Lake Junaluska sits at an elevation of 2,560 feet in the western North Carolina mountains, creating a cooler camping climate than lower-elevation areas. The region experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months, with evening temperatures dropping into the 60s even in July and August. Seasonal rainfall patterns create lush vegetation around campgrounds, with spring and early fall often providing the most comfortable camping conditions.
What to Do
Waterfall hiking: 15-minute drive from Lake Powhatan Campground to trailheads featuring cascades and streams. "Lots of hiking and mountain bike trails. Its part of the National Forest system so its super cheap. Downtown Asheville is only 15 mins away," notes Phil L.
Fishing at stocked waters: Indian Creek Campground offers on-site fishing directly from campsites. "Our front yard a creek where we could fish sitting right by our picnic table and fire ring," reports Vickie P., with another camper mentioning "fishing is just a few steps away."
Outdoor games and recreational activities: Family competitions at community areas. At Greenbrier Campground, "The volleyball court was nice. It's right near the group camping area which was wide open. Gave the kids plenty of room to play," according to one visitor.
Mountain biking on established trails: Access routes of varying difficulties. "Lots of trails including several that are popular with mountain bikers on the road into camp," notes Neil T., while another camper highlights "great hiking opportunities and close to Gatlinburg if you run out of supplies."
What Campers Like
River and creek access: Many sites position campers directly alongside moving water. At Indian Creek Campground, "The creek/river that runs through is amazing with most campsites sitting along one of the two creeks," shares Abby L., while another notes "Our tent campsite was very secluded, included a fire pit, picnic table, over looking deck, running water and electric. Loved hearing the running creek from our tent site."
Private bathroom facilities: Individual shower setups at select campgrounds. "Bath house is modern with tile floors, and the showers are more spacious than some I have seen," observed one camper at Pride RV Resort, while Greenbrier Campground offers "PRIVATE bathrooms with great showers" that are "clean and air conditioned."
Extended season camping options: Cherokee-Great Smokies KOA offers "year round access to pool and hot tub as well as sauna room" according to Crystal C., who adds "This KOA is more of a resort feel than campground. They offer bike rentals, shuttle tours to the mountains, fishing, giant checkers and game boards."
Immersive forest settings: Wooded campsites provide natural privacy. "The sites are all beautiful and secluded. The owners and staff are so friendly. Bath houses are clean. Love love, love," shares Jill R. about her experience at Indian Creek Campground.
What You Should Know
Seasonal availability varies: Most glamping sites near Lake Junaluska operate April through October. As one camper notes, "Moonshine Creek is a nice campground with something for everyone. Minutes from the parkway for hiking, 2 miles away from a creek on the WNC fly fishing trail."
Traffic and noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some locations. At Asheville West KOA, "There is a lot of highway noise... but again we wanted an easy jumping off point. So we got exactly what we booked," says Patience W.
Weather preparedness essential: Mountain elevation creates temperature fluctuations. "The wooded setting keeps temps down all day," observed one camper at Pride RV Resort, while another notes the benefit of "shady space" provided by the "very wooded" campground.
Reservation planning crucial: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "Book ahead-the guy said they'd been completely full since June," warns Nancy about Lake Powhatan, while another camper mentioned planning their trip months in advance.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water play opportunities: Kids enjoy creek access at Moonshine Creek Campground. "The creek was nice for the kids to play in," notes a camper, while another mentions "benches placed in the stream for cooling off on warm days."
Playground accessibility: Select facilities offer dedicated play areas. "All kinds of stuff for the kids. Two pools, jump pillow and pad, banana bikes, play ground and three ponds for fishing," reports Robbie T. about Cherokee-Great Smokies KOA.
Group activity spaces: Communal areas for family gatherings and games. At Pride RV Resort, one visitor appreciated "a rec room, a mini golf course, basketball court, a covered shuffleboard court, a playground, and much more. For large groups, there is an indoor pavilion."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites and nature programs. "One of the more intriguing areas to explore at Elkmont is the Daisy Town ghost town," shares Jean C., noting "Some are open for exploration, others are cordoned off, and some are undergoing renovation."
Tips from RVers
Site positioning and setup: Pride RV Resort offers "nice and level" spots that are "well maintained, and the staff is friendly." A visitor noted, "Spots are nice and level. The place is well maintained, and the staff is friendly. We were going to stay just one night to do laundry, but ended up staying for 3."
Utility connections quality: Check hookup availability before booking. "Our site was very spacious right on the creek. The cleanest bathrooms I have seen at a campground," shares Mary B. about Indian Creek Campground.
Laundry and bathroom accessibility: Facilities vary widely between locations. "The laundry room was fine. The bath houses were awesome with individual rooms equipped with toilet, sink and shower," notes Elizabeth B., while another camper appreciated that "The lounge is located in the same building as the laundry, which means you don't have to sit in the same room as the washing machines while you are waiting."
Internet and connectivity options: Cell service fluctuates throughout the region. One camper at North Mills River Campground noted the area is "secluded enough to forget it all" with limited connectivity, while another mentioned the benefit of "free and reliable WiFi" at their campground when cellular service was unavailable.
