North of Asheville between the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains, Dana sits at around 2,250 feet elevation with variable weather patterns that can change rapidly in spring and fall. The area receives approximately 45 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forests and numerous waterways ideal for fishing and swimming. Weather conditions often include morning fog in valley campsites during summer months.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: North Mills River Campground offers excellent fishing access with several reviews noting the quality of trout fishing. "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," shares Natalie M. at North Mills River.
Mountain biking trails: Located near some of the region's best riding, Davidson River Campground provides direct trail access. "They start literally across the davidson river from the campground. Bike shops, coffee and supermarkets all within," according to Travis S. Another camper adds, "Great place and great MtB trails super close."
Lake activities: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation beyond just fishing. Lake Powhatan has "a great beach and lots of hiking and mountain bike trails," according to Phil L., while Rutledge Lake RV Resort features "fishing pond has a lot of ducks and seaweed" and "waterfront site was fairly level and loved being able to walk down stairs to lake area," notes Cassondra P.
What campers like
River sites for natural sound: Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground offers riverside camping that creates a peaceful atmosphere. "Stayed here for a couple days to visit some friends who moved to Asheville. BE ALERT TO TURN WIDE WHEN TURNING INTO THIS CAMPGROUND. VERY NARROW BRIDGE FROM THE MAIN ROAD... once you get set up at you're waterfront site you cant help but be in awe of the rapids," shares Keith R. at Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground.
Heated facilities in cooler months: When camping during colder periods, Lake Powhatan receives praise for its amenities. "Bathroom and showers are cleaned well everyday-and are heated," reports Nancy, while another camper adds, "Very clean restroom facilities. Strong wi-fi (free too) connection, for those of us that work from the road."
Shaded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural cover at various campgrounds. At Creekside Mountain Camping, Cannon W. mentions the "white noise from the creek to keep us dead asleep at night" and notes it's "a great little spot away from the hustle and bustle of the highway."
What you should know
Seasonal booking patterns: Be aware that popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "This place is packed most all of the summer now so you don't want to show up without a spot," notes Anna R. about Davidson River Campground.
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active in the region. A camper at Creekside Mountain Camping reports, "Small Black Bear wandered up and stole some burgers we left in the cooler and came back later to say hey and check up on us so be aware and keep your food under lock and key."
Weather fluctuations: Mountain weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. At Mount Pisgah Campground, Ted H. shares: "While we did hit peak color, I didn't think that the cold front would be as intense. Temperature dropped below freezing and during the night it felt like gale force winds buffeting the GO. Definitely will pick a lower elevation for camping if it's in October!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Orchard Lake Campground offers amenities specifically designed for children. "We went kayaking and swimming daily. There is a slide in the middle of the pond that my son loved. When it rained the game room had a movie on and lots to do inside," says Amanda M. at Orchard Lake Campground.
Pet-friendly trails: For families with dogs, various options exist beyond designated dog areas. "My son spent hours hopping along the rocks in the creek," notes Anna R. about Creekside Mountain Camping, showing how natural features can entertain children.
Proximity to urban attractions: When weather doesn't cooperate, nearby towns offer alternatives. "Great location to all the hikes we planned on doing," states Selenia D. about Mount Pisgah Campground, while another camper adds "We spent some time in the lake, on hiking trails, and in town."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground, site location matters significantly. "The sites are a little tight on a hillside, but the pad is kept up well with large gravel and is compact and level. Lots of big trees so it makes for a nice atmosphere," notes Joan. Another reviewer adds, "There are mountaintop sides with big patios that hang over the mountain top and have incredible views."
Laundry facilities: Several campgrounds offer clean laundry amenities for longer stays. "This campground was one of the cleanest campgrounds we've been to. It had the cleanest laundry room I've even seen at a campground and we are full timers so have been to many places. Washers seem new and large enough for a full load-$2 and dryer $1," shares Julia M.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entry points. At Rutledge Lake RV Resort, Ray & Terri F. mention, "Some of the internal resort roads are in need of resurfacing, as there are quite a few potholes," while a Hickory Nut Falls reviewer warns about "a very narrow bridge from the main road making it absolutely necessary to turn into the other lane for longer rigs."
