S
Stephanie K.
Scout
ScoutRiverside Motel and Campground
The creek is the best
The main road can be quite noisy. Though the local authorities do what they can to keep it down. The creek is by far the best thing about the campground.
Camping near Penrose, NC
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Penrose, North Carolina serves as a gateway to multiple campgrounds in the surrounding mountain region, with Davidson River Campground and Lake Powhatan offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations within a short drive. The area features a mix of developed campgrounds supporting tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin accommodations. Most campgrounds in this mountainous region provide access to hiking trails, waterways, and scenic forest settings. Davidson River Campground, located in Pisgah Forest, offers electric hookups and tent sites along the river, while Lake Powhatan near Asheville provides more extensive amenities including sewer hookups for RVs and yurt options.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the Penrose area, with most campgrounds operating from spring through fall. Davidson River Campground typically operates from March 15 to November 1, while Mount Pisgah Campground runs from May through October. "The elevation in the area makes this a great place to go during the heat of summer," noted one visitor about nearby Van Hook Glade. Weather patterns in the mountains can change rapidly, with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak season weekends and holidays. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage at campgrounds closer to towns like Brevard and Asheville.
Campers consistently mention the water features as highlights of the region's camping experience. Davidson River receives praise for its riverside sites that provide natural sound barriers between campsites. "The rhythmic sounds of the river offered sound sleep all night," according to one review. The campgrounds near Penrose are ideal for both novice and experienced campers seeking accessible outdoor recreation in western North Carolina's beautiful mountain landscape. The campgrounds in this area are generally well-maintained with clean facilities, though some visitors note that sites can be close together in certain loops. Wildlife sightings, including bears, are reported in several campgrounds, necessitating proper food storage. The mixed-use campgrounds throughout the region balance accessibility with natural settings, offering varying levels of privacy depending on the specific site. Most developed campgrounds provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to potable water, with many featuring shower facilities during the operating season.
Best Campgrounds near Penrose (496)
1. Davidson River Campground
"Once again, interested in checking out as many waterfalls and cascades we could locate, the water flow will be so much more dramatic amidst heavy rainfall."
"We had a quick nights stay in Davidson River Campground after picking up our new SylvanSport GO tent trailer in nearby Brevard, North Carolina."
from $37 - $84 / night
Check Availability2. Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina
"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"
from $37 - $135 / night
Check Availability3. Mount Pisgah Campground
"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."
from $30 / night
Check Availability4. North Mills River
"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."
from $31 - $62 / night
Check Availability5. Table Rock State Park Campground
"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 . "
6. Black Forest Family Camping Resort
"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. Jones Gap State Park Campground
"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!"
8. Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground
"**
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."
from $32 - $71 / night
Check Availability9. Rutledge Lake RV Resort
"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"
10. The Bike Farm
"If what you are looking for is a great place to get out in nature and get away from the crowds you’re in the right spot."
"The trail system is awesome. It’s super nice being able to bike straight from your camp and go ride. The out door showers are bad ass as well! Such a cool environment."
from $24 - $110 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 32 min from Asheville, NC
- 1 hr 5 min from Greenville, SC
- 1 hr 5 min from Spartanburg, SC
Recent Camping Photos near Penrose, NC
967 Photos of 496 Penrose Campgrounds
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Myron C.
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David C.
The Bike Farm
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Davidson River Campground
ANGELA
Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground
Myron C.
Avery Creek Roadside Camping
Dupont B.
DuPont Bike Retreat
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Pisgah National Forest Kuykendall Group Campground
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475b
Valerie A.
North Mills River
kristine F.
Black Forest Family Camping Resort
Recent Reviews near Penrose, NC
2225 Reviews of 496 Penrose Campgrounds
Rachael F.
Travelerwash Creek Dispersed Campsite #3
Be aware of your neighbors
If I was reviewing for just the location and how beautiful it was I’d give a 4 stars for a dispersed campsite however your neighbors do impact your experience.
The site itself I really loved. I was about 200 -300 feet from where you park your car right off the road (the roads by the way are definitely passable by most vehicles but keep in mind I was there in May). While there was alot of traffic going by (cars and bicyclists) the way it was set up it gave more privacy than most especially if you put your tent in the right place.
It was nice to have some distance between the car and the campsite with the large black bear population. Highly recommend keeping all food far from your site and washing any dishes as far from where you sleep as much as you can. Also keep all soaps, perfumes, or toiletries out if your tent. That also attracts.
