Camping near National Forests in North Carolina

National Forests in North Carolina campsites range in elevation from 1,200 feet at North Mills River to over 5,000 feet at Mount Pisgah Campground, creating significant temperature differences between locations. Winter camping remains available at several lower-elevation sites, while higher campgrounds close seasonally when temperatures drop below freezing. Road access varies significantly depending on campground location and seasonal weather patterns.

What to do

Fly fishing opportunities: North Mills River Campground offers access to stocked and native rainbow trout exceeding 20 inches. "The river is stocked and also has native rainbow trout exceeding 20 inches. Some fly-fishermen showcased their trophy catches while we stayed here," notes one visitor at North Mills River.

Mountain biking trails: Davidson River Campground serves as a gateway to Pisgah National Forest's extensive trail system. "Located right inside Pisgah National forest this campground is perfectly set for all adventures. If you're thinking of riding the mtb trails you're in luck. They start literally across the davidson river from the campground," reports a cyclist at Davidson River Campground.

Swimming spots: Several campgrounds feature natural water features for cooling off. At Orchard Lake Campground, "There is a slide in the middle of the pond that my son loved. When it rained the game room had a movie on and lots to do inside."

Hiking access: Mount Pisgah Campground connects directly to multiple trail systems. "Spacious sites arranged for privacy. Over 5000 ft in elevation which means cool nights in Summer. Been staying here for over 30 years and love the privacy and access to many hiking trails."

What campers like

Clean facilities: Many visitors highlight the maintained bathrooms and other amenities. At Lake Powhatan, "The campsites were semi private and were well maintained. Bathrooms were nearby with clean showers. Tons of hiking trails with nice scenery."

Proximity to Asheville: Several campgrounds offer convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a natural setting. "Great campground hosts, park is super clean and quiet. Has a great beach and lots of hiking and mountain bike trails. Downtown Asheville is only 15 mins away," notes a Lake Powhatan visitor.

Water features: Streams and lakes enhance many camping experiences in the region. At Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground, "Once you get set up at your waterfront site you can't help but be in awe of the rapids. We hung out all night enjoying its ambiance and the moonlight shines."

Private sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites despite being popular destinations. "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," reports one Lake Powhatan camper.

What you should know

Seasonal operation: Most high-elevation campgrounds close during winter months. At Mount Pisgah Campground, "Temperature dropped below freezing and during the night it felt like gale force winds buffeting the GO. Definitely will pick a lower elevation for camping if it's in October!"

Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "Each site comes with a gravel platform for your tent, picnic table, bear box, and a fire pit with a grill top," notes a North Mills River camper. Another adds, "Bears occasionally enter campground but I have never had trouble with them. Keep all food secure in bear box provided at each site."

Varying water pressure: Hookup quality varies between sites and campgrounds. At Rutledge Lake RV Resort, "All of the facilities are nice. The pad is kept up well with large gravel and is compact and level."

Limited cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly by location and provider. A visitor at Mama Gertie's notes, "AT&T was 1 to 2 bars at our site, but it worked just fine for calls and never had an issue, including video calls and streaming."

Tips for camping with families

Look for campgrounds with swimming options: Water features provide built-in entertainment for children. At Orchard Lake Campground, "We went kayaking and swimming daily. There is a slide in the middle of the pond that my son loved. When it rained the game room had a movie on and lots to do inside."

Consider cabins for easier transitions: Several campgrounds offer cabin rentals for families new to camping. At Asheville East KOA, "The cabin was perfect for a girls' weekend away. I was completely satisfied with my stay."

Pack for temperature variations: Elevation differences create significant temperature swings. "We stayed for six days in March. We loved everything about this campground. The sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations," reports a spring visitor to Lake Powhatan.

Check for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer playgrounds and game rooms. "This campground is wonderful! We found it out of an emergency stop and stayed for 5 nights. It is beautiful and has so much for the kids to do," shares an Orchard Lake Campground visitor.

Tips from RVers

Reserve early for premium sites: The most desirable RV spots book quickly, especially those with views. At Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground, "The road to get there is steep but obviously doable even with our 38' gas MH. We stayed at the premium sites on top. The views are terrific, the sites have adequate space and the campground is very well maintained."

Consider size limitations: Many forest campgrounds have tight access roads. "Only back-in spots but still nice. The front desk does close at 4 from what I have found though," notes a visitor at Rutledge Lake RV Resort.

Check hookup availability: Electrical, water, and sewer connections vary widely. "There are full hookup spots and no-hookup spots. If you want more than 1-2 days, make sure you book online, as the hosts will point you to the website for longer stays," advises a North Mills River camper.

Plan for narrow access roads: Mountain terrain creates challenging approaches. At Hickory Nut Falls, "BE ALERT TO TURN WIDE WHEN TURNING INTO THIS CAMPGROUND. VERY NARROW BRIDGE FROM THE MAIN ROAD MAKING IT ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY TO TURN INTO THE OTHER LANE FOR LONGER RIGS."