Lake Powhatan Glamping

4.51

233 reviews

375 WESLEY BRANCH RD.

Summer Destination

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

Quick Facts

2,200 ft

Price

$30 - $100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open from March 22nd...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Naventure site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

2,200 ft

Price

$30 - $100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open from March 22nd...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Naventure site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Lake Powhatan Glamping

$30.00 - $100.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season rates for standard electric sites are $100 per night with an additional $30 charge during weekends. Rates are subject to discounts,...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

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

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(828) 577-7278info@pisgahcampgrounds.com

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.51

Top-Rated

Based on 233 reviews

563 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciouswell-maintainedsites

Some mention

noise

"The campground receives high praise for its location, cleanliness, and the overall glamping experience. Some issues include low water pressure in showers, poorly marked trails, and occasional staff-related concerns."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

375 WESLEY BRANCH RD.

Lake Powhatan Glamping

375 WESLEY BRANCH RD.

Driving directionsFrom Asheville, take I-26 to exit 33. Go south approximately 2 miles on State Route 191 to the Lake Powhatan Recreation Area sign. Turn right and follow signs to the campground.

Accessible via paved roads. The campground is easily reachable from Asheville and nearby highways. No seasonal closures were mentioned.

Nearby places

Asheville (10 minutes), Hendersonville (approximately 30 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Groceries and camping supplies are available nearby in Asheville

visitors can purchase firewood and ice at the campground gatehouse.

Best Time to Camp at Lake Powhatan Glamping

Experience the full symphony of Appalachian seasons at Lake Powhatan. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and crisp mornings that warm into perfect hiking weather. Summer brings long, golden days ideal for lake adventures and evening campfires under star-filled skies. Fall transforms the landscape into a breathtaking tapestry of amber and crimson, with comfortable temperatures that make every outdoor moment memorable. While winter brings a peaceful quiet to the mountains, the glamping season runs from spring through fall, when nature puts on its finest show and temperatures create the perfect backdrop for your mountain retreat.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 16% in NC

Summer is popular for the swimming beach and hiking; many positive summer reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall offers scenic views along the Blue Ridge Parkway and strong foliage appeal.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring wildflower blooms and crisp hiking weather make it attractive.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed Nov 15–Mar 22; winter visits/bookings not available.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 22 to November 15.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from March 22nd to November 15th each year. Out-of-season bookings are not available.
Current Alerts: No current active alerts.

About Lake Powhatan Glamping

Nestled in the serene Hardtimes Loop, Lake Powhatan Glamping invites you to experience the magic of outdoor living without sacrificing comfort. Twelve thoughtfully furnished canvas tents await, each offering a private sanctuary beneath a canopy of shade trees. Just a leisurely stroll from the shimmering waters of Lake Powhatan, your glamping haven comes complete with everything you need for the perfect escape—from crackling campfire rings where stories come alive to modern charging stations that keep you connected. With flush toilets, picnic tables, and the gentle sounds of nature as your soundtrack, this is where adventure meets relaxation in perfect harmony.

Lake Powhatan offers a mix of traditional camping options and upscale glamping accommodations. The glamping sites are a unique feature, providing fully furnished tents for a comfortable experience.

Historical SignificanceYour glamping basecamp opens doors to some of North Carolina's most treasured landmarks. Plunge down the natural waterslide at Sliding Rock, where generations have created summer memories. Stand in awe at Looking Glass Falls, where water cascades 60 feet over ancient granite. Wind your way along the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway, America's favorite scenic drive. Explore the living collection at the North Carolina Arboretum, or step back in time at the magnificent Biltmore Estate, where Gilded Age grandeur meets mountain majesty. Each destination tells a story of this remarkable region's natural and cultural heritage.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full symphony of Appalachian seasons at Lake Powhatan. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and crisp mornings that warm into perfect hiking weather. Summer brings long, golden days ideal for lake adventures and evening campfires under star-filled skies. Fall transforms the landscape into a breathtaking tapestry of amber and crimson, with comfortable temperatures that make every outdoor moment memorable. While winter brings a peaceful quiet to the mountains, the glamping season runs from spring through fall, when nature puts on its finest show and temperatures create the perfect backdrop for your mountain retreat.

ElevationPerched at 2,200 feet in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Lake Powhatan offers a refreshing mountain climate that feels worlds away from the everyday. This sweet spot of elevation brings cooler summer nights perfect for sleeping under canvas, crisp autumn air that invigorates morning hikes, and stunning vistas that stretch across ancient ridgelines. Here, you'll breathe deeper, sleep better, and wake to mornings touched with mountain mist.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering hardwoods and whispering conifers create nature's own cathedral around Lake Powhatan's tranquil waters. This heavily wooded paradise showcases the Appalachian Mountains at their finest—where morning mist rises from the lake surface, afternoon sunlight filters through dense forest canopy, and the distant sound of cascading waterfalls provides nature's soundtrack. Every glamping tent offers front-row seats to this ever-changing natural theater, where each season paints the landscape in new colors and every day brings fresh discoveries.