Wash creek was close by. So accessing water for filtering for use was very easy. I used a 0.01 Micron, 6-Stage, portable BKLES (BKLES Camping Water Filter –... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGLHX2JK?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share) for the two weeks and had no health issues or otherwise. The water tasted great.
There was a hiking trail that was between the site and the path to the creek. I never saw anyone while I was there (2 weeks) but it’s something to consider if your a solo camper as other campers could easily travel it to access your site without you being aware. I had Portable Outdoor Perimeter Alarm... (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FXGJRD2K?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share) to keep me safe and alert at night which I can’t recommend enough. It ended up saving my life. Towards the end of my stay for the first time all four alarm sensors put in several different places yards apart were going off. It continued off and on for over an hour. I did not risk opening my tent to see what it was.
I decided to go to an air bnb the next night. when I returned my tent was riped in several places and my dewalt tool box I was using for storage had what looked like puncture marks and was opened (full disclosure - I forgot I had some dried chick peas in it). Pretty safe to assume I was visited by a bear. I went back to the air bnb waiting for things to dry up before packing.
Upon returning items were stolen. A few things were taken with a note from a nearby camper with his cell (no name ?) letting me know he was keeping them safe for me. When I was at the site inspecting things he showed up. Was nice enough and did return some of my items but my portable firepit and large propane tank were gone.
Granted I had left the site unattended for a few days after the seeing my tent ripped up and was waiting for things to dry (as it had been raining for several days) before packing. Having said this the stolen items could have been because the more permanent folks living in the area thought I had just abandoned my things. I’ll leave it up to you to decide.
So while the spot itself was profoundly beautiful the neighbors add an element that should be considered in your decision to come.
On a positive note, I did see blue ghost fireflies several nights during my stay. I Eastern Tiger Swallowtails two days in a row my site had maybe 50-100 right next to my tent. Then the Spicebush Swallowtail, and Azures decided to join. One day a cardinal sat right on the rock in the middle of the campsite 10 feet from me. If you love rocks like I do be prepared for some really truly beautiful gems (pun intended) if you go wading in the creek. I forgot to mention I accidentally caught a fish when trying to fill my bucket up in the evening (how did it taste? Well, unfortunately I don’t have the skills to prep fish like that so I quickly released it but tells you a bit about the water nearby 🌞)
- AAngelique B.Scout
Elk Valley Farm RV Park
Perfect Home Base for Exploring Western North Carolina
We stayed for a month in Site 27 with our 40’ Brinkley fifth wheel, our tow vehicle, and a follow-behind Toyota Highlander. The site easily accommodated all of it without feeling cramped.
Elk Valley Farm RV Park made the perfect home base for exploring western North Carolina. It’s conveniently located near grocery stores, restaurants, and some wonderful hiking, and it’s an easy drive to Cherokee, Bryson City, Sylva, Franklin, and other nearby towns.
The sites include sturdy picnic tables and nice fire rings with attached cooking shelves.
Some sites also feature paved patios.The campground is new and still expanding, but it’s already a great place to stay. The only amenity we missed was on-site laundry, but Heather and Jeff told us they’re planning to add a laundry room, which will make longer stays even better.
Heather and Jeff are wonderful owners—kind, friendly, flexible, and genuinely committed to making sure their guests have a great experience. You can tell they care about the campground and the people who stay there.
As an added bonus, Angry Elk Brewing right at the entrance to the RV park is absolutely worth a visit. Great beer, delicious food, and so convenient after a day of exploring.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and wouldn’t hesitate to return the next time we’re in the area.
- BBob B.
GuideTable Rock State Park Campground
White Oak Campground
Semi private campground, super clean bathrooms, cell signal is spotty and there are no trails or water nearby. So, some pluses and some minuses. Also, although our campsite was level (unlike some), it was quite muddy and the utility hookups and fire ring were on opposite sides of where they should be.
- KKane G.Traveler
Weaver Bend Road
Great riverside spot
Overall, a decent dispersed camping spot. I saw and heard no one my entire time at this spot. It’s right on the river which is great. The drive in is mostly paved, but a little narrow. Please pack your trash out though. It seems like no matter the state I camp in, people leave their trash. This site was particularly bad. It’s good to go now, but bring a bag and leave it nicer than you found it.
- CColin G.Scout
Sunburst Campground
Parking Lot
Absolutely zero provide or trees between sites. Might as well be in an RV lot. Reserved a site and immediately left after getting there.
- KKim Q.Scout
Moonshine Creek Campground
Didn’t want to leave
Just what I needed to unwind. Large tent site with a shelter, picnic table and fire ring. Rhododendrons and trees surround the campground. Creek bubbling and birds singing. Quiet campers during our visit. Clean bath house.
