Zirconia sits along the western North Carolina foothills at approximately 2,400 feet elevation, where higher altitudes create cooler summer temperatures than nearby lowland areas. Year-round camping opportunities abound in this transitional zone between mountains and Piedmont, with several locations offering yurt accommodations that provide shelter through all four seasons. Fall typically delivers the driest camping conditions when deciduous forest colors peak from late October to early November.
What to do
Hiking nearby waterfalls: At North Mills River Campground, trails connect directly to Pisgah National Forest waterfall routes. "Beautiful and quiet," notes Amanda O., while another visitor shared, "We enjoyed being so close to the river and exploring a new area."
Mountain biking access: Davidson River Campground serves as an ideal base for cyclists. "Several loops and even sites provide access to the river for fishing. Just outside the campground are endless trails and several beautiful waterfalls that can be accessed within a 5-15 min car ride," remarks one camper, who adds that it's "convenient to a few restaurants, grocery stores and even a Walmart."
Tubing adventures: Silver Creek Campground offers direct river access for tubing. A visitor mentioned, "This camp ground offers tubing on the green river, and a couple places to camp. One has a pool and is in the hills and the other is primitive and has a bar and food."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked streams near Zirconia provide trout fishing access. "We live not too far from this campground, so it's more like our backyard outdoor playground," writes Shannon K. about North Mills River, adding that "One heads back to the reservoir for some amazing fly fishing."
What campers like
Creekside camping: Creekside Mountain Camping offers sites directly alongside running water. Michele W. explains, "I was thrilled to find a campsite available with an amazing view. While our site was very small, it was perfect for me and two teenage kids. They loved being next to the creek and watching the water move."
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention site spacing at Lake Powhatan as a significant benefit. "Plenty of room and great separation from fellow campers," notes Ben F., while Brittany S. elaborates, "Lots of campsites, but far enough apart to still feel private, bathrooms + showers (both are single use, not stalls, which I suppose could be inconvenient if there were a lot of people waiting, but it's nice to have the privacy!)."
Natural white noise: Multiple creekside campgrounds provide soothing sounds for sleep. "Had the white noise from the creek to keep us dead asleep at night," reports Cannon W., who stayed at Creekside Mountain Camping, while another camper at North Mills River mentioned how "listening to the stream as we went to bed was wonderful."
Off-season value: During less crowded periods, campgrounds offer reduced rates and quieter experiences. At North Mills River, "Starting at $22 per night, after November 1st the prices get cut in half, so I stayed for $11," explains one visitor, adding that even during winter months, "the bathroom facilities may be limited in the off-season due to being unheated, but they were open during my stay."
What you should know
Yurt camping options near Zirconia: Emberglow Outdoor Resort offers several yurt accommodations with varying sizes and amenities. A visitor describes the resort's unique options: "The camping options are very unique and diverse. They have your typical RV sites (all full hookups) and tent sites, all of which have green space around them... Yurts are just up the hill from those, alongside two beautiful tiny homes."
Bathroom maintenance varies: Campground facilities receive mixed reviews across the region. At Asheville West KOA, a camper noted that "The showers were decently clean," while another mentioned, "Didn't use showers or restrooms. Loved pet run area. Nature walk is good for stretching legs."
Bears are active: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage at Zirconia campgrounds. "Small Black Bear wandered up and stole some burgers we left in the cooler and came back later to say hey and check up on us, so be aware and keep your food under lock and key," warns Cannon W. from Creekside Mountain Camping.
Winter restrictions: Some campgrounds close partially during colder months. Julie T. observed at North Mills River that "Only one side of campground is open in winter," while another camper mentioned, "We went camping here on November 2nd, just after half of the campground closes for the off season."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for kids: Table Rock State Park offers swimming facilities with a dedicated beach. "Several waterfalls are in the area, plus fishing lakes and swimming beach. Lots of outdoorsy things to do, and beautiful views of Table Rock from the Mountain Laurel Campground," notes CJ C.
Game room options: Multiple campgrounds feature indoor recreation for rainy days. Robert B. mentioned that at Creekside Mountain Camping, "The weekend we stated the pool was closed, the kids had a good time in the game room."
Kid-friendly yurt camping: Zirconia area yurts offer families solid shelter without tent setup hassles. A visitor to Emberglow noted, "Just spent the weekend here and loved it! Great place for kids with jump pad, swingset, slides, climbing dome, pool, a creek to explore, hiking trails, and more!"
Plan specific hikes: Family-appropriate trail options vary widely in difficulty. Maggie J. advises about Table Rock: "The Table Rock trail is a must if you are nearby! It is pretty strenuous especially if you have health issues but is well worth the trek to the top. Just make sure that if you hike during the winter to give yourself plenty of time to finish the trail."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling preparation: Many campgrounds require adjustments for comfortable parking. William H. shares from experience at Creekside Mountain: "This was our first RV camping trip with our new (to us) 2007 Keystone Laredo 265RL. Setup and everything went great and we just loved it."
Electric hookups limited: Davidson River offers minimal power connections. "No Water/Sewer Hookups on Any Site," reports one visitor, adding "Electric Hookup Sites Limited" and recommending: "Be sure you have a generator!"
Internet connectivity solutions: Variable cell service impacts remote work capability. A camper at Lake Powhatan mentioned, "Cell coverage was great (att & Verizon), so we had no issues working our 9-5s," while ANGELA at Davidson River advised: "WiFi/Cell Signal Limited [Booster Recommended]."
Propane availability: Several campgrounds offer firewood and propane delivery. "Each night they delivered firewood to us. Even would refill your propane tank and deliver it back to you," notes a visitor to Asheville West KOA.