Geological RegionWelcome to the ancient Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina, where time is measured in millions of years and beauty in countless moments. At 2,200 feet elevation, Lake Powhatan sits cradled among mile-high peaks that have witnessed eons of geological history. These mountains, some of the oldest on Earth, showcase nature's artistry through cascading waterfalls that have carved their paths over millennia, slopes blanketed in dense forests of hardwoods and conifers, and rock formations that tell the story of our planet's dramatic past. It's a landscape that humbles and inspires, offering both adventure seekers and peace seekers their perfect mountain sanctuary.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

4PM for regular sites
6 PM for glamping sites.

Check-out

11 AM for regular sites
10 AM for glamping sites.

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights. Campers may stay up to 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limit of 6 people per site with 2 passenger vehicles.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutOrganized into four loops, with glamping sites located in the upper Hardtimes Loop.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or through the contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come, first-served availability from June 19th to June 20th during peak season. All other dates require advance reservations.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (starting midnight 1 day before check-in) incur the first night's recreation fee loss along with the $10 fee. No-show customers are charged a $20 penalty and forfeit the first night's fee.

AccessibilityCampground hosts are available and attentive. Specific sites are well-marked for accessibility. However, trails and campsite layouts may require additional attention for those with mobility impairments.

Site SizeCampsites are spacious and offer ample room for tents and vehicles. The glamping tents are noted as being larger than expected and accommodating families of five.

PrivacySites are shaded and provide a good level of privacy, with many described as being set apart or wooded. One review noted 'generously spaced allowing for privacy.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites 73 or 80 for proximity to bathhouses. Sites in the Hardtimes Loop offer extra privacy and shade.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Numerous recreational opportunities are available, including hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing. The lake is a major draw for anglers and families. The area is known for its extensive trail system (44 miles), making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

HikingThe campground's proximity to 44 miles of trails offers extensive opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. Trails range in difficulty and are a highlight for many visitors, although some reviews note overgrown and poorly marked paths in certain areas.

FishingFishing is permitted in Lake Powhatan and the nearby French Broad River. The lake is noted for trout fishing, but personal watercraft use is not allowed to protect the ecosystem.

SwimmingThe lake features a sandy swimming beach that is popular among families. However, some reviews mention the water being muddy, which could detract from the swimming experience.

BikingThe extensive trail system is a highlight for mountain biking enthusiasts. Users praised the variety and accessibility of the trails.

Wildlife viewingThe heavily wooded surroundings and proximity to a lake make this a great spot for observing wildlife, including bears. Bear safety measures are mandatory.

Beach activitiesThe sandy beach is a central feature of the campground. While popular for relaxation, some visitors noted issues with the muddy water.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bear territory—food and smellable items must be stored in bear-proof containers or vehicles. Strict safety protocols are enforced.

Active AlertsNo current active alerts.

Fire PolicyFires are only allowed in established fire rings. Burning of materials with metal objects is strictly prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include Asheville hospitals and police stations approximately 10 minutes away.

Trash & RecyclingFacilities are well-maintained, and guests are instructed to follow bear safety protocols. This includes proper storage of food and trash to minimize wildlife encounters.

Water FeaturesWalking distance to Lake Powhatan and nearby French Broad River, which offers fishing, tubing, and swimming.

Camp HostHosts are available and marked clearly. Mixed reviews noted variability in host helpfulness and quiet hour enforcement.

Weather at Lake Powhatan Glamping

Reviews

4.5

233 reviews

Top-Rated

Lake Powhatan Glamping is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground receives high praise for its location, cleanliness, and the overall glamping experience. Some issues include low water pressure in showers, poorly marked trails, and occasional staff-related concerns.

Review Summaries

Based on 233 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include the spacious and private campsites, clean facilities, and well-maintained trails. Glamping accommodations were particularly appreciated for their comfort and convenience.

Based on 233 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include poor water pressure in showers, unmarked trails, and noise from staff or other guests breaking quiet hours. Some glamping tents were noted to have insect issues.

Based on 233 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra bedding for colder nights and flashlights due to minimal lighting at glamping sites. Purchase firewood on-site to avoid transporting it. Plan ahead for limited cell phone service.

Based on 233 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are popular for the swimming beach and hiking opportunities. Fall offers scenic views along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Some winter reviews note limited amenities during this off-season.

Based on 233 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The glamping tents proved spacious and very protective of the intermittent rain storms.' 2. 'The lake features a sandy swimming beach, but the water is pretty muddy.' 3. 'Camp hosts were friendly...

Based on 233 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites in the Lakeside Loop and upper Hardtimes Loop received praise for privacy and proximity to amenities. Site 73 was highlighted for its convenience to the bathhouse.

Based on 233 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is mentioned positively in some reviews. However, additional efforts could ensure better trail access for those with mobility issues.

Based on 233 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome but must be leashed. Some reviews mentioned the campground's suitability for dogs, while others noted challenges in keeping pets within designated areas.

Based on 233 reviews

0 review