Camping cabins near Arden, North Carolina provide convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains with elevations ranging from 2,100 to 2,500 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and 60-65°F at night. Most cabin camping areas in the region remain open year-round, though some facilities close certain loops during winter months.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Davidson River Campground sits adjacent to numerous hiking and mountain biking paths. "The sites closer to the lake have more privacy-without direct lake views. Lake is underwhelming-but still nice," notes Nancy in her Lake Powhatan review. For longer excursions, "Some reviews mentioned the lake being underwhelming. It is small, but looked pretty to me. Also looks like a lot of fishing pressure, so might be a tough bite."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked waterways provide fishing within walking distance of cabins. "The camping cabins had a full bed and sleeping loft. The loft is very large, 3 10-12 yrs olds as well as 3 3-4 yr olds fit up there nice and comfy," mentions a visitor at Asheville East KOA. Rivers throughout the region offer trout fishing, with many cabin sites providing direct water access.
Downtown access: Camp Driftwood Asheville combines cabin camping with urban proximity. As Allie G. explains, "This place is truly magical. There are a couple of cabins you can rent, along with several campsites. It's right in the heart of downtown Asheville, so there's a ton of stuff to do (hot springs, mining, zip lining, the list goes on) but that's if you even want to leave the campsite."
What campers like
Hot showers year-round: "The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside. The staff was very helpful and friendly," writes Heather C. about her stay at Lake Powhatan. Cabin campers appreciate having access to heated shower facilities, especially during cooler months.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention bathroom cleanliness as a key factor. "Very large sites and the staff are very helpful. A lot of activities for everyone to enjoy. The lake sites are beautiful," notes Teresa S. about Asheville East KOA. Several campgrounds offer individual bathroom suites rather than communal facilities.
Riverside settings: Cabins located along waterways rank highest in visitor satisfaction. "The entrance is key card only, the park staff are welcoming & helpful. They have a heated pool & lake activities. All of the facilities are nice. The park is up-kept very well," reports J M. about Rutledge Lake RV Resort. Water features provide both recreation and natural sound barriers between sites.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Summer and fall color season require booking well in advance. "This area has become over run with tourists and the 'free' campsites have mostly been comandeered by squatters who rotate from site to site every 14 days," explains Anna R. at Davidson River Campground. Some campgrounds open reservations 6-12 months ahead for peak periods.
Kitchen facilities: Most cabin rentals include basic appliances but vary widely in cooking capacity. "The sites are close together, however there are lots of activities for the kids. Full hook ups available, some with cable. The stream and lake are beautiful," reports Karen R. about Asheville East KOA. Visitors should check kitchen inventory lists before arrival to prepare accordingly.
Wildlife awareness: Black bears visit several campgrounds regularly. "Small Black Bear wandered up and stole some burgers we left in the cooler and came back later to say hey and check up on us so be aware and keep your food under lock and key," warns Cannon W. about Creekside Mountain Camping. Most cabin facilities provide bear-resistant storage or require food storage in vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Water access varies significantly between sites. "Loved this place by the river! Walking trails surround the CG and high quality mountain bike trails nearby. The owner is a cool guy and staff are friendly," describes R C. at Davidson River Campground. Family-friendly swimming areas include designated beaches at some lakes and shallow river access points at others.
Playground facilities: Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground offers family-friendly amenities alongside cabin rentals. "We stayed here over the summer and really enjoyed it. It is prime location to downtown chimney rock and lake lure beach/water park. The staff was very nice and accommodating," reports Matt and Tabatha C. Children's activities include fishing, playground equipment, and organized weekend events at most facilities.
Nearby attractions: Family attractions within 30 minutes drive make cabin stays more appealing. "BE ALERT TO TURN WIDE WHEN TURNING INTO THIS CAMPGROUND. VERY NARROW BRIDGE FROM THE MAIN ROAD MAKING IT ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY TO TURN INTO THE OTHER LANE FOR LONGER RIGS," advises Keith R. about Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground, while also mentioning "Following day we brought down a speaker and just hungout and stayed cool in the shallower rapids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Cabin location within campgrounds significantly impacts experience quality. "We had a mountaintop site- not with the deck, but still up top. The campground is really beautiful and well maintained. The bathhouse up top seemed to be brand new," notes Cassandra R. about Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground. Request sites away from main roads and facility entrances for quieter stays.
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects several camping areas. "The only reason for the four star rating is due to the highway noise from I-40, which is located adjacent to the campground. Otherwise, the campground is very well-kept with friendly staff," explains Crystal C. about Asheville West KOA. Nature sounds often mask traffic noise at riverside sites.
Utility connections: Electric capabilities vary between cabin types and locations. "No hookups at our site," mentions Ben F. about Lake Powhatan. Basic cabins typically offer 15-amp service while premium units may include 50-amp connections, allowing for additional appliances and temperature control options.
