Cabin camping near Montreat, North Carolina ranges from traditional rustic shelters to fully equipped lodging, all within the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 2,500 and 3,500 feet. Most properties experience four distinct seasons with autumn temperatures averaging 50-65°F, making fall cabin rentals particularly sought after. Winter cabin bookings require advance planning as temperatures can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: The Curtis Creek area features multiple trails ranging from easy to challenging with creek access at Curtis Creek Campground. "The camp host was very helpful and nice. Everything was clean and well-maintained. There is no cell signal for 15 or so minutes, either direction, so know your routes before leaving Old Fort," notes one visitor.
Mountain biking: Rent equipment or bring your own for trail access near Lake Powhatan. A camper shares, "Lots of trails including several that are popular with mountain bikers on the road into camp. Close to the NC Arboretum, too!"
Fishing in nearby waterways: Most cabin rentals are within 20-30 minutes of quality fishing spots. Anglers report success at Catawba Falls Campground where "sites are right on the river and are a bit tight. Each site has a firepit, table, electric and water. Fishing was fun too!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Despite compact layouts, many cabins offer vegetation buffers. At Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground, "The pine trees help with a little privacy because you are tucked in pretty tight to one another. The campground is really beautiful and well maintained."
Access to swimming areas: Several cabin properties feature water access for summer cooling off. "There is a swimming hole on the South Toe River in the campground just beyond the end of the riverside sites. It has a small sandy 'beach' area and a neck deep refreshing hole," according to a Black Mountain Campground visitor.
Well-maintained bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between properties. A camper at Spacious Skies Bear Den noted, "I was impressed with how clean the cabins and bathrooms were," while another mentioned "The bathhouse up top seemed to be brand new. It had two full bathrooms with toilet, sink, and zero entry large shower."
What you should know
Bear activity awareness: Proper food storage is essential at many cabin locations. A visitor to Campfire Lodgings warns, "This campground DOES have bears who visit the campground for food. There are no bear boxes provided... store everything in your car."
Seasonal road conditions: Winter access to higher elevation cabins can be challenging. One visitor recommends, "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."
Cellular coverage limitations: Many cabins have limited or no cell service. "Even though it's only 10 minutes or so away from the edge of Asheville, it has the feel of being much further away - including no Verizon service," reports a Lake Powhatan camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several properties feature dedicated children's areas. A visitor to Asheville East KOA notes, "Huge campground with great amenities such as a scenic walking path around the lake, pool, playground, clean and efficient bathhouses, hot breakfast options, nice camp store, etc."
Kid-friendly hiking trails: Look for cabins with gentle terrain options. "The tent sites are a little tight on a hillside, but the pad is kept up well with large gravel and is compact and level. Lots of big trees so it makes for a nice atmosphere," according to a visitor at Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground.
Indoor entertainment options for rainy days: Some cabins include gaming facilities. At Spacious Skies Bear Den, a camper shares that amenities include "a small lake on property to fish or swim... a pretty good market for the things you might have forgot... playground on site for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Several cabin properties have challenging approach roads. One camper at Creekside Mountain Camping warns, "The roads are a little rough to get there, but even a car should have no problems - just might need to dodge a few potholes."
Utility hookups vary significantly: Check what connections are available before booking. "All sites are laid out differently with some pull through and others back in. A mix of tent and trailers were present," notes a Lake Powhatan visitor.
Leveling challenges at some sites: Bring stabilization equipment if staying with an RV. A camper at Mama Gertie's reported, "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."
