20 Best Campgrounds Near Asheville, NC
Looking for the best campgrounds near Asheville, NC? I’ve got you covered!
Whether you’re looking for a campground with full hookups or one with more rustic accommodations, you’re sure to find the perfect place to pitch your tent or park your RV.
I visit Asheville many times per year and am an avid camper myself so I know what’s important when looking for the best campgrounds in an area.
I’ll include information on each campground’s amenities, activities, and location so you’ll be able to make the best choice for you and your group.
Best Campgrounds Near Asheville, NC
This list of campgrounds near Asheville includes traditional campgrounds with tent and RV sites that are perfect for spending a weekend in Asheville. Some are privately owned and some are on public land.
These campgrounds are the perfect home base to explore North Carolina mountain towns!
1. Lake Powhatan
Lake Powhatan is a great place to camp on the East Coast if you’re looking for a convenient campground that’s close to town but love the outdoor adventure part of camping.
Just 10 minutes from downtown Asheville, Lake Powhatan is close to a variety of amenities and attractions, including the French Broad River, the North Carolina Arboretum, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The campground itself has over 70 campsites with some for tents only and some for tents or RVs. Sites have picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern poles.
In addition to tent and RV sites, there are new canvas tents for glamping as well. These glamping sites are equipped with comfy beds with linens included, a charging station for small electronics, and are within easy walking distance of the lake.
Hot showers and flush toilets are available here and several campground loops have river access. There’s also a dump station and a potable water filling station. Ice and firewood are available for purchase at the gatehouse.
This campground does stay very busy – especially on the weekends – so you’ll want to book in advance.
In the summer, you can cool off in the lake and lounge on the beach, or go for a hike or bike ride in Pisgah National Gorest.
Lake Powhatan is located in bear country, even though it’s so close to the city. Be sure to keep all food and scented items in your locked vehicle, camper, or bear-proof container when you’re not using them.
2. Campfire Lodgings
This is a fan favorite for campgrounds near Asheville and is mentioned regularly in the North Carolina Camping Facebook group.
The resort is located just 7 miles north of downtown Asheville, so you can easily explore the city whenever you would like. It’s also very close to an Ingles grocery store and downtown Weaverville which is an adorable town near Asheville.
They have a wide variety of camping options to choose from, including RV camping, yurts, cabins, a cliff house, and tent sites. They also have a fishing pond, hiking trails, and stunning views.
RV campers will love the large, staggered sites with full hookups. Yurt campers will enjoy the romantic atmosphere and the fire ring for roasting marshmallows.
Cabin campers will appreciate the fully furnished accommodations and the private decks. Cliff house guests will wake up to stunning views of the mountains. And tent campers will love the peaceful setting and secluded sites.
The resort is not too far of Hwy 26 so you can easily access multiple things to do in the area.
WiFi is only available at the top of the campground and pets are allowed but be sure to read through all the policies.
3. Mount Pisgah Campground
Located right along the Blue Ridge Parkway, this is a beautiful place to camp in the NC mountains. It’s located at an elevation of 4,980 feet, so you can expect moderate temperatures even during summer.
The campground has no electric hookups, but it does have flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station. It’s located across the road from Pisgah Inn where you’ll find a restaurant and country store.
Cell phone reception and internet connectivity are limited at the campground so this is a great place to go when you want to get away.
Firewood for use in campfires must be purchased from the campground. Invasive insects and diseases that live in firewood are a growing threat to North Carolina’s forests, so it’s important to follow the campground’s firewood policy.
The campground is about 40 minutes southwest of Asheville but the drive to get there is along the Parkway and it’s stunning. It’s also about 40 minutes from the cute town of Brevard.
There are tons of great hikes in this area like Frying Pan Tower, Graveyard Fields, or Devils Courthouse. With it’s close proximity to Brevard, it’s also close to many beautiful waterfalls in western NC.
This campground is only open from late May to the end of October so plan accordingly. There. are some first come first serve sites as well as sites that you can reserve.
4. Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Campground
Mama Gertie’s is the perfect combination of convenience and natural beauty if you’re looking for a campground near Asheville.
Located just 15 minutes from downtown, Mama Gertie’s is only 1/2 mile off of I-40 near Swannanoa so you are perfectly situated between Asheville and Black Mountain. Check out some of the amazing restaurants in Black Mountain if you have time.
