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Best Campgrounds near Pisgah Forest, NC

2,305 Reviews

Davidson River Campground serves as a prime destination for camping near Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, providing access to numerous outdoor activities within Pisgah National Forest. The area features several established campgrounds including Lake Powhatan, Mount Pisgah Campground, and North Mills River that accommodate tent camping, RV sites, and cabin options. Most developed campgrounds in the region offer basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while some provide electric hookups and water access for RVs.

Seasonal operations impact camping availability throughout the Pisgah Forest region, with most campgrounds open from spring through fall. "Davidson River Campground is perfectly situated for outdoor activities, plenty of hiking (Art Loeb Trail), good fishing, mountain biking and climbing available all within a stone's throw from camp," noted one visitor describing the recreational opportunities. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak summer months when sites fill quickly. Temperatures vary with elevation, with higher mountain campgrounds like Mount Pisgah experiencing cooler conditions even in summer months. The region experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer, and campers should be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Campers consistently mention the natural beauty and recreational access as highlights of the area. The Davidson River provides swimming opportunities directly adjacent to some campgrounds, while nearby waterfalls attract visitors throughout the season. Several reviews indicate that while some campgrounds can become crowded, particularly riverside sites, the outer loops typically offer more seclusion. Proximity to mountain biking and hiking trails makes many of these campgrounds popular base camps for outdoor enthusiasts. Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV campers are common in the region, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Cell service remains limited in many camping areas, with better connectivity available closer to Brevard, making these campgrounds ideal for those seeking a more disconnected outdoor experience while remaining relatively close to town amenities.

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Best Camping Sites Near Pisgah Forest, North Carolina (496)

    1. Davidson River Campground

    83 Reviews
    Pisgah Forest, NC
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 785-5337

    $37 - $84 / night

    "Great location in the Pisgah Forest and also close to Dupont Forest. We will definitely return."

    "Located in the heart of Pisgah Forest within the town limits of Brevard NC adjacent to the Davidson River."

    2. Mount Pisgah Campground

    41 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 648-2644

    $30 / night

    "We decided to escape the heat and head for one of the “cooler” campgrounds in western North Carolina for a weekend. Mt Pisgah Campground is at an elevation of roughly 5300’."

    "Pisgah National Forest on the outskirts of Asheville, NC is a must stop for all ages."

    3. Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina

    63 Reviews
    Enka, NC
    16 miles
    +1 (828) 552-8040

    $37 - $135 / night

    "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"

    4. Table Rock State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    Sunset, SC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 878-9813

    "The alternatives #5 and #6 were close to the entrance and therefore exposed to the road, and #49 was next to the restrooms, but similar to #60, so stayed with #60."

    "One drawback is that from the campground there is no easy access to the lake- you can either drive and park (and hope to find parking) or walk on a busy road . "

    5. North Mills River

    26 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 552-8040

    $31 - $62 / night

    "Small campground, but there are free off road sites not too far down the road. Cell service disappears but I love that kind of disconnect."

    "State stocked river is close by for trout fishing, and the bathrooms are always clean being for what they are."

    6. Black Forest Family Camping Resort

    18 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, NC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 884-2267

    "The cabins have electricity, but the water pump is outside and the bathrooms and showers are communal (but clean). There is a full size bed and two bunk beds in each one."

    "Very clean,natural, beautiful trees , and a nice location. It is run by a very nice family. We were close to amazing waterfalls and hikes in DuPont forest."

    7. Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground

    10 Reviews
    Pisgah Forest, NC
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 577-4558

    $32 - $71 / night

    "**
    The location is incredible!"

    "A little close to neighbors but not too bad. Some sites in Riverbend offer more privacy. Can’t beat location, mountain bike trails easily rideable from campground."

    8. Jones Gap State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, NC
    12 miles
    Website

    "This campground has 19 trail side sites that are all great and not far from the Middle Saluda River which runs through the middle of the park."

    "I used site 7 because an oncoming storm made me bug out of my trailside plans. Gorgeous site, a bit chilly by the river but beautiful and close enough to still use the park bathrooms!"

