Best Campgrounds near Tryon, NC

The Tryon area in western North Carolina provides access to diverse camping experiences throughout the Blue Ridge foothills and nearby mountains. Established campgrounds like Emberglow Outdoor Resort in Mill Spring offer tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations with ratings above 4.8 stars. Silver Creek Campground, also in Mill Spring, features 58 sites with amenities including electric hookups, showers, and drinking water. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with many closing between November and April, though some like Paris Mountain State Park Campground in nearby Greenville, South Carolina remain open year-round.

Camping facilities around Tryon vary widely in terrain and accessibility. The region's campgrounds sit at various elevations, from valley locations near Tryon to higher mountain settings along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most developed sites provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms, while more remote areas may require self-sufficiency. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, particularly at higher elevations where temperatures remain cooler even during summer months. A review of Lake Powhatan noted: "We stayed for six days in March. We loved everything about this campground. The sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations."

Several visitors highlight the natural water features as standout elements of camping in this region. Campgrounds situated along rivers and lakes receive particularly positive feedback, with many campers appreciating the soothing background noise and recreational opportunities. Davidson River Campground near Brevard provides access to popular swimming areas and tubing opportunities, while also serving as a gateway to numerous hiking trails and waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest. A camper described their experience: "The rhythmic sounds of the river offered sound sleep all night." Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with many campgrounds having limited or no coverage, particularly those in more remote mountain settings. Most campgrounds within 30 minutes of Tryon provide good access to supplies in nearby towns.

Best Camping Sites Near Tryon, North Carolina (293)

    1. Orchard Lake Campground

    12 Reviews
    Saluda, NC
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 749-3901

    $38 - $48 / night

    "A swimming lake with slide. Boats, zip line, fishing, a game room, move room. Only bad thing is the bad house are probably the worst I have ever used."

    2. Davidson River Campground

    83 Reviews
    Pisgah Forest, NC
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 785-5337

    $37 - $84 / night

    "Once again, interested in checking out as many waterfalls and cascades we could locate, the water flow will be so much more dramatic amidst heavy rainfall."

    "We had a quick nights stay in Davidson River Campground after picking up our new SylvanSport GO tent trailer in nearby Brevard, North Carolina."

    3. Paris Mountain State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    Taylors, SC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 244-5565

    $100 / night

    "I stayed at Trailside Camp Site #2, which is one of their remote, primitive sites at the North Lake and all I can say is wow."

    "Nice wooded coverage, walking and hiking trails, plus a few lakes to fish. Bath houses are probably the cleanest I’ve seen in all the campgrounds I’ve been too."

    4. Emberglow Outdoor Resort

    13 Reviews
    Lake Lure, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 625-2205

    $40 - $350 / night

    "The tent sites are clustered together next to a stream in the woods, providing tons of shade on hot days.  "

    "The close proximity to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is an added bonus. The owners and staff were very friendly and helpful, but unobtrusive. I highly recommend Emberglow Campground."

    5. Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina

    62 Reviews
    Enka, NC
    29 miles
    +1 (828) 552-8040

    $37 - $135 / night

    "The sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations. The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside."

    "PROS  Discounted camp fee with senior pass 

    Reserved 169 days prior to arriving 

    Friendly and helpful gate attendant 

    Nearly 100% shade at each site 

    Excellent dark sky viewing 

    Private sites with"

    6. Silver Creek Campground

    4 Reviews
    Mill Spring, NC
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 894-2331

    $30 - $55 / night

    7. Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground

    11 Reviews
    Lake Lure, NC
    16 miles
    Website

    $26 - $62 / night

    "I loved camping at the edge of the river but know that it is loud and is a constant sound! The sites are right along the river and are a bit tight."

    "Nice place to visit and close to Chimney Rock"

    8. Four Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat

    10 Reviews
    Rutherfordton, NC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 287-7324

    "Over all, if you want the peace and quiet in the North Carolina foot hills with your furry friend and have a good time.  This is the place to be."