There are full hookup options for RVs plus some new glamping options but no tent sites. Pets are welcome and there is even a dog park onsite.
Laundry facilities, a community fire pit, and camp store are just a few of the amenities they offer. Each campsite comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire pit so you can enjoy a warm fire under the stars.
The facilities are very clean, but WiFi can be spotty in parts of the campground so you may want to plan accordingly.
From April 1 – November 1, there is a minimum stay of two nights on regular weekends and three nights on holiday weekends. Maximum stay is 14 days. From November 1 – March 1 they have weekly and monthly rates available.
5. Asheville East KOA
Asheville East KOA is a great camping spot for those looking to get close to downtown Asheville without being in the hustle and bustle of the city.
It’s also located just past Swannanoa, so it’s about 20 minutes from downtown. It’s very close to many of the fun things to do in Black Mountain so don’t miss out on those.
Here you’ll find RV sites, cabins, and tent sites available with some sites along the Swannanoa River. There are two lakes on the property where you can rent kayaks or pedal boats.
Their pool is open seasonally and they also host seasonal events that are popular for families. WiFi is available as well as bike rentals and laundry facilities.
Dogs are welcome and the walking trails and fenced dog area make it even easier to get them some exercise.
One thing to note is that there is a limit to how many people can be at each campsite. The campground is open year-round though.
6. Davidson River Campground
Davidson River Campground is perfect for campers who want to be immersed in nature close to beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls near Asheville but still within easy driving distance of the city.
It’s located just 40 minutes from Asheville, just outside of Brevard along Highway 276. You’ll be directly across from the Art Loeb Trailhead and near many popular waterfalls like Looking Glass Falls and Moore Cove Falls.
Note that there’s no cell phone coverage and no WiFi, so you’ll want to make a plan ahead of time and have an idea of where you want to go and how to get there.
The amenities here include hot showers, flush toilets, firewood and ice for purchase on-site, and bike rentals nearby. The Davidson River runs right alongside the campground so you can also easily swim or fish during nice weather!
There are 133 campsites here but only 30 have electrical hookups so this is a popular spot for tent campers. The campground is located in black bear territory though so properly store your food and scented items.
7. The Baying Hound Compound
The Baying Hound Campground is a unique campground located in the “Emma” area of Asheville, North Carolina.
It is about a 10-15 minutes’ drive away from downtown Asheville and a $12-$15 Uber ride. The campground is tucked away in a 2-acre wooded valley and is surrounded by mostly residential and agricultural properties.
The campground offers a variety of shared amenities, including indoor bathroom and sinks with hot and cold running water, indoor hangout area with couch, books and outlets, and a charging station for phones and tablets.
There are multiple picnic tables as well, a Wi-Fi zone with varying quality of internet, and a nearby Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym.
The campground is also close to many popular attractions in Asheville, including breweries, downtown Asheville, West Asheville, the River Arts District, hiking trails, white water rafting, and tubing.
Additionally, this campsite is located in a quiet, wooded area, yet it is still close to all the action in Asheville. It offers a variety of shared amenities that make it feel more like a hostel than a traditional campground.
As a plus, it is owned and operated by two people who are passionate about creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
Free Camping Near Asheville, NC
While free camping near Asheville is a little harder to come by, it’s not impossible to find. Here are a few options for dispersed campsites. Please Leave No Trace when you visit these beautiful areas!
8. Linville Gorge Wilderness
There are many dispersed campsites along Old NC 105 which is a gravel road that runs through the Linville Gorge Wilderness.
This road can get really washed out with lots of potholes so you’ll want a vehicle with decent clearance. I wouldn’t take a small sedan down this road.
These are first come, first serve spots and they can fill up quickly on weekends – especially when the weather is nice.
The Linville Gorge offers some of the best hiking in North Carolina which is why this is such a popular area. Come see Linville Falls, hike Table Rock or Hawksbill, and enjoy some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
This is also bear country and there are no bear boxes or any amenities in this area.
9. Yellow Gap Road
Yellow Gap Road is just north of Brevard and runs between Highway 276 and North Mills River Road. There are numerous dispersed sites along the road and many are right along Bradley Creek.
Of course, there are no restrooms or facilities here but the beauty of Pisgah National Forest is really mesmerizing.
While camping here, you’ll be close to tons of waterfalls, great hiking opportunities, and some of the best mountain biking in North Carolina.
