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Looking for the best camping near Asheville, NC?

With the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, and the Great Smoky Mountains all nearby, Asheville is one of the best places in the Southeast for a camping trip.

After spending the past few years exploring Western North Carolina, I’ve camped at many spots around Asheville and discovered which are actually worth booking.

In this guide, I’m sharing the best campgrounds near Asheville, NC, including established forest campgrounds, unique camping experiences, Hipcamps, and even a few glamping options.

Map of the Best Campgrounds Near Asheville

The best camping near Asheville is spread across several beautiful mountain regions surrounding the city. Many of the top campgrounds are located within Pisgah National Forest, along the Blue Ridge Parkway, or within driving distance of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Because of this, most campgrounds are between 20 minutes and 1 hour from downtown Asheville, depending on which direction you travel.

Here’s a general idea of where many of the best camping areas are located:

• Pisgah National Forest (Brevard area): Known for waterfalls, scenic drives, and popular campgrounds like Davidson River Campground.
• Blue Ridge Parkway: Higher elevation camping with incredible mountain views at places like Mount Pisgah Campground.
• Black Mountain / Mount Mitchell area: Great for hikers and quieter forest campgrounds like Black Mountain Campground.
• Western Pisgah / remote forest areas: More secluded camping experiences like Curtis Creek Campground.

I’ve included a map below so you can easily see where each campground is located relative to Asheville and plan your trip accordingly.

Established State Park/Forest Campgrounds

If you’re looking for the best camping near Asheville, NC, the first places you should consider are the established campgrounds located within Pisgah National Forest and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. These campgrounds tend to offer the most scenic settings, easy access to hiking trails, and a true mountain camping experience.

Most of these campgrounds are managed by the U.S. Forest Service or the National Park Service, which means they are well-maintained yet still feel immersed in nature. Many offer a mix of tent sites, RV sites, picnic tables, fire rings, and access to nearby hiking trails, rivers, and waterfalls.

Bonus, they tend to be the most affordable as well. The only downside is that you won’t have as much privacy as many of the hipcamps offer.

Below are some of the best-established campgrounds near Asheville that consistently receive high reviews from visitors.

Lake Powhatan Campground

Lake Powhatan Campground is widely considered one of the best campgrounds near Asheville, NC, especially if you want easy access to both nature and the city.

Located about 20 minutes from downtown Asheville in Pisgah National Forest, this campground offers a perfect balance between convenience and a classic mountain camping experience.

The campground sits along Lake Powhatan, which makes it a great spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and relaxing by the water after a day of hiking.

Why campers love it:

• Large, well-spaced campsites
• Access to lake swimming and paddle sports
• One of the closest to Asheville
• Direct access to hiking and mountain biking trails

This campground is also popular with families and larger groups, thanks to its spacious sites and the variety of nearby recreational opportunities.

Davidson River Campground

Davidson River Campground is one of the most popular places for camping near Asheville NC, especially if you enjoy camping near water.

Located in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, this campground sits right along the Davidson River and offers easy access to some of the best hiking, waterfalls, and scenic drives in the area. It’s also conveniently located just off Highway 276, making it one of the more accessible campgrounds in the region.

Many of the campsites are positioned near the river, creating a peaceful setting where you can fall asleep to the sound of rushing water.

Why campers love it:

• Beautiful riverside campsites
• Close to popular waterfalls like Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock
• Easy access to hiking and biking trails in Pisgah National Forest
• Well-maintained campground facilities
• More peaceful, while only 40 minutes from downtown Asheville

This campground is especially popular for tent camping near Asheville NC, but it also offers RV sites. Because of its location and popularity, it’s a good idea to book early during peak seasons, particularly in the summer and fall.

Mount Pisgah Campground

If you want some of the best campground views near Asheville, Mount Pisgah Campground is hard to beat.

Located directly along the Blue Ridge Parkway at an elevation of over 5,000 feet, this campground offers cooler summer temperatures and sweeping views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Because of the higher elevation, the weather here can feel noticeably cooler than Asheville’s, making it a great escape during hot summer months.

I always recommend this campground to people who want to wake up surrounded by mountain scenery without committing to a strenuous backpacking trip. The area around Mount Pisgah is incredibly scenic, and you’re just minutes away from some fantastic hiking trails.

It’s also a scenic 40-minute drive to downtown Asheville along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

One of the most popular hikes nearby is the Mount Pisgah Trail, which leads to a summit with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trailhead is just a short drive from the campground and makes for a perfect sunrise or sunset hike.

