Camping spots near Little Switzerland, North Carolina typically sit at higher elevations between 3,000-5,000 feet along forest service roads and the Blue Ridge Parkway. These mountainous locations create unique microclimates where temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, even during summer months. The Toe River watershed provides numerous waterfront camping options, with access to trout fishing throughout the region.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: 2.5 miles round-trip to Crabtree Falls offers impressive views. "The waterfall was mesmerizing! And a nice breaking spot for the loop distance," notes a visitor at Crabtree Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway.
Fish for trout: South Toe River provides excellent fishing spots. A camper at Mountain Stream RV Park reports "Beautiful level sites backed right up to Buck Creek where we enjoyed catching trout straight from our campsite."
Visit historic attractions: Miller Homestead at Roan Mountain State Park offers glimpses into mountain life. "You can also explore the grist mill with a nature trail or an old homestead. You have access to the AT about 10 miles away," explains a camper from Roan Mountain.
Explore dispersed camping spots: Old NC 105 runs about 13 miles with multiple forest sites. "You definitely need to be a confident driver if you do that though. Good luck, hope you enjoy it as much as I did," shares a camper who navigated the road in a sedan.
What campers like
River proximity: creek sounds for sleeping. "The sound of the stream was so peaceful and relaxing. My husband did yoga every morning while I hung in my hammock and watched," reports a camper from Mountain Stream RV Park.
High elevation campsites: cooler temperatures. At Mount Mitchell State Park Campground, a camper noted "We left home and the temperate was well into the high 90's, however the temperate on top of the mountain never came above 62!"
Swimming holes: natural water recreation. Carolina Hemlocks offers "a swimming hole and a fishing hole, both well-maintained." Another camper added there is "Great camping sites. Tubing, swimming and fishing. Family friendly."
Scenic overlooks: mountain visibility. At Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping, campers find "gorgeous views of the valley and table top mountain and others are just nooks in the woods."
What you should know
Weather changes quickly: At higher elevations, conditions vary dramatically. A Mount Mitchell camper shared, "The top of Mount Mitchell has its own micro-climate and is often foggy. The night we spent there was cold, windy and miserable."
Road conditions vary significantly: Some forest roads require higher clearance vehicles. On Old NC 105, a camper advises "the beginning of the road from either side is easy enough to get down but in the middle it gets really rough."
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have poor or non-existent cell coverage. At Black Mountain Campground - CLOSED INDEFINITELY, campers noted "There is no cell service on T-Mobile or Verizon inside the camp."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially in fall. "This campground is usually packed with tourists coming to check out the parkway. It's a small campground, 9 sites total," explains a Mount Mitchell camper.
Road closures may affect access: Following Hurricane Helene, some facilities remain damaged. A Black Mountain camper reported "Black Mountain Campground was destroyed by flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The bridge across the S. Toe River was broken and washed out."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: multiple play areas at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Spacious Skies Bear Den mentioned "We camped at C13 which was right across from the large playground in November. My daughter had a blast and we could keep an eye on her."
Cabin options: alternatives to tents. "My two teenage boys and I stayed in a 'Cozy Cabin'. They are bigger than they look in the picture," writes a Bear Den camper, adding "the resort is kind of small but there are a few playgrounds and a small pond."
Swimming access: kid-friendly water spots. At Curtis Creek Campground, "The creek is right beside the campsites, and easily accessed by steps. My children loved it!"
Safety considerations: wildlife awareness. Remember this is bear country. Proper food storage is essential as "you need to keep your food in your car or the bears will get your food!"
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Many campgrounds have restricted RV amenities. At Crabtree Falls, "There are three loops in this campground: one for RVs (but no hookups), and two for tents/vans."
Site selection strategy: For optimal experience, research specific spots. At Carolina Hemlocks, a visitor noted "When driving through the main area though, spaces were pretty tight, very full, and not all seemed friendly for a camper/RV."
Elevation challenges: Higher campgrounds require preparation. "Wind gusts easily get into the double digits, and if you aren't prepared for that, it can be alarming," warns a Mount Mitchell camper.
Access restrictions: Some forest roads aren't suitable for larger vehicles. A helpful tip for Bear Den: "hint here if pulling a camper, don't follow the Bearden sign, go to Linville to get on the parkway and go left. This way you will avoid the steep curvy road going up a mountain."