    9. Lazy J Campground

    12 Reviews
    Rosman, NC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 966-3834

    $20 / night

    "We fished right next to our camp site and then relaxed with a camp fire listening to the sound of the River."

    "We were looking for a place that was wooded and near a river or stream and lucked up at Lazy J. The staff answered our call right away and were both friendly and informative."

    10. Rutledge Lake RV Resort

    19 Reviews
    Fletcher, NC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 654-7873

    "Easy off the highway but far enough to be quiet. Lots of dining options close by"

    "campground was decent Fishing pond has a lot of ducks and seaweed

    Laundry room was nice and large - easy and quick to get 3 loads done

    Waterfront site was fairly level and loved being able to walk"

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Recent Camping Photos near Pisgah Forest, NC

1149 Photos of 496 Pisgah Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Pisgah Forest, NC

2305 Reviews of 496 Pisgah Forest Campgrounds

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Fern Cove — Black Rock Mountain State Park

    Beautiful park but steep slope up

    Black Rock is beautiful but hard on some transmissions. There is a long steep slope up the mountain and it is common for transmissions to over heat. So much so that there is an auto shop at the base of the mountain. The road up is narrow and twisty. I have seen some larger rigs up here but most are smaller. If u can make it, it is worth the journey. Lots of hiking trails for different levels. Clean facilities, friendly hosts. WiFi is available at the trading post. Nice place to sit and rock.incredible views. Have visited in April, may, June, and October. Usually stay on site 6. Later spring into summer had more poison ivy on trails.

  • Alexander C.
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Riley Moore Falls Campsite

    Best night sleep

    Such a great place to spend the night. I took my hammock and spent the night listening to the waterfall and nature. Sky was clear and bright with stars. I risked it and chose no fly tonight just to take in the view. Perfect weather. Met alot of interesting and hopefully new friends.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Mount Pisgah Campground

    October camping experience

    Well I checked when peak leaf season was supposed to occur and what to expect from temperatures. I also appreciate information from those that camped here. We were in site B26 interior of the loop. Unfortunately we weren’t able to get outside loop from the showers to the end. Interior from the showers to site 21 were okay. Ours on the other hand was one of the worst we’ve had. You had a steep 7 step down to picknick table and firepit. It was also in a low sumac shrub area that had a distinct smell. Campground was clean and facilities were well maintained. NPS staff were present despite the current shutdown in Washington! Limited cell service at the site. Best just up the parkway to the Mt. Pisgah picnic area parking lot.

    While we did hit peak color, I didn’t think that the cold front would be as intense. 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!

  • Katie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Upper Cove Creek - UCC2 Dispersed

    Okay spot

    Avery Road was closed so we ended up here. Not a whole lot of sites in the forest here. This site was fine, nothing special, but nothing bad. There’s a shallow creek that runs next to this spot.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Grumpy Bear Campground

    Nice but small

    The attraction here is the river. It is absolutely gorgeous. Riverside are small and close together.

  • s
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Creekwood Farm RV Park

    Great RV Park

    This park is conveniently located between Maggie Valley and Waynesville with access to lots of western NC attractions. The staff is excellent and cares about the campers' experience here.

  • s
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Pride RV Resort

    Excellent RV Park. The staff is great and hospitable.

    The staff here care about the campground and put their best effort towards being hospitable to the guests.

  • Tyler I.
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Orchard Lake Campground

    Always Welcoming

    Owners are great and very helpful, sites are always clean and welcoming!

