Camping in the Vilas area offers access to multiple RV and tent camping options along mountain roads of western North Carolina. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 2,500 and 4,000 feet, contributing to cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Winter access becomes limited as many mountain roads receive regular snowfall from November through March.
What to do
Fishing in mountain streams: Peak Creek RV Campground provides direct water access where campers can enjoy fishing and wading. According to camper Rob R., "Creek is like a river, cool getaway during the day" with convenient proximity to other attractions.
Hiking nearby trails: Linville Falls Campground connects to multiple trail networks with varying difficulty levels. Robert D. notes, "There is easy access to multiple sightseeing areas. Great place to go and camp." The surrounding Blue Ridge Parkway offers additional hiking options with mountain views.
Mountain biking opportunities: Local forest roads provide challenging rides for various skill levels. A visitor at Rose Creek Retreat mentioned, "The location was great - easy driving distance to the trails we wanted to hike and ride our mountain bikes."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors frequently mention facility maintenance as a standout feature. Phil W. writes about Linville Falls: "These are the cleanest bathrooms we've ever seen. The on-site store is a life saver and the hosts are very helpful."
Private camping options: Several smaller campgrounds offer secluded sites away from crowded areas. A camper at Laurel Creek RV Park described their experience as "Lovely, creekside spaces & a few up the hill with views. I'm under a weeping willow. Birds chirping, blue jays, cardinals, tiny bright yellow birds & a squirrel."
Mountain views: Campers repeatedly note the scenic mountain vistas as a highlight. At Peak Creek RV Campground, Lynn observed it was a "Quiet spot, great views. Host was very accommodating and had inner tubes for floating in the stream."
What you should know
Limited winter access: Most campgrounds operate seasonally with closures during winter months. Robert D. mentioned visiting Linville Falls "in July 2024. This is a great older campground. It has been well taken care of over the years."
Variable site spacing: Some campgrounds feature more densely arranged sites than others. Tony E. noted about Linville Falls: "The spaces are close together and many of them are not shaded very well. There are better campgrounds nearby."
New facilities under development: Three Peaks RV Resort represents newer options in the area. A visitor observed, "It's still relatively new with some construction, everything is clean and well maintained. Every site is a pull through with ample space, full hookups, and good Wi-Fi."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. Becky H. described Linville Falls as having "tent sites, camper, and cabins. The people who own it are great. It has a store where you can get your basic camping things, also has a place to do your laundry, wash dishes and has a few showers plus family shower area. They have a playground for kids."
Swimming options: Creekside campgrounds provide natural water play areas during summer months. At Safe Haven Farm RV Camping, visitors enjoy the "full pavilion overlooking the water" according to Jake C.
Grocery proximity: Major grocery stores remain within short driving distance of most campgrounds. Fuller C. noted about Three Peaks: "It's awesome that Ingles grocery store, which has tons of local organic offerings, is only 3 miles away in the town of Spruce Pine."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Mountain terrain creates challenges for larger RVs. At Grandview Ranch RV Park, a visitor reported their "Spot was level with full hookups. Laundry $ & Propane $. Pond to fish. WiFi. beautiful Mountain Views to enjoy."
Hookup variations: RV parks near Vilas offer different hookup configurations. Three Peaks RV Resort provides pull-through sites with full hookups, while Eric B. confirms "Every site is a pull through with ample space, full hookups, and good Wi-Fi."
Road access challenges: Mountain roads require careful navigation for larger RVs. Geoffrey F. noted about Laurel Creek RV Park: "This was a good spot right on the Laurel Creek and the Creeper Trail. Walk to town for restaurants and bike/outdoor shops and a convenience store. Grocery store is a little further away."
