Cabin camping near Laurel Springs, North Carolina offers access to the Blue Ridge Mountains with elevations between 3,000-4,000 feet, creating notably cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowland areas. The region typically experiences mild summers with average highs in the 70s, allowing for comfortable cabin stays even without air conditioning during peak season. Autumn brings vibrant foliage from mid-October through early November.
What to do
Hiking trails: Stone Mountain State Park provides multiple trail options ranging from easy to strenuous. "We camped here and didn't even leave. It has so much to do and see... There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," notes Charli R. at Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers a stocked pond and creek. "The hike to the pond was a little more strenuous than we anticipated but once you get there, there is a nice creek and we caught a trout in the pond right away," shares Kristen J. at Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
River activities: Riverside Canoe and Campground provides river tubing with unique amenities. "You can rent a tube to place a cooler inside of so you can tube down the river with beverages and snacks in tow. The end of the rafting experience puts you right back at the campsite," explains Julie L.
Wine tasting: Several wineries operate within 15-30 minutes of cabin sites. "Lovely vineyard and restaurant and simple campground... you can wine taste while you are visiting," mentions Kristi D. about Roaring River Vineyards RV Campground.
What campers like
Mountain views: The elevated terrain provides scenic vistas year-round. "The mountain views are breathtaking. The campsites are small and close together. The constant light breeze and lack of mosquitoes is a treat," reports Raven B. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Wildlife watching: Many cabins offer opportunities to spot native animals. "We checked out the backpack hike camp spots (5)... on the creek, 2 are near a small waterfall. They're spaced out about a quarter mile apart," explains Charli R. about Stone Mountain State Park.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. "The bathhouse is nice and includes showers and drinking water," notes Raven B. At Hungry Mother State Park, another camper reports, "Bathrooms were amazing. Pulled my review from a 3+ to a 5! Private baths like at home. Toilet, sink and shower all to yourself and CLEAN!"
Temperature advantages: The elevation provides relief from summer heat. "We're in an open area on top of a mountain. The weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," shares Kristen J. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp. At Boone KOA, Joe B. notes, "Temperature was very comfortable, didn't need the A/C in June!"
What you should know
Road access considerations: Some cabin locations have challenging approach roads. "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there," reports Kristen J. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Booking timeline: Reservations fill quickly during peak periods. "This is a great place with great people! You can also purchase wood at the office. There are a few t-shirts for sale at the office, as well," shares Mandy R. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Cell service variations: Connectivity differs significantly between sites. "Internet and phone service available in some parts of the park," reports Annell N. about Stone Mountain State Park. At Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, a camper notes, "They have great wifi (they sent a text to campers to let them know they were working to get the cable restored)."
Off-season operation: While some facilities close completely, others remain open with reduced services. "The tent sites are very spaced out. The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," according to Kristen J.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Creeks and swimming areas provide natural entertainment. "There is a beautiful stream running through the campground that doubles as an amazing playground for the kids," reports Katie M. about Flintlock Campground.
Campground activities: Some locations organize regular events. "In peak season, there's a pool, a small pond (catch & release unless you want to pay), ping pong, rock mining, etc.," notes Jean C. about Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA.
Animal encounters: Several sites offer small farm animal areas. "Little farm animal area the kids could feed. Sites seemed tight for campers however and I feel the gameroom area closed down very early at 9," shares Sherry C. about Boone KOA.
Evening entertainment: Organized nighttime activities can keep children engaged. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," reports Joe B. about Stone Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Pay attention to site specifications when booking. At Honey Bear Campground, Angie R. advises, "The staff were very accommodating as this was my first camping experience with a travel trailer. They took the time to get me perfectly backed into my site since the reservation map was a little misleading and appeared to be a pull through site."
Hookup limitations: Water access varies between campgrounds. "We do not have water hookups - you fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups. They have a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out," explains Mandy R. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Leveling needs: Many mountain sites require leveling equipment. "The sites are a little sloped, so have leveling equipment ready," notes a reviewer about Honey Bear Campground. Another camper adds, "Our site does have a good slope to it and we had to use a stack of 3 Cacmo leveling blocks to get level."
