North Carolina offers some of the best mountain camping experiences in the United States. From the Great Smoky Mountains to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the state is a camper’s paradise.
Top Mountain Camping Spots in North Carolina
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. It offers a variety of camping options that cater to all levels of experience.
Deep Creek Campground is located near Bryson City and is popular for its proximity to beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails. The campground offers tent and RV sites equipped with modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy tubing down Deep Creek, fishing, and hiking to Juney Whank Falls, Indian Creek Falls, and Tom Branch Falls.
Cataloochee Campground is situated in a remote area of the Great Smoky Mountains, offering a peaceful escape. Campers can explore the historic Cataloochee Valley, where elk roam freely and remnants of early 20th-century homesteads tell tales of the past.
2. Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains stretch across the western part of North Carolina and are famed for their breathtaking views and lush forests. Camping in this region provides an opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the serenity of the mountains.
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is a must-visit for adventurous campers. The primitive campsites here offer a true back-to-nature experience with no modern facilities but plenty of rugged beauty. Hikers can tackle challenging trails such as the Linville Gorge Trail, which offers stunning views of the gorge and the Linville River.
Mount Mitchell State Park is home to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. The park’s campground offers both tent and RV sites with easy access to the summit of Mount Mitchell. Campers can hike the Mount Mitchell Trail for panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoy the cooler temperatures that come with the high elevation.
3. Family-Friendly Camping Spots
Pisgah National Forest is a popular destination for family camping, thanks to its numerous campgrounds and recreational opportunities. Davidson River Campground is a family favorite, offering spacious campsites, fishing, swimming, and hiking trails. The nearby Sliding Rock, a natural waterslide, is a hit with kids and adults alike.
Lake James State Park is located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains and combines the best of mountain and lake camping. The park’s campgrounds offer a range of sites, from walk-in tent sites to drive-up RV sites. Families can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the clear waters of Lake James, as well as hiking and biking on the park’s trails.
4. Luxury Camping (Glamping)
For those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience, North Carolina’s mountains also offer glamping options. These luxury camping sites provide the beauty of nature with the comforts of home.
Asheville Glamping offers unique accommodations such as vintage trailers, treehouses, and safari tents. Located just outside the vibrant city of Asheville, this glamping site combines the tranquility of nature with the convenience of nearby attractions. Guests can enjoy activities such as zip-lining, visiting the Biltmore Estate, and exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains is located near Gatlinburg and offers a luxurious camping experience with safari-style tents that include plush beds, private bathrooms, and wood-burning stoves. The site provides stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and offers activities such as guided hikes, fly-fishing, and horseback riding.
Comparison of Top Campgrounds
| Campground | Location | Type | Activities | Unique Features |
| Deep Creek | Great Smoky Mountains | Tent, RV | Tubing, fishing, hiking | Waterfalls nearby |
| Cataloochee | Great Smoky Mountains | Tent | Wildlife watching | Historic valley |
| Linville Gorge | Blue Ridge Mountains | Primitive | Hiking | Gorge views |
| Mount Mitchell | Blue Ridge Mountains | Tent, RV | Hiking | Highest peak east of Mississippi |
| Davidson River | Pisgah National Forest | Tent, RV | Fishing, swimming, hiking | Family-friendly |
| Lake James | Blue Ridge Mountains | Tent, RV | Swimming, boating, fishing | Mountain and lake camping |
| Asheville Glamping | Near Asheville | Glamping | Zip-lining, sightseeing | Unique accommodations |
| Under Canvas | Near Gatlinburg | Glamping | Guided hikes, fly-fishing | Luxury safari-style tents |
How to Get There
Great Smoky Mountains National Park can be accessed via several entry points, with major routes including US-441 from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina. Bryson City, the nearest town to Deep Creek Campground, is about 70 miles from Asheville, accessible via US-74.
Blue Ridge Mountains are easily reachable via the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic byway that runs through Asheville and provides access to many campgrounds. Linville Gorge Wilderness Area is approximately 70 miles from Asheville, accessible via US-221 and NC-183.
Pisgah National Forest has multiple access points. The Davidson River Campground is near Brevard, about 35 miles from Asheville via US-64.
Lake James State Park is located about 50 miles east of Asheville, accessible via I-40 and NC-126.
Asheville Glamping is located just a few miles north of downtown Asheville, making it easily accessible via local roads.
Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains is near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, about 40 miles from Knoxville, accessible via US-441.
Essential Tips for Mountain Camping in North Carolina
To ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience in North Carolina’s mountains, keep the following tips in mind:
- Plan Ahead: Research the campground and make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack Accordingly: Bring appropriate gear for the terrain and weather conditions, including sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, and rain gear.
- Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Protect the environment by minimizing your impact. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife.
- Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out. Be aware of any potential hazards, such as bears or rapidly changing weather.
North Carolina’s mountains offer a diverse range of camping experiences, from primitive backcountry sites to luxurious glamping retreats. Whether you are seeking adventure, family fun, or a peaceful escape, the campgrounds in the Great Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains have something to offer everyone. Embrace the beauty of nature and create lasting memories by camping in the breathtaking mountains of North Carolina.
