As camping enthusiasts, we know the perfect spots to explore the great outdoors in Asheville, NC. Situated near picturesque landmarks such as the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Biltmore Estate, the city offers easy access to the stunning Pisgah National Forest.
You can enjoy tent camping, cooking on fire rings, and even some amenities such as hot showers and flush toilets.
Downtown Asheville, in particular, provides a great location to access some of the best places for camping. While visiting, stop at the surrounding area, including Mount Pisgah Campground, Lake Powhatan Campground, and Black Mountain.
These sites offer a range of amenities, from camp stores to game rooms, bath houses, laundry rooms, and free WiFi. The beautiful scenery of Nantahala National Forest is also nearby, ensuring that your experience in the Asheville area combines luxury and the beauty of nature.
For a more traditional camping experience, you can explore the Land of the Sky and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for tent sites, horseback riding, and trout fishing.
Whether seeking a campground with full hookup RV sites, a quiet spot for primitive camping, or special accommodations on Forest Service roads, Asheville has something for everyone.
Best Campgrounds in Asheville NC
Asheville, North Carolina, is a beautiful destination for campers seeking to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, vibrant downtown Asheville, and the surrounding national and state parks.
This section will discuss popular campgrounds in Asheville, NC, highlighting private campgrounds, state park campgrounds, and national park campgrounds.
Asheville Bear Creek RV Park
Asheville Bear Creek RV Park is a campground in Asheville, North Carolina. The park offers its guests a range of amenities and services, including concrete sites, full hookups, and Wi-Fi.
The park is conveniently located near I-40, I-240, and I-26, making it easily accessible to visitors. The park also offers discounts for guests visiting nearby attractions like the Biltmore House.
The park has received mixed reviews from visitors, with some praising its location and amenities while others have criticized the facilities’ age and wear. According to a review on RV LIFE Campground Reviews, the park is an “older park” with “lots of wear on the facilities.”
However, the same review also praised the park’s location and proximity to the Biltmore House. Another review on Good Sam rated the park 9/10 for its location, stating that it was “convenient to downtown Asheville and the Biltmore Estate.”
The park’s website lists several guidelines for guests, including quiet hours from 10 pm to 8 am, no smoking in the restrooms or laundry room, and no washing of vehicles or RVs on-site.
The website also lists nearby attractions such as the Biltmore Estate, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Asheville Outlets. Asheville Bear Creek RV Park offers a convenient location and a range of amenities for visitors to Asheville, North Carolina.
Check-in: Noon
Check-out: 11 am
Quiet time: 10 pm – 8 am
Contact Info:
Asheville Bear Creek RV Park
81 South Bear Creek Road.
Asheville, NC 28806
Phone: 828-253-0798
Amenities:
- Heated Swimming Pool
- 3 Bathouses
- 2 Laundromats
- Full Hookups
- Free WiFi
- Cable TV
- Playground
- Dog Walk Areas
- Clubhouse
- Monthly Rates
- Open Year Round
Ways to Stay:
- 25 RV Full Hookups Pull Thru (30/50 AMP)
- 65 RV Full Hookups Back-in (30/50 AMP)
Campfire Lodgings
Campfire Lodgings is a beautiful campground located in Asheville, North Carolina. The campground is situated on over 100 acres of woods and features numerous trails for hiking and exploring.
Visitors to Campfire Lodgings can enjoy a peaceful and serene environment while being close to all of Asheville’s attractions. The campground is just a short drive away from downtown Asheville, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, waterfalls, and the Biltmore Estates.
Campfire Lodgings offers a variety of camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The RV sites feature full hookups, while the tent sites offer a more rustic camping experience.
The cabins are fully equipped with all of the amenities of the home, including kitchens, bathrooms, and comfortable beds. Visitors can choose from various cabin sizes, from cozy one-bedroom to spacious three-bedroom cabins.
One of the highlights of Campfire Lodgings is the stunning views that can be seen from the campground. The campground is located on Goldview Knob, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Campfire Lodgings is a beautiful place to stay for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of the North Carolina mountains while still being close to all of the amenities of Asheville.
Check-in: 2 pm
Campground Check-out: Noon
Rentals Check-out: 11 am
Quiet Time: 10 pm to 8 am
Contact Info:
Campfire Lodgings
116 Appalachian Village Road
Asheville, NC 28804
Phone: 1-800-933-8012 / (828) 658-8012
Fax: (828) 658-1535
Email: info@campfirelodgings.com
Amenities:
- Full Hookups
- Dog Park
- WiFi
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Laundry
- Firewood for sale
- Propane for sale
- Pond
- Dock
- Picnic Tables
- Fire Rings
Ways to Stay:
- RV Premium with Concrete Slabs
- RV Deluxe with Gravel Pads and Shade Trees
- Mountain Top Camping
- Tent Sites with Electric and Water
- Yurts
- Cabins
- Cliff House
Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park
Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park is family-owned and operated in Asheville, North Carolina. The park is situated on the banks of the French Broad River and offers a unique experience for RV enthusiasts exploring the state’s western part.
