Curtis Creek Campground offers both developed campsites and dispersed camping options in the southern section of Pisgah National Forest. Located near Old Fort at 1,900 feet elevation, the area provides cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, typically 5-10 degrees below nearby towns. The campground sits alongside Curtis Creek with sites positioned on gravel pads amid hardwood forest.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Curtis Creek provides accessible trout fishing directly from campsites. "There are multiple hikes right from the campground that are easily accessible. Curtis Creek's crystal clear waters offer a place to wade after a day of hiking, though owners should watch for slippery rocks," notes one visitor to Black Mountain Campground.
Hiking trails: Several hiking networks connect to camping areas. "You can hike to the stunning Crabtree Falls from the campground... it's about 45 mins to an hr round trip," explains a camper at Crabtree Falls Campground. Another adds, "The biggest draw to this campground is the 2.5-mile loop hike to Crabtree Falls."
Swimming holes: Many campgrounds feature natural swimming spots. "The South Toe River sounds like a perfect spot to relax. I don't mind the lack of cell service—sometimes it's nice to truly unplug," says a camper about Black Mountain Campground. Another visitor at Carolina Hemlocks mentions "Nice tubing put in and a great swimming spot directly in the campground."
What campers like
Peace and quiet: The tranquil environment ranks highly among visitors. "I sat in the creek in my camp chair and was more relaxed than I have been in a very long time," writes a camper at Mountain Stream RV Park. Another notes, "The sound of the stream was so peaceful and relaxing."
Helpful camp hosts: Many campgrounds feature attentive staff. "The camp hosts made sure several times that we had everything we needed," reports a camper at Black Mountain. Another at Montreat Family Campground shares, "Both times the hosts were so kind and attentive if needed but not intrusive at all."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned. "The bathrooms were clean and the showers were hot," notes a Montreat camper. Another adds, "The bathhouse was clean and efficient."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Campground availability varies throughout the year. "We stayed for one night in May and didn't enjoy the experience... it was cold, windy and miserable. We were in the cloud, with strong winds and rain through the night," reports a visitor at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground.
Wildlife encounters: This is active bear territory. "Wildlife sightings are common, so proper food storage is essential—campers must keep pet food secured as bears frequent the area," notes a camper. Another mentions, "You need to keep your food in your car or the bears will get your food!"
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is limited throughout the region. "There is no cell service at the campground, allowing for complete disconnection while camping," one visitor mentions. Another notes, "T-Mobile service is pretty slow."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: River access points require supervision. "My children loved playing at the creek and will try to get a site on that side next time," says a Curtis Creek camper. Another visitor adds, "There is a swimming hole on the South Toe River in the campground just beyond the end of the riverside sites."
Playground options: Several campgrounds include play areas. "There is a playground for the kids and a little fenced in dog park too," notes a visitor at Mountain Stream RV Park. Another camper at Montreat Family Campground highlights it's "right next to a bathhouse, ranger station (firewood), and a playground (while still being tucked away down the path)."
Kid-friendly hikes: Look for shorter trail options with waterfall rewards. "The trail is easier on the second half of the loop, as it was dirt rather than rock. Overall, the view of the waterfall is mesmerizing!" writes a visitor to Crabtree Falls.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on RV size. "Loop A is for RVs while Loop B is for tents," explains a camper at Crabtree Falls Campground. Another notes, "Sites are back-in and pull through on the side of site. Most sites will allow for 30' rigs."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging. "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," says a visitor to Curtis Creek. Another notes, "The road going in was rutted the first time, but had been graded by the time we went the second time."
Hookup availability: Options range from primitive to full-service. "If pulling a camper, don't follow the Bearden sign, go to Linville to get on the parkway and go left. This way you will avoid the steep curvy road going up a mountain," recommends a visitor to Spacious Skies Bear Den.
Traveler
