Campers visiting Flat Rock, North Carolina have access to the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills at elevations ranging from 2,100-3,000 feet, creating mild temperatures even during summer months. The area receives approximately 55 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forests and numerous streams throughout local campgrounds. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from April through October, with limited winter camping options.
What to do
Hiking at DuPont State Forest: Located near Black Forest Family Camping Resort, this area offers trails for all skill levels and several waterfalls. "As you wind back to reach the campground, there is a section to the right of the road for hook-ups. Across the bridge there are more spots for tents and campers. There are also primitive sites up two different roads. One heads back to the reservoir for some amazing fly fishing," notes Shannon K.
Mountain biking at Pisgah: The trails at Davidson River Campground provide direct access to Pisgah National Forest's popular biking routes. "Located right inside Pisgah National forest this campground is perfectly set for all adventures. If you're looking to see the sights of the forest and take a drive the scenic parkway then youve come to the right campground. On the other hand if you're thinking of riding the mtb trails you're in luck. They start literally across the davidson river from the campground," writes Travis S.
Fish for trout: The rivers throughout the region offer excellent fishing opportunities. At North Mills River Campground, "The river is stocked and also has native rainbow trout exceeding 20 inches. Some fly-fishermen showcased their trophy catches while we stayed here," reports Randal C. Most sites require catch-and-release practices with artificial lures only.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with good separation between neighbors. "Jones Gap gives you the feeling of really being deep in the Appalachians. The rushing river and dense foliage with tons of mountain laurel makes the air seem so fresh," shares John R. about Jones Gap State Park. The park requires a hike to reach campsites, creating more isolation.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain their amenities well despite heavy use. At Rutledge Lake RV Resort, "Bathrooms were always very clean, laundry room was spacious and clean, office staff was kind and helpful," according to Donna H. The resort maintains gated access with keycard entry for added security.
Lake activities: Several campgrounds feature on-site lakes with recreation options. "The camp hosts here are very attentive and clean the bathrooms daily. Beautiful and serene river with large swimming pools," explains Randal C. about North Mills River. Black Forest Family Camping Resort offers "a heated swimming pool and they do lots of things for kids like ice cream socials," adds Jodi B.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer and fall. "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," explains Anna R. about Davidson River Campground. Book sites 3-6 months in advance for weekend stays.
Limited winter camping: Most campgrounds operate seasonally. "Only one side of campground is open in winter. 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," reports Julie T. about North Mills River, which operates from March 29 to December 28.
Varying pet policies: While most campgrounds are dog friendly near Flat Rock, policies differ. Orchard Lake Campground "prohibits pit bulls, rottweilers, and mixes containing these breeds according to their policy." Some campers have noted issues with enforcement: "Little ankle bitters were often running around and one in particular came after my dog and I on a controlled fishing walk," reports Kassie K.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Kids enjoy the water features at several campgrounds. "We stayed 2 nights. We went kayaking and swimming daily. There is a slide in the middle of the pond that my son loved. When it rained the game room had a movie on and lots to do inside," Amanda M. writes about Orchard Lake Campground, which offers both swimming and fishing.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas. "Playground doesn't have a infant swing but is in great working condition. Lots for the kids to do including a small arcade," notes Ashley S. about Asheville East KOA, adding that the campground is "extremely golf cart friendly" with "beautiful landscaping."
Easy access sites: For families with young children, choose sites with minimal hiking required. "Love the privacy of this spot (#8) which is the closest walk in spot from the Parking area. We were able to hike in a ton of gear (coolers, dog bed, etc) with a little work and a few trips and it was worth it for the seclusiveness. Having both toddler and dog we knew we couldn't go far but this still felt like we were in the middle of nowhere," shares Laura C. about Jones Gap State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many RV-friendly campgrounds have limitations on larger rigs. "Sites are kinda close but we felt very comfy with our two sites. Might have been able to get 2 tents on one site but 2 cars might have been tight," notes Ellen E. about Table Rock State Park Campground. Most campgrounds in the region recommend RVs under 30 feet.
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't available at all sites. "This is a very beautiful campground. Sites are very well kept and clean. Prime location to so many amazing places," reports Matt and Tabatha C. about Black Forest Family Camping Resort. Many campgrounds offer electric and water at most sites, with fewer full hookup options.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges. "Roads are tight and twisty, I had a tough time backing in my 10' utility trailer into spot 220," warns Adam V. about Black Forest Family Camping Resort. Some campgrounds have narrow interior roads with tight turns.
