Tent camping near Spruce Pine, North Carolina offers access to high-elevation forest environments ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 feet in the Pisgah National Forest. Summer temperatures average 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowland areas, with night temperatures dropping into the 50s even during July and August. Fall brings vibrant color changes starting in early October, while spring campers should prepare for significant temperature fluctuations and possible frost until late May.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 0.5 mile from campsite. Mortimer Campground provides direct access to scenic falls within walking distance. "Beautiful, clean grounds with access to a 1/2 mile round trip hike to a waterfall on the property! Definitely plan ahead on provisioning bc it's about 45 mins drive into the national forrest," notes camper Tanner G.
River tubing: 10-minute drive from sites. Visitors at campgrounds in Wilson Creek area can enjoy gentle float trips on warm summer days. "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," explains Tony E. who stayed at Mortimer Campground.
Mountain hiking: 6-mile trail with water access. For experienced hikers, Maple Camp Bald offers challenging terrain with eastern views of Mount Mitchell. "It's a 6 mile hike up Maple Camp Ridge on trail 191 (Buncombe Horse Range) starting from a small parking lot close to Carolina Hemlocks Campground... 0.4 miles from the bald is a nice water source," shares Francis C.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: 20-25 feet of separation. Black Bear Campground provides well-designed spacing that campers appreciate. "Host was great, camp site are far enough away from each other some are close enough for couple families together, bathrooms are clean and private beautiful area must try," reports Lisa D.
Clean bathroom facilities: Individual shower stalls. Campgrounds with maintained facilities stand out among the options. "They have clean bathrooms and individual showers. The layouts are nice, there is a table, fire pit and most places can squeeze 2 tents," notes John L. about his stay at Black Bear Campground.
Water-adjacent sites: Creek sounds for sleeping. The sound of running water enhances the camping experience at creek-side locations. "This is my favorite spot in the pisgah national forest... There are plenty of sites to pick from all along the creek, all of which appear to be well maintained, each with a fire ring," writes kylie B. about her experience at Steele Creek.
What you should know
Road conditions: 9 miles of dirt access. Many campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads that can become challenging after rain. "9 miles, minimum, of dirt roads getting in, so pack accordingly. Quick trips don't happen," warns Clementine K. about Mortimer Campground.
Limited provisions: 45-minute drive to stores. Campers should arrive with all necessary supplies as stores are distant from most sites. "This campground is down a pretty long gravel road, so it's best to have what you need when you arrive. No quick trips to Wally World for resupply here," advises Tony E.
Cell service limitations: No coverage at most sites. Plumtree Campground & Retreat is one of the few locations with some connectivity. Most forest campgrounds have no service. "It's a bit of a drive out there with little to no cell service but wifi is available over the whole site!" reports Clover C. about Camper Mountain on Roaring Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Check site layouts: Some require carrying gear. Many tent sites involve short walks from parking areas. "The 5 upfront are walk in, and more private. The about to be 12 in the back are pull in and much closer together," explains Clementine K. about Mortimer Campground layout.
Look for swimming holes: Natural water play areas. Pisgah National Forest Dispersed offers multiple creek access points for family swimming. "My favorite part is definitely The creek, it is a great spot to swim so we are excited about that. There is a walking trail at the end of the road about 100 feet from our site, that had the best swimming hole at the end of it, where you can jump in," shares kylie B. about Steele Creek.
Consider wildlife safety: Food storage critical. Bear activity requires proper precautions, especially with children present. "Great place for group camping... Great spot to take the family. We went for 6 years straight. Make sure to lock up all your food the black bears will come take it if not," advises Mark W. about his experience at Briar Bottom Group Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most sites fit small rigs only. Large RVs will struggle at most campgrounds in the area. "Maybe I missed this in the reviews, but all but 1 site were best for tents. I drove in to camp in my car and there was only 1 spot, which is by the creek crossing, and it was already taken," reports Michael W. about Steele Creek.
Camp arrival timing: Early afternoon best for site selection. Popular dispersed camping areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. "I got here late, around 5 pm on Saturday, so I had difficulty finding a spot. There was lots of sites but they wrrrr all filled up," notes Brenna M. about her Steele Creek experience.
Weather preparedness: Temperature drops after dark. Even summer camping requires warm clothing for evenings. "We got lucky with great weather in early March. Having followed the weather for a bit after going, I think I'd be planning for April if we did it again," suggests John L. based on his experience at Maple Camp Bald.
