Primitive tent camping near Millers Creek, North Carolina offers opportunities at elevations between 1,200-3,500 feet in the Blue Ridge foothills. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F at higher elevations compared to 85-95°F in lower valleys. Several campgrounds provide varying levels of facilities from porta-potties and basic fire rings to shower facilities, with most requiring campers bring their own drinking water or filtration systems.
What to do
Water activities at New River: Access points near Dusty Trails Outfitters offer canoe, kayak and tube rentals for day trips. "Dustin rents out single canoes and kayaks, tubes and luxury fishing kayaks as well," notes one camper who enjoyed riverside camping.
Hiking trails: The Boone Fork Campground connects to a 5-mile loop trail leading to Hebron Falls. "This trail leads to Hebron falls where you can explore giant boulders and have a picnic. There is also an area just 1.5 miles from the Boone Fork Trail parking lot where you can go swimming and sliding off rocks," according to a visitor.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution at most primitive sites allows for exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at Basin Cove noted, "Stars are amazing!" while those at riverfront sites mention the darkness with "no artificial light" creates perfect stargazing conditions.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Dusty Trails Outfitters receives praise for site layout. "As we pulled down the gravel road, we noticed each site had their own port-a-potty, hand washing station (with soap), campfire ring, picnic table and trash can," one camper explained about their riverfront site.
Natural features: Campers consistently mention wildlife viewing opportunities. "As darkness set in, the fireflies across the river began to light up, like festive lights. Not just a few hundred, but thousands of them, in the most amazing natural light show I have ever seen," reported one visitor to Dusty Trails.
Temperature advantages: The Growing Faith Farms & Retreat location provides moderate temperatures. One family noted their campsite was "private and secluded, yet within reasonable driving distance to stores and other attractions like hiking/biking/kayaking," making it versatile for different activities.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites require preparation for difficult roads. At Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway, "You have to hike a mile into the campsite. The hike in is excellent, as it follows the river along the way," explains a reviewer who appreciated the isolation.
Water sources: Most primitive sites lack potable water. A Basin Cove camper warns, "There is NO clean water source, you have to bring a filter system with you," which is typical for backcountry sites in the region.
Toilet facilities: Facilities vary widely from none to basic. Some sites like Dusty Trails provide "port-a-potty was very clean- not even spiders inside!" while others require campers to pack out all waste.
Tips for camping with families
Easy introduction to backcountry: Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway works well for beginners. "Great for taking beginner backcountry tent/hammock campers! Easy hike in, but far enough that you won't find High-maintenance campers or crowds," explains a reviewer who found it suitable for novices.
Food storage: Bear-resistant storage is essential in this region. Basin Cove provides "food storage lockers on site" to protect supplies, as multiple campers mention bear sightings throughout the area.
Activity variety: Choose sites with multiple recreation options. One family at Self Sufficient Holler enjoyed that "There is so much to do on property, and they are working on more! Their love for the land really shines through their work here."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Small to medium RVs navigate better than large rigs. At most sites including Blue Bear Mountain Camp, visitors note 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."
Water fill stations: Most sites lack hookups but offer filling options. "They 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 a frequent visitor to the area.
Weather preparation: Temperature variations require planning. One RVer noted that "After a string of rough camps and brutal temps this mountain spot was so welcome," emphasizing the relief higher elevation camping provides during summer months.
