Camped 9/25-9/27 in the family campground. Stayed at site 13. Super clean bathhouse which was very nice. Shower stall with doors instead of just curtains. There is a sink for dish washing in the back of the bathhouse. Dumpster is at the end of the large parking lot. The river is wonderful to listen to as you fall asleep. There is 0% service in the campground. No carriers had service so be aware.

Hiked to the top of Chestnut Knob and that was a very strenuous and beautiful hike. You will have service at the very top of the hill to call/text family and friends. You can start your hike right from the campground which is another bonus so you won’t need to drive to a trailhead.

Note: Bring firewood with you! Once the visitor center is closed there is none available and the campground has been picked clean of all available logs and sticks.

Overall I would definitely come back to camp and hike again. Beautiful state park!

Had a great time! Some of the sites are right on the water allowing for camping and kayaking. Sites are large to accommodate two tents and two vehicles nicely. Bathrooms are what you would expect but clean. Some sites further back (not water side) have trees for hammocking. The trees near my site (122) did not have adequate trees for hammocking. I will absolutely be back.

(The only thing you will contend with is occasional air traffic noise from RDU. If you’re sensitive consider bringing earplugs for your comfort.)

Great campground! My only suggestion would be to either do some research or if you can, pick your spot on arrival. Some sites are much more flat than others. I stayed in G loop near the bathrooms. There’s also a utility sink for doing a final rinse of dishes. The camp store is amazing. They truly have everything from ice cream to coffee to hiking poles to sweatshirts. If you forget anything they’ve got it. Firewood is sold there for $7 a bundle in a decent size. The AT is about half a mile from the campground. The bathrooms were always clean. Portable water is available in several locations. The hike in sites in A loop have much nicer views and a much higher level of privacy. They’re only a few paces from the AT. Site A14 and A15 are near the best sweeping views. Overall I would 100% go back. I loved the hiking and amenities offered, I would just try to choose a flatter site. There are garbage and recycling dumpsters available as well.