Rocky Bluff Campground

Star3.65
52 reviews
2145 NC-209, HOT SPRINGS, NC, 28743

Quick Facts

1,814 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open May 27 - Septem...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Appalachian Ranger District Office site

Official Website
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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
Rocky Bluff Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard nonelectric campsites are $15 per night during the peak season (May 27 - September 4, 2025). Additional fees apply for reservation services...
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Standard Site Fee$15.00
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

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What Campers Say

3.65

Mixed Reviews

Based on 52 reviews

52 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peaceful

"User reviews indicate mixed experiences at Rocky Bluff Campground. While many praise its seclusion, scenic beauty, and proximity to trails and fishing, others criticize its lack of maintenance, overgrown areas, and limited facilities. Positive comments highlight the tranquil ambiance and natural features, while negative feedback focuses on disrepair and outdated amenities."

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Campground Map

2145 NC-209, HOT SPRINGS, NC, 28743

Rocky Bluff Campground

2145 NC-209, HOT SPRINGS, NC, 28743

Driving directionsFrom Asheville (40 miles): Take U.S. 19/23 N to U.S. 25/70 NW toward Marshall and Hot Springs for about 30 miles. At the junction of U.S. 25/70 and NC 208, take a left and continue on U.S. 25/70 to Hot Springs. From Hot Springs take NC 209 for 3 miles. Rocky Bluff Campground is on the left.
Conveniently located off NC Scenic Byway 209. The campground is accessible via paved roads; however, user reviews mention significant road damage, including potholes and craters, which could make certain stretches challenging for passenger vehicles.
Nearby places
Hot Springs: 3 miles (approximately 5 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Hot Springs: Offers groceries, fuel, camping supplies, restaurants, art galleries, and shopping, approximately 3 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Rocky Bluff Campground

Summer brings warm, languid days perfect for creek-side relaxation, though the campground's ravine setting creates a natural haven for mosquitoes during these months—pack your repellent for evening comfort. Many seasoned visitors consider autumn the crown jewel of camping seasons here, when Western North Carolina transforms into a tapestry of crimson and gold, temperatures turn crisp and comfortable, and the mosquito population retreats. The shoulder seasons offer their own rewards for those willing to embrace variable mountain weather.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Open all summer with creek access and trails; mosquitoes, crowds on weekends, and maintenance issues noted.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
Not recommended

Seasonal dates: open May 27–Sept 4; fall mostly outside open season.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Seasonal opening is late May; spring mostly closed.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed in winter months; no winter activities.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 27 - September 4, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 27 - September 4, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: Restroom building closed; porta-johns available. Some trails blocked by fallen trees. Reviews suggest overgrown campsites and disrepair.

About Rocky Bluff Campground

Tucked away in the lush forests near Hot Springs, North Carolina, Rocky Bluff Campground beckons those seeking a true escape from the modern world. This rustic woodland retreat invites you to disconnect and rediscover the simple pleasures of outdoor living. Each thoughtfully spaced campsite comes equipped with the essentials for memorable nights under the stars: sturdy picnic tables for gathering, level tent pads for restful sleep, traditional lantern posts that cast a warm glow, and stone-ringed fire pits complete with grills for campfire cooking. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with porta-johns serving as facilities, this only adds to the authentic wilderness experience. The melodic sounds of nearby Spring Creek and easy access to winding forest trails create an atmosphere of tranquil seclusion that's increasingly rare to find.
Rocky Bluff Campground is primarily designed for tent camping, with 18 rustic sites available. It does not accommodate RVs or provide group sites. No luxury camping options such as cabins or yurts are offered.
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Reserving a campsite

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Stay Limit
Maximum stay of up to 14 nights per reservation.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Rocky Bluff Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, both on-site and nearby. The campground itself includes three trailheads suitable for short hikes, while the nearby town of Hot Springs provides access to the Appalachian Trail. Additional activities in the area include fishing, white-water rafting, kayaking, and tubing on the French Broad River. Spring Creek offers excellent trout fishing and scenic views.
HikingThree trailheads are located at the campground, offering short hikes with scenic views. The nearby Appalachian Trail provides longer hiking opportunities for enthusiasts. Reviews highlight the Spring Creek Trail as a particularly beautiful and accessible option, though some users reported overgrown or blocked sections.
FishingSpring Creek, located near the campground, is designated as a North Carolina Mountain Heritage Trout Water, and is stocked with Brook, Brown, and Rainbow trout. It is described as a trout angler’s paradise.
Wildlife viewingThe forested setting and proximity to natural habitats make this a good location for wildlife viewing. One user review mentioned hearing screech owls at night, adding to the natural charm.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bears are in the vicinity; food safety and trash disposal guidelines must be followed. Road conditions include significant potholes, which may challenge less durable vehicles. Slick trails after rain have been noted.
Active AlertsRestroom building closed; porta-johns available. Some trails blocked by fallen trees. Reviews suggest overgrown campsites and disrepair.

Weather at Rocky Bluff Campground

Reviews

3.7
52 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Rocky Bluff Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews indicate mixed experiences at Rocky Bluff Campground. While many praise its seclusion, scenic beauty, and proximity to trails and fishing, others criticize its lack of maintenance, overgrown areas, and limited facilities. Positive comments highlight the tranquil ambiance and natural features, while negative feedback focuses on disrepair and outdated amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 52 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users appreciated the seclusion, peaceful environment, and easy access to trails and Spring Creek. One user described the campground as "serene" and ideal for those seeking an escape from modern...
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Based on 52 reviews

Common Concerns

Numerous users criticized the lack of maintenance, with specific mentions of overgrown vegetation, blocked trails, and broken amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings. The porta-johns were also...
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Based on 52 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring their own portable bathroom facilities if possible. Visiting during weekdays is recommended for a quieter experience. Additionally, securing a campsite with shade is...
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Based on 52 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open seasonally from late May to early September. Reviews suggest that summer weekends can become crowded, while weekdays offer a more serene experience. Maintenance issues appear...
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Based on 52 reviews

Camper Quotes

"What a magical place! Awesome little hike to the water which is so fresh and lovely." - Chantal Dance Life. "It’s a shame this beautiful campground is closed until next May!" - Lisa Ramsey. "A...
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Based on 52 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews indicate that some campsites offer better privacy and conditions than others. For example, campsite #10 was described as overgrown and poorly maintained, while campsite #15 was...
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Based on 52 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is limited, with some sites requiring navigation of steps or embankments. No specific accommodations for disabilities were noted in the information provided.
Based on 52 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and several reviews mention positive experiences bringing dogs to the campground. However, one user noted issues with a barking dog during their stay.
Based on 52 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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