Cabins near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir range in elevation from 1,030 feet to over 3,000 feet in the surrounding Blue Ridge foothills. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F while winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing. Fall camping often features 40-60°F temperature swings between day and night, requiring adequate layering and proper bedding.
What to do
Fishing at the reservoir: The 1,475-acre W. Kerr Scott Reservoir offers bass, crappie, and catfish fishing opportunities. Anglers can access multiple fishing spots along the 55 miles of shoreline. "Love this park. Internet and phone service available in some parts of the park. Nice hiking area," notes a visitor to Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
Mountain biking trails: Over 40 miles of dedicated mountain biking trails surround the reservoir area, with routes for beginners to advanced riders. "This campground is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains...so beautiful! Quiet campground with hiking trails, small fishing lake, playgrounds, an arcade room, and camp store. One of the hiking trails leads to a waterfall," reports a visitor to Spacious Skies Bear Den.
Waterfall hikes: Several waterfall trails within 30 minutes of the reservoir provide moderate day hiking options. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," shares a camper from Stone Mountain State Park.
Wine tasting: Local wineries operate within 15-20 minutes of several campgrounds in the region. "It is close enough to town to get in and see some places near.... but far enough out that you have some quiet time. Be sure to go up to the town of Blowing Rock... really nice place," recommends a visitor to Thousand Trails Green Mountain.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many sites feature running water sounds for peaceful sleep. "We stayed at site 23, which is at the end of the lane and next to the creek where it forks and joins back up to make a single creek close to my campsite," explains a camper at Flintlock Campground.
Temperature relief: Higher elevation campgrounds offer significant cooling during summer months. "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," notes a visitor to Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds provide extra room between sites. "The campsites are very spaced out. The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," reports a Blue Bear Mountain Camp visitor.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. "The bathhouse is nice and includes showers and drinking water. You're literally on a mountain, so there's not much for hiking. The staff was extremely friendly and accommodating," mentions another Blue Bear Mountain camper.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Several campgrounds close during winter months. "Flintlock is easy to get to but you'll still feel like you are camping. Staff is friendly and facilities are clean. There's a beautiful mini river running through the campground with a lot of rocks to jump on," shares a Flintlock Campground visitor.
Site leveling requirements: Mountain campgrounds often have uneven terrain. "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!)," warns a camper from Grandfather Campground.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly by carrier and location. "Terrible cell service so be prepared to dish out $8 a day for internet," notes a Thousand Trails Green Mountain visitor.
Driving conditions: Some access roads require careful navigation. "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there," reports a Blue Bear Mountain Camp visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites with clear views of play areas. "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," recommends a Spacious Skies Bear Den visitor.
Creek exploration: Select campgrounds with safe water features for children. "My children spent hours every day exploring. There's a beautiful mini river running through the campground with a lot of rocks to jump on," shares a Flintlock Campground visitor.
Family programming: Some campgrounds offer organized activities. "Check with the office for the Saturday night movie! Weather dependent, they show a movie outdoors on the front lawn. Bring your chair or blanket and a cooler/snacks, and come hang out for a movie with fellow campers," suggests a camper from Honey Bear Campground.
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities. "The bathhouse is centrally located and older, but functional and cleaned daily. There are also laundry machines available between the men's and women's area," notes another visitor.
Tips from RVers
Water fill procedures: Some campgrounds require separate water tank filling. "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 a camper at Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Site selection strategies: Research specific site details before booking. "We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," recommends a Stone Mountain State Park visitor.
Bridge access limitations: Check campground entrance specifications for larger rigs. "When you turn into the campground, you will cross a narrow 1-lane bridge across Watagua Creek," cautions a Flintlock Campground visitor.
