Camping areas near Tuxedo, North Carolina sit on the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 2,000-5,000 feet. This terrain creates distinct camping microclimates with temperature differences of 10-15 degrees between valley and ridge sites. Mountain streams run through many campgrounds, often accessible for wading, fishing, or providing natural white noise for sleeping campers.
What to Do
Fly fishing opportunities: North Mills River Campground provides access to some of the region's best trout streams. "We've enjoyed this campground mainly for the fly-fishing. The local Trout Unlimited group has also spent many hours upgrading the walkways and fence lines to protect the river," notes one camper. Several trails from the campground lead to remote fishing spots along the river.
Waterfall exploration: Paris Mountain State Park offers multiple waterfall hikes within a 30-minute drive. "Lots of great hikes. Several waterfalls are in the area, plus fishing lakes and swimming beach. Lots of outdoorsy things to do, and beautiful views of Table Rock from the Mountain Laurel Campground," reports a reviewer.
Mountain biking: Davidson River Campground provides direct access to technical mountain bike trails. "Located right inside Pisgah National forest this campground is perfectly set for all adventures. If you're looking to ride the mtb trails you're in luck. They start literally across the davidson river from the campground," explains one visitor. The area features trails for all skill levels, from beginner routes to advanced technical sections.
What Campers Like
Riverside campsites: Jones Gap State Park Campground offers tent sites beside mountain streams. "The sites are really spread out and most are near a stream. The site is right on the river and a great place to catch some sun on the rocks or rock hop," describes one camper. Sites provide natural privacy between camping spots.
Lake access: Lake Powhatan offers water-based recreation close to campsites. "Has a great beach and lots of hiking and mountain bike trails. Its part of the National Forest system so its super cheap. Downtown Asheville is only 15 mins away," notes a camper. The swimming beach operates from late May through early September.
Mountain temperatures: Mount Pisgah Campground sits at over 5,000 feet elevation, providing natural air conditioning in summer. "Over 5000 ft in elevation which means cool nights in Summer. Trees all around for privacy. Drinking water located not far from any site," reports a regular visitor. Temperature differences between this campground and lower elevation sites can reach 15-20 degrees during summer months.
What You Should Know
Gate restrictions: Some campgrounds limit after-hours access. At Orchard Lake Campground, "They lock you in during 'quiet hours,' they close the back gate from 10pm to 8:30am," reports one camper. Always check entry procedures when booking.
Seasonal operation: Most camping areas operate from March through October. "We stayed 2 nights. We went kayaking and swimming daily. There is a slide in the middle of the pond that my son loved," notes a summer visitor to Orchard Lake Campground.
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have variable site quality. At Table Rock State Park Campground, "Variety of campsites available to suit any camping style. Great for families, as there are drive up camp sites with fire pits and plenty of space, and spread out so it still feels like you have privacy," explains a visitor. Research specific site numbers before reserving.
Tips for Camping with Families
Swimming options: Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina features a dedicated swimming beach with lifeguards during summer weekends. "A great campground for a trip to Asheville! Spent some time in the lake, on hiking trails, and in town," writes one camper. The lake has roped-off swimming areas with gradually sloping entry points.
Game rooms: Several campgrounds maintain indoor recreation areas. At Orchard Lake Campground, "when it rained the game room had a movie on and lots to do inside. Pet friendly. We will be returning. Tent sites had electric and water on them," notes a family camper.
Short hiking trails: Many campgrounds feature kid-friendly paths. "There is a short walking trail within the campground, and the Art Loeb trail starts right at the beginning of the campground as well," reports a visitor to Davidson River Campground. Most sites offer flat, quarter-mile nature trails suitable for young hikers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Mountain terrain creates uneven camping pads. At Paris Mountain State Park, "No amenities per day except bathroom/showers. Nice large sites but very unlevel due to mountain side. Would not stay again because we were so unlevel our refrigerator wouldn't work," cautions one RVer.
Seasonal utilities: Black Forest Family Camping Resort offers full hookup sites with reliable utilities. "The family invested money in infrastructure and they have quite a few full hook up sites. The host led us to our site, gave us a newsletter of events, and they have lots of amenities," notes an RVer. Many sites include 50-amp service and sewer connections.
Road access: Mountain roads leading to campgrounds can present challenges. "Even though the entrance is key card only, the park staff are welcoming & helpful," reports a visitor to Rutledge Lake RV Resort. Some parks offer staff assistance for backing into difficult sites.
