Blue Bear Mountain Camp provides a high-elevation camping experience at over 3,500 feet, creating a natural air conditioning effect during summer months. Located 15 minutes northwest of Boone, this mountain campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, and glamping accommodations with easy access to the New River and hiking trails. Temperature differences between Zionville and lower elevations can reach 10-15 degrees during peak summer months.
What to do
Tubing on New River: Visit Honey Bear Campground for easy access to water recreation. "We stayed in site B12 again this year as we find it private, well shaded, and close to a small creek that provided background water noise when it's flowing good," notes one camper, highlighting the peaceful surroundings.
Explore waterfall hikes: Hickory Ridge Campground at Grayson Highlands State Park offers multiple trail options within 45 minutes of Zionville. "The Creekside Cabin hike is very technical as in tree roots and rocks, but so worth the exertion! Very cool waterfall and aside from some modern day trash there is still the old wood stove and pantry in the cabin," shares a reviewer.
Wildlife viewing: The high elevations around Zionville provide opportunities to spot native wildlife. "We saw several deer, some turkey but no bears. Still be aware of your surroundings when moving around and in the campground," advises one camper after visiting Grayson Highlands.
What campers like
Mountain climate relief: The elevation at Flintlock Campground provides cooler temperatures. "I visited in July 2024. This is a great older campground. It has been well taken care of over the years," notes one visitor, appreciating the cooler mountain air when valley temperatures climb.
Creek-side relaxation: Water features are a highlight at many Zionville area campgrounds. "Almost two weeks at this great campground at a power/water only site right by the creek. Level parking, reliable wifi, friendly hosts and community, dog friendly," writes a Flintlock camper.
Night sky viewing: Without city light pollution, stargazing is exceptional. "The night sky was incredible with little to no light pollution," shared one camper about their experience at Julian Price Park Campground, which offers primitive and RV sites.
What you should know
Narrow access roads: Some campgrounds near Zionville have challenging entry points. "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," warns a camper about Blue Bear Mountain.
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty in the mountains. "For cell phone coverage (Verizon), I had success at the viewpoint on the way up from the entrance," mentions a reviewer at Hickory Ridge, noting the limited coverage areas.
Site selection matters: Not all sites are created equal. "The sites vary from small and close together, to medium size with established plumeria shrubs separating sites for some privacy," explains a visitor about camping options in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When glamping in Zionville, North Carolina with kids, consider Grandfather Campground for its family amenities. "Sites 31 and 32 are on a meadow the campsite loops around; they have no privacy and little shade, but ample room for kids to run around, and there is a set of swings near these sites," explains a reviewer.
Creek exploration: Children love playing in the mountain streams. "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 parent who stayed at Flintlock Campground.
Mountain weather preparedness: Pack layers even in summer. "Grayson Highlands is a must-do for all campers, hikers, and adventurers. Hit the trails to see some wild ponies and scenic balds. Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case," advises a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: When glamping near Zionville in an RV, note that New River State Park offers dump services. "Didn't stay but did use the dump station for $17, so wanted to update info," mentions one RVer, providing useful information for those passing through.
Leveling requirements: Mountain campsites often have slopes. "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!)," reports a camper at Grandfather Campground.
Hookup locations: Check site maps before booking. "Some sites you can reserve, but others are first come first served," notes a Julian Price visitor, highlighting the importance of understanding site availability and hookup options when planning your trip.
