North Mills River
4.69173 reviews5289 N. MILLS RIVER ROAD
North Mills River
$14.00 - $62.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$31.00
Hookup Site Fee$46.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type and season. Peak season rates range from $31-$62 for standard non-electric sites and $46 for RV electric sites. Group tent-only sites are $50 during the peak season but drop to $40 during the first-come, first-served season. Additional fees such as $5 for an extra vehicle apply.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the enchanting Pisgah National Forest, North Mills River Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain tranquility and adventure. This rustic hideaway invites you to wake up to the gentle sounds of the Mills River, spend your days exploring endless trails by foot or bike, and cast a line for native trout in crystal-clear mountain waters. Two thoughtfully designed camping loops offer shaded sites beneath a canopy of ancient hardwoods, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for those memorable evening gatherings. Modern comforts haven't been forgotten—clean restrooms with hot showers and flush toilets ensure you can refresh after a day of mountain exploration.
The campground offers standard non-electric sites, RV spaces with electricity, and group camping areas. Primitive camping options are not explicitly noted.
Historical SignificanceThe spirit of Appalachia runs deep through these ancient mountains, where generations of mountain families once called these forests home. Today, North Mills River serves as your gateway to experiencing this rich cultural tapestry. The legendary Blue Ridge Parkway winds through nearby peaks, offering scenic drives through history, while the vibrant arts and mountain culture scene of Asheville lies just a short drive away. Here, you're not just camping—you're stepping into centuries of Appalachian stories, from Cherokee heritage to the pioneering mountain settlers who shaped this rugged landscape.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints North Mills River with its own distinctive palette. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and refreshing mountain showers, creating ideal conditions for hiking and wildlife watching. Summer brings warm days perfect for splashing in cool river waters, though afternoon thunderstorms add drama to the mountain landscape. When autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a photographer's paradise as the surrounding forests explode in brilliant reds, oranges, and golds. Winter offers a quieter experience with limited services, but those seeking solitude will find the frost-kissed landscape and potential dustings of snow create a magical atmosphere for the adventurous soul.
ElevationPerched at 2,200 feet above sea level, North Mills River Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat while providing those breathtaking mountain vistas that make the Appalachians famous. This sweet-spot elevation means you'll enjoy noticeably cooler temperatures than the valleys below—perfect for comfortable sleeping on summer nights and crisp, invigorating mornings year-round. The mountain air at this height carries the scent of pine and wildflowers, while the elevated perspective offers glimpses through the trees of distant ridgelines fading into the blue haze that gives these mountains their name.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 2,200 feet in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, North Mills River Campground immerses you in a landscape that seems pulled from a storybook. Towering hardwoods create a living cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The Mills River meanders through the campground with its shallow, rocky waters that invite wading and quiet contemplation. Hidden throughout the surrounding forest, cascading waterfalls tumble over moss-covered rocks, rewarding hikers with spectacular photo opportunities and natural swimming holes that have refreshed visitors for generations.
Geological RegionYour camping adventure unfolds in one of Earth's oldest mountain ranges—the majestic Appalachians of Pisgah National Forest. These ancient peaks, worn smooth by millions of years of wind and rain, create a landscape of rolling mile-high mountains draped in dense hardwood forests. The geological story here is written in every rocky outcrop and carved valley, where countless streams have sculpted dramatic gorges and created the cascading waterfalls that make this region famous. This is a place where the very rocks beneath your feet connect you to a primordial past, while the ever-changing forest above reminds you of nature's endless capacity for renewal.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has accessible restrooms and shower facilities, though some users noted that additional features for disabled campers, like easier restroom access, would be beneficial.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes vary, with some sites accommodating large tents and RVs. One camper noted, 'We have a huge bell-style (teepee) tent and it takes up a giant footprint. Not that many sites can accommodate that—site 3 and 4 could.'
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies across the campground. Many sites are described as spacious and screened with vegetation, offering a secluded experience. However, other sites are noted to be closer together, with reduced privacy. One user stated, 'This is a small, cozy campground with large sites that have rhododendron and other vegetation barriers providing privacy for each campsite.'
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites 005 and 007 due to proximity to bathrooms, which some reviewers found unpleasant.
Best CampsitesSites 3, 4, 10, 11, 12, and 13 are recommended for privacy and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Sites allow up to 2 tents and 2 vehicles per site
- additional vehicle fee is $5.
Groups
The group camping area is located adjacent to the Mills River and offers ample space for larger parties. One reviewer described it as 'perfect for one tent and a canopy,' while another noted, 'The group site is a little hard to find if you haven't been to the park before.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are organized into two loops, offering reasonable spacing and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open year-round; walk-up sites only and limited services from November to March.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov online or via phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available during off-peak periods from November 16 to March 20.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the check-in date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional fees, including forfeiture of the first night's use fee for individual sites, and stricter policies apply to group sites.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
North Mills River Campground provides a diverse range of recreational activities for visitors, including hiking, fishing, tubing, swimming, and mountain biking. The proximity to Pisgah National Forest and Mills River enhances the opportunities for outdoor activities.
Hiking
The campground is surrounded by several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels in Pisgah National Forest. One user highlighted, 'Great hiking nearby and not crowded like on the Parkway,' while another noted the convenience of being able to 'roll right out of our campsite and climb up to the trails!'Fishing
Mills River is well-suited for trout fishing, with several reviewers praising the quality of fishing. 'The river was great to splash around in,' said one user. Another remarked, 'It's a campground and a river full of trout. Good facilities so it's way ahead of the woods.'Swimming
Swimming in the Mills River is a popular activity, particularly for families. One reviewer stated, 'The river is great for taking a dip in, very cold and refreshing.'Biking
The site provides excellent access to mountain biking trails. One user noted, 'LOVE that we can roll right out of our campsite and climb up to the trails! Mountain biking was great.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a notable activity at the campground. Reviewers have mentioned spotting trout in the river, as well as other forest wildlife. One user commented, 'We even saw a great blue heron fishing when we arrived.'Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are offered during the summer. Specific topics or schedules are not provided in the source.Winter Activities
The campground is open year-round, but specific winter activities are not highlighted.Water Sports
Tubing and wading in the Mills River are popular activities. One user mentioned, 'The river was great to splash around in.'Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Visitors are advised to purchase local firewood to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are common, requiring strict food storage practices. Poison ivy is prevalent, and some sites have steep terrain posing a challenge for RV entry.
Active alertsWarnings about seasonal road washouts and limited off-season services are in place.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Mills River, approximately 5 miles away, with nearby hospitals, police stations, and a fire department.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 21, 2025 - November 15, 2025 (and similar dates for subsequent years).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are on-site, and campers are encouraged to dispose of waste properly. Some users noted that bear boxes and trash poles are provided at each site to ensure safe waste management in this black bear territory.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Mills River, with opportunities for fishing, tubing, and swimming.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention lack of privacy, overgrown vegetation, and maintenance issues for older bathrooms.
HostHosts Keith and Diana are noted for their friendliness and diligence in maintaining cleanliness and addressing camper needs.
Campground Map
5289 N. MILLS RIVER ROAD
Driving directionsFrom Asheville, take U.S. Highway 280 west to North Mills River Road. Follow North Mills River Road to the campground.
The roads leading to the campground are accessible year-round and well-maintained. However, some user reviews noted difficulty on a dirt forest road due to lack of signage for the office and overgrown vegetation.Nearby places
Asheville (~20 miles), Brevard (~16 miles), Hendersonville (~22 miles)
Nearby supplies
Grocery, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Mills River (~5 miles away) and Brevard (~16 miles away). An Ingles supermarket is located conveniently at the entrance of North Mills River Road.
Camper Reviews
4.7
173 reviews
North Mills River is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
North Mills River Campground is highly rated for its cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent location near hiking trails and outdoor activities. Several users praised the friendly and helpful campground hosts. However, some reviews noted issues with site privacy, maintenance needs, and occasional staff rudeness.
Review Summaries
Based on 173 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, friendly camp hosts, spacious sites, excellent trout fishing, proximity to Asheville and Pisgah National Forest, and well-maintained facilities.
Based on 173 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some complaints include tight site spacing, limited privacy, outdated or insufficient restroom facilities, and occasional issues with campground staff.
Based on 173 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring heavy-duty tent stakes for the gravel pads, and download trail maps in advance due to the lack of cell service. Reserve early for weekends and holidays, as the campground fills up quickly.
Based on 173 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest season, with families enjoying water activities and hiking. Fall offers beautiful foliage and quieter conditions, while winter has limited services and fewer visitors.
Based on 173 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms and showers were very clean and easily accessible.' 2. 'We even saw a great blue heron fishing when we arrived.' 3. 'No cell service for several miles. If you're hiking, download those...
Based on 173 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 12 is described as spacious and ideal for families with children. Site 14 is the only site with electricity. Sites 4 and 10 are highlighted for their privacy, while sites 7 and 5 are less...
Based on 173 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible restrooms and shower facilities are available, though some users noted that additional accommodations for disabled campers would be helpful.
Based on 173 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. The campground is described as pet-friendly by several reviewers.
Based on 173 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025