10. Neals Creek Road
Neals Creek Road is a gravel road that connects South Toe River Road to the Blue Ridge Parkway and it doesn’t even show up on Google Maps!
You’ll find one end of the road in the hairpin turn along South Toe River Road. There are no facilities along this route but there are designated campsites denoted by a wooden sign with white triangles on them.
It’s incredibly peaceful out here but bear activity is high so please store your food properly. There are other dispersed campsites along South Toe River Road as well.
Cabin Rentals near Asheville
If you prefer a cabin to a tent or RV, then you’ve got plenty of options here too. There are places that fit a wide range of budgets as well. A few of the campgrounds that I’ve already mentioned also have cabins but here are a few others.
11. Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins
Here’s how you can stay right in the action of Asheville but still feel like you’re camping. You’ll be just a mile from the River Arts District and Haywood Road but tucked away in a wooded area right beside the French Broad River.
Perfect if you plan on taking some tours in Asheville so you aren’t too far away from downtown.
Here, you’ll find 16 charming A-frame cabins, all equipped with private bathrooms, HVAC, and WiFi – not to mention the cute and comfortable bed and sitting area. This is not your ordinary camping — it’s a blend of the rustic outdoors with the comfort of modern amenities.
In addition to the cabins, there is a communal lodge onsite where the camp store is located and there are spaces where you can hang out.
Wrong Way River Cabins is the best place to stay when you don’t want to deal with any of the hassle of camping but still want that outdoorsy feeling and you want to be close to town. Some are even pet-friendly!
12. Asheville River Cabins
Just south of Asheville near the airport, you’ll find the adorable Asheville River Cabins. Right on the banks of the French Broad River, these cabins and airstream campers provide a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The cabins vary in design and amenities – some have hot tubs, full kitchens, WiFi, and many have beautiful river views.
It’s important to note that each cabin and airstream has unique amenities, so be sure to check individually to ensure it meets your specific needs and wants.
13. Mountain Springs Cabins
Mountain Springs Cabins is a resort property located west of Asheville and just south of Candler. It’s close to the Blue Ridge Parkway and lots of hiking opportunities like the waterfalls of Brevard.
The decor in these cabins are much more dated than the two mentioned above, but no less cozy and there are plenty of amenities on-site.
You can wade in the stream running right beside the resort and there’s WiFi, bonfire pits, and outdoor grills. In addition to cabins, they have yurts and a couple of tiny homes available too.
They also have pet-friendly cabins available if needed.
State Campgrounds near Asheville, NC
There are a few different state parks near Asheville that have campgrounds. These are typically very affordable, and the facilities are decent. Plus, I always feel safer at a state park if I’m camping solo.
These are all a little further out from Asheville though, so you will be closer to all the hiking opportunities instead of the city itself.
14. Mount Mitchell State Park
This one is for the adventurous tent campers, but Mount Mitchell is the highest point east of the Mississippi so it would be an epic experience!
There are only nine tent sites and each one is walk-in only, but the parking lot isn’t far away so you don’t have to backpack into the sites. Grills and picnic tables are at each site.
Restrooms are available here, but no hot showers or bathhouse. The campsites are only open May 1st – October 31st. Keep in mind that the park is located off the Blue Ridge Parkway so anytime it’s closed, you can’t access the entrance.
The biggest reason to camp here is for the hiking in Mount Mitchell State Park and nearby but you’ll be about an hour and a half from Asheville itself.
If you aren’t interested in camping here, Mount Mitchell makes for a great day trip from Asheville.
15. Lake James State Park
Located about an hour northeast of Asheville, Lake James State Park offers drive-in, walk-in, and paddle-in tent sites. I camped with a friend at the Paddy’s Creek section and we didn’t even go into the city!
There’s a lot more to do in the Lake James area than you would expect. We loved the drive-in sites as there was plenty of room for our two cars, a large tent pad, plus a picnic table and fire ring.
In the summer, you can swim in the lake, rent boats, or get out on a paddleboard or kayak. The Linville Gorge is nearby which is perfect for hiking.
At the Paddy’s Creek section, there are 33 drive-in sites plus a bathhouse with hot showers. The bathhouse wasn’t fancy, but it was fine for a short weekend trip.
The Catawba River section offers 20 lake-front campsites, but you do have to walk 150 – 300 yards to reach the campsites so pack lightly. There is also a bathhouse and hot showers here.
