The Great Smoky Mountains region surrounding Lake Junaluska sits at elevations ranging from 2,600 to over 5,000 feet, creating distinct temperature zones that can vary by 10-15 degrees between valleys and peaks. Most campgrounds near Lake Junaluska remain open from April through October, with July and August temperatures reaching into the 80s during the day and dropping to comfortable sleeping temperatures in the 60s at night. The area's humidity creates frequent morning fog that typically burns off by mid-morning.
What to do
Elk watching at sunrise: Visit Cataloochee Campground from September through November to witness elk during rutting season. "The wild life here is so wonderful. If you want to see the elk, you're going to have to be up early. I use to be in the park at 5 AM with night vision gear, I saw some very nice elk," shares Patrick K. Many campers report elk walking directly through the campground areas.
Trout fishing in mountain streams: The Davidson River is renowned for technical fly fishing opportunities. "The Davidson River is right across from the campground. Bike shops, coffee and supermarkets all within [range]," writes Travis S. Anglers need a North Carolina fishing license, available online or at local outfitters in Waynesville.
Hiking to fire towers: The Mount Cammerer Trail near Cosby Campground offers spectacular views from a historic fire tower. "Several wonderful hikes right out of the campground. The Appalachian Trail is so close, love the Cammerer Fire Tower," notes Lynn G. The trail is challenging but rewards hikers with 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains.
What campers like
Cool mountain temperatures: The high elevation at Balsam Mountain Campground provides natural air conditioning. "When you stay here, you are tucked in a lush green mountain about a mile above sea level... This time of year (end of July/beginning of August), the temps up there never get above 70 or 75, and the lows were in the low 50's," explains Christina Z.
Heated bathrooms in cooler seasons: Some campgrounds offer unexpected comforts during shoulder seasons. "Just feel that the NC side has more smaller campgrounds and is generally a little more quiet and laid back. On the upside- the bathrooms were heated," mentions Diane L. about Davidson River. These facilities make spring and fall camping much more comfortable.
Running water ambiance: Many campsites position tent sites strategically for natural sound barriers. "We took our small camper and stayed during the Elk Rut and it was incredible! Our dog came too and we were able to hike and get some great pictures of elk in the valley!" shares Natalie M. The sound of flowing water helps mask road and campground noise.
What you should know
Winding mountain access roads: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. "Access to Cataloochee is via a narrow, winding, mountain road. A 3-mile stretch of gravel road contains many narrow, blind curves. Though many campsites will accommodate large rigs, motorhomes over 32' and trailers over 25' in length are not recommended due to the access road," explains Kristina from Lake Powhatan.
Limited services in remote areas: Many campgrounds lack full hookups or showers. "They do not have showers, but do have a bathhouse with water toilets and sinks. We camped near the creek and it was beautiful," notes Mike G. Cell service is spotty throughout the mountains, particularly in valleys.
Weather-related closures: The Blue Ridge Parkway frequently closes sections during winter. "The road through the park shut down the night we were there due to snow and ice in the higher elevations, so keep weather in mind when visiting in the colder months," warns Carly E. Always check road conditions before traveling, especially from October through April.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration for kids: Shallow mountain streams provide natural playgrounds. "My grands enjoyed playing in the shallow river in front of our campsite," shares Lori J. about Smokemont Campground. Bring water shoes as creek beds can be rocky and slippery.
Ranger programs: Many campgrounds offer educational activities. "On Fridays they have special Ranger programs. We were lucky enough to learn about moon-shining from guys on the moonshiner TV show. It was very interesting!" writes Janine B. Programs typically run from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Pet-friendly hiking options: While pets aren't allowed on most national park trails, several trails outside the park welcome dogs. "We stayed in a camping cabin which had a full bed and sleeping loft. The loft is very large, 3 10-12 yrs old as well as 3 3-4 yr olds fit up there nice and comfy," notes Jane H., highlighting accommodations that work well for larger families at Moonshine Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Pay attention to bathroom proximity and creek access when booking. "Tent sites have a short walk from the parking to the tent sites across the creek. Some are quite remote. A lot of the trailer sites are taken by seasonal campers," explains Tommy R. about Moonshine Creek Campground.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities. "Each site has a lantern pole, a fire ring and usually a picnic table. Tent sites often feature a gravel pad," shares Scott K., though noting RVers should plan where they'll dump tanks when leaving.
RV site positioning: Some campgrounds have unusual parking arrangements. "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," warns Ted H. Some RV sites require creative setup due to terrain and available space in mountain campgrounds.
