Pisgah National Forest camping elevates into higher elevations that create cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with sites ranging from 2,000 to over 5,000 feet. The forest spans more than 500,000 acres across western North Carolina with camping areas distributed throughout the Grandfather, Appalachian, and Pisgah Ranger Districts. Fall temperatures often drop below 45°F at night even when daytime reaches 70°F.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: 45 minutes to Crabtree Falls from the Blue Ridge Parkway campground at milepost 339.5. "There's a great 2.5 mile hike to Crabtree falls within the campground," notes Brittany M. about Crabtree Falls Campground. The trail makes a loop with varying terrain.
Fish for trout: Many campsites offer direct creek access for fishing. "Beautiful level sites backed right up to Buck Creek where we enjoyed catching trout straight from our campsite," explains Megan M. about her experience at Mountain Stream RV Park. Remember the streams are catch-and-release in many areas.
Stargazing: Higher elevation sites provide exceptional night sky viewing due to limited light pollution. "Our first night on this trip, the sky was clear and we could see the milky way!" reports Erin D. about the views from Mount Mitchell State Park Campground.
Swimming in mountain streams: Several campgrounds feature natural swimming areas. The Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area offers "nice tubing put in and a great swimming spot directly in the campground," according to Michael H., though water stays cold throughout the summer.
What campers like
Riverfront sites: Campsites alongside creeks are consistently rated highest. "The sound of the stream was so peaceful and relaxing. My husband did yoga every morning while I hung in my hammock and watched," shares Barbara S. about her stay at Mountain Stream RV Park.
Cooler summer temperatures: Higher elevation camping provides relief from summer heat. "We left home and the temperate was well into the high 90's, however the temperate on top of the mountain never came above 62!" explains Erin D. about camping at Mount Mitchell.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds with well-maintained bathhouses receive top ratings. "The bathhouse is clean and adequate, but nothing fancy," notes Lee D. about Crabtree Falls Campground, while Anjanel P. reports that at Montreat Family Campground, "the bathrooms were clean and the showers were hot."
Privacy between sites: Campers value separation between sites. "Sites are enormous with lots of privacy, good spacing between. For tents, there are some very nice sites along the creek. Extremely peaceful," writes Desiree B. about her experience at Montreat Family Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. "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," explains Nancy C. about Curtis Creek Campground. Plan appropriate vehicle access.
Weather changes rapidly: Mountain microclimates create unpredictable conditions. "Wind gusts easily get into the double digits, and if you aren't prepared for that, it can be alarming, especially while tent camping," warns Erin D. about Mount Mitchell State Park Campground.
Limited cell service: Most forest campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "There is no cell service on T-Mobile or Verizon inside the camp," explains Scott K. about Black Mountain Campground, while others note spotty service throughout the forest.
Tent pad sizes vary: Some campgrounds have restrictions on where tents can be placed. "Tent pads are small... and you must keep tents on the pad so if you have a large family sized tent the pad may not accommodate," cautions Melissa W. about Crabtree Falls Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some Pisgah area campgrounds offer activities for children. "Very large sites and the staff are very helpful. A lot of activities for everyone to enjoy," reports Teresa S. about Asheville East KOA, which offers amenities like "bike, kayak, canoe rentals for use on property."
Select sites away from roads: For safety with small children, interior sites are better. "We stayed in site #8 and were overjoyed with our choice. The campsite was nestled within the forest and was right next to the cool water of Flat Creek," explains Chad K. about his family's stay at Montreat Family Campground.
Pack for temperature changes: Mountain elevations mean significant day/night temperature swings. "If you are looking for camping around Mount Mitchell, check out Black Mountain Family Campground at the base of the mountain," suggests Katy S., noting that temperatures are more moderate at lower elevations.
Visit during weekdays: Family campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. "It's tough to get a spot as first come first serve on the weekends, so be aware," notes Alexis about Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Measure sites before booking: Many forest campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "We have a 25' C and have stayed here 3-4 times, mostly in the A loop and we love it every time," reports Amy M. about her experience at Asheville East KOA, noting that electric hookups are important for extended stays.
Check road access carefully: Many campgrounds have challenging approaches. "The roads are uphill and a little narrow, but nothing too difficult if you go slow. Our site was level so easy to pull up and set up smoothly," explains Julia M. about Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground.
Book upper elevation sites early: The most desirable RV sites with views book months ahead. "There are mountaintop sides with big patios that hang over the mountain top and have incredible views," notes Samantha B. about Mama Gertie's, though these premium sites often lack shade.
Bring leveling blocks: Mountain campsites are rarely perfectly level. "The sites are a little tight on a hillside, but the pad is kept up well with large gravel and is compact and level," reports Joan about her experience at Mama Gertie's.
