Top 10 RV Parks Near the Asheville, NC Area

Top 5 reasons why it’s a fun place to visit:

1. Visit the North Carolina Arboretum and the Botanical Gardens
2. Check out the Asheville Pinball Museum
3. Walk in the Biltmore Village
4. Visit several local breweries to try different beers
5. Check out the art at the Woolworth Walk

List of top ten RV Parks in the Asheville, NC area:

(Disclaimer: information is a compilation of researched info as published online and does not necessarily reflect the experience or opinion of the author)

The RV parks have been ranked and are listed from “Most Recommended” to “Least Recommended” based on reviews, feedback, amenities, and preference. Cost was not the primary ranking driver. Please note that weekend RV families with children might have different needs than full-time RV “snowbirds”.

1. Mount Pisgah Campground

According to their Website, “[o]ne of the most popular of the Parkway’s campgrounds, Mount Pisgah Campground is perched in the rolling mountains of western North Carolina on the southernmost end of the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. Surrounded by dense hardwood forests at an elevation of 4980 feet, it offers shady, cool respite from the summer heat. Whichever end of the day appeals, spectacular sunrise and sunset panoramic views can be enjoyed from nearby overlooks. Several popular hiking trails, ranging from moderate to strenuous, are accessible from the campground. Drenched in history, this area was once part of the holdings of George Vanderbilt and the site of his hunting camp house, Buck Springs (no longer standing), is close by.” (Source: Mount Pisgah Campground, Blue Ridge Parkway – Recreation.gov)

What makes this park unique?

This is a seasonal campground that operates on partial reservation and partial first-come first served basis from 5/27-10/31. It is located on the Appalachian Mountain Range and the first-come first-served sites are often booked every weekend (the reservation must be made in person at the kiosk). The closest hikes there are the Frying Pan Trail and the Buck Spring Trail.

Max RV length is 40 ft.

2. Lazy Boy Travel Park

Close to stores, this park is pet- and mostly big-rig-friendly. This park is within minutes of Asheville and the Biltmore Estates.

What makes this park unique?

With a goal to provide a place to rest for the weary travelers, the original RV park owners wanted to create a haven atmosphere back in 1980. With this in mind, this park still holds onto this vision and the current owners and management make sure the park is nice and clean and a great rest stop for anyone visiting.

3. Campfire Lodgings

This park is located on top of the Appalachian Ridge and the access road is a bit rugged, but the 360-degree mountain views are incredible, and the sunsets are truly one-of-kind.

What makes this park unique?

All the sites are mountain ridge camping sites. The views are breath-taking, and one is surrounded by the serene nature of the Appalachians. There are yurts and cabins available, as well. One is welcome to stay at the campsite to have a bonfire or to stargaze, or to park the RV and hike for awhile and to explore the area. This park is about 15 minutes from downtown.

4. Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Campground

This park is located on the top of a mountain, with a hair pin turn and a 20 % grade to the top, so RVers with longer and heavier rigs need to consider this before booking. However, the views are incredible, and the park is only a short drive away from the downtown amenities and tourist attractions. Booking windows online open six months in advance.

What makes this park unique?

The park is located surrounded by nature and every visitor who provides feedback raves about the location and their plans to return or their regrets of not staying longer.

5. Blue Ridge Travel Park

According to their Website, “Hendersonville, NC, a picturesque mountain town in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is just 25 minutes from both Asheville NC—an extremely popular, outdoor enthusiast’s mecca—and America’s Favorite Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway. Proximity to Chimney Rock State Park, Lake Lure, Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Forest, multiple apple orchards, breweries, wineries, hiking trails, and rivers for whitewater recreation and fishing ensure that guests will never lack options for entertainment. “(Source: Local Info — Blue Ridge Travel Park)

What makes this park unique?

The sites are all shaded and well-spaced out. The park is owned by a young family who love to hike and kayak and love to share their passion for the outdoors with their guests. The park is laid out with expansion in mind.

Note: RVs must arrive in the zip code area 28792 prior to dark (no arrivals after sunset) due to liability.

6. Hominy Valley RV Park

Located just 10 minutes away from Asheville, this park is in a great location for all things nature and all things tourist attractions. One can visit the local Botanical Garden or just enjoy the untamed wild of the mountain fauna and flora.

What makes this park unique?

This park is a no-frills quiet park with a creek, like an oasis with friendly staff and very peaceful surroundings. It’s a great place to hook up the rig and relax or drive to town for the many tourist attractions. This park is close to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

7. Rutledge Lake RV Park

This park has many attractions and is nestled amongst trees for a beautiful camp setting. It is within minutes to popular attractions and activities, such as beer and wine tours (one can catch an Uber).

What makes this park unique?

This park is located next to Frady Lake and a creek; it has a dock to fish from. This is larger park with a variety of back-in and pull-through sites, as well as cabins for family get-togethers.

8. Lake Powhatan Recreational Area Campground

This park is one of the best-maintained campgrounds in a National Forest nationwide. According to their description, the campground is situated in a heavily wooded area on the banks of Lake Powhatan in the Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina. The elevation is 2,200 feet. The surrounding land boasts mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls and slopes thickly forested with hardwoods and conifers. (Source: Site 004, Lake Powhatan – Recreation.gov)

What makes this park unique?

Located by Lake Powhatan, this park is popular due to its beautiful location, affordable price, and availability, as well as close proximity to Asheville and all the tourist attractions. The campground also offers 12 glamping sites.

Note: each site has a specific length limit so make sure that you enter the proper RV length at time of reservation.

9. French Broad River Campground

With RV sites 10 feet away from the river, this park is in a great location to enjoy summers by the water and to fish or just relax by the sounds of water and nature. In addition to that, this park is also very close to Asheville, which makes it a great fit for those who visit the area for Asheville tourist activities.

What makes this park unique?

Located right on the river, the campground has level concrete pads to set your rig down and go explore the Asheville area. It is within walking distance to the town, with trails connecting. The location right on the water is the park’s best feature. The park also offers cabins to stay in for family get-togethers at the river.

10. Asheville East KOA

Located around two lakes, this KOA offers all the water and outdoors activities that one is looking for: from kayak and paddleboat rental to fishing, hiking, or stargazing, Asheville East KOA offers it all.

What makes this park unique?

As a KOA Holiday, this KOA is meant for a longer stay with added luxuries and activities to make it a fun vacation destination. Each site comes with its personal patio and there is so much to do for everyone in the family.

Max RV length is 70 ft.

TIPS TO GET TO ASHEVILLE

Asheville, NC is located on the crossway of I-40 (going East-West) and I-26 (going North-South). Much of the terrain in the area is mountainous and some roads are very curvy with steep inclines or declines; RV travelers with longer rigs should check the elevation on GPS etc. and local weather forecast.