Briar Bottom Group Campground
4.6599 reviews50 BLACK MOUNTAIN CG ROAD, BURNSVILLE, NC 28714, USA
Briar Bottom Group Campground
$125.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric sites are charged $125 per night during the peak season, April 15 to October 30, 2025.
About this campground
Nestled at the foot of the mighty Mt. Mitchell, Briar Bottom Group Campground offers an authentic mountain retreat where memories are made around crackling campfires. Six spacious group sites wind through a scenic loop, perfect for family reunions, scout troops, or adventure clubs seeking a basecamp in the heart of Pisgah National Forest. While you'll find modern conveniences like flush toilets at each site, the real luxury comes from your proximity to both the wilderness and the neighboring Black Mountain Campground, where hot showers await after a day of exploration.
Briar Bottom is a group tent-only campground that caters to large gatherings of up to 30 people per site. No RV or primitive camping accommodations are available.
Historical SignificanceBriar Bottom isn't just a campground – it's a living legacy tucked within a protected bear sanctuary. For generations, these ancient forests have called to adventurers, creating a tapestry of family traditions that span decades. As one devoted visitor shares: 'My grandad came here as a Boy Scout, my dad came here as a kid, and I've been coming since birth.' This cherished corner of the National Forests in North Carolina continues to weave new stories into its rich history, where each campfire circle becomes a link in an unbroken chain of outdoor memories.
Weather and SeasonsAt 3,040 feet, Briar Bottom dances with the mountain weather's ever-changing moods. Summer days bring warmth and sunshine, but don't be fooled – mountain nights can surprise you with their cool embrace, making that sleeping bag feel extra cozy. The mountains here have their own weather personality, often greeting visitors with afternoon showers that transform the forest into a misty wonderland. As one seasoned camper advises: 'It rains pretty much every day there; make sure to put a tarp under your tent and over your campsite.' Pack layers and rain gear, and you'll be ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
ElevationPerched at 3,040 feet above sea level, Briar Bottom offers a refreshing escape from the sweltering lowlands. This high-altitude haven delivers naturally air-conditioned comfort, where the crisp mountain air carries the scent of balsam fir and the promise of cooler temperatures. The elevation creates a unique Appalachian forest ecosystem where morning mists cling to the treetops and evening temperatures invite you to gather closer around the campfire.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to a symphony of birdsong in this verdant cathedral of towering hardwoods and evergreens. The South Toe River meanders nearby, its gentle murmur providing nature's soundtrack to your mountain adventure. Above it all, Mt. Mitchell – the crown jewel of the Eastern United States – presides over the landscape, its 6,684-foot summit piercing the sky as the highest peak east of the Mississippi. The surrounding Appalachian forests burst with life, from delicate wildflowers carpeting the forest floor to black bears foraging for berries in the understory. Every trail promises discovery, every sunrise paints the mountains in new colors.
Geological RegionBriar Bottom sits in the geological wonderland of Pisgah National Forest, where ancient Appalachian peaks tell stories written in stone over millions of years. These time-worn mountains, once rivals to the Himalayas in height, now offer gentle slopes clothed in some of the most biodiverse forests in North America. The South Toe River has carved its patient path through the landscape, creating the valley that cradles your campsite. Here, at the base of Mt. Mitchell, you're camping atop some of the oldest exposed rock on Earth, surrounded by the lush temperate rainforest that makes this corner of the Appalachians a true ecological treasure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include individual parking spurs and proximity of facilities to campsites, such as restrooms and water sources. Nika Briggs noted, "We stayed at site 8, which was right next to the water supply, a short walk to the restrooms and to river access."
Sites SizeCampsites are generous in size, accommodating up to 30 people per site in the group camping area.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites offer moderate privacy, with some reviews indicating clustered arrangements in family-oriented settings. "Camp sites in areas are extremely tight and on top of each other," commented Mary Parker Blackwelder.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites for proximity to amenities such as restrooms or trails. User review highlights: 'Site 8 was near water supply and river access.'
Best CampsitesNo specific user reviews about individual campsites at Briar Bottom Group Campground. However, adjacent Black Mountain Campground highlights sites near South Toe River.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time: 14:00 (2 PM)
Check-out
Check-out time: 12:00 (noon)
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 50 people per group site.
