31 campgrounds with availability this weekend
The mountainous terrain surrounding Mars Hill, North Carolina features diverse camping options within a short drive of town. Pisgah National Forest dispersed camping areas lie approximately 15 miles east, offering primitive tent sites with minimal amenities but maximum privacy. Established campgrounds like Hot Springs Campground, situated along the French Broad River about 20 miles northwest, provide full hookups for RVs alongside tent sites and cabin rentals. Lake Powhatan in the National Forests of North Carolina, roughly 25 miles south near Asheville, maintains highly-rated sites with electric hookups and access to hiking trails. Mount Mitchell State Park Campground, operating seasonally from May through December, sits at higher elevation and offers cooler summer temperatures.
Camping reservations become essential during peak season from late spring through fall, particularly at established sites. As one camper noted about the region, "The North Carolina side has a slightly different feel. Less of a circus and less crowded and more laid back." Mountain roads accessing some campgrounds feature tight curves and steep grades that can challenge larger RVs. Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region, with metal food containers provided at many sites. Weather patterns vary significantly with elevation, with Mount Pisgah Campground at 5,300 feet recording temperatures 20 degrees cooler than lower elevations during summer months. Cell service remains limited or non-existent at most campgrounds, particularly those in national forest areas.
Creekside and riverside sites rank among the most sought-after camping locations near Mars Hill. According to one visitor, "The sound of the creek at night melts all your worries away and takes you off to peaceful slumber." Shaded campsites predominate throughout the region, with nearly 100% shade coverage at Lake Powhatan, where campers report "excellent dark sky viewing" and "private sites with large space along with vegetation between sites." Proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway provides easy access to scenic drives and hiking trails from many campgrounds. Facilities vary widely, with national forest campgrounds typically offering more basic amenities than private operations, though many campers appreciate the trade-off for increased natural setting and lower noise levels.
"As typical of a KOA, they shove you in there so you are very close to your neighbors. The stars of the park are the riverfront sites."
"My only gripe (and I know it’s not a huge deal) is the trailer park situated right by the fence that separates from the KOA."
from $50 / night
"Campsite is very small and entrance is narrow so be on the lookout when you’re first driving in! The river is much bigger and more beautiful than we expected- great surprise!"
"The cottages are titled "Paddlers Paradise- Camp Driftwood Cottage" and have cable TV, a laptop friendly work space, heating, air conditioning, and a private entrance."
from $25 - $125 / night
"The little town of Hot Springs North Carolina is a charming little place with several good food choices and an excellent brewery."
"With mountains in the distance and the constant rush of the French Broad River, the setting is awesome. Even the occasional train whistle gives me a feeling of nostalgia and of simple days."
"We had a premium site overlooking the French Broad River and the surrounding valley. Breathtaking. It is a clean campground with very nice hosts. The shower house was dated but clean."
"The staff keep the location very tidy. My campsite was sufficiently distant from the more active RV area to feel removed. Situated in the woods on top of a mountain."
"The sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations. The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside."
"PROS Discounted camp fee with senior pass
Reserved 169 days prior to arriving
Friendly and helpful gate attendant
Nearly 100% shade at each site
Excellent dark sky viewing
Private sites with"
from $37 - $135 / night
"It was level had tons of shade and even though you are close to your neighbors the sites are situated so that it doesn’t feel like you’re on top of each other."
"The only thing we would say is to be very careful if you’re up on one of the premiere Mountain View sites when you’re pulling your trailer down exiting the CG - it can be seriously steep and a tight turn"
from $75 - $200 / night
"I am from the area, but I love to go up the hill and get away from everything. If you get there early in the week, you should have the place to yourself."
"Trails out the wazoo! Our doggies love the trails & there are quite a few family friendly paths."
"The campground is open from May 1 to Oct 31...but if you walk-in to the sites, as in via the trails, you can rent a site amost all year. Tent sites are small, but nice."
"There are plenty of tent camping sites along the Mountain to Sea trail and throughout the park. I camped by Commissary Ridge next to a small Creek and an excellent view of sunrise."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $27 / night
"They'll deliver firewood ($5) to your site by golf cart, they even will collect your site fees as they drive around."
"This is a wonderful spot to be to explore the surrounding areas:
- The famous Mount Mitchell trail, starts a short walking distance from the campground."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $28 - $56 / night
"You’ll feel like you have the forest to yourself, with tons of pretty plants all around you. It’s down a short path (a bit tricky to navigate) and tucked away between the creek and small stream."
"We abandoned plans to stay at place in Old Fort (see listing for Catawba Falls) and ended up here as a last chance before having to hit a hotel to turn back around to CLT. "
from $25 / night
TravelerThis location can’t be beat. Nestled between Asheville and Brevard, close to Pisgah NF and Sierra Nevada brewing! We loved the access to fishing here, even though we didn’t catch anything. The streams were pristine, the campground very well kept and the hosts were kind. And our dog obviously loved it!
