Tent camping near Purlear, North Carolina offers seasonal camping at elevations between 1,200 and 3,600 feet, creating temperature variations of 10-15 degrees from surrounding lowlands. The Wilson Creek area south of Purlear contains a National Wild and Scenic River with class III-IV rapids for paddling enthusiasts. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop into the 20s at night.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 0.5-mile hike from Mortimer Campground leads to a small waterfall accessible for all skill levels. A camper noted, "Beautiful, clean grounds with access to a 1/2 mile round trip hike to a waterfall on the property!"
Creek tubing: 3-mile stretch near Mortimer Campground provides natural lazy river experiences during summer months. "There is a spot nearby where a lot of people like to float on tubes kind of like a lazy river type thing. It's a unique place," shares one visitor.
Fishing at multiple locations: Stock up at local bait shops before heading to remote camping areas. A camper at Blue Bear Mountain Camp reported, "We caught a trout in the pond right away."
Mountain biking: 13-mile trail begins at the W. Kerr Scott Visitor Center on the Overmountain Victory Trail. "Great trails for all levels of mt bikers. About 13 miles one way and return to visitors center," notes a rider.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution at higher elevations provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. A guest at River Livin' emphasized the boat-in camping experience that offers complete isolation for night sky viewing.
Cooler summer temperatures: Higher elevation campsites provide relief from summer heat. One camper at Blue Bear Mountain Camp shared, "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat."
Privacy between sites: Basin Cove on the Blue Ridge Parkway offers well-spaced primitive sites. A visitor observed, "The campsites are well spread out so there is enough room for privacy, but keep in mind that a lot of hikers pass through morning-midday."
Diverse tent site options: Walk-in sites typically offer more seclusion than drive-in areas. A camper at Mortimer Campground explained, "The 5 upfront are walk in, and more private. The about to be 12 in the back are pull in and much closer together."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. A Mortimer Campground visitor warned, "9 miles, minimum, of dirt roads getting in, so pack accordingly. Quick trips don't happen."
Water sources require filtration: At Basin Cove, "There is NO clean water source, you have to bring a filter system with you."
Elevation affects weather: Temperature drops of 10-15 degrees from surrounding areas can occur at higher elevation sites. Pack accordingly for nighttime temperature changes.
Campsite reservations: Most primitive sites in national forests operate on a first-come basis. For private campgrounds like Growing Faith Farms, advance booking is recommended: "Location is private and secluded, yet within reasonable driving distance to stores and other attractions."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: Family-friendly campgrounds often have bathroom facilities. At Mortimer Campground, "There are bathrooms and showers. There are trails and even a waterfall within half a mile from camp. Very peaceful place."
Consider access difficulty: Some sites require significant hiking that may challenge younger children. Basin Cove requires "a mile-long trek to the campsite," which one reviewer noted is "far enough that you won't find High-maintenance campers or crowds."
Pack for variable conditions: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Bring layers and rain gear even in summer months.
Look for swimming opportunities: Self Sufficient Holler offers creek access for children to explore. "There is so much to do on property, and they are working on more! Their love for the land really shines through their work here."
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Many primitive camping areas have limited or no RV access. Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers limited RV sites with power but no water hookups: "You fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups."
Dump station availability: Plan ahead for waste disposal. Blue Bear Mountain Camp provides "a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out."
Road clearance requirements: Gravel access roads can be challenging. One camper noted, "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there."