- JJeannie B.Scout
Red Gates RV Park
It’s clean and convenient 🤷🏻♀️
Red gates campground is pretty, clean and in a convenient place for what we need. It is full hook up, but also provides bath house and Pay as you go laundry facilities. However, tear is little to no privacy at any of the sites. If you’re looking to make this a destination camp ground, you will be disappointed. But it is a great spot to stay as a base to explore around western North Carolina.
- Kathy G.Scout
Weaver Bend Road
Dispersed camping along the French broad river
We found the the best spot we have ever stayed. Big sandy beach down a 100 foot decline. Parked at the top where there is a fire ring and nice size flat spot for a small camper or truck set up like we had. Very secluded. Can’t believe we got this spot. So thankful. Pack it in pack it out
Guide to Penrose
Camping sites near Penrose, North Carolina provide access to the southern Appalachian Mountain ecosystem at elevations between 2,100-5,000 feet. These mountains receive significant rainfall of approximately 80 inches annually, creating lush forests and numerous water features for campers to enjoy. Weather patterns shift quickly in this region, with temperature differences of 10-15 degrees between valley floors and mountain peaks even within short distances.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: Mills River Campground offers excellent access to trout fishing areas. "This is a great campsite if you like fishing! We stayed here and were close to some amazing spots to fish! The campsite was great, not very crowded," notes a visitor to North Mills River.
Mountain biking trails: Access numerous trail systems directly from your campsite. "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," according to a review from Davidson River Campground.
Waterfall exploration: Several campgrounds serve as baselines for waterfall hikes. "There are miles and miles of hiking/running and mountain biking trails in the surrounding area, as well as numerous waterfalls. The campground is less than a mile from The Hub bike shop/Pisgah Tavern," reports a camper at Davidson River Campground.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Many campers appreciate waterfront camping options. One visitor to North Mills River shares, "We were the only campers there. It was very quiet. The stream ran right by the campsite so listening to the stream as we went to bed was wonderful."
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "Spacious sites arranged for privacy. Over 5000 ft in elevation which means cool nights in Summer. Trees all around for privacy," explains a review for Mount Pisgah Campground.
Proximity to towns: Campers value the balance between seclusion and access to amenities. A visitor to Lake Powhatan notes, "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."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill up during peak seasons. A camper at Davidson River advises, "This area has become over run with tourists and the 'free' campsites have mostly been comandeered by squatters who rotate from site to site every 14 days. The campground has a great river to swim in and is close to Brevard and Asheville but reservations are recommended."
Bear activity: Multiple campgrounds report bear sightings, requiring proper food storage. "Bears occasionally enter campground but I have never had trouble with them. Keep all food secure in bear box provided at each site," shares a camper at Mount Pisgah Campground.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "No Cell Reception at the campground but they have WiFi. The WiFi can only be accessed from a few places," notes a visitor to Black Forest Family Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with safe water access. "We spent some time in the lake, on hiking trails, and in town," mentions a Lake Powhatan visitor, while another notes it "has a great beach and lots of hiking and mountain bike trails."
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific activities for children. A camper at Black Forest Camping Resort shares, "They do lots of things for kids like ice cream socials. They have a little shop in case you forget some necessities."
Short hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature trails manageable for younger hikers. A visitor to Jones Gap State Park recommends, "This is a good campsite for 1st time backpackers. The site is approximately 1 mile from the state park office. The trail is moderately difficult with lots of rocks."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with appropriate hookups for your needs. "There are no hookups on this site. So be sure you have a generator! One bonus on the location of this site is the water access just feet away," advises an RVer at Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground.
Leveling challenges: Many mountain campsites require leveling equipment. "Sites are all gravel. We have hammocked camped here, and this last trip, I camped in my Motorcycle trailer. You will likely need to level anything you bring," notes a camper at Black Forest Family Camping Resort.
Dump station access: Verify facilities before arrival as options vary. "I rated a 4 star because the dump site is very tight, and lacking. That was the only thing on this campground I feel needed some work," shares an RVer at Pisgah National Forest Davidson River Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Penrose, NC?
What camping is available near Penrose, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, Penrose, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 496 campgrounds and RV parks near Penrose, NC and 44 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Penrose, NC?
Which is the most popular campground near Penrose, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Penrose, NC is Davidson River Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 82 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Penrose, NC?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Penrose, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 44 free dispersed camping spots near Penrose, NC.
What parks are near Penrose, NC?
What parks are near Penrose, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 parks near Penrose, NC that allow camping, notably National Forests in North Carolina and Pisgah National Forest.
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