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Camping near National Forests in North Carolina

2,049 Reviews

The National Forests in North Carolina offer diverse camping options ranging from developed campgrounds to cabin rentals. Lake Powhatan near Asheville provides cabin accommodations with amenities such as electric hookups and drinking water. Davidson River Campground in Pisgah Forest features similar options with both drive-in and walk-in access for tent and RV campers. Several campgrounds in the area maintain seasonal operations, typically open from spring through late fall.

Access to many campgrounds varies by season, with most facilities operating from March through October or November. Mount Pisgah Campground, situated along the Blue Ridge Parkway, maintains a May to October season at higher elevations. According to one visitor, "North Mills River is clean and quiet with nice amenities. This park was one of the closest to the Biltmore House." Road conditions are generally good near developed campgrounds, though some areas require careful navigation with larger RVs. Most developed sites offer at least basic amenities including toilets and trash disposal, while hookup availability varies widely across campgrounds.

Campgrounds in the Asheville area receive consistent praise for their scenic locations and proximity to attractions. Sites at North Mills River Campground offer access to hiking trails and water features with seasonal operation from March to December. Visitors particularly appreciate campgrounds with mountain views and water access, though sites at popular locations like Lake Powhatan can fill quickly during peak season. While most developed campgrounds provide amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, visitors note that spacing between sites varies considerably. Several reviews mention that campgrounds near Fletcher and Swannanoa serve as convenient bases for exploring both natural areas and nearby towns, with Rutledge Lake RV Resort noted for being "affordable and they are helpful getting you into your spots" despite some sites being described as relatively tight.

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Best Camping Sites Near National Forests in North Carolina (417)

    1. Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina

    63 Reviews
    Enka, NC
    12 miles
    +1 (828) 552-8040

    $37 - $135 / night

    "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"

    2. Davidson River Campground

    83 Reviews
    Pisgah Forest, NC
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 785-5337

    $37 - $84 / night

    "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."

    "We had a quick nights stay in Davidson River Campground after picking up our new SylvanSport GO tent trailer in nearby Brevard, North Carolina."

    3. North Mills River

    26 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 552-8040

    $31 - $62 / night

    "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."

    4. Asheville East KOA

    52 Reviews
    Swannanoa, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 686-3121

    $50 / night

    "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."

    5. Rutledge Lake RV Resort

    19 Reviews
    Fletcher, NC
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 654-7873

    "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"

    6. Mount Pisgah Campground

    41 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 648-2644

    $30 / night

    "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."

    7. Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground

    28 Reviews
    Swannanoa, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 686-4258

    $75 - $200 / night

    "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"

    8. Creekside Mountain Camping

    16 Reviews
    Gerton, NC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 625-4257

    "Nice creek running nearby and a few short walking paths. The drive to spruce pine is scenic and long but head back toward bat cave and there ade neat little adventures to have with the kiddos."

    "This was a great little spot away from the hustle and bustle of the highway. Very close to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Pool was clean. Arcade on site."

    9. Orchard Lake Campground

    13 Reviews
    Saluda, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 749-3901

    $38 - $48 / night

    "A swimming lake with slide. Boats, zip line, fishing, a game room, move room. Only bad thing is the bad house are probably the worst I have ever used."

    10. Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground

    11 Reviews
    Lake Lure, NC
    13 miles
    Website

    $26 - $62 / night

    "I loved camping at the edge of the river but know that it is loud and is a constant sound! The sites are right along the river and are a bit tight."

    "Nice place to visit and close to Chimney Rock"

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Recent Camping Photos near National Forests in North Carolina

1041 Photos of 417 National Forests in North Carolina Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near National Forests in North Carolina

2049 Reviews of 417 National Forests in North Carolina Campgrounds

  • Peyton P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2025

    Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off

    Great little spot right off the road

    Perfect spot near water, lots of spots to pull right off the road. Only down side is the road is somewhat busy (we camped on Halloween). Heard some screams(?) in the middle of the night but other than that and the cars driving by it was pretty quiet. The tent pad was very flat, fire ring had wood in it upon arrival (thank you!) though it was wet, and overall it was peaceful

  • Pam R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 3, 2025

    Creekwood Farm RV Park

    Lovely second stay

    Creekwood has everything. Hospitable staff, beautiful, peaceful setting and pristine bathroom/showers. It's in our top 5 favorite sites after years of travel.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Mount Pisgah Campground