There are 30 more paddle-in campsites on the Long Arm Peninsula that you can only reach by boat. Note that there is no running water at the paddle-in sites, but there are restrooms.
16. Gorges State Park
If you head in the opposite direction and go an hour and a half southwest of Asheville, there is Gorges State Park. The campground is located at the Grassy Ridge Entrance.
There are tent sites, RV sites, plus a handful of rustic cabins. There is only one bathhouse facility, but it’s very nice!
It’s located in Transylvania County, nicknamed the “Land of Waterfalls” because there are over 250 in the area. The park has multiple waterfalls like Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls, and Upper Bearwallow Falls. Cashiers and Brevard are two other small towns nearby.
Glamping Near Asheville, NC
Want an outdoor experience but not necessarily if you have to rough it? Glamping is a great way to enjoy all the fun of camping but with a little more comfortable lodging.
17. Asheville Glamping
Luxury meets nature at Asheville Glamping, one of the top places to camp near Asheville. Located just 10 miles from downtown, it offers a range of unique accommodations including domes, bell tents, treehouses, and a cabin.
Each option comes with its own set of amenities, but as an example, some are equipped with a mini-kitchenette, private hot tub, or outdoor grills. You’ll want to check each one before booking to see if it will satisfy all your needs.
The available bathroom facilities vary with each accommodation type from private bathrooms to shared bathhouses to outdoor toilets.
Keep in mind that they don’t offer Wi-Fi, making it the perfect retreat if you’re looking to fully disconnect. This also isn’t set up as a resort, so there aren’t many fun things to do on-site.
18. Glamping Collective
The Glamping Collective is situated conveniently between Asheville and the east entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s 30 minutes to Asheville and an hour to the Smokies.
There are two different options for lodging – domes and glass cabins. These luxurious domes and cabins come with varying amenities, from private hot tubs and fire tables to kitchenettes and private decks.
You’ll also find multiple shared spaces featuring fire pits, grills, and picnic tables, where you can mingle with other guests if you’d like.
One of the best amenities is their five miles of private hiking trails on site, so you don’t even have to drive anywhere to enjoy a hike!
19. JuneBug Retro Resort
Step back in time and stay in a restored 1950s-era camper at JuneBug Retro Resort. Less than 20 minutes north of Asheville, this unique camping destination features 10 different campers, each able to sleep between 2 to 4 people. If you’re bringing kids, you may can fit one more.
One big thing to note – JuneBug is open seasonally! They close for a period in the winter and reopen in spring.
Each camper is fitted with its own set of charming amenities, and for those that do not include a bathroom, you will have access to a luxurious bathhouse. Note that no dogs are allowed to stay here, so if you’re bringing a furry friend, you’ll want to look at other places to stay.
During the day, a large treehouse is available for guests to use as a hangout spot. The site also has a Creek Lounge, complete with a bar serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage options, hammocks suspended over the creek, and comfortable chairs.
Keep in mind, this is also an event venue so there may be weddings or other events going on across the creek. There is also an organic farm located across the creek!
If you don’t feel like driving all the way into Asheville, this is also five minutes from the town of Weaverville which is a cute place to walk around.
20. Hidden Flower Tiny Farm
This is for the eco-conscious traveler and you’ll find two options at Hidden Flower Tiny Farm – the Barn Cabin and Tiny Home.
The Tiny Home is perfect for solo travelers or a couple if you’re willing to squeeze in the loft. Just note that it’s a double bed you’ll have to share and the ceiling isn’t very tall.
In this space you’ll find a kitchenette, compostable toilet, and hot shower. There is a fire pit outside and parking though you’ll have to walk up a hill to get to the tiny home.
The Barn can sleep six guests and has lots of indoor and outdoor space. This used to be the old horse barn where two horses and hay were kept. A chicken coop was added on which is now the bathroom space.
While it may have been a horse barn in a previous life, the space now is absolutely beautiful and has all the modern amenities you might want. A full kitchen, bathroom, and television are included but the mountain views are a real treat.
Wrap Up: Campgrounds Near Asheville, North Carolina
Whether you’re an eco-conscious traveler, an adventure-seeker, or just someone seeking a peaceful retreat, the campgrounds near Asheville, North Carolina offer something for everyone.
Each campground has its own unique flair and amenities, from the primitive sites in the National Forest that have none to the luxury glampsites that have comforts of home.
Make sure to pay close attention to what each individual site has to offer so you book the right one for you and your family.
