Tent camping near Ennice, North Carolina offers varied terrain at elevations between 2,000-3,500 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowland areas. The region features a mix of hardwood forests and open meadows with numerous creek and river access points. Cell service remains limited throughout much of Ashe County with Verizon offering the most reliable coverage near major camping areas.
What to do
Tube the New River: New River Alleghany Access at New River State Park provides excellent tubing opportunities with rentable equipment. One camper noted, "Good service on the river, and very clean," making it ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Fish mountain ponds: Blue Bear Mountain Camp features a stocked fishing pond accessible via trail. A visitor shared, "The hike to the pond was a little more strenuous than we anticipated but once you get there, there is a nice creek and we caught a trout in the pond right away."
Explore historic sites: Foster Falls area near Millrace Campground offers abandoned structures to view from the outside. A camper explained, "Just a short walk from the campground, you can explore the area which includes stables, a wildlife center, visitor center with local artisan goods, an abandoned hotel/grounds, an old train car, and much more."
Watch fireflies: Summer evenings bring spectacular natural light displays at riverside campsites from late May through July. At Dusty Trails Outfitters, a camper described, "As darkness set in, the fireflies across the river began to light up, like festive lights. Not just a few hundred, but thousands of them, in the most amazing natural light show I have ever seen."
What campers like
Private campsites: Many tent areas offer significant separation between sites. At Dusty Trails Outfitters, campers appreciate that "each site had their own port-a-potty, hand washing station (with soap), campfire ring, picnic table and trash can," with sites separated by natural vegetation.
Cool mountain temperatures: The higher elevation locations provide relief from summer heat. A camper at Blue Bear Mountain Camp commented, "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," with July temperatures typically 70-80°F.
River sounds: Campsites positioned near flowing water offer natural sleep aid. At Homeplace Recreational Park, a visitor noted, "The pond dam was really close to our site and the rushing water will really lull you to sleep at night."
Walk-in tent sites: Several campgrounds offer more secluded spots for those willing to carry gear short distances. A visitor to Millrace Campground explained, "You have to walk everything into the campground from the parking area, but it's not a long walk so you can still bring all of your 'car camping' luxuries."
What you should know
Access limitations: Several tent areas require permits or have specific entry requirements. At Basin Cove, "You have to make a reservation with the park office for your site and drop by the ranger station to pick up your permit. The sites have NO vehicle access at all, you have to hike a mile into the campsite."
Water needs: Prepare for limited water availability at primitive sites. For Basin Cove, a camper warned, "There is NO clean water source, you have to bring a filter system with you," requiring either filtration equipment or carried water supplies.
Uneven terrain: Many riverside sites feature natural, unpaved surfaces. At New River Yacht Club, waterfront sites provide direct river access but campers should expect natural ground conditions rather than leveled tent pads.
Bathroom facilities: Expect primarily pit toilets at most tent camping areas. A Millrace Campground camper noted, "There are no bathhouses, only pit toilets which can be a little funky, but it is what it is," accurately setting expectations for primitive facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with activity options: Homeplace Recreational Park offers additional attractions beyond camping. A visitor mentioned, "This place has an actual water park within the campground," providing entertainment options for children during hot days.
Consider walk-in distance: For families with young children, select sites with minimal gear carrying requirements. At Millrace Campground, the walk is manageable because "it's not a long walk so you can still bring all of your 'car camping' luxuries."
Check for cell service: Some areas offer better connectivity than others, important for family safety. At New River Alleghany Access, a camper reported, "We enjoyed hiking. The location also had four bars of Verizon LTE. Amazing!" providing reassurance for emergency communications.
Pack for creek play: Bring water shoes and quick-dry clothing for children. At Riverside Canoe and Campground, "You can rent a tube to place a cooler inside of so you can tube down the river with beverages and snacks in tow," making for family-friendly river adventures.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping near Ennice focuses on tent sites, but select locations accommodate smaller RVs. Dusty Trails Outfitters allows RVs at certain sites but with no hookups, requiring self-contained operation.
Access road considerations: Mountain roads can challenge larger vehicles. Regarding Blue Bear Mountain Camp, a camper warned, "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there."
Water fill stations: RVers should note water access points. At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, "They do not have water hookups- you fill your camper tank with water at the office area," requiring planning for water needs during your stay.