Why campers love it:

• Incredible mountain views along the Blue Ridge Parkway
• Cooler temperatures, thanks to the high elevation
• Easy access to hiking trails like the Mount Pisgah Trail
• One of the most scenic camping areas near Asheville

Because of its location along the Parkway, this campground tends to fill up quickly during the fall foliage season, so reservations are strongly recommended if you’re planning a trip in October.

Black Mountain Campground

If your ideal camping trip revolves around hiking and mountain scenery, Black Mountain Campground is one of the best places to camp near Asheville.

Located in Pisgah National Forest near Burnsville, this campground sits along the South Toe River and provides easy access to some of the most beautiful trails in the region. It’s especially popular with hikers looking to explore Mount Mitchell State Park, home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.

Drive Time from Asheville: About 1 hour

One of the biggest advantages of staying here is how close you are to the Mount Mitchell Trail, one of the most well-known and challenging hikes in North Carolina. The trail climbs all the way to the summit of Mount Mitchell and offers incredible views along the way.

Even if you’re not planning a big summit hike, the surrounding area has plenty of scenic forest trails, riverside walks, and quiet mountain roads to explore.

The campground itself feels much more peaceful and low-key than some of the more popular campgrounds near Asheville, making it a great option for a quieter mountain camping experience.

Why campers love it:

• Easy access to Mount Mitchell hiking trails
• Beautiful riverside campsites along the South Toe River
• Quiet, forested setting away from Asheville crowds
• Great basecamp for exploring the Mount Mitchell area

Because of its proximity to Mount Mitchell, this campground is especially popular during summer and fall, when hikers and leaf peepers flock to the area.

Curtis Creek Campground

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience a quieter side of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Curtis Creek Campground is one of the most secluded camping spots near Asheville.

Located in Pisgah National Forest near Old Fort, this small Forest Service campground sits along Curtis Creek and offers a peaceful mountain setting surrounded by dense forest.

Drive Time from Asheville: About 40 minutes

Curtis Creek feels much more rugged and low-key compared to some of the larger campgrounds closer to Asheville. There are fewer sites, minimal amenities, and a stronger sense of solitude, which is exactly why many campers love it.

The campground also provides access to several scenic hiking trails in the area, including routes that lead deeper into Pisgah National Forest. Curtis Creek itself runs alongside the campground, creating a relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy the sound of flowing water throughout the day.

Because this campground is less developed than others on this list, it tends to attract campers who prefer a more unplugged camping experience.

Why campers love it:

• Quiet, secluded setting in Pisgah National Forest
• Small campground with fewer crowds
• Creekside campsites and relaxing natural scenery
• Great option for campers seeking solitude

If you’re visiting during peak seasons like fall foliage, Curtis Creek can be a great alternative to the busier campgrounds closer to Asheville.

Hipcamps Near Asheville

If you want a more private or unique camping experience, Hipcamp is a fantastic option around Asheville. Hipcamp allows landowners to host campers on their private property, which often means more space, fewer crowds, and unique settings you won’t find at traditional campgrounds.

This is my preferred way to camp, and although some of these on the list I haven’t personally been to, I have fully vetted them.

Many Hipcamps near Asheville offer mountain views, creekside campsites, working farms, or small glamping setups. They can be a great alternative if the larger campgrounds in Pisgah National Forest or along the Blue Ridge Parkway are fully booked.

Here are some of the best Hipcamps near Asheville worth checking out.

Barnhill Mountain (Fletcher, NC)

Drive Time from Asheville: About 30 minutes

Barnhill Mountain is a beautiful mountain property located just outside Asheville in Fletcher. This Hipcamp offers peaceful campsites surrounded by rolling hills and forest, making it a great option if you want quick access to Asheville while still enjoying a quiet mountain setting.

The property feels secluded yet still convenient to town, making it ideal for campers who want to split their time between outdoor adventures and exploring Asheville’s restaurants and breweries.

Why campers love it:

• Peaceful mountain setting close to Asheville
• Spacious sites with plenty of privacy
• Easy access to both nature and the city

Creekstone (Candler, NC)

Drive Time from Asheville: About 20 minutes

Creekstone is a charming Hipcamp located in Candler, offering a relaxing camping experience just west of Asheville.

Candler is one of my favorite towns outside Asheville and a great place to base yourself to explore the area.

Because of its proximity to Asheville, Creekstone is a great option if you want a short drive into town while still enjoying a secluded camping environment.