The park has operated for over 30 years and is known for its great location and friendly staff.
The park offers various amenities to ensure guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Some amenities available at the park include full hookups, concrete pads, and a bike/walk trail right within the park.
Guests can also enjoy the river by kayaking or tubing from the park. The park also offers laundry facilities, a playground, and a picnic area for guests.
There are several ways to stay at Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park. Guests can choose from back-in or pull-through sites, all offering full hookups.
The park also offers a limited number of riverfront sites, which are highly sought after due to their proximity to the river. Guests can choose from 30 or 50-amp service, and the park can accommodate up to 45 feet long RVs.
Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park is an excellent option for those exploring the Asheville area. The park’s location on the French Broad River and its many amenities make it a popular choice for RV enthusiasts visiting the area.
Contact Information:
Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park
225 Amboy Road
Asheville, NC 28806
Phone: 828-254-4676
Amenities:
- Bath House (April-October)
- Full Hookup Sites
- Riverfront Camping Sites
- French Broad River Greenway
- Easy Access to I-40, I-240 & I-26
- Closest RV Park to Downtown Asheville
- Concrete Slab Sites
- Pet Friendly
- Monthly Sites (Email for Availability)
- Open Year Round
Ways to Stay:
- RV Full Hookups Riverside (30/50 AMP)
- RV Full Hookups Hillside (30/50 AMP)
- RV Back-in No Hookups Riverside
- Primitive Tent Riverside
- Primitive Tent Hillside
Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Campground
Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Campground is a beautiful, well-maintained Swannanoa, North Carolina, camping site. The campground offers a variety of camping options, including full hookup RV sites for motorhomes, trailers, 5th wheels, sites for pop-ups, and micro-campers.
The site also offers tent camping options. Mama Gertie’s has received positive reviews from campers who have praised the attention to detail in the grounds maintenance and the beautiful scenery.
The campground is located near Asheville, North Carolina, making exploring the city and its surroundings convenient. The site is situated on the side of a hill, providing campers with great views of the surrounding area.
The site is also nicely wooded, which adds to the location’s natural beauty. However, the short road from the highway is narrow, and the roads inside the park are steep, with tight turns around massive boulders that outline the interior roads. This may be a challenge for larger RVs.
Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Campground has 33 sites, and reservations are accepted. The site offers gravel pads, and the longest RV reported to be accommodated 40 feet (Fifth Wheel).
The campground’s elevation is 2,460 ft / 749 m, and running water is available throughout the site. Mama Gertie’s is a popular camping spot, and it is recommended that visitors book their spots in advance to ensure availability.
Check-in: 1 to 5 pm
Check-out: 11 am
Contact Information:
Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Campground
5 Uphill Road
Swannanoa, NC 28778
Phone: 828-686-4258
Amenities:
- Pavilion
- Private Showers
- Spotless Restrooms
- On-Site Laundry Facilities
- Propane Filling Station
- Firewood Delivery to Your Site
- Camp Store
- 24/7 Snack & Beverage Vending machine
- Dog Park & Pet Area
- Community Fire Pit
- TV Lounge (temporarily closed)
- Fitness Center (temporarily closed)
- Cable Television
- WiFi (Strength is not guaranteed!)
- Mini Library in Main Laundry
- Dump station
- Picnic Tables
- Firepits
Ways to Stay:
- RV Full Hookups Back-in (20/30/50 AMP)
- RV Full Hookups Pull Thru (20/30/50 AMP)
- RV Full Hookups Premium Mountain Top
Lake Powhatan Campground
Lake Powhatan Campground is a beautiful and serene camping site in the Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina. The campground is situated on Lake Powhatan’s banks, providing a picturesque view and a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing.
The area is surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, providing campers with a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
The campground offers a range of campsites, including standard electric and non-electric sites. The sites are spacious and well-maintained, and most are shaded by trees, providing a comfortable and cool environment even during the hot summer.
The campground also offers modern amenities, including clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities, making it a perfect spot for families and groups.
In addition to the beautiful lake and serene environment, the Lake Powhatan Campground is conveniently located near the popular city of Asheville, North Carolina. The city is known for its vibrant art and music scene and its shopping and dining options.
