RV campgrounds near Lake Lure, North Carolina range in elevation from 1,200 to 2,400 feet, creating significant temperature variations between valley locations and higher terrain. Summer temperatures average 85°F during daytime with overnight lows around 65°F, while spring and fall see wider daily temperature swings of 30-40 degrees. Most camping areas receive 45-60 inches of annual rainfall with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through August.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Buck Creek offers dedicated fishing areas along their creek frontage with clear mountain water. "About 45 minutes from downtown Asheville NC. Lots of great places to visit near by. Full hook ups," notes Jeff D. about Buck Creek.
RC model airplane flying: Several campgrounds maintain open field areas specifically for remote control hobbyists. "The central field area is mowed and set up as an RC flying field. A few campers flew their model airplanes. It was fun to watch. I even jumped into the RC hobby, buying a trainer plane at a local Hobby Shop, and began flying," reports Kevin A.
Tubing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer direct river access for water activities. "This is our first camping trip - recommended by friends. We loved it so much we booked it for the following year before we left. The sound of the stream was so peaceful and relaxing," writes Barbara S. about Mountain Stream RV Park.
What campers like
Creekside camping sites: Many campgrounds feature sites directly adjacent to flowing water. "Site #47 was the best of all three. It's a good-sized site right on the creek and just up from swimming hole#2. There were two swimming holes along the creek, which were a ton of fun. I swam in both. The water is very clear and refreshing," shares Kevin A.
Dog-friendly amenities: Several Lake Lure area RV parks offer specific pet accommodations. "We weren't sure what exactly to expect as it had no reviews. BUT we loved it. Small campground with level sites. Plenty of space and areas to walk our dog. They even have an off lead dog area with water available and poop bags," says Brenda L. about Red Gates RV Park.
Community activities: Some campgrounds organize regular social events. "Each Saturday evening, Kevin serves up his special home cooked bar-b-que under the shelter at no additional cost, and many campers bring sides to share. It's like having a back yard picnic with friends and family!" reports Duncan C.
What you should know
Seasonal weather impacts: Mountain elevation creates variable conditions throughout camping season. "During our walk there was definitely a strong chemical smell around park - it was strange. There is a lot of airplane noise as it is close to airport," notes Cassondra P. about Rutledge Lake RV Resort.
Limited office hours: Some campgrounds restrict services during evening hours. "The only thing I would recommend is keeping office open later then 5. When office closes you can not take boats, or kayaks out. So when you spend day out site seeing and return office is closed. Can not get Ice, wood or boat rentals. It was bummer."
Variable bathroom facilities: Quality and cleanliness differs significantly between campgrounds. "The bathhouse was clean and there's a nice picnic shelter. The camp store has basic necessities (even local, fresh eggs). Blue Ridge Parkway isn't far. We recommend the hike to Crabtree Falls! Only con is that the sites are very close together."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Several campgrounds have safe swimming areas. "We did have fairly descent OTA TV coverage and channels though," says Ray & Terri F., while another camper at Wilderness Cove Campground reports: "My kid(12) and I had a great experience here: 2 nights in tents and 2 in a River Cottage. The tent camping is not quite 'roughing it': there's pretty reliable WiFi and the bath house is air conditioned and kept very clean."
Playground availability: Check campgrounds for child-specific amenities. "Well maintained and super nice. Nice children and adult play area, cornhole, horseshoes, swing set, and fire pits," explains Jeff K. at Maple Ridge RV Park.
Tent camping options: Families without RVs can find suitable accommodations. "Very clean, small, quiet campground. Tents only, they do have some cabins for rent. Nice clean bath house. Was able to access wifi near the tubing office. Prices are extremely reasonable. Their website is very accurate."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness considerations: Prepare for varying pad conditions between campgrounds. "Wilson's spots don't offer a ton of shade, but being by the river is a huge plus. The French Broad River Greenway, a shared bike path, runs right through the campground and is great for taking you to nearby places by bike, like Carrier Park or ClimbMax Climbing Gym," advises Kelsey G. at Wilson's Riverfront RV Park.
Cell service variations: Reception fluctuates significantly based on terrain. "There's no playground for kids, so some may see it as little more of an adult campground, but it's still kid friendly with the grassy area and stream to play in. Cell service is almost non-existent, but you can use the wifi for calls if necessary."
Hookup reliability: Mountain weather affects utilities during different seasons. "For $45 it was a good, clean, quick stop. A multi use path goes through the center of the campground so there is tons of pedestrian and bike traffic through the center of park. The folks we saw were nice."
