Davidson River Campground offers cabin camping options within Pisgah National Forest, 15 minutes from Horse Shoe, North Carolina. The elevation ranges from 2,150 to 2,500 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. During winter camping season, temperatures frequently drop below freezing at night, requiring proper cold-weather gear and insulation for cabin stays.
What to do
Fishing access: Davidson River Campground provides direct river access for anglers seeking trout. "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," notes Travis S. in his Davidson River Campground review.
Mountain biking trails: Multiple trail systems connect directly to several cabin camping areas. A reviewer at Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina explains, "There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside. The staff was very helpful and friendly. The campground is 15 minutes from downtown Asheville and 5 minutes from the North Carolina arboretum."
Water recreation: Many cabin sites offer lake or pond access for swimming and boating. "Pond has kayaks and canoes to use. Gameroom was decent but could be a little better. Office staff was helpful. Sites are nice and well equipped and bathrooms were clean," reports JoAnne M. about her stay at Orchard Lake Campground.
What campers like
Winter camping options: Year-round cabin camping provides cold-weather access to the area. "Enjoyed a winter camping trip to this peaceful area," writes Penny C. about Davidson River Campground, highlighting the less crowded off-season experience.
Cabin privacy: Some cabin locations offer more secluded options away from main camping areas. At Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground, a visitor noted, "Mama Gertie's is the most well kept campground I've ever been in. The bathhouses look like something inside of an upscale hotel room. There are mountaintop sides with big patios that hang over the mountain top and have incredible views."
Family activities: Many sites offer organized programs for children and families. A visitor to Orchard Lake Campground shared, "This campground has amenities for all types of camping styles. We will definitely be back!" Another camper added, "We have a great stay, the bathrooms are very nice, second only to Disney."
What you should know
Bear activity: Food storage protocols are strictly enforced at forest cabins. "Campsite close to Asheville and a good find. The bathrooms, showers and laundry facilities were most impressive. Best I've seen in our travels. Staff was very nice, helping with getting our RV into the spot," noted a visitor at Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground.
Reservation timing: Peak season requires advance planning, often 3-6 months ahead. A camper at Asheville East KOA shared, "We have a 25' C and have stayed here 3-4 times, mostly in the A loop and we love it every time. The staff takes such great care of this place. Very clean restroom facilities. Strong wi-fi (free too) connection, for those of us that work from the road."
Site variations: Cabin amenities vary significantly between locations and price points. "The cabin was perfect for a girls' weekend away. I was completely satisfied with my stay. I gave the campground 4 stars because a 5 would have to really put the wow factor into play," explained Kelly M. about Asheville East KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Choose cabin sites near lakes with child-friendly water features. One family staying at Orchard Lake Campground reported, "This campground is wonderful! We found it out of an emergency stop and stayed for 5 nights. It is beautiful and has so much for the kids to do. To just let the kids be kids and have fun! We now know where it is and plan to come back. Love it here. My kids, ages 12, 11 and 8 didn't want to leave!"
Game rooms: Many cabin locations offer indoor recreation for rainy days. "When it rained the game room had a movie on and lots to do inside. Pet friendly. We will be returning. Tent sites had electric and water on them," shared Amanda M. about Orchard Lake Campground.
Nature exploration: Select cabins with direct trail access for easy family hikes. "What a beautiful and peaceful area. Amazing hiking, biking and what a gorgeous river! Brevard is close by and has great walking for restaurant, shops, coffee, etc," reports a visitor to Davidson River Campground.
Tips from RVers
Cabins as RV alternatives: Many RV parks offer cabin rentals with similar hookups and amenities. "Big, clean campground with great amenities such as a scenic walking path around the lake, pool, playground, clean and efficient bathhouses, hot breakfast options, nice camp store, etc," explains Kelly M. about Asheville West KOA.
Site selection strategy: Corner and end cabins typically offer more space and privacy. "We stayed in site 86 which was one of them, but most sites are very close together, many probably less than 15' apart. The resort was mostly full during our stay. The resort is kept very clean and well maintained," shares a visitor to Rutledge Lake RV Resort.
Winter preparation: Many year-round cabins require specific cold-weather planning. "This campground was one of the cleanest campgrounds we've been to. It had the cleanest laundry room I've even seen at a campground and we are full timers so have been to many places," notes Julia M. about cabin accommodations at Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground.