The campground is also near the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering scenic driving opportunities and numerous hiking trails.
Lake Powhatan Campground is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a relaxing and peaceful getaway in the heart of North Carolina’s beautiful wilderness.
Contact Info:
Lake Powhatan Campground
375 Wesley Branch Road
Asheville, NC 28806
Amenities:
- Showers
- Restrooms with Flush Toilets
- Picnic Tables
- Fire Rings
- Tent Pads
Ways to Stay:
- RV Partial Hookups
- Tent Sites
Mount Pisgah Campground
Mount Pisgah Campground is a popular camping spot in the Pisgah National Forest in western North Carolina. The campground is situated at the southernmost end of the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, surrounded by dense hardwood forests at 4980 feet.
The area offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The campground offers a range of campsites, including tent and RV sites and group camping sites. The sites are well-maintained and offer modern amenities, including clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
The campground also offers easy access to hiking trails, including the Mount Pisgah Trail, which leads to the summit of Mount Pisgah, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
In addition to the beautiful surroundings and outdoor activities, Mount Pisgah Campground is conveniently located near the Mount Pisgah Inn, which offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant and a snack bar.
The inn also provides lodging options, including rooms and cabins, making it a perfect spot for families and groups.
The campground offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and valleys and easy access to hiking trails and modern amenities, making it a perfect spot for families and groups.
Check-in: 3 pm
Check-out: Noon
Contact Info:
Mount Pisgah Campground
199 Hemphill Knob Rd
Asheville, NC 28803
Phone: 828 348-3400
Amenities:
- Camp Store
- Ice for sale
- Firewood for sale
- Dump Station (Seasonal)
- Potable Water (Seasonal)
- Flush Toilets (Seasonal)
- Amphitheater
- Food Storage Lockers
- Pet Friendly
Ways to Stay:
Black Mountain Campground
Black Mountain Campground is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in North Carolina. Located in the National Forests of North Carolina, the campground offers 37 primitive campsites and 3 with electric hookups.
The campsites are equipped with picnic tables, tent pads, lantern posts, and campfire rings with grills. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, nature viewing, and picnicking.
The campground also provides hot showers and restrooms with flush toilets for the convenience of visitors.
One of the unique features of Black Mountain Campground is its proximity to the Mt. Mitchell trailheads. The trailheads are inside the campground, making it an ideal base camp for hikers.
The campground is also situated near a small creek that runs through the grounds, providing visitors with a peaceful and serene environment.
Visitors can reserve campsites at Black Mountain Campground by calling 877-444-6777 or by visiting www.recreation.gov. The campground is at 50 Black Mountain Campground Road, Burnsville, NC 28714.
While the road from Marion is not recommended for long trailers or the faint of heart, visitors with smaller trailers or RVs can enjoy the beautiful setting and well-maintained campground facilities.
Black Mountain Campground is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of North Carolina and experience the great outdoors.
Contact Info:
Forest Supervisor’s Office
160 Zillicoa St., Suite A
Asheville, NC 28801
Phone: 828-257-4200
Amenities:
- Flush Toilets
- Showers
- Potable Water
- Fire Rings
- Picnic Tables
- Tent Pads
- Firewood for sale
- Ice for sale
- Lantern Posts
Ways to Stay:
- 3 Campsites with Electric Hookup
- 37 Primitive Campsites
Asheville Glamping
Asheville Glamping is a popular glamping destination located in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. With 13 camping sites, visitors can choose from various unique accommodations, including family-friendly domes with indoor slides, canvas tents, and a fairytale treehouse built for two.
The glamping site offers a perfect jumping-off point for exploring the great outdoors of Asheville, North Carolina.
Asheville Glamping is known for being the OG of glamping in Asheville, and its reputation is well-deserved. The accommodations are stylish and comfortable and offer all the amenities of a traditional hotel room.
The site is also located near the Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers visitors various outdoor activities, including hiking, whitewater rafting, and fishing.
The glamping site is perfect for families, couples, or anyone who wants to experience the great outdoors uniquely and comfortably.
Visitors can enjoy the peace of the mountains while still accessing modern amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Asheville Glamping is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable glamping experience in North Carolina.
Check-in: After 4 pm
Check-out: 10 am
Contact Info:
Asheville Glamping
Parkman Ave,
Asheville, NC
Phone: 828-450-9745
Amenities:
- WiFi
- Air-conditioning
- Bathhouse
- Restrooms
- Some Domes Pet Friendly
Ways to Stay:
- Glamping Domes
Amenities at Asheville Campgrounds
When camping in Asheville, NC, visitors can expect various amenities available at various campgrounds. Located near popular attractions such as the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, and downtown Asheville, these campgrounds aim to provide a memorable outdoor experience.
