Dispersed camping near Weaverville, North Carolina sits within the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,700 feet. Located 10 minutes north of Asheville, the area experiences summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night. The mountainous terrain creates microclimates where temperatures can drop 3 degrees for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, requiring campers to prepare for cooler nights even during summer months.
What to do
Kayaking on the French Broad River: Camp Driftwood Asheville provides direct river access for paddlers. "This place is truly magical. There are a couple of cabins you can rent, along with several campsites. It's right in the heart of downtown Asheville, so there's a ton of stuff to do (hot springs, mining, zip lining, the list goes on)... There's a beach where you can go swimming, and all of the sites are right on the French Broad river," notes Allie G.
Hiking in Pisgah National Forest: Multiple trail systems provide varied difficulty levels within 15-30 minute drives. "There is free camping all through out these woods & plenty of water access. Trails out the wazoo! Our doggies love the trails & there are quite a few family friendly paths," shares Randice L. from Pisgah National Forest.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Lake Powhatan provides access to popular cycling routes. "Lots of trails including several that are popular with mountain bikers on the road into camp. Close to the NC Arboretum, too!" reports Neil T. The Lake Powhatan area combines recreational options with proximity to cultural attractions.
What campers like
Mountaintop sunset views: Campfire Lodgings offers premium sites with panoramic vistas. "The campground is situated on a mountainside overlooking the French Broad river. Most of the sites are for RVs but they do have an assortment of tent sites. The premium RV sites have the awesome views," explains John G. from Campfire Lodgings.
Private bathroom facilities: Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground provides upscale shower rooms. "This is the most well kept campground I've ever been in. The bathhouses look like something inside of an upscale hotel room. There are mountaintop sides with big patios that hang over the mountain top and have incredible views," reports Samantha B. from Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground.
Proximity to downtown Asheville: Wilson's Riverfront RV Park offers urban access with nature benefits. "Location is great and staff/people helpful and friendly. I actually loved the location of this campground because the Greenway bike Trail runs right through it," states Tucker B. The French Broad River Greenway connects campers to nearby attractions without needing to drive.
What you should know
Weather conditions vary by elevation: Mount Mitchell experiences its own microclimate. "Mount Mitchell State Park, highest peak east of the Mississippi...6,684ft elevation... These mountains make their own weather. And remember, for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, temperature decreases by 3 degrees," advises Dave V. from Mount Mitchell State Park Campground.
Highway noise affects some campgrounds: Lake Powhatan offers a quieter alternative to highway-adjacent sites. "Even though it's only 10 minutes or so away from the edge of Asheville, it has the feel of being much further away - including no Verizon service," notes Neil T. Campers seeking quiet should research site locations carefully.
Reservation requirements vary by season: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak periods (May-October). "Book ahead-the guy said they'd been completely full since June," warns Nancy about Lake Powhatan. Plan 3-6 months ahead for weekend stays during summer and fall color season.
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly campgrounds: Multiple options welcome dogs of various sizes. "We have a 25' C and have stayed here 3-4 times, mostly in the A loop and we love it every time. The staff takes such great care of this place. Very clean restroom facilities," shares Amy M. about Asheville East KOA.
Kid-friendly amenities: Campgrounds offer varying levels of activities. "Refuge came here to escape the pending doom of a hurricane last year. Really nice! We stayed right off a tiny lake in the campground, up in the mountains with a beautiful view. My husband got to fly fish so it was an unexpected surprise. Seem to have a lot of kids activities," notes Ashley R. about Asheville West KOA.
Site selection for families: Consider access to bathrooms and noise levels. "Our site was level so easy to pull up and set up smoothly. They have a fitness center, shower rooms, picnic tables and fire pit at every site," explains Julia M. Choose sites with level ground and proximity to facilities when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Navigate steep mountain roads carefully. "The road to get there is steep but obviously doable even with our 38' gas MH. We stayed at the premium sites on top. The views are terrific, the sites have adequate space and the campground is very well maintained," advises Randy C. about Mama Gertie's.
Wildlife awareness: Bears visit campgrounds regularly. "This campground DOES have bears who visit the campground for food. There are no bear boxes provided... Anything square apparently, so store everything in your car," cautions Julia K. RVers should secure food properly and follow campground-specific wildlife guidelines.
Hookup variations: Available utilities differ between campgrounds and sites. "Bear Creek is a super cute campground in a great location. It is close to all the things Asheville has to offer. Only drawback is that the sites are very close together," notes Alicia C. about Asheville's Bear Creek RV Park. Call ahead to confirm exact hookup availability for your specific needs.