Why campers love it:

• 360-degree mountain views
• Very close to Asheville
• Quiet and relaxing setting

Bull Mountain Ridge

Drive Time from Asheville: About 35 minutes

Bull Mountain Ridge offers a scenic mountain camping experience with stunning views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.

This property is ideal for campers who want a more remote mountain setting while still staying within reasonable driving distance of Asheville.

With open views and plenty of space between sites, Bull Mountain Ridge is a great option if you’re looking for a peaceful camping experience with incredible scenery.

Why campers love it:

• Beautiful mountain views
• Spacious sites with privacy
• Quiet and relaxing atmosphere

Kinderhook Hollow Ponds & Brook

Drive Time from Asheville: About 35 minutes

Kinderhook Hollow offers a peaceful camping experience centered around ponds, flowing water, and beautiful wooded scenery.

This Hipcamp feels especially relaxing thanks to the natural water features throughout the property, which create a calm and quiet atmosphere for campers.

Why campers love it:

• Scenic ponds and creek features
• Peaceful natural setting
• Private campsites surrounded by forest

Reems Creek Retreat

Drive Time from Asheville: About 20 minutes

Reems Creek Retreat offers a quiet and convenient camping option just north of Asheville.

This Hipcamp is located in the Weaverville area and provides a peaceful mountain setting with easy access to hiking, scenic drives, and downtown Asheville.

The property offers a balance between privacy and convenience, making it ideal for campers who want to enjoy nature without traveling too far from the city.

Why campers love it:

• Close to Asheville while still feeling secluded
• Quiet mountain setting
• Great basecamp for exploring the area

Pro Tip: Weaverville also has an amazing place for breakfast/lunch called Yellow Mug!

Above the Fray Glamping (Black Mountain)

Drive Time from Asheville: About 25 minutes

If you’re looking for a glamping-style Hipcamp experience, Above the Fray offers a unique stay in the mountains near Black Mountain.

The views here are spectacular, and my friends and I loved how private each campsite felt. The camping platforms are within the trees on the side of a hill and feel like you’re in your own private treehouse.

Each site has curtains to provide extra privacy, access to porta-potties, and extra items like camp chairs and tables.

We also appreciated how close it was to Black Mountain and Catawba Falls.

Why campers love it:

• Stunning mountain views
• Unique glamping experience
• Close to both Black Mountain and Asheville

Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa River Ranch

Drive Time from Asheville: About 35 minutes

Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa River Ranch offers a truly unique camping experience on a working farm surrounded by the mountains of Western North Carolina.

I had this one on my bucket list for many years until I finally checked it off in the spring of 2025. My dog Ollie and I loved the access to the river and how quiet the area was. Every morning, I took him for a walk, and the views from the gravel road were incredible.

This Hipcamp is a great option if you’re looking for something different from traditional campground camping.

Why campers love it:

• Unique farm camping experience
• Scenic mountain surroundings
• Peaceful rural setting

Pro tip: This campground isn’t far from Presnell’s Produce, which is a permanent farm stand with amazing produce and homemade goodies.

Jake’s Farm

Drive Time from Asheville: About 30 minutes

Jake’s Farm is another excellent Hipcamp option for campers who enjoy a farm-style camping experience with open space and scenic surroundings.

The property provides a quiet environment where campers can relax, enjoy the countryside, and take in the beauty of Western North Carolina.

This is a great option for travelers looking for a laid-back, nature-focused camping experience within driving distance of Asheville.

Why campers love it:

• Peaceful countryside setting
• Spacious camping areas
• Unique farm property experience

High-End Camping (Glamping) Near Asheville

If you want to enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains without giving up comfort, glamping near Asheville is a fantastic option. These stays combine the outdoor experience of camping with amenities like real beds, cozy cabins, and thoughtfully designed spaces.

From riverside campgrounds to artistic cabins tucked into the mountains, the Asheville area offers incredible high-end camping and glamping options for those seeking a more comfortable outdoor getaway.

Wrong Way River Campground

Drive Time from Asheville: About 5 minutes

Wrong Way River Campground is one of the most unique glamping-style stays near Asheville. Located right along the French Broad River, this campground features a mix of modern cabins, RV sites, and tent sites just minutes from downtown.

The property has a fun, social atmosphere with riverside views, food trucks, and easy access to outdoor activities like kayaking and biking along the river.