LegendThis is almost a perfect park. Sites are a little tight, pond is nice, but geese were on another level. So loud at 3-5am it woke us up and kept us up. Our neighbors were also inconsiderately loud at 4-6am. We thought they were pulling out the first time and gave a pass, but it was 4 straight days. This was only place at the time time that had sites. Definitely pretty more scenic parks. We book 2 days out. Staff is super friendly and price wasn’t bad last minute.
TravelerWe were probably lucky, but we drove in on a Monday and found a nice site with the creek/stream burbling in the background. Yes, there is dirt entrance/road and traffic, but not much and way quieter than family campgrounds. This site is my perfect idea of an amazing free off grid camping spot.
ScoutNobody was here on Sat. Had gard time finding site. Site reserved did not have 30 amp and could not reach staff. Moved to other site hoping it would not be a problem. We were able to finally reach staff on Mon. Also no pcknick tables or fire rings.
ScoutNice camp and staff friendly. We drive the Blue Ridge Pkwy which was a bit of drive but the ride up to Mt Mitchell was beautiful. Only negative was the laundry rooms were small for a large camp like this but I made it work. Probably a bit more challenging during busy season but all that said this is a nice campground
TravelerAbsolutely one of the most beautiful campgrounds that we have visited, and super clean. Such a great location for hiking and viewing the Blue Ridge Pkwy!
ScoutLet me first start by saying that this campground is absolutely beautiful. I have lived in this area my entire life and the Doe is one of my favorites. I am a avid camper and have camped all over this area. I decided to give this place a try, I own a small pop-up camper and knew it was going to get cold 10/20/2026-10/22/2026, so me and my sister rented the RV at Doe River. #1 check in is not until 3pm, I always order a load of wood from a local guy who delivers to camp sites, I do all my cooking in a Dutch oven over the fire or burgers and dogs in the fire, what is a camping trip without a nice warm fire. The owner came over to my campsite and asked if I had ordered this wood and I replied yes, she then asked what I was going to do with it all, I replied I am going to burn it. So, I told Carl (the wood guy) where to stack it, the owner then said that I need to leave it in my truck bc if I didn't use it all I would have to put it back on my truck and take it home with me, I said really? It's just a unspoken rule that if you don't use all your wood that you pay it forward and leave it for the next camper?? She said absolutely not, So we moved the wood from his truck and into mine. She then asked again why I needed so much wood and that most ppl just buy small bundles from her. And just like that I understood! Carl the wood man and his wife also made a comment about how rude she was about the wood. It does not end there, Not only does she have camaras on some of the out blds which I get, but I don't get why they are pointing directly at camp sites, We felt like we were in a fish bowl the entire time. Every single time we went to the bathroom she showed up abt 5 mins later, There is a camara right above the bathroom door, One on the pavilion, and one on each side of the bathhouse, at the entrances and who know where else. So much for privacy in the great outdoors. I didn't even feel comfortable hiking, we felt like we were being watched constantly. She was constantly there, walking her dog which was not friendly and so big she could hardly control him on the leash which was really scary, she also was driving through several times throughout the day. Then came the kicker, about 1 o'clock in the morning we were freezing, I had turned the heat on in the camper before going to bed and heard it come on, Well the propane ran out between 11pm and 1am, I called her at least 10 times we had every blanket and was still freezing, We decided we would go to the bath house bc it had a mini split hanging on the wall, Out of luck there, it was set on air conditioning with no way to change it, so we found a blow dryer trying to get warm, still the entire time trying to call the owners, We finally ended up in our car until the husband arrived. He acted so annoyed at us and said all u have to do is fip the switch on the propane tanks outside! We had never stayed in a travel trailer before and according to them all we had to do was show up and start glamping!! So, I was supposed to know to go outside at 1 am and switch over propane tanks?? No, It should have been FULL when I got there!!! With attitude he said,"Its Basic Camping" No sir it's not, what I do is basic camping, I was told on the phone that I was glamping, She, the owner also said we should have called 911 when we could not get hold of them so that Carter County police officers could come and wake them up!!! Not sure if that is putting our tax dollars to good use?? Like I said it is truly a beautiful place and has great potential, we left that second night at 11pm because again the heat was not working, we have not asked for any refund we just took the loss. it would be to much of a hassle. We just know better next time. With owners like that they can keep it. Windy Wells/Debra Price
TravelerThis place is a nice campground, quiet and the guests (during our stay) respect others by keeping the noise down. The spaces are set up to maximize privacy between sites. There is no cell phone service (to do this report we are in a picnic area by a small lake and I can get cell as well as internet on my travelfi device) sos is the only access. I normally listen to audio books but not while here. On my computer I could see three others with low signals; they might have had a better device/provider. The spots tend to the small back in typically found in campsites built before RVs got really big, type. There is another camping area I haven’t been to yet and I did see a large over lander (looks indestructible and tall/long) towable head that way and the campground attendant didn’t predict any problems so perhaps there are larger spots elsewhere. This place has single person shower rooms and nice flush toilets. The whole place is set in woodland so it isn’t like a commercial RV place that was more concerned with volume over aesthetics. This is a lovely spot with ample amenities (my space had no hookups) for our type of camping (toilets, trash, quiet neighbors, semi private spaces) just zero phone or internet.