    "The gravel at our site was painful for our dog’s feet and they had a hard time walking on it. The dog parks made up for this! There are multiple large dog parks located at the campground."

    9. Asheville East KOA

    52 Reviews
    Swannanoa, NC
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 686-3121

    $50 / night

    "As typical of a KOA, they shove you in there so you are very close to your neighbors. The stars of the park are the riverfront sites."

    "My only gripe (and I know it’s not a huge deal) is the trailer park situated right by the fence that separates from the KOA."

    10. Lakewood RV Resort - 55+

    6 Reviews
    Dana, NC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 697-9523

    $55 - $66 / night

    "This campground is located close to the interstate and downtown Hendersonville with lots of restaurants.  Also close by is the Dupont State Forest, places to hike, Lake Lure etc."

    "If you’re looking for a little more space, best to book on the far side of the park near the dog run. A little more space with a tree or two between if you can get the right spot."

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Recent Reviews near Tryon, NC

1422 Reviews of 293 Tryon Campgrounds


  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Wilson's Riverfront RV Park

    September stay

    Grass on lots high, nice concrete spots, full hookup in good shape.

  • K
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Black Forest Family Camping Resort

    Great campground!

    As a solo traveler that doesn’t like excessive noise or want to be near kids, I just wanted peace and quiet to relax and listen to the sounds of nature. The owner, Jeanie(hopefully I’m spelling that right) understood completely and was sure to put me in a site where she knew the surrounding sites would be empty for the entirety of my stay and she was sure not to book anyone near me. Yes, the sites are fairly close together, but I stayed during the week and was able to enjoy most of the place to myself ….or at least the area of the campground that I was in. When I extended my stay an extra night, she was sure to warn me that there was a family with kids coming that night and that they’d be in my vicinity. I couldn’t have asked for a better campground host! She had all the info on waterfalls in the area which minimized my planning time/time staring at my phone. And the fact that the place is all pea gravel really makes a difference! It rained the first couple days I was there and my tent wasn’t a muddy mess which is always a plus!

    The bathrooms and showers were clean and the camp store had just about everything you could possibly need in a pinch. Firewood and ice were priced fairly, making it very convenient if you forgot to grab either one while you were out for the day. Will definitely be back! Actually, I can’t wait to go back!

  • K
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Starlight Hills Campground

    Mudpit

    If it’s going to rain while you’re here, I suggest finding another campground. I don’t mind dealing dirt while I camp but at this point, it’s a mud pit and all of my gear is covered in mud. My gear cleanup is going to take 10x longer than it usually does! And be sure to treat your tent with permethrin or be prepared to have daddy long legs take over. I’ve been camping all my life and I’ve dealt with a few of them in between the roof of my tent and the rain fly….no big deal. But on my first night, there was at least 50 in there! I couldn’t leave my tent without having them crawl all over me and trying to get into the tent. It was like fighting a losing battle because there were so many and they just swarm you. Couldn’t even sit my feet still by the fire without having them crawl over my feet or up my chair. I know we’re just in the woods but it’s definitely not worth the money per night. All of the other campgrounds that I’ve payed this much for are on pea gravel with nice drainage or on grass….with nice amenities…or at least actual bathrooms, not porta potties. The camp host never came by my site like the messages that I received stated. Granted, he said to call if I needed anything and that they’re on property, but I never met anyone and when I would call, I got “hello” that’s it. Not “hello, this is ___” or “starlight hills campground, how can I help you”. Very impersonal. Will not be back.

  • Casey W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Keowee-Toxaway State Park

    Great spot!

    The only reason I dinged it from five stars is because of the road noise. Other than that this place is beautiful! Great hike to a beautiful lake! Simple amenities. Great drive up tent spots surrounded by trees. Nobody else was here during the week so I had the place to myself! The rangers were incredibly helpful and friendly! I will be back!

