Camping spots near Barnardsville, North Carolina range from primitive dispersed camping areas to established campgrounds with full amenities. The region sits at elevations between 2,100 and 6,600 feet, creating distinct microclimates that can vary dramatically even within short distances. During summer months, temperatures at higher elevation sites like Mount Mitchell can be 15-20 degrees cooler than valley locations, making them popular refuges during heat waves.
What to do
Creek exploration: Black Mountain Campground offers excellent access to the South Toe River with multiple swimming holes. "The 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," notes a camper.
Waterfall hikes: Mount Mitchell State Park Campground serves as a gateway to numerous waterfall trails. A visitor reports, "There is a nice trail to SetRock Falls, right on the campground property...and several other foot trails to keep you busy and hiking."
Sunrise viewing: Montreat Family Campground places you near excellent dawn vantage points. "We were on a hunt to see the wonderful creations. Our maker made and if they were in a stream, we found them," shares one camper about their nature exploration experience.
Mountain biking: Lake Powhatan connects to popular cycling routes. "Lots of trails including several that are popular with mountain bikers on the road into camp," notes a recent visitor.
What campers like
Stream-side camping: Montreat Family Campground features sites along Flat Creek that provide natural white noise. "The campsites are very nice and roomy. The bathrooms and showers are always clean and good taken care of," writes one camper. Another adds, "The sites alone made you feel like you were backcountry camping. Secluded, with privacy."
Elevated views: Campfire Lodgings offers panoramic mountain vistas. "The best part was coming back and sitting in the lounge chairs overlooking the valley each night for sunset," shares one visitor. Another notes, "The campground is situated on a mountainside overlooking the French Broad river."
Clean facilities: Black Mountain Campground maintains immaculate shower houses. "The hosts do a marvelous job of keeping this campground spotless and attractive. Three different couples work tirelessly to provide a great camping experience for all-comers," writes one reviewer.
Riverside relaxation: Camp Driftwood places campers directly next to flowing water. "The French Broad is literally right in front of your campsites. Very peaceful and clean setting," reports a camper.
What you should know
Bear activity: Pisgah National Forest Dispersed requires proper food storage. "Just please pick up your trash after yourselves and for the love of god don't go throwing beer cans and bottles down the hills from your campsites," warns one regular visitor who found wildlife harmed by trash.
Weather fluctuations: Mount Mitchell experiences dramatic climate shifts. "The night we spent there was cold, windy and miserable. We were in the cloud, with strong winds and rain through the night, with no trees to protect from the wind," reports one camper about conditions at 6,684 feet elevation.
Road conditions: Access to Curtis Creek Campground requires navigating forest roads. "The road is a little rough to get there, but even a car should have no problems - just might need to dodge a few potholes," notes a visitor.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited connectivity. A Lake Powhatan visitor mentions, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds nearby: Black Mountain Campground offers recreational areas for children. "There is a huge playground and ball field at the campground," notes one family. The campground's location also provides easy access to hiking trails suitable for different ages.
Swimming options: Lake Powhatan includes a beach area ideal for kids. "It had a great beach and lots of hiking and mountain bike trails," reports a family camper, though another notes "the lake is underwhelming—but still nice."
Educational opportunities: Montreat Family Campground connects to nature programs. "You can participate in the colleges nature programs or wilderness adventure classes, attend lectures workshops or conferences at the college or conference center," mentions a visitor.
Kid-friendly site selection: Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground requires careful planning with children. "When we were checking in, there was a sign at the front desk saying we couldn't leave our dog in our camper, which was a surprise," notes one family, highlighting the importance of checking specific rules.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground requires navigating steep roads. "The road to get there is steep but obviously doable even with our 38' gas MH," notes an RV owner. Another cautions, "The roads are uphill and a little narrow, but nothing too difficult if you go slow."
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require careful positioning. A Curtis Creek Campground visitor warns, "Parking spot was also quite slanted up on the hill, which was fine for my truck but may not be ideal if you are sleeping in your vehicle!"
Hookup availability: Asheville East KOA offers various utility connections. "Full hook ups available, some with cable. The stream and lake are beautiful," reports one RV camper.
Spacing considerations: RV sites vary in privacy across campgrounds. At Campfire Lodgings, "The premium RV sites have the awesome views," but campers should know that many campgrounds in the area have sites close together.
