Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains at 2,500 feet elevation, Montreat experiences moderate summers and cool nights even in July and August, with temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby Asheville. Winter camping near Montreat offers solitude but requires preparation for overnight lows that can drop below freezing from December through February, with occasional snow accumulation on campground access roads.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The area surrounding Montreat features multiple waterfall hikes accessible from campsites. From Curtis Creek Campground, campers can reach several cascades. "There is a nice trail to SetRock Falls, right on the campground property...and several other foot trails to keep you busy and hiking," notes one visitor.
Mountain summit adventures: For those seeking elevation, camping near Mount Mitchell provides access to the highest peak east of the Mississippi. A camper at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground shared: "This is the highest elevation east of the Mississippi. Very great views with lots to do. Hiking, camping and more. Great place to watch the sunset and sunrise."
Fishing opportunities: Creeks throughout the area offer trout fishing opportunities. At Curtis Creek, visitors report "dozens of deep pools to cast into up and down the river" and recommend bringing a fly rod for the best experience.
What campers like
Creek sounds for sleeping: The sound of moving water ranks high among campers' favorite features. At Montreat Family Campground, "The campsite was nestled within the forest and was right next to the cool water of Flat Creek. The campsite was spacious and there were plenty of trees available for hammocks," according to one visitor.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean bathrooms, which campers consistently appreciate. A reviewer at Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground commented: "Mama Gertie's is the most well kept campground I've ever been in. The bathhouses look like something inside of an upscale hotel room."
Cooler temperatures: The elevation provides natural air conditioning during summer months. As one camper at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground noted: "We left home and the temperate was well into the high 90's, however the temperate on top of the mountain never came above 62!"
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area, often depending on carrier. At Curtis Creek, "There is no cell signal for 15 or so minutes, either direction, so know your routes before leaving Old Fort." Verizon typically provides better coverage than other carriers.
Narrow access roads: Many campgrounds require navigating steep, winding roads. A review from Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground mentions: "The roads are uphill and a little narrow, but nothing too difficult if you go slow."
Booking window awareness: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. Black Mountain Campground often fills completely, with one visitor noting: "During season, the summer month weekends and holidays...book your reservations online, because they don't do it by phone when calling the campground."
Weather variability: Mountain weather can change rapidly. A Mount Mitchell camper shared: "Check weather reports. These mountains make their own weather."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campsites offer playground facilities for children. At Spacious Skies Bear Den, families appreciate that it "has a small lake on property to fish or swim... Playground on site for the kids."
Water play opportunities: Creeks and swimming holes provide natural entertainment for children. One parent shared about Black Mountain Campground: "There is a swimming hole on the South Toe River in the campground just beyond the end of the riverside sites. It has a small sandy 'beach' area and a neck deep refreshing hole."
Wildlife education opportunities: Several campgrounds post information about local wildlife. A visitor to Curtis Creek campground reminded: "Remember this is bear country. Follow all the bear rules and be cautious."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds have limitations on RV length. At Montreat Family Campground, an RV camper advised: "The site is gravel and very level. It's a huge site, but because the entry is a narrow, twisty mountain road, I wouldn't recommend a larger rig. 20 ft and less should be good."
Leveling requirements: Mountain terrain means varying degrees of campsite leveling. At Asheville East KOA, a reviewer noted: "Our site was level so easy to pull up and set up smoothly."
Premium view sites: Some RV parks offer premium sites with exceptional views for a higher fee. At Mama Gertie's Hideaway, "There are a number of pull through sites that also get their own porch and porch swing right on the edge of the mountain" that many RVers recommend booking in advance.
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