Camping opportunities dot the landscape surrounding Marshall, North Carolina, where the Blue Ridge Mountains and French Broad River create diverse camping terrain at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 5,000 feet. The area's mountain roads can be particularly challenging during winter months when occasional ice and snow affect access to several campgrounds. Sites in the region typically require advance reservations from spring through fall when weekend occupancy reaches near 100%.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Buck Creek at Mountain Stream RV Park offers catch-and-release fishing right from campsites. "My wife and son made it memorable. Brody caught his first trout, it is a catch and release creek," reports camper James U., who celebrated his 50th birthday at the park.
Blue Ridge Parkway drives: The parkway entrance is approximately 25 minutes from Marion area campgrounds, providing access to scenic overlooks and hiking trails. "Blue Ridge Parkway isn't far. We recommend the hike to Crabtree Falls!" notes Jess, who appreciated the proximity to mountain trails.
River activities: The French Broad River provides tubing and kayaking opportunities within walking distance of some 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," explains Kelsey G.
What campers like
Creek-side ambiance: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience at several parks. "The sound of the stream was so peaceful and relaxing. My husband did yoga every morning while I hung in my hammock and watched," shares Barbara S. about her experience at Mountain Stream RV Park.
Shared evening meals: Some campgrounds organize community dining events that create social connections. "[The owners] cook so other campers can get to know each other," notes Dawn V. about Mountain Stream RV Park, while another reviewer mentions Saturday evening barbecue served under a shelter at no additional cost.
Private bathroom facilities: Creekwood Farm RV Park offers individual bathroom units rather than communal facilities. "The bathrooms were amazing, individual bathrooms, very roomy and oh so clean," writes Joe B., who ranked the park among his top five campgrounds.
Dog-friendly amenities: Multiple parks provide dedicated pet areas with special features. "Red Gates RV Park has an off lead dog area with water available and poop bags," reports Brenda L., noting the convenience for pet owners.
What you should know
Highway noise impact: Interstate proximity affects some campgrounds more than others. "Park is ok for overnight stay, if traveling, the best thing about the park was the riverside sites. Interstate traffic was loud, WiFi wasn't strong enough to connect to," explains Vickie S. about one riverside park.
Limited office hours: Some campgrounds restrict certain activities based on office schedules. "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," advises Donna H. about Rutledge Lake RV Resort.
Site spacing variations: RV parks in the region differ significantly in how closely units are positioned. "The sites are close together. You can hear noise from the interstate, but after a while, you get used to it. Be sure to specify your rig size upon making a reservation as all sites vary in length," advises Kelsey G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: For families with children, recreation facilities vary significantly between parks. "A small campground with an updated basic playground set for the kids. Nice lawn courtyard for games," writes Megan M. about Mountain Stream RV Park, highlighting features important for families.
Lake activities: Pride RV Resort offers multiple water features for different ages. "Family own campground, very clean, has two fishing pound, a creek, swimming pool, store and much more," shares Ioan P., noting the variety of water-based recreation options.
Bathroom proximity: Consider facility locations when choosing sites with children. "Also, there is no restroom even close to the playground area," notes one reviewer, highlighting a practical consideration for families with young children at certain campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites near Marshall require additional equipment for proper leveling. "Very busy park outside of Asheville, NC. Great for getting in and out of town and enjoying the city but spaces were a little close together and the sites were all very unlevel," explains Kyle P. about Asheville's Bear Creek RV Park & Campground.
Entrance navigation: Some parks have challenging access points for larger vehicles. "When you come off the interstate you have to make a extremely hard right to get into park, not possible with a big rig...had to go up to the office/shop and turn around," warns Vickie S. about park entrance logistics.
Pull-through availability: Limited pull-through rv sites near Marshall, North Carolina affects setup time and convenience. "This is good campground if you are staying for the night passing through, or if you came to see Asheville and you will not be spending a lot of time at your camper. There is not a lot of space to hangout around your camper outside, in the pull through spots," advises Sarah about Bear Creek RV Park.
