Julian Price Park Campground offers cool mountain camping around 3,400 feet elevation near Vilas, North Carolina. The location provides a distinct temperature advantage with summer highs typically 10-15°F cooler than surrounding lowland areas. Most campgrounds in this region operate from April through October with limited winter availability, though weather patterns can be unpredictable at higher elevations.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 5-mile loop trail at Julian Price Park Campground leads to multiple scenic spots. "Hebron Rock Colony is an incredible hiking trail. The trail follows a river with lots of great swimming holes and the rock colony is incredible," notes Danielle L. The path accommodates most skill levels with moderate elevation changes.
Fishing at stocked lakes: Most area lakes are hatchery-supported with regularly scheduled stocking. "The lake is hatchery supported, and I did witness someone catching a fish as we walked along the lake trail," observed Myron C. while visiting Julian Price. Local fishing licenses required for ages 16+ with daily permits available at nearby outfitters.
Mountain biking trails: Networks of trails accommodate various skill levels within 20 minutes of Flintlock Campground. The campground provides convenient access to trail systems. "In a great location very close to Boone and Blowing Rock," mentions Katie M., highlighting the proximity to popular biking areas with varying technical challenges.
What campers like
Creek access for summer cooling: Campsites positioned next to moving water offer natural air conditioning during warmer months. "Flintlock has a very nice little creek running through it. The people running it are very nice and since it's right outside Boone it's very close to shops, restaurants and hiking trails," reports Logan S.
High elevation temperatures: The mountain location means considerably cooler summer camping. Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers this advantage with "weather so much cooler in the summer there (70-80 in July!)," according to camper Mandy R. The constant light breeze at elevation "and lack of mosquitoes is a treat," adds Raven B.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer well-spaced accommodations. "The campsites are very spaced out. The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," notes Kristen J. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp. Layout varies significantly between campgrounds with some offering more seclusion than others.
What you should know
Mountain road access challenges: Some campgrounds require navigating steep, winding roads. At Grandfather Campground, "You have to be careful to book the correct kind of tent site if you want to be in a more wooded area," advises Julie L. Larger RVs may struggle on certain access routes.
Seasonal availability limitations: Most glamping near Vilas operates primarily April through October. "Julian Price Park is a beautiful campground just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. We enjoy this campground on the weekends throughout the fall and spring as it is less occupied," shares Kirsten J.
Bathhouse conditions vary significantly: Facility age and maintenance differ between properties. "The bathroom that we used (at the top of the campground) is in need of updating. The showers in particular were moldy and didn't drain well," reports Nicole L. about Grandfather Campground, while others note clean, well-maintained facilities at different locations.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration opportunities: Kids enjoy safe water play in shallow creek areas at several campgrounds. "My children spent hours every day exploring," shares Robyn C. about Honey Bear Campground, adding "There's a beautiful mini river running through the campground with a lot of rocks to jump on."
Organized family activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular events for children. "Good for kids - rootbeer float nights, outdoor movies with marshmellow pits, creeks to splash in. Full bathhouses, laundry & even a gameroom. My kids loved the tire swings & animals!" explains Karyn H. about Honey Bear Campground.
Playground and field access: Open play areas provide energy outlets for children. At Spacious Skies Bear Den, "We camped at C13 which was right across from the large playground in November. No noise issues, but it was dark by 6:30pm. May be different in the Summer. My daughter had a blast and we could keep an eye on her while we worked/played at the site," notes Charles S.
Tips from RVers
Limited utility hookups at some sites: Water and electric availability differs between campgrounds and sites. At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, "They do not have water hookups - you fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups. They have a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out," explains Mandy R.
Site leveling requirements: Many mountain campsites require substantial leveling. "The site was quite un-level side to side, and we couldn't get our trailer completely level side to side. The site was a bit tough to maneuver into (doable, though!)," shares Tracy H. about Grandfather Campground. Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended for all RV camping in this mountainous region.
Campsite size limitations: RV sites have varying size capacities throughout the area. "The sites are fairly level, long but a little narrow. Because of the slope, there isn't much 'yard' space, just a platform with a picnic table," explains Erin S., who stayed in a 34-foot travel trailer at Grandfather Campground for ten days.