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Gorges State Park Campground

    CAUTION: steep grades and curvy road

    This campground would’ve gotten five stars except for the road getting there was pretty exciting. The last 10 miles out of Brevard were curvy and had some grades. And the last 2 miles into the campground had I would guess a couple of 10% grades both up and down. Other than that, this campground was super nice. Has the nicest showers I have ever seen in a campground. All the sites for RVs are on concrete pads with electric, water, and sewer. This was a great staging point for our trip up to the great Smoky Mountains. The visitor center was very informative.

  • Robert N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Campfire Lodgings

    Tent camping

    Tent camping sites are walk in, down hill, obviously thar means hauling your stuff out uphill when you leave. RVers have a great view from the ridge top. But a difficult day camping is far better than any day at work.

  • Alden B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Ash Grove Mountain Cabins & Camping

    Very Nice camping near Dupont National Forest

    If you want close access to Dupont and Pisga NF you're within minutes! The owners Mark & Esther are wonderful. We call him SouthSide Mark ( hails from South Africa). Some sites are a little tight, but fine. If you have a big rig call ahead. The cabin was wonderful. The bathhouse is older but very clean. You can tell the owners love their campers and property. The site is tree covered and hilly. We will come again, guaranteed! Watch your step. Wood Spirits are Everywhere!

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping

    Great spot!

    This is a great spot along a mountain ridge. The dirt road goes for about 13 miles. Would recommend a 4x4, but I’ve seen all kinds of vehicles travel the entire road from minivans to Honda accords. There are plenty of spots to choose from. Some have great views of the valley and table top mountain and others are just nooks in the woods. The sites are pretty spread out but there are a few within shouting distance (which could be annoying if the site next to you decides to bring a battery powered Sawzall to cut firewood at 2am). Some sites are right off of the road which could get annoying from all the traffic of people going to the hiking trails nearby. And there are spots tucked away a bit off of the road where you really don’t notice trucks and cars driving by. Awesome place for a weekend getaway! Definitely going to visit again.

    P.S. only 4 stars because there are only about 3-5 sites with a great view!

  • Robert B.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Black Mountain Campground - CLOSED INDEFINITELY

    FR472 & Black Mountain Campground Closed

    FR 472 is closed at the Golf Course and there are hefty fines if you are caught walking beyond the gate.  Black Mountain Campground was destroyed by flooding caused by Hurricane Helene.  The bridge across the S. Toe River was broken and washed out.  The water system is also destroyed as well as the road network in the campground.  There have been no announcements by the Forest Service about plans to repair the facility and, after a year, my guess is that there never will be.


Guide to Tryon

Camping spots near Tryon, North Carolina range from mountain settings above 2,500 feet to valley locations at around 1,000 feet elevation. The region sits in the Blue Ridge foothills where summer temperatures average 85°F in valleys but remain 10-15 degrees cooler at higher elevations. Winter camping options are limited, with only Paris Mountain State Park and Lakewood RV Resort maintaining year-round operations while most other campgrounds close between November and April.

What to do

Explore mountain biking trails: Davidson River Campground serves as an ideal base for mountain biking enthusiasts. "Located right inside Pisgah National forest this campground is perfectly set for all adventures... if you're thinking of riding the mtb trails you're in luck. They start literally across the davidson river from the campground," notes Travis S., highlighting the convenient access to popular trail systems.

Visit Lake Lure and Chimney Rock: Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground provides direct access to these attractions. "This campground is close to Lake Lure public beach and Chimney Rock. Great location but most spots are taken by permanent residents," explains Dan, who recommends the campground for smaller RVs and tents.

Try river tubing: Silver Creek Campground offers tubing on the Green River. "I've been going here for years for the tubing experience. They have both primitive and rv camping. A store and many other amenities," says Joe F., highlighting one of the more popular warm-weather activities in the region.

What campers like

Swimming lakes with activities: Orchard Lake Campground features water activities that receive consistent praise. "We went kayaking and swimming daily. There is a slide in the middle of the pond that my son loved," says Amanda M., describing the family-friendly water features at this campground located just outside Saluda.

