Table Rock State Park area offers camping options from primitive sites to more developed facilities at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 3,400 feet. The region features a diverse forest ecosystem with mixed hardwoods and pine stands across the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night while summer days often reach high humidity levels, making spring and fall popular camping seasons.
What to do
Trout fishing: Access stocked waters at North Mills River Campground where "the river is stocked and also has native rainbow trout exceeding 20 inches. Some fly-fishermen showcased their trophy catches while we stayed here."
Hiking to waterfalls: Follow moderate trails in the Pisgah National Forest area. "Moore Cove Falls is a MUST and an easy trail that leads to the perfect waterfall for a good photo," notes a visitor to Davidson River Campground.
Lake activities: Rent paddleboards and kayaks for water recreation. "We did get to hike to a few [waterfalls], but wish we had more time to spend there," explains a camper at Oconee State Park, adding that the park offers "a great spot for all kinds of boating and water sports."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds provide good spacing. "Our sites were clean and perfect for tents! Sites are kinda close but we felt very comfy with our two sites," shares a visitor to Table Rock State Park.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive regular maintenance. At Lake Powhatan, "bathrooms were nearby with clean showers. Tons of hiking trails with nice scenery."
Creekside sites: Several campgrounds feature water-adjacent camping spots. "Love the bubbling creek next to our site, which was so pretty from our back window," a camper mentioned about their experience.
What you should know
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds reduce operations. "Not all loops are open this time of year, but there was no issue getting a site - even at 10PM. The bathrooms are clean and the showers are hot," reports a winter visitor to Davidson River Campground.
Cell service varies widely: Coverage is inconsistent throughout the region. At Keowee-Toxaway State Park, "The area very serene, quiet and pretty. Nice hiking area and swimming area. If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town."
Bear activity: Take proper precautions with food storage. "During our visit, our hosts spent the good part of one morning chasing a bear away due to someone leaving trash on their site," explains a Davidson River camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specialized recreation areas. One visitor to Travelers Rest notes, "my grandson had been with us. He would have loved the fire truck playground and the Johnson Creek Mining Company water tower and trough."
Consider the terrain: Not all sites are equally accessible. A Lake Powhatan visitor advises, "The sites are set back into the woods but are very exposed to anyone driving by. All sites are laid out differently with some pull through and others back in."
Plan activities for varied weather: Rain is common in summer months. "It rained the whole time! However we will be back to properly check this block because it was a beautiful area," shares an optimistic camper.
Tips from RVers
Check site levelness before setup: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Campgrounds are often uneven with a lot of tree roots running throughout. It does require consideration before parking your trailer or RV," warns a visitor to Oconee State Park.
Limited hookup options for yurt camping: Cleveland, South Carolina area campgrounds vary in services. "No Water/Sewer Hookups on Any Site, Electric Hookup Sites Limited," notes a Davidson River camper, adding that "generator hours are very limited. If you are traveling during warmer months or must have AC, this is not the site for you."
Consider accessibility to dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer full services. "I rated a 4 star because the dump site is very tight, and lacking. That was the only thing on this campground I feel needed some work," explains an RVer at Davidson River.
