Cabin accommodations in the Laurel Bloomery area range from rustic structures with basic necessities to more elaborate setups with modern amenities. The region sits at elevations between 1,800-3,300 feet, creating mild summer temperatures that typically remain below 85°F even during July and August. Most cabin rental periods run from Friday to Sunday during peak season, with Sunday to Thursday stays often available at reduced rates.
What to do
Creek exploration: Little Oak Campground offers easy water access for fishing and water activities. "Great place to camp and fish," notes Bill T., while James B. mentions, "Right across the hwy is Jacobs Creek, it's all part of South Holstein lake. great area to camp an nearby baitshops an boat docks."
Trail hiking: Roan Mountain State Park Campground provides multiple hiking options directly from the campground. "There are a lot of things to do in the area. Some of the hiking trails even start in the campground. You can also explore the grist mill with a nature trail or an old homestead," explains Katrin M. The park is approximately 45 minutes from Laurel Bloomery.
Recreational activities: Several campgrounds offer planned events during summer months. At Honey Bear Campground, families can enjoy organized activities. "The campground had several family activities like a haunted trail and trick or treating for the kiddos," mentions Laura B. Most activities are scheduled on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Blue Bear Mountain Camp receives praise for its secluded setting. "The campsites are very spaced out. The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," shares Kristen J. Sydney S. adds, "This camp ground was a very private spot. On top of a hill over looking a lake, this sport made us feel very one with nature."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness rates highly among visitor reviews. At Royal Oak Campground, reviewers frequently mention the well-maintained bathhouses. "Clean bath houses, and plenty to do. The lake is beautiful and has boat rentals and a swimming beach! Great place to kayak!" notes Denise.
Temperature relief: The higher elevation provides cooler temperatures than surrounding areas. "The constant light breeze and lack of mosquitoes is a treat," says Raven B. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp. During summer months, temperatures typically run 10-15 degrees cooler than lower-elevation towns like Boone.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Booking ahead is essential for cabin accommodations. "The campgrounds operate seasonally, with limited winter availability," states one camper. At Camp Burson, Nancy W. notes, "All campsites in the Creekside section are reservable while only some in other sections are reservable."
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs significantly between locations. "Note the Verizon cell service is spotty at best, but sometimes this is welcomed," points out Nathan F. about Little Oak Campground. At Roan Mountain State Park, a camper mentions, "No cell service, but there is (slow) wifi throughout the campground."
Seasonal considerations: Many cabin rentals have limited winter availability. Camps like Honey Bear Campground operate only from mid-March to October. Weather conditions can change quickly at higher elevations, with temperature drops of 20+ degrees possible within hours during spring and fall.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Streams and creeks provide natural entertainment. "The campsites have the usual amenities like a picnic bench and table, a firepit, and a lantern pole. There are several spigots with drinking water through the campground," reports Katrin M. about Royal Oak Campground. At Flintlock Campground, children particularly enjoy water exploration: "There's a beautiful mini river running through the campground with a lot of rocks to jump on. My children spent hours every day exploring," shares Robyn C.
Evening activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled family events. "The campground did have several family activities like a haunted trail and trick or treating for the kiddos," notes Laura B. Honey Bear Campground. Most family programs begin around 6:30 PM and typically last 1-2 hours.
Playground access: Some facilities provide dedicated play areas. "If there was a playground here, it would be 5 stars. There was one by the beach, but not within walking distance," mentions Kelsey R. about Camp Burson. Katie M. notes about Flintlock Campground: "There is a beautiful stream running through the campground that doubles as an amazing playground for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Boone KOA offers standardized options for RVers but with space limitations. "The RV spots are close to each other in proximity and RV sites are not separated by any brush or trees," explains Julie L. Dryw B. adds, "The one downside was that the sites are narrow. The width of the sites left little area to hangout outside."
Leveling requirements: Terrain affects setup at many campgrounds. At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, Kristen J. cautions, "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." Most RV sites require at least basic leveling blocks.
Electric capabilities: Many campgrounds offer limited amperage. While Camp Burson provides 50 amp service, many smaller facilities max out at 30 amps. Check power requirements before booking, as air conditioner usage may be restricted during peak summer demand at some locations.
