How much does camping cost at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area?

Camping fees at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area are $28 - $70/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area 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 Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area before I book?

Yes! Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area has 5 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 Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area?

Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area is open April 04 to October 30. 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 Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area?

Yes, Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area have?

Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area has 35 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area. 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 Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area?

Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area?

Popular activities at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area?

Fire policies at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area: Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.29

185 reviews

8516 HIGHWAY 80 SOUTH, BURNSVILLE, NC 28714, USA

Top 9% in NCSummer

CReport Card

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping North Carolina Family-Friendly Campgrounds North Carolina

Quick Facts

2,900 ft

Price

$28 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

35 campsites

Season

Campground open from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Cradle of Forestry In America Interpretive Association Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,900 ft

Price

$28 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

35 campsites

Season

Campground open from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Cradle of Forestry In America Interpretive Association Official Website

Get Directions

Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

$28.00 - $70.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP SHELTER ELECTRIC- GRP1: $70.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $28.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

Group Site Fee$70.00

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Provider

828-675-5509carolinahemlocks@cfaia.org

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

8516 HIGHWAY 80 SOUTH, BURNSVILLE, NC 28714, USA

Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

8516 HIGHWAY 80 SOUTH, BURNSVILLE, NC 28714, USA

Nearby places

Burnsville (approx. 8 miles), Asheville (approx. 40 miles).

Weather at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Current alerts(8)

Campground open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; notify campground of late arrivals by calling (828) 675-5509.
Cell service is limited, texting might be a possibility.
Click here to learn more about the National Forests in North Carolina
First-come, first-served campsites are available.

Best Time to Camp at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable conditions for swimming, fishing, and river-side relaxation—expect daytime highs typically in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (24–29°C) and cool nights in the 50s–60s°F (10–18°C) at 2,900 ft. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and will briefly refresh the forest, but mornings are prime for hikes and fishing when the South Toe River is calmer. The campground is busiest on summer weekends and holidays (small site count fills quickly), so midweek visits or early 예약 Peak months: July, August, September, October Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 9% in NC

Best season: warm weather ideal for swimming, tubing and river activities; peak crowds expected.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 04 to October 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Campground open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; notify campground of late arrivals by calling (828) 675-5509.

About Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

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.

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area primarily offers primitive camping facilities but accommodates both tent campers and small RVs.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable conditions for swimming, fishing, and river-side relaxation—expect daytime highs typically in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (24–29°C) and cool nights in the 50s–60s°F (10–18°C) at 2,900 ft. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and will briefly refresh the forest, but mornings are prime for hikes and fishing when the South Toe River is calmer. The campground is busiest on summer weekends and holidays (small site count fills quickly), so midweek visits or early 예약 Peak months: July, August, September, October Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation2900 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a natural bowl surrounded by hemlock-covered ridges and dense rhododendron thickets. The South Toe River flows alongside the sites, carving pools and runs over smooth boulders. Hemlocks and hardwoods provide thick canopy cover in most areas, with rhododendrons blooming in summer. The forest floor stays carpeted in moss and ferns where shade is heaviest. At this elevation, the Appalachian landscape shows its age in rounded peaks and river-carved valleys that stretch in every direction.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available on-site, as the campground focuses solely on primitive camping facilities.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are explicitly mentioned as being offered.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum of 14 nights per stay.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Groups

The group shelter costs $70 per night during the peak season and includes electric facilities. However, some reviews indicated potential issues with the reservation system for group sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe campground does not provide detailed accessibility information; however, one user noted that restroom access involved long walks on unpaved paths covered in tree roots, posing challenges for older adults.

Site SizeSite sizes vary, from small and compact (e.g., site #6) to spacious and flat (e.g., site #35).

PrivacyPrivacy levels differ widely. Some sites offer a secluded experience nestled in trees, while others are crowded and close to neighbors. Site #3 was noted for feeling particularly crowded.

Total Campsites35 campsites

Recommended SitesSites closer to the river (e.g., site 2) offer easy access to activities but are noted to have less privacy compared to forested sites. Consider selecting shaded sites for a more secluded experience.

Best CampsitesSites 1, 12, 13, 28, 32, and 34 get mentioned in reviews for space, shade, and water proximity. Site 35 is noted as particularly spacious and flat. Avoid site 3, which reviewers found cramped. Site 6 runs small. Pick sites away from the main road if you want to avoid noise from day-use visitors heading to the swimming hole.