Why guests love it:

• Riverside location along the French Broad River
• Modern cabins and unique camping setups
• Extremely close to downtown Asheville
• Great food trucks and communal atmosphere

If you want a camping experience that still keeps you close to Asheville’s breweries and restaurants, this is one of the best options in the area.

Upcycled Art Studio

Drive Time from Asheville: About 10 minutes

The Upcycled Art Studio offers one of the most creative and unique glamping experiences near Asheville. This Hipcamp stay features an artistic cabin built with reclaimed and repurposed materials, creating a space that feels both cozy and one-of-a-kind.

Surrounded by forest and mountain scenery, the property has a peaceful environment that feels far removed from the city yet is still within easy driving distance of Asheville.

Why guests love it:

• Creative and artistic cabin design
• Unique stay built from repurposed materials
• Quiet forest setting
• Memorable and unconventional glamping experience

This stay is perfect for travelers looking for something a little different from a traditional cabin or campsite.

The Cabin at Wild Ridge Trail

Drive Time from Asheville: About 20 minutes

The Cabin at Wild Ridge Trail offers a mountain retreat in Swannanoa, NC. This cozy cabin provides a more private glamping-style experience while still allowing guests to enjoy the outdoors.

The property is tucked away in the woods, but not a long drive to places to eat and things to do!

Why guests love it:

• Quiet and secluded mountain setting
• Cozy cabin accommodations
• Beautiful surrounding forest
• Ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway

Pink Fox Cove Cabin

Drive Time from Asheville: About 25 minutes

Pink Fox Cove Cabin is a charming glamping-style cabin located in a peaceful mountain setting. The property offers a cozy retreat surrounded by forest, making it a great place to unwind after exploring the Asheville area.

Guests love the tranquil atmosphere and the feeling of being immersed in nature while still having comfortable cabin accommodations.

Why guests love it:

• Cozy and comfortable cabin stay
• Quiet, nature-filled surroundings
• Scenic mountain atmosphere
• Great for a relaxing getaway

Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Cabin

Drive Time from Asheville: About 35 minutes

The Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Cabin offers a unique glamping experience on a scenic working farm in Western North Carolina. This has been on my list for FOREVER, and one day, I will stay here.

Ollie and I caught a glimpse of this cabin while staying in the on-site camping accommodations, and to say it looks magical is an understatement.

Staying here gives visitors the opportunity to experience farm life while enjoying a comfortable cabin stay in the mountains. Plus, the outdoor deck features a beautiful hammock, letting you enjoy nature with the comfort of a bed just steps away.

Why guests love it:

• Unique working farm experience
• Beautiful rural mountain scenery
• Quiet and peaceful environment
• Memorable glamping stay near the Smoky Mountains

Best Time for Camping Near Asheville NC

One of the best parts about camping near Asheville is that every season offers something different. The Blue Ridge Mountains experience distinct seasonal changes, so the best time to camp often depends on the type of trip you’re planning.

Spring (March–May)

Spring is a beautiful time for camping near Asheville, as the mountains come alive with wildflowers and flowing waterfalls.

Temperatures are generally mild, though evenings can still be chilly, especially at higher elevations along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Spring is also a great time to visit waterfalls since snowmelt and seasonal rain tend to create stronger flows.

Why camp in spring:

• Wildflowers blooming across the mountains
• Waterfalls are at their most powerful
• Cooler temperatures for hiking

Summer (June–August)

Summer is the most popular time for camping near Asheville, NC, especially for families and weekend travelers. The mountains provide a welcome escape from the summer heat found in lower elevations.

Campgrounds at higher elevations, such as those along the Blue Ridge Parkway, tend to stay cooler than Asheville itself.

Because summer is peak camping season, it’s important to reserve campsites well in advance, particularly for popular campgrounds like Lake Powhatan and Davidson River.

Why camp in summer:

• Warm weather for camping and swimming
• Long daylight hours for hiking and exploring
• Great conditions for river activities and waterfalls

Fall (September–October)

Fall is widely considered the best time for camping near Asheville, thanks to the famous fall foliage of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

From late September through October, the mountains transform into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. This makes it one of the most scenic times of year to camp in the area.

Because fall foliage attracts visitors from all over the country, campsites can book out months in advance, especially along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Additionally, this is bear-hunting season, so staying bear-aware and taking the necessary precautions, such as securing your food, are essential during October in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Why camp in the fall:

• Incredible fall foliage across the mountains
• Crisp temperatures are ideal for hiking
• Some of the most scenic camping views of the year

Winter (November–February)

Winter camping near Asheville is much quieter and less crowded, though colder temperatures mean it’s not for everyone.

Some campgrounds close seasonally during the winter months, particularly those located along the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, certain forest campgrounds and private stays remain open year-round.

For experienced campers, winter can offer a peaceful and scenic mountain experience without the crowds.

Why camp in winter:

• Fewer visitors and quieter campgrounds
• Unique winter mountain scenery
• Easier reservations and availability

Tips for Camping Near Asheville

Camping near Asheville is an incredible experience, but a little planning can make your trip much smoother. The Blue Ridge Mountains have unique weather patterns, busy tourist seasons, and varying campground rules, all of which are helpful to know before you go.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when planning your Asheville camping trip.

Book Popular Campgrounds Early

Many of the best campgrounds near Asheville NC, especially Lake Powhatan, Davidson River, and Mount Pisgah, fill up quickly during peak seasons.

Fall foliage season (late September through October) is the busiest time of year, so reservations often need to be made months in advance.

If you’re planning a fall trip, it’s a good idea to start looking for campsites as early as summer.

Prepare for Mountain Weather

Weather in the Blue Ridge Mountains can change quickly, particularly at higher elevations.

Even in summer, evenings can feel cool at campgrounds along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and sudden showers are common throughout the region.

It’s always a good idea to pack:

• A rain jacket
• Warm layers for nighttime
• Extra dry clothing

Expect Limited Cell Service

Many campgrounds in Pisgah National Forest and along the Blue Ridge Parkway have limited or no cell service.

Downloading maps in advance or bringing a paper map can be helpful if you plan to explore nearby hiking trails or scenic drives.

This is also part of what makes camping here so enjoyable; it’s a great opportunity to unplug and enjoy the mountains.

Respect Wildlife and Leave No Trace

The forests surrounding Asheville are home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and smaller animals.

When camping, always store food properly and follow campground guidelines for wildlife safety. Practicing Leave No Trace principles helps preserve these beautiful areas so future visitors can enjoy them as well.

Consider Drive Time When Choosing a Campground

Some of the best camping spots near Asheville are located 30–60 minutes outside the city in Pisgah National Forest or along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

If you plan to spend time exploring downtown Asheville, breweries, or restaurants, choosing a campground closer to the city may be more convenient.

If your goal is solitude and mountain scenery, driving a bit farther out can lead to quieter campsites and more peaceful surroundings.

FAQ: Camping Near Asheville

What are the best campgrounds near Asheville NC?

Some of the best campgrounds near Asheville include Lake Powhatan Campground, Davidson River Campground, Mount Pisgah Campground, Black Mountain Campground, and Curtis Creek Campground. These campgrounds offer easy access to hiking trails, rivers, and scenic mountain views throughout Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

How far are most campgrounds from Asheville?

Most campgrounds near Asheville are located 20 to 60 minutes from downtown Asheville. Campgrounds closer to the city, like Lake Powhatan, are about a 20-minute drive, while more secluded spots in Pisgah National Forest or near Mount Mitchell can take closer to an hour to reach.

Are there RV campgrounds near Asheville?

Yes, there are several RV-friendly campgrounds near Asheville. Options like Asheville East KOA and many nearby hipcamps offer RV sites with amenities such as hookups, showers, and easy access to Asheville.

Can you camp in Pisgah National Forest near Asheville?

Yes, Pisgah National Forest offers several established campgrounds near Asheville, including Davidson River Campground and Black Mountain Campground. These campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives throughout the forest.

Are there dog-friendly campgrounds near Asheville NC?

Many campgrounds near Asheville are dog-friendly, including most Forest Service campgrounds and many Hipcamp properties. Dogs are typically required to be kept on a leash, and it’s important to follow campground rules to help protect wildlife and other campers.

Is fall a good time to go camping near Asheville?

Yes, fall is one of the best times for camping near Asheville NC. From late September through October, the Blue Ridge Mountains are known for incredible fall foliage, making it one of the most scenic times of year to camp in the region. Because of this, campsites often book out months in advance.

Wrap-Up: Camping Near Asheville

Camping near Asheville is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Western North Carolina.

From scenic campgrounds in Pisgah National Forest to private Hipcamps and unique glamping stays, there are plenty of great options within an hour of the city.

If you’re planning a trip, be sure to book early, especially during the fall foliage season, when campsites fill up quickly.

Read More:

Best hiking trails in North Carolina

Best Campgrounds in North Carolina

Best Cabins in North Carolina