RV camping near Croatan National Forest ranges from creekside retreats to mountain-view sites across eastern North Carolina. Camping options typically remain accessible year-round at lower elevations, while some higher mountain campgrounds close during winter months when snowfall and ice make roads impassable for larger vehicles. Most campsites require advance reservations, particularly during peak summer and fall color seasons.
What to do
Creek exploration: Enjoy wading and relaxing at Little River Campground & RV Resort. The campground features multiple creek access points with common areas along the riverbank. "We stayed in the tent camping area. Absolutely beautiful site with a wonderful river view, but be aware that the direct river bank is considered common area including day use so it had a lot of traffic while we were there," notes Robert G.
Mountain biking trails: Access nearby paths from Parksville Lake RV Campground. Trails accommodate various skill levels with connections to the Ocoee Whitewater Center. "Convenient to the Ocoee River, the Ocoee Whitewater Center, Parksville Lake beaches and boat ramps, many miles of mountain bike/hiking trails and whitewater rafting, it's a great central location for day trips," according to one camper.
Downtown access: Camp near local towns for evening activities. Sites at Riverbend RV Park-Campground provide convenient access to nearby Franklin. "Staying here you will be super close to some amazing hiking and also the many activities on the Cullasaja river. You can easily go out for the night in Franklin and explore the rest of the beautiful area," reports Asher K.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Top of the World RV offers a peaceful mountain setting. The secluded location provides a calm environment away from busier tourist areas. "We have been coming here for the last 3 yrs. Each and every time it has been exactly what we needed. Quiet, Relaxing and good for your soul," writes Duane M.
Spacious sites: Hidden Waters RV Park & Campground features well-designed camping pads. The campground offers level gravel sites with defined camping areas. "This is a beautiful, family owned campground. Grounds are impeccable and well maintained, customer service was above and beyond. There really isn't a bad site in the place," explains Caitlin in a review.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive regular maintenance at most established campgrounds. Campers consistently mention cleanliness as a significant factor in positive reviews. "The bathhouse is seriously impressive and is, by far, the nicest campground bathhouse I've ever used! One of my favorite features was random and I never knew I was missing it in my life until now.. the bathrooms have strong AC pumping right into each bathroom, making everything nice and cool when you come in from the hot campsite," shares Lisa C. from Little River Campground.
What you should know
Road access limitations: Mountain campgrounds may have challenging approach roads. RVers should research specific access points before arrival, especially with larger rigs. "Getting to it can be tricky as TN-68 has steep grades and decent curves but is doable for all but the absolute longest of rigs," warns Jeremy B. about Top of the World RV.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds. Research options if maintaining connection is important. "Verizon cell service was good enough at 3 bars the whole time. No on-site laundry services, so we had to go into town to use laundromat," notes a Little River Campground reviewer.
Site surface conditions: Creekside RV Park and others feature varied site materials. Some campgrounds have gravel sites that may require additional leveling equipment. "Creekside RV park is a clean and welcoming park about 10 minutes from The Island at Pigeon Forge. My only complaint - as is common with privately owned RV parks - is that the sites were difficult to get into. The camper across the street from my site had to move his truck so that I could get enough angle to back into my site," explains Eric S.
Tips for camping with families
Select campgrounds with creek access: Children enjoy water play opportunities during warmer months. "We arrived to find a peaceful setting... The sites are a decent size, but all loose gravel. It's difficult to walk on, and no grass for the dogs," notes Karen B. at Nantahala RV Resort, highlighting the importance of considering ground surfaces for children.
Consider proximity to attractions: Some parks offer convenient access to family activities. "We are a family of 4 with an 8 and 10 year old. We spent 5 nights here in June 2022. We really enjoyed the clean and well maintained characteristic of this place. Everything works and the bathhouse is nice. Also it's so close to Pigeon Forge. We really enjoyed that," reports J. Blake S. at Creekside RV Park.
Look for campgrounds with open spaces: Areas for children to play safely are important considerations. "There is a large green space in the center of the campground and a small creek accessible from most of the sites," explains Asher K. about Riverbend RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Check for full hookups: Many parks offer complete connections but specifications vary. "Peachtree Cove RV Park offers 26 spacious sites with full hookups including 50-amp electric service and water connections," according to camping records.
Consider site accessibility: Some parks feature pull-through sites while others require backing in. "This is a small loop is perfect for a family get away. Close Creek and hiking provided plenty of activity for little ones and not overly crowded like bigger campgrounds. Water hookups shared throughout the campground, not dedicated to each site," explains Lindsay C. at Parksville Lake Campground.
Reserve well in advance: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "It is so hard to get a reservation here, so we decided to take what we could get so we could try it out! A tip to get reservations! Call and put your name on a waiting list for the dates you need. If they have cancellations, they call the people on the list instead of releasing the dates on the website!" advises Beth H. from Anchor Down RV Resort.