Need help booking Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area offers a variety of amenities tailored for campers who enjoy a natural and rustic environment amidst the Pisgah National Forest. The campground is equipped with 35 primitive campsites, picnic tables, tent pads, lantern posts, campfire rings with grills, hot showers, and flush toilets. Firewood, ice, tee shirts, and souvenirs are available for purchase on-site. However, user reviews present a mixed experience regarding the facilities' upkeep.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area provides a broad spectrum of recreational activities, including swimming, tubing, hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors have praised the campground's proximity to the South Toe River for water-based activities and the accessibility of nearby trails.

Swimming4.5/5Top 1% in North Carolina

Fishing4.0/5

Anglers catch trout and smallmouth on the South Toe River; fishing is a popular campground activity.

Hiking3.5/5

Leisurely 1-mile and a 3.8-mile trail including the Carolina Hemlock trail are available.

Biking3.0/5

Trails for hiking and biking are referenced but biking specifics and networks are not detailed.

Climbing2.0/5

No rock-climbing features noted; occasional river jumping mentioned but not technical climbing.

Water Sports2.0/5

River has pools and runs but boating/kayaking not supported; limited small-craft potential.

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Good photo subjects: South Toe River pools over boulders, hemlock ridges and rhododendron blooms.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete 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.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Trash & RecyclingUser reviews reported mixed experiences regarding trash facilities. One camper noted overflowing dumpsters that emitted foul odors and were not bear-proof, while another appreciated the clean and well-maintained fire pits and campsites.

Cell CoverageSeveral reviews mentioned limited cell service within the campground. Texting may be possible, but coverage is generally unreliable.

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

4.3

185 reviews

Satisfactory

Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area vary significantly but highlight themes such as serene natural beauty, convenient river access, and mixed facility experiences. Positive aspects include the campground's peaceful atmosphere and friendly staff, while common complaints focus on water quality, outdated infrastructure, and inconsistent enforcement of rules.

Review Summaries

Based on 185 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 185 reviews.

site #12Loved
Site-specific feedback highlights site #12 and #13 as favorites due to their spaciousness and proximity to amenities.
Site #6Loved
Site #6 is described as small, while #35 offers a wooded but less private setting.

What Campers Love

Guests frequently praised the campground's serene environment, proximity to the South Toe River, and opportunities for tubing, swimming, and fishing. Many also appreciated the helpful and friendly...

Based on 185 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues raised by guests include water quality problems (rusty, foul-smelling water), lack of cleanliness in bathrooms, overcrowded campsites, and poorly maintained trash facilities. Complaints also...

Based on 185 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers advise bringing drinking water due to water quality concerns, choosing campsites away from the road for reduced noise, and visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds at the swimming hole....

Based on 185 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During peak summer months, the campground experiences higher crowd levels, particularly at the river and swimming areas. Fall sees fewer visitors, offering a quieter camping experience.

Based on 185 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The Hemlocks isn't a place, it's an experience." - Charles Good 2. "Great place to play in the river. Tubing, fishing. The campsites are shady." - Dick Terrific 3. "Will most definitely return to...

Based on 185 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility concerns include long walks to restrooms on unpaved paths with tree roots, posing challenges for older adults or individuals with mobility impairments.

Based on 185 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

While pets are allowed, there are inconsistent rules regarding leash requirements and restricted areas like swimming holes. Some campers were frustrated by unclear signage and rule enforcement...

Based on 185 reviews

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Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

$28.00 - $70.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP SHELTER ELECTRIC- GRP1: $70.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $28.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

Group Site Fee$70.00

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

828-675-5509carolinahemlocks@cfaia.org

Go if

You want river access for tubing and fishing with a mix of developed and primitive camping options.

Skip if

You need spotless facilities or prefer campgrounds without heavy day-use traffic.

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Milepost 339.5 Blue Ridge Parkway

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.

Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Campground Map

Weather at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Planning Tips

About Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

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Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

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Overview

About the campground

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Facilities

RV information

Directions

Featured in these camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

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Need help booking Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area?

Amenities available

Things to do at Carolina Hemlocks Rec Area

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns