitations: Mountain roads present challenges for larger vehicles. At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there."
