Lake Powhatan, Pisgah National Forest
Situated near Asheville, this favorite camping are offers 97 multipurpose sites complete with restrooms and showers. Lake Powhatan is great for swimming, but be aware that no boats are allowed. Track down by the dam, however, and there is a great fishing pier. The Pisgah National Forest is an excellent place to put on the backpack and do some exploring. Pets are allowed as long as they are on a leash. No alcohol is permitted.
Lake Powhatan, Pisgah National Forest
375 Wesley Branch Road
Asheville, North Carolina 28806
(828) 670-5627
forestcamping.com/dow/southern/pisgcmp.htm
Linville Falls Campground
The outdoor lover will go crazy at Linville Falls Campground. With 35 RV and 50 tent sites, this is a good spot for those who like to rough it and those who like to take a little bit of luxury with their camping. The highlight is the gorgeous hike to Linville Falls. Linville Gorge offers trails for those who are just starting out hiking as well as those with much more experience. Other outdoor activities include fishing and whitewater rafting. Don't miss the Linville Caverns.
Linville Falls Campground
717 Gurney Franklin Road
Linville Falls, North Carolina 28647
(828) 765-2681
linvillefalls.com/
Steele Creek Park and Campground
Located in Morganton, this campground is another favorite due to the wealth of recreational potential. The campground features plenty of spaces for those in RVs and those who just want to set up a tent. Steele Creek is located in a lush mountain valley and offers a breathtaking view of the southern stopping point of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Campers are never at a loss for something to do--the surrounding countryside provides plenty of hiking trails. Water sports include swimming and fishing, and there is a popular waterslide on the campground's property.
Steele Creek Park and Campground
7081 NC 181
Morganton, North Carolina 28655
(828) 433-5660
steelecreekpark.com
Smokemont Campground
This Cherokee campground is the largest in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The sites are fairly large as well but include only restrooms and no showers. This is a very popular campsite for hikers because this place is overrun with trails. Whether you like your hiking quick and easy or long and difficult, you can find a great spot for a scenic walk around Smokemont. Those who prefer to spend their camping time fishing or canoeing will get their fill at the Oconaluftee River.
Smokemont Campground
107 Park Headquarters Road
Cherokee, North Carolina 37738
(865) 436-1200
mysmokymountainvacation.com/camp-smokemont.html
Article Written By Timothy Sexton
Timothy Sexton is an award-winning author who started writing in 1994. He has written on topics ranging from politics and golf to nutrition and travel, and his work appears online for Zappos.com, Disaboom and MOJO, among others. He has also done work for "Sherlock Holmes and Philosophy." He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of West Florida.
