How much does camping cost at Crabtree Falls Campground?

Camping fees at Crabtree Falls Campground range from $30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Crabtree Falls Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Crabtree Falls Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Crabtree Falls Campground before I book?

Yes! Crabtree Falls Campground has 15 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Crabtree Falls Campground?

Crabtree Falls Campground is open January 08 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Crabtree Falls Campground?

Crabtree Falls Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Crabtree Falls Campground have?

Crabtree Falls Campground has 81 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Crabtree Falls Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Crabtree Falls Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Crabtree Falls Campground?

Crabtree Falls Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Crabtree Falls Campground?

Popular activities at Crabtree Falls Campground include Hiking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Crabtree Falls Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Crabtree Falls Campground?

Fire policies at Crabtree Falls Campground: Firewood Regulation: Only heat-treated firewood bundled in its original packaging and bearing a certification seal from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) or a state department of agriculture may be brought onto the Parkway. Campers may still collect dead and down wood in the immediate vicinity of campgrounds and picnic areas. This rule is strictly enforced! Don't Move Firewood. Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destinat. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.45

111 reviews

Milepost 339.5 Blue Ridge Parkway

C-Report Card

Great Hiking

Featured in:Hiking Camping North Carolina

Quick Facts

3,747 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

81 campsites

Season

Open season is liste...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Blue Ridge Parkway Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

3,747 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

81 campsites

Season

Open season is liste...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Blue Ridge Parkway Official Website

Get Directions

Crabtree Falls Campground

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

RV Nonelectric: $30.00; Standard Nonelectric: $30.00; Tent Only Nonelectric: $30.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

No paid fee categories listed.

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Provider

828-675-5444

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Campground Map

Milepost 339.5 Blue Ridge Parkway

Crabtree Falls Campground

Milepost 339.5 Blue Ridge Parkway

Nearby places

Spruce Pine (approximately 15 miles north)

Weather at Crabtree Falls Campground

Best Time to Camp at Crabtree Falls Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most striking experience at Crabtree Falls — October brings peak foliage with vivid reds, golds, and oranges and crisp, clear days ideal for waterfall views and long ridge-line vistas. Temperatures typically range from daytime highs near 60–70°F to chilly nights around 30–40°F, making for perfect campfire evenings and comfortable hiking conditions. Trails and overlooks are at their scenic best while crowds increase on weekends, so plan reservations early to secure a site. Peak months: October, September, May, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

October peak foliage and crisp days make fall the standout season; reviewers favor fall visits.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 08 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season is listed as May-October for reservations.

About Crabtree Falls Campground

Crabtree Falls Campground sits in the Blue Ridge Parkway foothills, operated by the National Park Service and serving as a base camp for the waterfall trail. The large campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with flush toilets, a dump station, and potable water. Campers hike to the falls, watch for wildlife, and enjoy seasonal operation during peak months with a 30-day stay limit.

Crabtree Falls Campground accommodates both tent and RV camping. It offers a blend of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. The campground is ideal for campers seeking a rustic experience close to nature.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most striking experience at Crabtree Falls — October brings peak foliage with vivid reds, golds, and oranges and crisp, clear days ideal for waterfall views and long ridge-line vistas. Temperatures typically range from daytime highs near 60–70°F to chilly nights around 30–40°F, making for perfect campfire evenings and comfortable hiking conditions. Trails and overlooks are at their scenic best while crowds increase on weekends, so plan reservations early to secure a site. Peak months: October, September, May, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation3747 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a forested section of the ancient Appalachian Mountains, where hardwood trees provide shade across most sites. Crabtree Falls, the main draw, cascades down the mountainside just a short walk from camp. White-tailed deer browse through sites at dawn and dusk. Mosquitoes can be heavy during warmer months. The surrounding ridgelines and valleys reveal the worn topography of some of Earth's oldest mountains.

Programs & ActivitiesThe Museum of North Carolina Minerals offers interactive exhibits on the area's geology and mining history. The Overmountain Victory Trail highlights Revolutionary War history.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive nights allowed are 30.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum guests per site are not to exceed six people unless designated otherwise for group camping.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilitySome campsites feature accessible grills and picnic tables, but there is limited mention of comprehensive accessibility features in user reviews. One user expressed doubts about the wheelchair accessibility of the bathroom stalls.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, with some being spacious and level, while others are smaller or have uneven ground. Tent pads are available at most sites but may feel small for larger setups.