TravelerThis campground has a great location in maggie valley, close to Waynesville with plenty to do in close proximity. While it is a traditional campground, they have very competitive rates for weekly and monthly stays. For us its the perfect getaway destination for the summers and fall. The staff is super welcomming and friendly. You find a cute creek on the backside of of the campground with trout as some fisherman told me. The staff takes pride in all the flowers, landscaping and seasonal decorations. Also nice to know is you are not being looked down to with an older camper. As long as your rig is decent and functional you are admitted.
Dispersed camping opportunities near Mars Hill, North Carolina extend beyond Pisgah National Forest into several lesser-known areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 2,000-5,700 feet, creating distinct microclimates where temperature can drop 10-15 degrees between valley campgrounds and mountain sites. Winter camping remains available at select locations like Campfire Lodgings, which maintains year-round access despite seasonal closures elsewhere.
Riverside recreation: Fish, swim, or tube at Camp Driftwood where sites are "right on the river." One visitor noted, "The French Broad is literally right in front of your campsites. Very peaceful and clean setting." The river access makes it ideal for cooling off in summer months.
Hot springs soaking: Book mineral baths at Hot Springs Campground to experience the natural thermal waters. A camper mentioned, "Walk into town for restaurants and brews! Walk to spa for soak in hot tub!!" The hot tubs are situated on the riverbank for scenic soaking.
Hiking variety: Access dozens of trails from campgrounds. One visitor at Black Mountain Campground shared, "From here you can climb 4000ft to the summit of Mt Mitchell. It's a great, challenging hike with many rewards along the way." Trail difficulty ranges from easy creek-side paths to strenuous mountain climbs.
Private wooded sites: Montreat Family Campground offers secluded tent camping with creek access. A reviewer stated, "Sites are enormous with lots of privacy, good spacing between. For tents, there are some very nice sites along the creek. Extremely peaceful." Sites numbered 4, 8, 13, and 15 received specific praise for creek proximity.
Mountain-top views: Sites on ridge tops provide panoramic vistas. At Campfire Lodgings, campers appreciate the "premium sites with a deck" for their views. As one visitor noted, "My favorite place at the campground is an outdoor area overlooking the French Broad River. There are picnic tables, and if you take your comfortable chair, you could sit there for hours looking at the view."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain skies offer excellent night viewing. According to one camper at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground, "Our first night on this trip, the sky was clear and we could see the milky way!" The higher elevation campgrounds provide better star visibility due to reduced light pollution.
Elevation affects temperature: Pack layers for significant temperature swings. At Mount Mitchell State Park Campground, campers report temperatures never exceeding 62°F even when valley temperatures reach the 90s. One visitor warned, "Wind gusts easily get into the double digits, and if you aren't prepared for that, it can be alarming, especially while tent camping."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely between campgrounds. At Lake Powhatan, visitors report "Strong wi-fi (free too) connection, for those of us that work from the road." However, at many forest service sites, connectivity disappears entirely.
Wildlife considerations: Bears frequent some campgrounds. At Campfire Lodgings, one camper warned, "This campground DOES have bears who visit the campground for food. There are no bear boxes provided... Anything square apparently, so store everything in your car." Proper food storage becomes essential at all area campgrounds.
Playground access: Asheville East KOA provides family-friendly facilities. One reviewer mentioned, "Lots for the kids to do including a small arcade. Staff overall were nice and accommodating." The campground also features a lake with rentable watercraft.
Creek exploration: Look for shallow water access points for safe play. At Montreat Family Campground, one visitor shared, "We were on a hunt to see the wonderful creations. Our maker made and if they were in a stream, we found them." The gentle creeks provide natural entertainment for children.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly throughout the day. One family at Black Mountain Campground advised, "When it rains, it pours, so bring a tarp if you can." Having shelter options and dry clothes becomes particularly important when camping with children.
Road grade considerations: Access roads to some campgrounds challenge larger rigs. Regarding Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground, one RVer noted, "The roads are uphill and a little narrow, but nothing too difficult if you go slow. Our site was level so easy to pull up and set up smoothly." Many campgrounds recommend unhooking towed vehicles before ascending steep access roads.
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds have tight turns and limited site dimensions. At Montreat Family Campground, a reviewer cautioned, "The site is gravel and very level. It's a huge site, but because the entry is a narrow, twisty mountain road, I wouldn't recommend a larger rig. 20 ft and less should be good."
Amenity availability: Full-hookup sites book quickly during peak seasons. Hot Springs Campground has limited premium sites, with one camper noting, "Nice clean gated park. Nice big spots. Only 3 fifty amp full hook up sites. Lots of 30 amp and tent camping. Right on the river." Reservations months in advance become necessary for RVers requiring full hookups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Mars Hill, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, Mars Hill, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 492 campgrounds and RV parks near Mars Hill, NC and 40 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Mars Hill, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mars Hill, NC is Asheville East KOA with a 4-star rating from 52 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mars Hill, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 40 free dispersed camping spots near Mars Hill, NC.
What parks are near Mars Hill, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 28 parks near Mars Hill, NC that allow camping, notably Cherokee National Forest and Pisgah National Forest.
Keep Exploring