    October camping experience

    Well I checked when peak leaf season was supposed to occur and what to expect from temperatures. I also appreciate information from those that camped here. We were in site B26 interior of the loop. Unfortunately we weren’t able to get outside loop from the showers to the end. Interior from the showers to site 21 were okay. Ours on the other hand was one of the worst we’ve had. You had a steep 7 step down to picknick table and firepit. It was also in a low sumac shrub area that had a distinct smell. Campground was clean and facilities were well maintained. NPS staff were present despite the current shutdown in Washington! Limited cell service at the site. Best just up the parkway to the Mt. Pisgah picnic area parking lot.

    While we did hit peak color, I didn’t think that the cold front would be as intense. Temperature dropped below freezing and during the night it felt like gale force winds buffeting the GO. Definitely will pick a lower elevation for camping if it’s in October!

  • Katie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Upper Cove Creek - UCC2 Dispersed

    Okay spot

    Avery Road was closed so we ended up here. Not a whole lot of sites in the forest here. This site was fine, nothing special, but nothing bad. There’s a shallow creek that runs next to this spot.

  • Sarah and Philip H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Spacious Skies Peach Haven

    Family Friendly Campground easy get to where you don't feel like you need to leave

    We have loved spacious skies. The campsites are well spaced and there are activities planned for the kids. The hiking trails were surprisingly nice and for a small campground. Everyone is friendly and family-oriented.

  • s
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Creekwood Farm RV Park

    Great RV Park

    This park is conveniently located between Maggie Valley and Waynesville with access to lots of western NC attractions. The staff is excellent and cares about the campers' experience here.

  • s
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Pride RV Resort

    Excellent RV Park. The staff is great and hospitable.

    The staff here care about the campground and put their best effort towards being hospitable to the guests.

  • Tyler I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Orchard Lake Campground

    Always Welcoming

    Owners are great and very helpful, sites are always clean and welcoming!

Guide to National Forests in North Carolina

Camping near National Forests in North Carolina offers a fantastic escape into nature, with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there’s something for everyone in this stunning region.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails available, like the Art Loeb Trail near Davidson River Campground. One camper mentioned, "Hiked the North Slope nearly 4 miles; wore out the dogs perfectly!"
  • Fishing: The rivers and lakes are great for fishing. A review from North Mills River highlights, "The water is pretty clear and has an abundance of trout, so it is great for fishing and swimming."
  • Mountain Biking: Many campgrounds, like Lake Powhatan, offer access to biking trails. One visitor noted, "There are so many trails to choose from."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Black Mountain Campground states, "The bathrooms were so incredibly clean."
  • Scenic Views: Many campgrounds boast beautiful views. A camper at Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground said, "The view from our private deck and swing was breathtaking."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. One review for Mount Pisgah Campground mentions, "Camping here really feels like just that—camping. Bare bones, beautiful, and peaceful."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A visitor at Asheville East KOA noted, "We had very little cell service (Verizon)."
  • Bear Country: Be cautious about food storage. A camper at Black Mountain Campground mentioned, "This campground is a bear super highway, so they take policing your food and garbage very seriously."
  • Crowded Sites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak seasons. A review for Paris Mountain State Park Campground states, "The sites are on top of each other."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. One parent at Asheville East KOA shared, "There is a pool, playground, gaga ball pit, and themed activities on weekends."
  • Safety First: Always supervise children near water. A review from North Mills River highlights, "The river is shallow enough for kids to play."
  • Plan Ahead: Make reservations early, especially during busy seasons. A camper at Table Rock State Park Campground advised, "I would definitely recommend reserving a spot far in advance."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Asheville West KOA mentions, "The space we were in was right next to the on-site owner... it was really tight for navigating."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Asheville West KOA noted, "The interstate noise was insane."
  • Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A camper at Lake Powhatan mentioned, "Dumpsters were within walking distance."

Camping near National Forests in North Carolina offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With beautiful campgrounds like Davidson River Campground and Lake Powhatan, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near National Forests in North Carolina?

According to TheDyrt.com, National Forests in North Carolina offers a wide range of camping options, with 417 campgrounds and RV parks near National Forests in North Carolina and 32 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near National Forests in North Carolina?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near National Forests in North Carolina is Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina with a 4.7-star rating from 63 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near National Forests in North Carolina?

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