North Mills River Recreation Area offers tent, RV, and glamping accommodations in the mountains just 25 minutes from Etowah, North Carolina. Positioned at 2,200 feet elevation, the area features predominantly oak and pine forests with moderate humidity levels from May through September. Winter camping remains available with reduced services, as temperatures typically range from 25-45°F during December through February.
What to do
Fly fishing access: North Mills River Recreation Area provides premium trout fishing opportunities with well-maintained access points. "We've enjoyed this campground mainly for the fly-fishing. The local Trout Unlimited group has also spent many hours upgrading the walkways and fence lines to protect the river," notes Shannon K. from North Mills River.
Waterfall hunting: Multiple waterfall hikes are accessible within 30 minutes of camping areas near Etowah. "Lots of hiking trails in the area and plenty of spots to get into the river for tubing, fishing and swimming either within or just outside of the camp grounds," reports Amy G. about Davidson River Campground.
Winter hiking: Winter months offer quieter trails and unique views. "We were the only campers there. It was very quiet. The stream ran right by the campsite so listening to the stream as we went to bed was wonderful," shares Julie T. about winter camping at North Mills River.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate campgrounds that provide adequate spacing. "We enjoyed the extra room between camp sites and the added privacy from trees," notes one camper. At Lake Powhatan, visitors find "spacious and well spaced [sites], offering more privacy than many locations."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms rank high on camper priorities. "The showers and bathrooms were very clean," mentions Heather C. about Lake Powhatan. "Bathroom was clean. Site was clean," reports Julie T. from her winter stay at North Mills River.
Direct water access: Sites adjacent to streams or rivers are most requested. "The sites closer to the lake have more privacy," shares Nancy from Lake Powhatan. At Davidson River Campground, Amy G. appreciates that their site "backed up to a small flowing creek. It's nice to hear the running water the entire time."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds near Etowah operate on limited schedules. "Only one side of campground is open in winter," notes Julie T. about North Mills River. Table Rock State Park, though slightly further (about 45 minutes from Etowah), remains "open all year."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between locations. At Adventure Village, one reviewer noted "No Verizon service" for data though voice calls worked. Near Lake Powhatan, visitors experience "no Verizon service" as the forest coverage limits signals.
Bear awareness: Proper food storage is essential. "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," warns Cannon W. from Creekside Mountain Camping.
Tips for camping with families
Easy water access: Families with children appreciate shallow water features. "My son spent hours hopping along the rocks in the creek," shares Anna R. about Creekside Mountain Camping. Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly water features within walking distance of campsites.
Game facilities: When rain arrives, indoor options help. "The kids had a good time in the game room," notes Robert B. about Creekside Mountain Camping. Several glamping options near Etowah include common areas with games or activities.
Natural exploration opportunities: Local wildlife viewing excites children. "Make sure to keep an eye out for white squirrels while in town," suggests Heather W. from Ash Grove. "Hundreds exist around Brevard College to enjoy," adds Linda B.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Full-service sites require advance booking. "No Water/Sewer Hookups on Any Site. Electric Hookup Sites Limited," reports Angela about Davidson River Campground. Winter campers should note reduced services.
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campsites require adjustment. "Site was not fully level, so we had to pull out the wheel levelers and go up about 4" on one side," shares Adam V. about Adventure Village.
Dump station access: Some facilities have limited dumping options. "The dump site is very tight, and lacking," notes Amurican L. about Davidson River Campground, suggesting RVers plan accordingly for waste management during longer stays.