Full Hookups
Many Asheville campgrounds, like Asheville Bear Creek RV Park and Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park, offer full hookups that cater to the needs of RV campers.
These full hookup RV sites come with electric, water, and sewer connections, making it convenient for visitors to access essential utilities during their stay. RV campers will find the Asheville area the right place for short and extended stays.
Restroom Facilities
Asheville campgrounds prioritize cleanliness and comfort. Expect to find restroom facilities with hot showers and flush toilets at campgrounds like Lake Powhatan Campground and Mount Pisgah Campground.
These facilities add to the outdoor experience, making it easy for campers to refresh and recharge themselves, ensuring a pleasant stay within the beautiful scenery of North Carolina.
Wi-Fi and Connectivity
Although camping often encourages disconnecting from daily life, we understand the need to stay connected. That’s why many Asheville campgrounds offer Wi-Fi and connectivity options.
For example, Asheville Bear Creek RV Park provides free Wi-Fi and cable TV, so campers can remain connected while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
Recreation and Activities
Asheville campgrounds offer a wide range of recreational activities for campers to enjoy during their stay. From trout fishing and horseback riding to hiking and exploring the nearby state and national parks, there is something for everyone in the Asheville area.
With easy access to popular destinations like Biltmore Estate, the River Arts District, and specialty shops, there’s always a supply of things to do.
For the outdoor enthusiast, nearby Nantahala National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park offer abundant trails and beautiful scenery to discover.
Cost and Reservation Policies
When planning a camping trip in Asheville, it’s essential to understand the costs and reservation policies associated with various campgrounds in the area.
In this section, we will discuss the average cost per night, the reservation systems used by campgrounds, and their cancellation policies.
Average Cost per Night
The average cost per night for an Asheville campground varies depending on the location, facilities, and season. Generally, expect to pay around $30 to $60 for tent sites and $50 to $100 for full hookup RV sites.
Additionally, discounts may be available for Good Sam or AAA members, as seen at Asheville Bear Creek RV Park, where their rates are $66.00 with a Good Sam or AAA discount applied.
Some campgrounds, like Mount Pisgah Campground and Lake Powhatan Campground, are near famous landmarks such as the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest, which may influence their pricing.
Reservation System
Different campgrounds in Asheville use several reservation systems. For instance, some state parks use the North Carolina State Parks reservation system, accessible through their official website.
Other campgrounds like Asheville East KOA Holiday and Asheville RV Parks might use their reservations system or external platforms like Recreation.gov.
Regardless of the system employed, we advise booking your campground stay well in advance, especially for popular sites like Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park and Black Mountain Campground, to secure your preferred dates and location.
Cancellation Policies
Cancellation policies vary among campgrounds in Asheville. For some campgrounds, such as Asheville Bear Creek RV Park, a cancellation fee of $60 per site applies.
We recommend reading the specific campground’s cancellation policy before making a reservation to avoid unexpected charges. Remember that policies may differ based on the reservation platform used, the length of stay, or the campsite type (e.g., tent camping or RV).
With a wide range of campground amenities, such as hot showers, free Wi-Fi, laundry rooms, and stunning mountain views, Asheville, NC, offers excellent camping opportunities near downtown Asheville, the Biltmore Estate, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Don’t forget to ask about group campsites and primitive camping options if you want a unique experience in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Best Time to Visit Asheville Campgrounds
When planning a trip to experience the great outdoors and explore the exceptional campgrounds near Asheville, NC, it is important to consider the most enjoyable time of the year to visit.
This section will discuss the weather, climate, and off-peak seasons that can offer a more peaceful camping experience.
Weather and Climate
The city of Asheville, beautifully nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, boasts a climate that caters to outdoor enthusiasts. The area is blessed with four distinct seasons, each offering unique opportunities for experiencing the Asheville camping scene.
Spring is a lovely time to visit, as the Blue Ridge Parkway is adorned with vibrant wildflowers, and the surrounding Pisgah National Forest comes back to life. The temperatures during this season range from 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Summer brings warm weather and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. From horseback riding to trout fishing, Asheville’s campgrounds, such as Lake Powhatan and Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park, offer easy access to various fun activities.
Expect temperatures to be in the range of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit during this season.
Off-Peak Seasons
For those who want to escape the crowds and potentially find lower prices, off-peak seasons are an ideal choice for camping in Asheville. The fall season provides mesmerizing foliage views along the Blue Ridge Parkway and nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
At the same time, winter camping offers a unique experience of the area’s serene, snowy landscapes. Many campgrounds, like the Asheville Bear Creek RV Park, are open year-round, making it easy to take advantage of these quieter times.
