Camping near Pisgah National Forest
Camping opportunities around Pisgah National Forest span from developed campgrounds to primitive sites in the scenic western North Carolina mountains. Curtis Creek Campground offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with sites situated along a crystal-clear creek, while Black Mountain Campground provides access to hiking trails and the Mount Mitchell area. Several campgrounds in the area feature both standard developed sites and walk-in tent areas, creating options for different camping styles. The region includes established RV parks with hookups at locations like Asheville East KOA and Mountain Stream RV Park, as well as more rustic Forest Service camping areas.
Road access varies significantly throughout the Pisgah region, with some campgrounds requiring travel on gravel roads with narrow bridges. "The road up to the mountain was gravel but our Jeep did just fine and we saw smaller cars at the campground so even though the road might seem sketchy I think most cars can make it," noted one camper about Curtis Creek. Most campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from April through October or November, though a few remain open year-round. Cell service is limited or non-existent at many camping areas, particularly those deeper in the forest. Elevation changes affect both temperatures and road conditions, with higher elevation campgrounds experiencing cooler nights even during summer months. Water sources are plentiful but require proper filtration for drinking at primitive sites.
Riverside camping receives consistently positive reviews, with campers specifically mentioning the soothing sounds of Curtis Creek as a highlight of their experience. Many camping areas provide direct water access for cooling off during hot summer days, though visitors note the mountain streams remain cold even in peak season. Wildlife sightings, particularly bears, are common enough that proper food storage is strictly enforced at all camping areas. The dense forest canopy provides ample shade at most campgrounds, creating comfortable camping conditions. Several reviewers mentioned the quality of nearby hiking trails accessible directly from campgrounds. For those seeking solitude, the dispersed camping areas north of developed campgrounds often provide more privacy than the closely situated sites within established campgrounds, though they come with fewer amenities.
