Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground offers a cooler camping experience about 20 miles from Scaly Mountain, North Carolina. At elevations over 3,000 feet, temperatures typically run 15-20 degrees cooler than surrounding lower areas. Several pet friendly camping options near Scaly Mountain provide both primitive tent sites and full-hookup RV accommodations within the Chattahoochee and Nantahala National Forests.
What to do
Waterfall adventures: 10 miles southwest of Scaly Mountain, the Tallulah Gorge area provides multiple waterfall experiences. "The road to get to some of these sites is ROUGH. Definitely not a road to drive for those who aren't skilled in off road driving," notes Rebekah C. about Sarah's Creek Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stream access points across the Nantahala National Forest. "Cliffside Lake just up the hill from the campground has lots of big and pretty dumb stocked trout and some giant uncatchable bass. For the trout, get your line way out there and fish with bait under a bobber," recommends Paul T. about camping at Van Hook Glade.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Direct access from many nearby camping areas. "It's a hikers dream with the Appalachian Trail skirting the campground and several other trails crossing through the campground," shares Phil L. about Standing Indian Campground.
What campers like
High elevation camping: Cooler temperatures even in summer months. "This is my favorite campground for escaping the heat in August. If you must have electricity stay home. This is a beautiful family friendly campground with great facilities," writes Nancy R. about Standing Indian Campground.
River camping: Several sites offer direct waterfront access. "We chose site A10 right by the Tallulah River. Loved the river right behind us," reports Todd L. about River Falls at the Gorge. "Everyday the river changes because of the dam upstream. Sometimes it's almost a trickle and you can venture out on the huge rocks and other times it's almost a whitewater adventure although still safe for tubing."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds provide good separation. "Most sites have a firepit, picnic bench, and lantern pole. Some of the sites were not very private and more open without shade. We were in number 15 and it was in our opinion the best one. Trees and bushes on 3 sides," explains Katrin M. about Black Rock Mountain State Park.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have spotty or no connectivity. "No internet service but did find certain areas on the roads up there that you could use your cell phone," notes Thomas R. about Sarah's Creek Campground. At Standing Indian, campers report "no cell service" while Van Hook Glade typically gets "no TV or cell service. I drive into Highlands, (about 4 miles) to get a cell signal (T-Mobile)."
Varying bathroom facilities: Quality ranges widely across campgrounds. "The bathhouse was clean. The campground has a little trading post at the entrance. Unfortunately it was closed on the weekend. You could still pick up firewood," shares Katrin M. about Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground.
Wildlife considerations: Take proper precautions with food storage. "Have never been bothered by bear, raccoons or other varmints, but have had field mice get into my car and tent on more than one occasion," warns Tom C. about Van Hook Glade.
Tips for camping with families
Look for stream access: Kids enjoy water play opportunities. "The headwaters of the Nantaha River flow through the campground providing a gathering place for families to enjoy playing in a cold mountain stream," reports Nancy R. about Standing Indian Campground.
Choose campgrounds with facilities: Some offer more amenities than others. "Our family has camped here 6 times and it never gets old. Located right on the River in Lakemont GA. This campground is in a perfect location next to lots of trails, waterfalls and amenities. The campground itself has an indoor and outdoor pool. A clubhouse, a basketball court and playground equipment," shares Matt and Tabatha C. about River Falls at the Gorge.
Consider hiking difficulty: Many trails are challenging with kids. "The Tennessee Rock trail seems to be the most popular, but let me warn you -- it was NOT as easy as we expected. My youngest kid and my wife turned around and went back," cautions Mark D. about Black Rock Mountain.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many mountain campgrounds have size limitations. "The entrance to this park is right across the street to an entrance to the Appalachian Trail. A beautiful trout stream runs through the park, close to all the campsites. The road to this campground is very narrow, the hill is very steep, and there is at least one very tight hairpin turn. Unless there is another way into this lovely park that I am unaware of, I would not attempt to tow a 5th wheel or other large trailer to this location," advises John K. about Standing Indian.
Consider private RV parks for full hookups: National forest campgrounds typically lack full services. "This place has multiple types of sites, full hook up (including sewer), partial hook up, as well as cabins and permanent RVs to rent. There are multiple bathrooms, and dump sites, access to the river," notes Tiffany B. about River Falls at the Gorge.
Check road conditions: Mountain access roads can be challenging. "The road is a steep grade up to the campground. There are several overlooks on the way," mentions Katrin M. about Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground.
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