Another great off-peak option is camping during weekdays, as most campgrounds in the Asheville area will have fewer visitors than on weekends.
This allows for a more peaceful experience, with less competition for prime tent sites and full hookups at RV parks like the French Broad River Greenway.
By understanding Asheville’s weather, climate, and off-peak seasons, we can help ensure a memorable camping adventure that suits our individual preferences.
With a wealth of options, from state parks to the Land of the Sky, the Asheville camping scene offers an invigorating experience for all who seek the beauty of the great outdoors.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
You’ll find plenty of things to see and do when exploring Asheville, NC, campgrounds. Attractions and activities near the various camping areas can be split into outdoor activities and cultural and historical sites.
Outdoor Activities
In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is surrounded by beautiful scenery and offers a range of outdoor activities. Pisgah National Forest and Nantahala National Forest provide easy access to picturesque trails for hikers of all levels.
With bountiful trout fishing opportunities, the surrounding rivers, including the French Broad River, are great spots for anglers. Horseback riding is another fantastic way to experience the Asheville area and its incredible landscapes.
Lake Powhatan and Mount Pisgah Campground are well known for their proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering stunning views and trails for hikers and bikers.
Additionally, Asheville Bear Creek RV Park and Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park offer full hookup RV sites, tent pads, and amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, hot showers, and flush toilets, making your stay comfortable after a long day of outdoor adventures.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Asheville is not only about the great outdoors. Downtown Asheville is home to various cultural sites and landmarks, such as the majestic Biltmore Estate, a landmark showcasing Gilded Age architecture, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
A visit to the River Arts District immerses you in the city’s creative side, featuring art studios, galleries, and specialty shops that showcase the artistry of talented local craftsmen.
Lastly, the historical sites of the Land of the Sky and the Land of Waterfalls provide a unique experience for those interested in the history of the United States and beautiful Western North Carolina.
These sites are easily accessible from most campgrounds, such as Asheville East KOA Holiday and Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Campground.
By choosing one of the best campgrounds around Asheville, NC, you will be close to surrounding natural areas and state parks with beautiful scenery and have access to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
From outdoor recreation to captivating historical sites, a camping trip to Asheville will be a memorable experience for all.
Tips for Camping in Asheville NC
In this section, we will share tips for camping in Asheville, North Carolina. To make your experience enjoyable and memorable, follow our advice on responsible camping practices, safety measures, and packing essentials.
Responsible Camping Practices
While camping in Asheville and surrounding areas like Pisgah National Forest or Blue Ridge Parkway, practicing responsible camping is crucial. Adhere to Leave No Trace principles and follow campground rules to minimize your impact on the environment.
- Stay on designated campgrounds and tent sites.
- Use existing picnic tables and fire rings for your meals.
- Dispose waste properly using designated dump stations, flush toilets, or pack it out.
- Respect the quiet hours, wildlife, and other campers.
Safety Measures
Asheville’s beautiful scenery, like the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, can be immensely enjoyable, but always prioritize safety during your camping trip.
- Check weather conditions and prepare for potential changes, especially when camping at higher elevations.
- Be aware of black bear territory and store food securely in bear-resistant containers.
- Carry a map, compass, and GPS device for navigation, especially in remote areas like Nantahala National Forest.
- Familiarize yourself with the local emergency contact numbers and the nearest medical facilities.
Packing Essentials
Before heading out on your Asheville camping adventure, pack the essentials for a comfortable and well-prepared trip.
| Gear | Recommendations |
| Tents and sleeping gear | Choose a quality tent with proper rainfly and ventilation. Bring comfortable sleeping bags and pads for a good night’s rest. |
| Clothing | As weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, wear moisture-wicking layers, including a warm jacket and waterproof outerwear. Remember sturdy footwear! |
| Food and cooking supplies | Plan your meals ahead of time and bring adequate cooking gear (portable stove, cookware, utensils) for easy meal preparation. Opt for non-perishable food items when possible. |
| Hygiene and first aid | Carry a well-stocked first aid kit, personal medications, and essential hygiene items like biodegradable soap, toothpaste, towels, and toilet paper. |
Conclusion – Asheville NC Campgrounds
Now that you’re equipped with these tips for responsible camping, safety measures, and packing the essentials, you’re ready to explore the beauty of Asheville’s campgrounds, from Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park to Asheville Bear Creek RV Park. Happy camping!
Cory Haasnoot is the owner and operator of Camping Prepper. He loves to camp and fish. Cory is also a history buff and coin collector. He has been producing websites on various topics for the last five years.
Proverbs 16:9 – The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.