Tent camping in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina ranges from primitive backcountry sites to more established walk-in areas situated between 2,000-5,000 feet elevation. The region experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows regularly dropping below freezing. Campsites in this mountainous terrain often feature uneven ground that can challenge tent setup, particularly after rainfall when the clay-rich soil becomes slippery.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Courthouse Falls is accessible via a short half-mile hike from the parking area near Courthouse 1 -- Pisgah National Forest. As one camper noted, "I walked past the falls because I heard the water but didn't see the falls because of all the dense foliage... If I ever go back, I will try to find that trail [to the base]."
Morning fishing: South Saluda River at Jones Gap State Park Campground provides excellent trout fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites. A regular visitor shared, "The rushing river and dense foliage with mountain laurel makes the air seem so fresh. I love just coming here and hiking upstream and playing in the river."
Family hiking: Falls Creek Trail is suitable for various skill levels. A visitor reported, "We did a short day hike to check out the camp sites and look at the waterfalls. The trails and the park are so very well kept up! Was a beautiful day and hike."
Rock hopping: Creek exploration is possible at many sites. One camper at Jones Gap mentioned their Site #8 was "right on the river and a great place to catch some sun on the rocks or rock hop. There are several hike options right from your site including a nice little waterfall."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area Trailside Camping offers secluded camping experiences. A camper described it as having "wonderful trails with breath taking views and technical climbs plus discrete camping. It's a trip I recommend to all of my camping and hiking friends."
Natural sleeping sounds: The flowing water near Blue Ridge Motorcycle Campground creates peaceful ambient noise. A tent camper shared, "Tented along the river and the only thing you could hear was the river. Great sleeping conditions."
Level tent platforms: Many sites offer prepared surfaces. At Jones Gap, a camper mentioned, "As you're in a state park, you have the added benefit of a fire ring and tent pad, but no picnic table. However, unlike other state park campgrounds, each spot is about a quart mile from the next, so you feel like you have the mountain to yourself."
Communal atmosphere: Some campgrounds foster social connections. At Blue Ridge Motorcycle Campground, one visitor described, "At night they set up a camp fire where all visitors can meet and greet, have a beer, or eat some burgers. The place offers a lot. They got a lounge, showers, clean bathrooms, and they have a small kitchen where you can buy some food each night."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Food storage is essential throughout the region. Proper equipment is sometimes provided, as one camper at Cherryfield Creek Luxury Campsite noted: "There are sturdy bear boxes to protect food and trash to help keep unwanted visitors from troubling guests."
Water filtration needs: Most primitive sites lack potable water. A camper at White Pine South Group Camp described a natural water source: "There is a community water source beyond the three sites that you can get water to take back to your site if needed. It's a small trickle waterfall in the edge of the mountain. There's a bit of a bank to climb down to it though."
Seasonal road closures: Winter access can be limited. At White Pine South Group Camp, "There is a gate that gets closed off during winter months that continues up the mountain to more campsites. The spots further up are more private."
Reservation requirements: Many sites need advance booking. One Jones Gap visitor advised, "The park trail was right across the river, might have been a little shyer if I had! Restrooms are clean and well stocked. No trash cans in park; you're expected to LNT your trash out."
Tips for camping with families
Short-distance tent sites: For younger children, choose sites with minimal hiking required. At Jones Gap, a parent shared, "Love the privacy of this spot (#8) which is the closest walk in spot from the Parking area. We were able to hike in a ton of gear (coolers, dog bed, etc (with a little work and a few trips) and it was worth it for the seclusiveness. Having both toddler and dog we knew we couldn't go far but this still felt like we were in the middle of nowhere."
Stream safety considerations: Fast-moving water requires supervision. A camper at Mountain Bridge Wilderness warned, "My word of advice is to not take dogs that can't swim across the river; we saw a few couples who struggled to carry their pooches across the cable."
Difficult trail navigation: Some areas can be challenging. At Looking Glass Trail Head, a hiker noted, "this was a more intermediate trail but the view at the top is unbelievable."
Scout-friendly camping areas: Asbury Hills Summer Camps offers group facilities. A visitor explained, "My favorite thing about the boy/Girl Scout campsites was that it was along a river and was very large. It would be a great campsite for those who have a big group or just like the space."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent camping near Pisgah Forest isn't suitable for larger vehicles. A camper at The Bike Farm warned, "If you're looking for a paved place to park your 30 foot long fifth wheel this isn't it. 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."
Gravel road navigation: Access roads can be challenging. At Courthouse 1, a camper reported, "To get to this camping area, you have to travel down a forest road with a gravel bed... A small RV or travel trailer MIGHT be able to park here, but be aware of the bumpy gravel road."
Seasonal camping limitations: Weather impacts accessibility. Blue Ridge Motorcycle Campground offers alternatives, with a visitor noting, "The tent space is nice, flat, grassy, and well cared for. Sits on a river. Cabins are clean. Showers are hot and clean."