PrivacyMany campsites lack privacy due to their proximity to each other. Outer loop sites may offer slightly more seclusion. Some users noted frequent foot traffic through their sites.

Total Campsites81 campsites

Recommended SitesOuter loops offer quieter experiences but are closer to vehicle noise from the Parkway during the day. Sites in Loop A are often mentioned for good amenities and peaceful stays.

Best CampsitesSite A9 gets mentioned for its quiet setting and proximity to facilities. Outer loop sites provide slightly more privacy than interior locations, though foot traffic through sites remains common. Some sites offer level, spacious ground with tent pads, while others have smaller or uneven terrain.

Need help booking Crabtree Falls Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Crabtree Falls Campground provides a mix of essential amenities suitable for both tent and RV campers. The campground has flush toilets, dump stations, drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings at each campsite. A total of 81 sites are available, with 27 reservable sites and 54 first-come, first-served sites. Visitors appreciate the fire pits and picnic tables for evening barbeques and marshmallow roasting. Firewood is available for purchase on-site, and there are food storage lockers to minimize wildlife interactions.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Crabtree Falls Campground offers a range of activities focusing on hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The nearby Crabtree Falls Trail is a major highlight. Other activities include star gazing, picnicking, and exploring nearby attractions like Mount Mitchell State Park and the Museum of North Carolina Minerals.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFirewood Regulation: Only heat-treated firewood bundled in its original packaging and bearing a certification seal from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) or a state department of agriculture may be brought onto the Parkway. Campers may still collect dead and down wood in the immediate vicinity of campgrounds and picnic areas. This rule is strictly enforced! Don't Move Firewood. Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destinat

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but users are urged to store food and scented items securely to prevent wildlife encounters, particularly with bears. Bear lockers are available at some sites.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is generally poor, with many campers reporting little to no reception. Some users have noted better reception near the dumpsters or if a camper van with a signal booster is nearby.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

111 reviews

Recommended

Crabtree Falls Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews generally describe Crabtree Falls Campground as a beautiful, serene location with convenient access to Crabtree Falls and other attractions along the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, maintenance issues with restrooms and campground facilities are recurring themes.

Review Summaries

Based on 111 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the proximity to Crabtree Falls, the peaceful environment, and the helpfulness of staff. Some reviewers highlight the cleanliness of the sites and the well-maintained trails. 'The...

Based on 111 reviews

Common Concerns

Recurring issues include outdated or poorly maintained bathrooms, lack of privacy at campsites, and occasional noise disturbances from other campers. One user mentioned, 'The bathrooms have broken...

Based on 111 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 81 in Loop B received mixed reviews due to noise disturbances and site proximity, while Site 9 in Loop A was praised for its quiet and shaded location. Multiple users noted that sites on the...

Based on 111 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers suggest bringing mosquito repellent, as mosquitoes can be a nuisance during warmer months. Others recommend visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience. A common tip is to hike the...

Based on 111 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Campers frequently visit in fall to enjoy the foliage, and the campground is described as less crowded on weekdays. Peak season brings higher activity, but many sites remain available even then....

Based on 111 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Bathrooms were atrocious.' - Justin Q 2. 'Great access to Crabtree Falls which is fabulous.' - William V 3. 'I selfishly want Crabtree Falls to remain a hidden gem.' - Patrick N

Based on 111 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are limited mentions of accessibility. One user expressed concerns about the wheelchair accessibility of the bathrooms.

Based on 111 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Several campers appreciated the pet-friendly policies, noting that dogs are welcome on trails and at campsites.

Based on 111 reviews

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Crabtree Falls Campground

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

RV Nonelectric: $30.00; Standard Nonelectric: $30.00; Tent Only Nonelectric: $30.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

No paid fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

828-675-5444

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Frequently Visited

4.3

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8516 HIGHWAY 80 SOUTH, BURNSVILLE, NC 28714, USA

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area sits along the South Toe River in the foothills near Burnsville, operated by the Cradle of Forestry In America Interpretive Association. The campground offers tent, RV, primitive, and group sites with access to swimming, tubing, and fishing in the river, plus trails for hiking and biking. Seasonal operation focuses on peak months when the river and forest are at their best.

Crabtree Falls Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Best Time to Camp at Crabtree Falls Campground

Planning Tips

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Best Time to Camp at Crabtree Falls Campground

Planning Tips

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Need help booking Crabtree Falls Campground?

Amenities available

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Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews