Pisgah National Forest encompasses more than 500,000 acres of mountainous terrain surrounding Old Fort, North Carolina. Situated at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 5,500 feet, the region experiences cool mountain temperatures even in summer months. Tent campsites in this area often require preparation for variable weather conditions, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly even during warm seasons.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 6-mile roundtrip: Catawba Falls trail offers tent campers a popular day activity near Catawba River. "We stayed at the Catawba River campground which you can park and walk-in to your campsite... The sites down by the water are awesome," reports one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: year-round access: Many tent camping areas near Old Fort provide stream access. At Pisgah National Forest Dispersed, one camper notes, "The fishing there is absolutely beautiful and the trout are pretty plentiful up there."
Mountain biking: extensive trail networks: The area offers numerous biking paths for all skill levels. A camper at Pisgah National Forest Dispersed mentions it's a "Great launch pad for hiking and mountain biking."
Hot mineral soaks: therapeutic option: Located about 35 miles from Old Fort, Hot Springs Campground provides unique relaxation. "The hot springs spa was the best. Can't wait for my next visit," shares one camper.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent camping areas offer good separation. At Black Bear Campground, "Host was great, camp site are far enough away from each other some are close enough for couple families together."
Clean facilities: Maintained bathrooms rank high on camper priorities. One visitor to Black Bear Campground noted, "The restrooms are in immaculate condition."
Multiple water access points: Streams and lakes provide both recreation and practical benefits. A camper at Paradise Ridge Permaculture mentioned, "a short walk to the fresh spring" among the benefits.
Wildlife encounters: The forest setting provides nature observation opportunities. At Paradise Ridge Permaculture, "I like it wild, I like to still invite animals that have always crossed our path. All of which are more afraid of us and will run or saunder off when seen."
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain conditions can change rapidly. At Maple Camp Bald, one camper advised, "We got lucky with great weather in early March. Having followed the weather for a bit after going, I think I'd be planning for April if we did it again."
Limited cell service: Most tent campsites lack connectivity. One camper noted about Briar Bottom Group Campground, "The campground doesn't have any cell reception! The closest place where you can connect to the internet is the golf course, or the general store on HW80."
Water sources vary by location: Not all sites have developed water systems. A visitor to Maple Camp Bald mentioned, "0.4 miles from the bald is a nice water source."
Fire restrictions: Rules may change seasonally. At Pisgah National Forest Dispersed, campers can expect "Free sites, first come first serve... Great launch pad for hiking and mountain biking."
Tips for camping with families
Sheltered picnic areas: weather protection: Multiple campgrounds offer covered eating spaces. At Briar Bottom Group Campground, "Each campsite has a huge covered shelter with a number of picnic tables underneath, which is super nice in the rain."
Wildlife safety education: bear awareness: Children need supervision around wildlife areas. A Briar Bottom visitor advises, "Make sure to lock up all your food the black bears will come take it if not."
Short hike options: kid-friendly trails: Numerous easy paths exist for families. One camper reported, "Setrock Creek Falls - a nice waterfall just a few steps away from the campground."
Educational opportunities: farm experiences: Some sites offer unique learning experiences. At Mila's Bunny Farm, visitors can experience tent camping while learning about farm animals.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas don't accommodate larger vehicles. At Paddy's Creek, "All the tent pads except for the ranger seemed to have one or two stairs from the parking spot, so I'm not sure it could be managed with any kind of camper."
Better accessibility at established sites: Some campgrounds offer more RV-friendly options. At Hot Springs Campground, one visitor noted, "Nice clean gated park. Nice big spots. Only 3 fifty amp full hook up sites. Lots of 30 amp and tent camping."
Partial hookups available: Water and electric connections can be found at select locations. Hot Springs Campground provides "Dirt site by the River all hook ups. They also have small cabins and tent sites."
Proximity to amenities: Some campgrounds balance natural settings with conveniences. A Hot Springs camper mentioned it's "Walking distance to trails and town. Spa with hot spring hot tubs across the street."
