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.