Private dog parks: Many visitors to Four Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat appreciate the specialized amenities for pets. "18 acres of wonder open areas fenced in to keep you furry friends from running away, there is agility park, puppy park, the main dog park, a private park (single or you can invite), a Lure run, a Ball Park, and a Pond for those watery dogs," explains Chris &, detailing the unique offerings at this adults-only, dog-focused campground.

Clean facilities: Lake Powhatan campground consistently receives positive feedback for its maintenance. "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., noting the campground's proximity to Asheville while still providing a nature experience.

What you should know

Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven sites due to the mountainous terrain. At Paris Mountain State Park, "Some site are very uneven," warns Rick B., while another reviewer notes that some sites "needed a little rehab and weren't very flat."

Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the Tryon area operate seasonally, typically from April through October. Davidson River Campground operates from March 15 to November 1, while Orchard Lake Campground runs from April 1 to November 1.

Narrow access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. At Paris Mountain State Park Campground, one camper observed, "The road through the park back to the campground is pretty narrow at some points - we don't know how we would have managed if we had met another RV!"

Tips for camping with families

Look for dedicated activity areas: Emberglow Outdoor Resort offers numerous family amenities. "Just spent the weekend here and loved it! Great place for kids with jump pad, swingset, slides, climbing dome, pool, a creek to explore, hiking trails, and more," notes Stacey, highlighting the family-focused activities.

Consider camping cabins: For families without camping equipment, Orchard Lake Campground offers alternatives. "This campground has amenities for all types of camping styles. We will definitely be back!" says Jeff B., referencing the variety of accommodation options available.

Check for campground programming: Several campgrounds offer organized activities. "They have a bible lesson and activity for the children including hay ride on Saturday morning. They do a church service on sundays," explains Randy P. about Orchard Lake Campground's scheduled family programs.

Tips from RVers

Reserve lakefront sites early: At Asheville East KOA, premium sites book quickly. "Our site was very spacious... Very convenient starting point for trail adventures in the area! Campground was quiet in the off season, but definitely not empty," notes Carly E. about the popularity of the campground year-round.

Check site sizes before booking: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. At Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground, "Access in and out of campsites is very difficult due to big rocks everywhere. The bridge across the river for entering the campground is very narrow and you can get onto it only by coming from the opposite lane," cautions Dan, who doesn't recommend the campground for trailers longer than 21 feet.

Consider age-restricted options: For travelers over 55, Lakewood RV Resort offers a quieter alternative. "We took advantage of my hubby's 55+ status and parked here for a night. Everyone was super nice and welcoming. It was quiet and nice," says Sarah A., describing this adults-only option near Flat Rock.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Tryon, NC?

The Tryon area offers excellent camping options in western North Carolina's beautiful mountains. Green Willow Farm Camping provides a unique farm-based camping experience with a welcoming atmosphere. Just a short drive away, Gorges State Park Campground offers spectacular waterfall views including Rainbow Falls and Turtle Back Falls. For those willing to venture slightly further, Emberglow Outdoor Resort near Mill Spring and Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground near Chimney Rock are also excellent choices with beautiful natural settings.

Are there RV-friendly campsites available near Tryon, NC?

Davidson River Campground offers spacious, level sites suitable for RVs with clean facilities and beautiful surroundings. For those seeking more amenities, Lakewood RV Resort - 55+ near Flat Rock caters specifically to RV travelers with full hookups and is designed for big rigs. Other options include Orchard Lake Campground near Saluda and Asheville East KOA, both offering big-rig-friendly sites with water and toilet facilities. Most RV campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during peak seasons.

What amenities do campgrounds near Tryon, NC offer?

Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina offers spacious sites with excellent privacy, clean showers and bathrooms, numerous hiking trails, and senior discounts. The campground provides nearly 100% shade coverage and dark skies for stargazing. Spacious Skies Bear Den focuses on family-friendly amenities with clean facilities, friendly staff, and various activities suitable for all ages. Many campgrounds in the region feature water access, toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Higher-end resorts often include full hookups, WiFi, shower facilities, and recreational activities, while more remote sites offer peace and natural beauty instead of modern conveniences.