Guide to Pisgah Forest

Camping near Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures and serene nature experiences. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot for families, solo adventurers, and RV enthusiasts alike.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area, including the Art Loeb Trail. One camper mentioned, “Davidson River Campground is perfectly situated for outdoor activities, plenty of hiking... all within a stone's throw from camp.”
  • Fishing: The rivers and lakes around the campgrounds are great for fishing. A reviewer at Lake Powhatan noted, “Crystal clear water allowed us to look at the schools of fish swimming with us.”
  • Mountain Biking: The area is known for its biking trails. A visitor at Oconee State Park shared, “We were able to access multiple mountain biking and hiking trails directly from the campsite.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. One happy camper at Lake Powhatan said, “The bathrooms were some of the cleanest we've seen.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Davidson River Campground remarked, “Every time I go, it’s always clean and quiet.”
  • Proximity to Attractions: Being close to towns like Brevard is a plus. A visitor noted, “It is also within 5 minutes to Brevard and breweries in the area.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Cataloochee Campground advised, “There isn’t cell service, so be sure to plan your next move before you head in for the evening.”
  • Crowded Sites: Some campgrounds can feel cramped. A reviewer at Mount Pisgah Campground mentioned, “The only thing I didn't care for was how close the campsites are, virtually no privacy.”
  • Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see wildlife, including bears and elk. A visitor at Cataloochee Campground shared, “We saw elk and turkeys during our stay. A young bull even ran through our campsite!”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A parent at Asheville East KOA said, “There is a pool, playground, gaga ball pit, and fishing.”
  • Plan for Trash: Some areas can get littered. A camper at Devils Fork State Park noted, “There were far too many people with carelessness leaving trash...”
  • Bring Entertainment: Since some campgrounds are remote, pack games or books for downtime. A visitor at Mama Gertie's Hideaway mentioned, “Not much to do there, but the view at tier three is amazing.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A reviewer at Asheville East KOA warned, “Section A was extremely tight for navigating, parking, and camping.”
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Trains can be loud near some campgrounds. A visitor at Asheville East KOA noted, “Trains come through near the park at all hours of the day and night.”
  • Dump Stations: Make sure to check for dump stations before you arrive. A camper at Lake Powhatan mentioned, “Dumpsters were within walking distance, which was nice.”

Camping near Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but being prepared can make your experience even better!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free camping in Pisgah National Forest?

Free dispersed camping is available throughout Pisgah National Forest, with several notable options. Henderson Reservoir Dispersed Site #1 offers primitive camping with access to Wash Creek, though be aware of wildlife activity including bears. Another option is Mills River Dispersed, though portions along Yellow Gap Road may have access restrictions due to storm damage. When dispersed camping, remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, camp at least 100 feet from water sources, and stay in previously used sites. No permits are required for dispersed camping, but stays are typically limited to 14 days in a 30-day period.

What are the best hiking trails near camping areas in Pisgah Forest?

Pisgah Forest offers exceptional hiking opportunities near its campgrounds. Staying at Curtis Creek Campground puts you near numerous waterfall hikes that showcase the forest's natural beauty, particularly stunning during fall foliage season. For a perfect basecamp to access premium mountain trails, Davidson River Campground is ideally situated for both casual and advanced hikers, with direct access to trails within the campground and connections to the extensive Pisgah trail network. The area is renowned for its diverse terrain, ranging from gentle riverside walks to challenging mountain ascents, making it suitable for all experience levels.

Do I need permits for camping in Pisgah Forest?

For developed campgrounds in Pisgah Forest like Indian Creek Campground, reservations serve as your permit and can be made through recreation.gov or by contacting the campground directly. At private locations such as Pisgah Forest Mountain Meadows, arrangements are made with the property owner. No special permits are required for dispersed camping in general forest areas, but you must follow forest regulations including proper waste disposal and campfire restrictions. Group camping and special events may require additional permits. Always check current regulations with the Pisgah Ranger District before your trip, as requirements may change seasonally.

When is the best time of year to camp in Pisgah Forest?

Late spring through early fall offers the most pleasant camping conditions in Pisgah Forest, with summer being peak season. For a uniquely beautiful experience, consider camping at Greenheart Forest during fall when the meditation gardens and surrounding forest showcase spectacular autumn colors. If you prefer fewer crowds, target late April to early June or September to mid-October when temperatures are mild but campgrounds like Smokemont Campground are less crowded. Winter camping is possible at some locations but requires proper cold-weather gear. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, so verify opening dates before planning your trip.

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