The area around Hendersonville, North Carolina sits at elevations between 2,000 and 3,000 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating distinct camping seasons with cool summer nights often dropping into the 60s. Fall brings colorful foliage from late September through October, with some campgrounds at higher elevations experiencing freezing temperatures as early as September. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, especially at campgrounds above 2,500 feet.
What to do
Trout fishing: The Davidson River at Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground offers prime fishing opportunities. "The campground is right on the Davidson River with a number of hiking & biking trail heads and plenty of spots to get into the river for tubing, fishing and swimming either within or just outside of the camp grounds," notes Amy G.
Waterfall exploration: Several waterfalls are accessible within short drives from the Hendersonville area. One visitor to Table Rock State Park Campground shared: "There are many waterfalls in the area and many places to hike. We saw deer, squirrels, birds, snakes, and many salamanders."
Mountain biking: The trail systems near Hendersonville are excellent for biking enthusiasts. At Davidson River Campground, a camper mentions that "mountain bike trails easily rideable from campground. Plus The Hub, Ecusta Brewing just down the road."
What campers like
Creek-front camping: Many campers appreciate sites along water features. At North Mills River Campground, Julie T. reported, "The stream ran right by the campsite so listening to the stream as we went to bed was wonderful."
Yurt camping: For those interested in yurt camping near Hendersonville, North Carolina, Emberglow Outdoor Resort offers these popular accommodations. Stacey notes it's a "wonderful place to plan a group trip due to the variety of accommodations (RV sites, treehouses, remodeled campers, pods, tent sites, etc.)."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently comment on the quality of bathrooms and showers. At Lake Powhatan, Heather C. commented: "The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside. The staff was very helpful and friendly."
What you should know
Highway noise: Some campgrounds may experience traffic noise due to proximity to main roads. At Asheville West KOA, Crystal C. notes: "The only reason for the four star rating is due to the highway noise from I-40, which is located adjacent to the campground."
Winter closures: Not all campgrounds in the area operate year-round. Julie T. observed at North Mills River Campground: "Only one side of campground is open in winter."
Bear safety: Wildlife encounters are possible in this region. As one camper at Davidson River Campground experienced: "During our visit, our hosts spent the good part of one morning chasing a bear away due to someone leaving trash on their site."
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Some campgrounds offer on-site entertainment for children. A visitor to Emberglow Outdoor Resort shared: "Great place for kids with jump pad, swingset, slides, climbing dome, pool, a creek to explore, hiking trails, and more!"
Natural attractions: The region offers plenty of natural features for kids to enjoy. A camper at Creekside Mountain Camping mentioned, "My son spent hours hopping along the rocks in the creek."
Space considerations: Look for campgrounds that offer enough room between sites. At Lake Powhatan, one reviewer appreciated that "the sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for terrain variations at some campgrounds. Jeremy D. advised about Emberglow Outdoor Resort: "All camping sites are gravel so make sure you have some leveling blocks."
Dump station access: Check the accessibility of dump stations when planning your visit. An RVer at Davidson River Campground mentioned: "I rated a 4 star because the dump site is very tight, and lacking."
Hookup availability: Confirm what hookups are available before booking. At Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground, Lisa A. noted: "Not all loops are open this time of year, but there was no issue getting a site - even at 10PM. The bathrooms are clean and the showers are hot."
