Camping areas near Glen Alpine, North Carolina sit at elevations between 1,200 and 4,000 feet in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This location experiences mild spring and fall seasons with summer temperatures typically reaching highs in the 80s and winter lows dropping to the 30s. Most campgrounds in this region are nestled among dense forests of pine, oak, and hickory trees with several locations providing options for yurt camping when tent or RV accommodations don't suit your needs.
What to do
Hiking Mt. Mitchell Trail: 11.2 miles from Black Mountain Campground to the summit of the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. The trail gains approximately 3,700 feet in elevation. "The staff were really friendly and helpful and the camp, restrooms, and showers were really clean. We hiked all around and sincerely enjoyed the sounds of the creek running by our campsite," notes Michelle B.
Fishing in stocked waters: Bring your rod to Mountain Stream RV Park where Buck Creek flows directly behind campsites. "Beautiful level sites backed right up to Buck Creek where we enjoyed catching trout straight from our campsite," explains Megan M. The park maintains a catch-and-release policy for this section of the stream.
Explore waterfall trails: Several short hikes lead to impressive falls within 15 miles of most area campgrounds. "We went to Chimney Rock & Linville Falls, both absolutely beautiful!" says Kara L. The SetRock Falls trail is especially accessible, located on campground property at Black Mountain Campground.
What campers like
Private decks overlooking creeks: Many sites at Mountain Stream RV Park feature wooden platforms built over running water. "Our site had a full hook up, electric and water, we had a fire ring, a picnic table perched on the deck, cantilevered over the stream," reports Anthony I.
Clean facilities even in remote settings: The higher elevation campgrounds maintain surprisingly good bathhouses. "The bathrooms are very clean and were new when we were there. Each campsite has plenty of room to spread out and amazing views of the mountains," says Mike B. about Black Mountain Campground.
Seasonal water activities: Steele Creek Park & Campground offers swimming in natural settings. "There is a swimming hole on the South Toe River in the campground just beyond the end of the riverside sites. It has a small sandy 'beach' area and a neck deep refreshing hole," notes a visitor.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the area have minimal to no cellular connectivity. "Cell service is almost non-existent, but you can use the wifi for calls if necessary," explains Duncan C. about Mountain Stream RV Park.
Seasonal operation: Most facilities close during winter months, typically operating from April through late October. Julian Price Park Campground runs from "Apr 01 to Oct 29" according to their information.
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations mean temperature swings and sudden storms can occur. "When it rains, it pours, so bring a tarp if you can," advises one camper. Temperature drops at night can be significant even in summer months.
Campground road conditions: Some access routes present challenges. "Hint here if pulling a camper, don't follow the Bearden sign, go to Linville to get on the parkway and go left. This way you will avoid the steep curvy road going up a mountain," advises a visitor to Spacious Skies Bear Den.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming options: Natural water features provide alternatives to traditional pools. "Has a water slide and pool," mentions Todd R. about Spacious Skies Hidden Creek. Several campgrounds feature creek access where children can wade safely.
Playground locations: Select sites with easy playground access for convenience. "We camped at C13 which was right across from the large playground in November. No noise issues, but it was dark by 6:30pm. May be different in the Summer. My daughter had a blast and we could keep an eye on her while we worked/played at the site," shares Charles S.
Yurt camping Glen Alpine: For families new to camping, yurt accommodations provide comfort with outdoor experiences. "They've also recently built three yurts, and bought two large campers parked on the non-stream side that can be rented for those who don't have their own camper," explains Duncan C. about Mountain Stream RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Many campgrounds have limited space for big RVs. "The sites at 'The Overlook' have a good view but there is zero grass and anything outside of where you park is red mud," warns Kelley D. about Spacious Skies Hidden Creek.
Water and sewer connections in winter: Some full-hookup sites maintain functioning utilities despite freezing temperatures. "Our site had a full hook up, electric and water (even with temps in the low 20's at night)," notes Anthony I. about Mountain Stream RV Park.
Leveling considerations: Most sites require minimal adjustment. "Sites are adequate size and gravel; minimal leveling required," explains Joy B. about Riverbreeze Campground.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have on-site dump facilities, so check availability before arrival. Black Mountain Campground does not offer sanitary dump stations, while Spacious Skies Bear Den and Julian Price Park do provide this service.
