Davidson River

Star4.47
983 reviews
1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768, USA
Great HikingFishingSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

2,150 ft

Price

$35 - $74/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

160 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Davidson River
$35.00 - $74.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary based on season, site type, and amenities. Peak season fees for Standard Electric sites are $46 per night with a weekend surcharge of $5....
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Standard Site Fee$37.00
Hookup Site Fee$46.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
(828) 577-4558
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What Campers Say

4.47

Recommended

Based on 983 reviews

537 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacioushikingstaff

Some mention

noise

"Davidson River Campground receives generally positive reviews, with many campers praising its scenic location, proximity to trails and natural attractions, and well-maintained facilities. However, some visitors expressed concerns about noise, lack of privacy, and maintenance in certain loops."

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Campground Map

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768, USA

Davidson River

1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768, USA

Driving directionsFrom Asheville, North Carolina, take I-40 West to I-26 East to Exit 40 (Airport Road/Asheville Regional Airport), onto State Highway 280. Continue south 15.5 miles on 280 to Pisgah National Forest. Turn right at the intersection of Highway 280/64/276. Go north on 276 for 1 mile. Follow signs to the campground. From Spartanburg, South Carolina, take I-26 West to Exit 40 (Airport Road/Asheville Regional Airport), onto State Highway 280. Continue south 15.5 miles on 280 to Pisgah National Forest. Turn right at the intersection of Highway 280/64/276. Go north on 276 for 1 mile. Follow signs to the campground. From Charlotte, North Carolina, take I-85 South to Gastonia and exit at U.S. Highway 74 West. Merge with I-26 West to Exit 40 (Airport Road/Asheville Regional Airport), onto State Highway 280. Continue south 15.5 miles on 280 to Pisgah National Forest. Turn right at the intersection of Highway 280/64/276. Go north on 276 for 1 mile. Follow signs to the campground.
The campground is easily accessible from major highways, primarily State Highway 280, with paved roads leading directly to the entrance. Roads within the campground are well-maintained and suitable for a variety of vehicles, including RVs. Seasonal closures are not mentioned.
Nearby places
Brevard (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Asheville (approximately 40 miles, under an hour drive), Hendersonville (approximately 30 miles, 45-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials are available in Brevard, NC, just four miles from the campground. Firewood and ice are available at the campground itself.

Best Time to Camp at Davidson River

Each season paints Davidson River Campground with its own palette. Spring arrives with wildflowers and gentle warmth, while summer brings lush green canopies perfect for afternoon shade. Autumn transforms the forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson, and winter offers crisp mountain air ideal for cozy campfires. Rain showers frequently refresh the landscape, keeping the waterfalls flowing and the forest vibrant throughout the year.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 16% in NC

Summer is peak season; swimming, tubing, trails and educational programs draw many positive reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

Autumn foliage and favorable reviews make fall a top season for this campground.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring wildflowers and mild weather make it a strong season, per overview and reviews.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Open year-round but fewer amenities and less favorable reviews in winter; quieter but limited services.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: March 22 to November 15 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round.

About Davidson River

Nestled along the banks of the pristine Davidson River, this beloved year-round sanctuary welcomes families seeking the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness adventure. Eight thoughtfully designed camping loops weave through towering shade trees, creating intimate spaces where the gentle murmur of the river becomes your soundtrack. From your tent or RV, miles of legendary hiking trails beckon, leading to some of North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls and scenic vistas.
Davidson River Campground caters to diverse camping styles, including tent, RV, and group camping. Electric and non-electric sites are available, along with accommodations for large groups.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within rolling 30 days.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Davidson River Campground provides a variety of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and biking. The campground's proximity to natural attractions like Sliding Rock and Looking Glass Falls enhances the outdoor experience. Some visitors also enjoy tubing on the Davidson River and participating in summer and fall educational programs.
HikingHiking opportunities include the 12.3-mile Art Loeb Trail, the 3.7-mile North Slope Trail, and a 1.5-mile walking trail. These trails cater to different skill levels and offer scenic views of the Pisgah National Forest.
FishingThe Davidson River is ideal for trout fishing, with some users calling it 'perfect for fly fishing.' The river is regularly stocked, and fishing remains a popular activity despite occasional interruptions by tubers.
SwimmingThe swimming hole, featuring a natural beachfront entry, is a highlight for families. Some areas of the Davidson River reach depths of 8+ feet, suitable for jumping from platforms. Tubing is another favorite activity.
BikingSeveral bike-friendly trails are accessible from the campground, ranging from easy paths to more challenging terrains. Many reviewers highlighted this as a key feature for families and adventure enthusiasts.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as black bears, raccoons, and various bird species are commonly seen. Bear boxes are provided at most sites to manage food storage safely.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsEducational programs focused on local wildlife and forest ecology are offered during summer and fall seasons.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsLocated in black bear territory—proper food storage is mandatory. Poison ivy may be present. River currents pose risks.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof food storage lockers are available at many sites.

Weather at Davidson River

Reviews

4.5
983 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Davidson River is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Davidson River Campground receives generally positive reviews, with many campers praising its scenic location, proximity to trails and natural attractions, and well-maintained facilities. However, some visitors expressed concerns about noise, lack of privacy, and maintenance in certain loops.
Review Summaries
Based on 983 reviews

What Campers Love

Common praises include clean and spacious campsites, friendly and helpful staff, access to hiking trails, and family-friendly activities such as tubing and swimming. The site's proximity to Brevard...
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Based on 983 reviews

Common Concerns

Visitor complaints highlight crowded loops, inconsistent restroom cleanliness, loud neighbors, and high firewood prices. Limited cell service and lack of water or sewer hookups are also noted.
Based on 983 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend booking early, choosing less crowded loops like White Oak or Riverbend for privacy, and bringing bikes or tubes. Tubing on the Davidson River and hiking local trails are highly...
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Based on 983 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer and fall receive the most favorable reviews due to educational programs and outdoor activities. Winter camping is less crowded but offers fewer amenities. Some visitors noted maintenance...
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Based on 983 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Wonderful amenities and tons of trails to access without even having to leave the campground.' - Review by P Perez. - 'The Davidson River offers excellent trout fishing, plus tubing and swimming,...
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Based on 983 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews include mentions of #147 as a top choice for its proximity to the river and #14 for having more privacy. Loops like Sycamore and Dogwood are recommended for spaciousness.
Based on 983 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews regarding accessibility are minimal, but the paved roads and level sites make it suitable for visitors with mobility concerns.
Based on 983 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is dog-friendly, but pets must be leashed. Visitors appreciated the cleanliness and well-placed dog waste stations.
Based on 983 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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