K
Kelly R.
Scout
ScoutDeep Creek Group Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Peaceful
This is a very trustworthy camping area. It rained almost everyday after we got here. We stayed for 7 days and loved every minute of it
Camping near Enka, NC
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campgrounds near Enka, North Carolina range from developed facilities to more primitive sites, clustered primarily along the Blue Ridge Parkway and within Pisgah National Forest. Lake Powhatan Campground offers tent, RV, cabin and yurt camping within 15 minutes of downtown Asheville, while the Davidson River Campground provides similar accommodations in Pisgah National Forest about 30 miles southwest of Enka. The region includes multiple privately operated campgrounds like Asheville West KOA and Mama Gertie's Hideaway that provide full hookups and amenities for travelers seeking more comforts.
Access to camping areas varies seasonally, with many national forest campgrounds operating from March through October or November. Several visitors mentioned the benefits of camping during off-peak seasons. According to one camper, "It always seems to rain when I camp anyways, so why not go when it's raining to avoid crowds and enjoy solitude." Road conditions in the mountainous terrain can challenge larger vehicles, particularly at North Mills River Campground where big rigs are not accommodated. Elevation in the region ranges from approximately 2,100 feet near Enka to over 5,000 feet at Mount Pisgah Campground, resulting in cooler temperatures even during summer months.
Waterfront sites receive consistently positive reviews across multiple campgrounds in the area. Davidson River Campground features sites where "the river curled around us on three sides" according to one reviewer, who noted the "rhythmic sounds of the river offered sound sleep all night." Campers frequently mention the region's shade coverage as a significant advantage, with Lake Powhatan described as having "nearly 100% shade at each site" and "private sites with large space along with vegetation between sites." Proximity to hiking trails and waterfalls represents another common highlight, with many campgrounds serving as convenient base camps for exploring the abundant natural features throughout Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway system.
Best Campgrounds near Enka (536)
1. Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina
"The sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations. The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside."
"PROS Discounted camp fee with senior pass
Reserved 169 days prior to arriving
Friendly and helpful gate attendant
Nearly 100% shade at each site
Excellent dark sky viewing
Private sites with"
from $37 - $135 / night
Check Availability2. Mount Pisgah Campground
"We decided to escape the heat and head for one of the “cooler” campgrounds in western North Carolina for a weekend. Mt Pisgah Campground is at an elevation of roughly 5300’."
"Pisgah National Forest on the outskirts of Asheville, NC is a must stop for all ages."
from $30 / night
Check Availability3. Davidson River Campground
"We had a quick nights stay in Davidson River Campground after picking up our new SylvanSport GO tent trailer in nearby Brevard, North Carolina."
"Once again, interested in checking out as many waterfalls and cascades we could locate, the water flow will be so much more dramatic amidst heavy rainfall."
from $37 - $84 / night
Check Availability4. Asheville West KOA
"The only reason for the four star rating is due to the highway noise from I-40, which is located adjacent to the campground."
"It was an ideal location since it was between downtown Asheville and Waynesville which is where we split our time. The staff was friendly."
5. 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 Availability6. North Mills River
"Small campground, but there are free off road sites not too far down the road. Cell service disappears but I love that kind of disconnect."
"State stocked river is close by for trout fishing, and the bathrooms are always clean being for what they are."
from $31 - $62 / night
Check Availability7. Wilson's Riverfront RV Park
"Close to town to go check things out. Not a far drive to get to many great restaurants, breweries or cideries. Right on the river. Concrete sites, not extremely level, but good enough."
"The good- The proximity to downtown is the best you can get in a campground. If you choose a Riverfront site, you are literally 5 steps from the back of your RV from the French Broad River."
8. Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground
"It was level had tons of shade and even though you are close to your neighbors the sites are situated so that it doesn’t feel like you’re on top of each other."
"The only thing we would say is to be very careful if you’re up on one of the premiere Mountain View sites when you’re pulling your trailer down exiting the CG - it can be seriously steep and a tight turn"
from $75 - $200 / night
Check Availability9. Rutledge Lake RV Resort
"Easy off the highway but far enough to be quiet. Lots of dining options close by"
"campground was decent Fishing pond has a lot of ducks and seaweed
Laundry room was nice and large - easy and quick to get 3 loads done
Waterfront site was fairly level and loved being able to walk"
10. Campfire Lodgings
"We had a premium site overlooking the French Broad River and the surrounding valley. Breathtaking. It is a clean campground with very nice hosts. The shower house was dated but clean."
"The staff keep the location very tidy. My campsite was sufficiently distant from the more active RV area to feel removed. Situated in the woods on top of a mountain."
Drive Time
- 4 min from Asheville, NC
- 1 hr 3 min from Johnson City, TN
- 1 hr 3 min from Greenville, SC
Recent Camping Photos near Enka, NC
1062 Photos of 536 Enka Campgrounds
json R.
Asheville's Bear Creek RV Park & Campground
Sarah M.
Wilson's Riverfront RV Park
Roselyn T.
Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina
Karen R.
Asheville West KOA
Jake C.
Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
Jordan D.
Kozy Koala Cove: Minutes from town!
Tucker B.
Campfire Lodgings
Han W.
Utopia
Tucker B.
Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5
Betsy W.
Henderson Reservoir Dispersed Site #1
Valerie A.
North Mills River
Austin G.
Camp Driftwood Asheville
Recent Reviews near Enka, NC
2424 Reviews of 536 Enka Campgrounds
- SStephanie K.Scout
Riverside Motel and Campground
The creek is the best
The main road can be quite noisy. Though the local authorities do what they can to keep it down. The creek is by far the best thing about the campground.
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 🌞)
- AAngelique B.Scout
Elk Valley Farm RV Park
Perfect Home Base for Exploring Western North Carolina
We stayed for a month in Site 27 with our 40’ Brinkley fifth wheel, our tow vehicle, and a follow-behind Toyota Highlander. The site easily accommodated all of it without feeling cramped.
Elk Valley Farm RV Park made the perfect home base for exploring western North Carolina. It’s conveniently located near grocery stores, restaurants, and some wonderful hiking, and it’s an easy drive to Cherokee, Bryson City, Sylva, Franklin, and other nearby towns.
The sites include sturdy picnic tables and nice fire rings with attached cooking shelves.
Some sites also feature paved patios.The campground is new and still expanding, but it’s already a great place to stay. The only amenity we missed was on-site laundry, but Heather and Jeff told us they’re planning to add a laundry room, which will make longer stays even better.
Heather and Jeff are wonderful owners—kind, friendly, flexible, and genuinely committed to making sure their guests have a great experience. You can tell they care about the campground and the people who stay there.
As an added bonus, Angry Elk Brewing right at the entrance to the RV park is absolutely worth a visit. Great beer, delicious food, and so convenient after a day of exploring.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and wouldn’t hesitate to return the next time we’re in the area.
- BBob B.
GuideTable Rock State Park Campground
White Oak Campground
Semi private campground, super clean bathrooms, cell signal is spotty and there are no trails or water nearby. So, some pluses and some minuses. Also, although our campsite was level (unlike some), it was quite muddy and the utility hookups and fire ring were on opposite sides of where they should be.
- 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.
- CColin G.Scout
Sunburst Campground
Parking Lot
Absolutely zero provide or trees between sites. Might as well be in an RV lot. Reserved a site and immediately left after getting there.
- KKim Q.Scout
Moonshine Creek Campground
Didn’t want to leave
Just what I needed to unwind. Large tent site with a shelter, picnic table and fire ring. Rhododendrons and trees surround the campground. Creek bubbling and birds singing. Quiet campers during our visit. Clean bath house.
- JJeannie B.Scout
Red Gates RV Park
It’s clean and convenient 🤷🏻♀️
Red gates campground is pretty, clean and in a convenient place for what we need. It is full hook up, but also provides bath house and Pay as you go laundry facilities. However, tear is little to no privacy at any of the sites. If you’re looking to make this a destination camp ground, you will be disappointed. But it is a great spot to stay as a base to explore around western North Carolina.
Guide to Enka
Camping sites near Enka, North Carolina range from traditional campgrounds to distinctive mountaintop experiences with elevations spanning 2,100 to 5,000 feet. Winter temperatures at higher elevation campgrounds like Mount Pisgah can drop below freezing even in early fall, requiring proper cold-weather gear. Most camping facilities near Enka operate seasonally with reduced services from November through February.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 5 minutes from campsites at North Mills River provide convenient access for anglers. The campground serves as a starting point for fly fishing excursions. As one visitor noted, "This is a great campsite if you like fishing! We stayed here and were close to some amazing spots to fish!"
Mountain biking: Extensive trail networks surround Davidson River Campground where trails "start literally across the davidson river from the campground." According to one camper, "If you're looking to see the sights of the forest and take a drive the scenic parkway then you've come to the right campground. On the other hand if you're thinking of riding the mtb trails you're in luck."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer the best chances to spot local fauna. At Campfire Lodgings, campers report seeing "a black bear and turkeys in the campground." The mountaintop location provides vantage points for wildlife spotting across the valley and along the French Broad River.
What campers like
Heated bathrooms: Winter camping comfort is enhanced at facilities with heated restrooms. One camper at Mount Pisgah Campground mentioned, "Shower in one bathroom. Trees all around for privacy. Drinking water located not far from any site." Another noted, "Bathrooms were very clean, second only to Disney."
Private sites: Natural separation between camping spots at Lake Powhatan creates a more secluded experience. A reviewer described it as having "spacious sites and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations. The showers and bathrooms were very clean."
Mountain views: Elevated campsites provide panoramic vistas of surrounding landscapes. A visitor to Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground described sites with "big patios that hang over the mountain top and have incredible views. It is one of our favorite places in the country." The premium sites feature purposefully designed viewing platforms.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Limited winter availability affects camping options from November through March. North Mills River operates at reduced capacity: "Just a stone's throw from the bustle of Asheville, yet secluded enough to forget it all, this little gem is conveniently located at the entrance to Pisgah National Forest... after November 1st the prices get cut in half."
Highway noise: Proximity to major roads impacts some campgrounds near major transportation routes. One camper at Wilson's Riverfront RV Park observed, "Interstate traffic was loud, WiFi wasn't strong enough to connect to, no amenities other than the bath houses & walking trail that apparently ran along most of the length of the road."
Advance reservations: Required during peak seasons from April through October. For Davidson River Campground, one visitor warned: "This area has become over run with tourists and the 'free' campsites have mostly been comandeered by squatters who rotate from site to site every 14 days... This place is packed most all of the summer now so you don't want to show up without a spot."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Summer cooling options matter for families with children. The Asheville East KOA offers "a large lake and river running through the center" plus a swimming pool. As one visitor mentioned, it's "Beautiful, Clean, Great Amenities. We have stayed here 3-4 times, mostly in the A loop and we love it every time."
Playground availability: Entertainment for children varies significantly between campgrounds. One reviewer noted that Asheville East KOA offers "lots of activities for the kids" and "a lot of activities for everyone to enjoy."
Site selection: Location within campgrounds affects family experience. At Rutledge Lake RV Resort, a visitor recommended: "We had spot #10 water front. It had plenty of space for the 5 of us and 2 dogs. Nice gravel level sites." Another camper praised the "entrance is key card only, the park staff are welcoming & helpful. They have a heated pool & lake activities."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Steep access routes challenge larger vehicles. Campfire Lodgings visitors caution about the approach: "Be sure not to get there early - the one way road going up to the campground is steep and I'm not quite sure what would happen if you met another RV!"
Site leveling: Variable terrain requires preparation. At Rutledge Lake RV Resort, a camper noted, "Some of the internal resort roads are in need of resurfacing, as there are quite a few potholes... The resort is kept very clean and well maintained. The staff is very responsive and helpful."
Hookup limitations: Service variations exist between campgrounds. At North Mills River, hookups are limited as it's "more suited for the fly fishermen and mountain bikers. Facilities were kept in excellent condition." Big rigs face particular challenges with site access at several area campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Enka, NC?
What camping is available near Enka, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, Enka, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 536 campgrounds and RV parks near Enka, NC and 43 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Enka, NC?
Which is the most popular campground near Enka, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Enka, NC is Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina with a 4.7-star rating from 67 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Enka, NC?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Enka, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 43 free dispersed camping spots near Enka, NC.
What parks are near Enka, NC?
What parks are near Enka, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 27 parks near Enka, NC that allow camping, notably National Forests in North Carolina and Pisgah National Forest.
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