Blue Bear Mountain Camp is located in the Todd area, approximately 10-15 minutes from Boone, North Carolina. The campground sits at a high elevation (over 3,000 feet) on a mountain top, providing natural relief from summer heat with temperatures typically ranging 70-80°F in July. This area offers a mix of secluded tent sites, RV spaces with electric hookups, and distinctive glamping accommodations including yurts and teepees that are available through multiple seasons.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At New River State Park, trails lead to scenic spots along the river. "The hiking at Wagoner Access was easy, but 221 and Elk Shoals were more strenuous. Overall the park has miles and miles of blue way. And I highly recommend spending an afternoon at the beach at the Elk Shoals access. Beautiful spot with awesome swimming hole!" according to one camper.
Mountain biking: Warrior Creek Campground features extensive trail networks. "Super mt bike trails that have been built and maintained by volunteers who really care and ride the trails often. Solid facilities to camp. 10 to 15 minutes drive by car to the wilkesboro with plants of food and amenities," notes a biking enthusiast.
River activities: Explore the New River by canoe or kayak. "We definitely want to come back for longer and canoe in and out of sites," mentions a visitor at New River State Park. Another camper adds, "The gentle sound of the New river is the most peaceful sound!"
Wild pony viewing: At Grayson Highlands State Park, hiking trails lead to unique wildlife encounters. "The wild ponies make this area so special and worth the drive. Very clean, well kept and the hosts are terrific," notes a reviewer who visited the park.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The mountains around Deep Gap offer exceptional stargazing. "The night sky was incredible with little to no light pollution," according to a camper at Julian Price Park Campground. Another notes, "It is a beautiful campground just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina."
Cooler temperatures: The high elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. A camper at Stone Mountain State Park mentioned, "We went in December and there wasn't many people there at all, maybe 4 other campers all weekend," showing the appeal of off-season camping in the area.
Creek-side camping: Many sites feature water access. "Almost two weeks at this great campground at a power/water only site right by the creek. Level parking, reliable wifi, friendly hosts and community," notes a visitor at Flintlock Campground. Another camper shares, "This campground has a very nice little creek running through it."
Wildlife viewing: Deer and other animals are common sightings. "There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," mentions a camper at Stone Mountain State Park.
What you should know
Reservations recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially for glamping near Deep Gap, North Carolina. "The sites often get booked quickly, so reserve spots well in advance!" advises a camper at Flintlock Campground.
Weather variability: Mountain conditions can change rapidly. A visitor to Grayson Highlands State Park warns, "Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "There's a decent mix of people here for the weekend vs staying longer term. The wifi is decent when there aren't a lot of campers. Over the weekends, forget about it," notes a visitor to Grandfather Campground.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow entrance roads. A camper at Honey Bear Campground cautions, "You can't check in late because the road in is through a neighborhood and is windy, narrow and dark early because of the surrounding area."
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity-rich campgrounds: Some parks offer multiple recreation options. "Flintlock is easy to get to but you'll still feel like you are camping. Staff is friendly and facilities are clean. There's a beautiful mini river running through the campground with a lot of rocks to jump on. My children spent hours every day exploring," shares a family that visited Honey Bear Campground.
Consider campgrounds with playgrounds: Family-friendly amenities make a difference. "This is a wonderful family campground with amazing people running the campground close to Boone and Banner Elk. There is a beautiful creek that runs through the property," notes a visitor to Flintlock Campground.
Choose sites away from roads: Road noise can be an issue at some campgrounds. "Sites 46, 45 and 41 where my favorites with water views (46 coming in 1st)," recommends a camper at New River State Park who found quieter spots.
Plan for temperature changes: Mountain nights get cool even in summer. A visitor at Julian Price Park Campground advises, "We enjoy this campground on the weekends throughout the fall and spring as it is less occupied."
Tips from RVers
Check site accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger rigs. A visitor to Grandfather Campground notes, "The site was quite un-level side to side, and we couldn't get our trailer completely level side to side. The site was a bit tough to maneuver into."
Water fill stations vs. hookups: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "They do not have water hookups- you fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups. They have a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out," explains a camper who stayed at Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Consider electrical needs: Amperage options vary between parks. "Sites 3, 7, 10 are among the best. We've already booked another trip to go back," recommends an RVer who found suitable sites at New River State Park.
Expect varying site sizes: Space can be limited at some campgrounds. "Small tight campground just outside of Boone, NC. Very tight sites. Many long term campers. Right on the main road (Rte 105). Tons of road noise," warns an RVer about Flintlock Campground.