Groups
The campground has six group sites, each capable of accommodating up to 30 people. Sites are organized in a loop with individual parking spurs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground organized as a single loop with individual parking spurs. Each group site accommodates up to 50 people.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 15 to October 30
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up/first-come-first-served sites are not applicable for group campsites; reservations are mandatory.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before arrival, but late cancellations (within 14 days for group sites) incur additional fees: $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiting the first night's use fee. Changes to reservations ahead of the arrival date are allowed with a $10 change fee for complete date changes.
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
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a diverse range of recreational activities, focusing on hiking, fishing, scenic drives, and field games. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as Mount Mitchell State Park and Blue Ridge Parkway. "Hiking, waterfalls, and fishing, all waking distance," commented Stephen G. The adjacent Black Mountain Campground adds options like volleyball and horseshoes.
Hiking
The campground is a hub for hiking enthusiasts, offering trails of varying difficulty, including the challenging 5.6-mile Mount Mitchell trail with a 3,600+ ft elevation gain. "Mt Mitchell Trail is not for beginners," Laura S advised. Other trails include Setrock Falls and river loops, which are suitable for beginners.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Trout fishing is available in the South Toe River near the campground. However, reviewers noted mixed success in fishing, with Kelsey Calvez mentioning, "We weren't able to catch any trout but definitely tried!"Swimming
Swimming holes are available, though the water is described as cold even in summer. "We found a couple of good swimming holes, but the water was too cold for us, even in August," shared Nika Briggs.Wildlife viewing
The lush Appalachian forest offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including occasional bear sightings. "We also saw 3 bears! Call that a nice wild immersion!" said Lucian Florian.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities like wading and playing in the South Toe River are popular with visitors.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed at individual sites with fire pits provided. Users must follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Quiet hours are Enforced quiet hours, user noted violations near the volleyball court and bathrooms.
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards include frequent rain and wet terrain, potential flooding, and bears. User noted: 'Be aware of bears as they will smell your food from miles away.'
Active alertsNo current active alerts reported.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services closest in Burnsville, including hospital access and police. Rangers are also available at Black Mountain adjacent campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15, 2025 - October 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are provided, with strict rules for food storage due to the campground being located within a bear sanctuary. "Keep all food out of sight in containers or locked inside a hard-sided vehicle," as stated in authoritative sources.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the South Toe River with accessible swimming holes and trout fishing opportunities. Nearby waterfalls such as Setrock Creek Falls are within hiking distance.
Common complaintsComplaints include rough road access: 'The last 2 miles are filled with potholes,' noise violations: 'Rude campers near bathroom and volleyball court,' and limited cell service.
HostHost availability for Briar Bottom is confirmed adjacent to Black Mountain. Hosts are noted as attentive, providing clean facilities and helpful advice.
Campground Map
50 BLACK MOUNTAIN CG ROAD, BURNSVILLE, NC 28714, USA
Driving directionsFrom Asheville, North Carolina, take I-26 west to exit 9 onto 19 east toward Burnsville. Follow 19 to Micaville and turn right onto Highway 80. Continue south approximately 12-14 miles to Mount Mitchell Golf Course. Turn right on South Toe River Road and follow signs to Black Mountain Campground. Campers must enter through the main gate at Black Mountain Campground to get to Briar Bottom.
Moderate road access with specific challenges noted in user reviews. 'The last 2 miles are filled with potholes to the point it made me hesitate leaving unless I had to.' Narrow roads with twists and turns are noted, 'I can't recommend taking Hwy 80 up to the BRP from I-40 due to the twists, turns, and blind curves as well as narrow margin of error.'Nearby places
Burnsville (approximately 25 miles, 40-minute drive)
Asheville, NC (approximately 45 miles, 1-hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as ice and firewood are available at a general store located near the main road
firewood $3 cheaper here compared to campground purchase points.
Camper Reviews
4.7
99 reviews
Briar Bottom Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's serene environment, good amenities, and proximity to hiking trails. However, occasional issues with privacy and disruptive groups detract from the experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 99 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include clean restrooms and showers, friendly staff, and the scenic beauty of the forested surroundings. The campground is praised for its suitability for...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include disruptions caused by noisy groups, limited privacy at some campsites, and occasional issues with hot water in showers.
Based on 99 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring water and food for longer hikes; Mount Mitchell is strenuous and requires preparation. For firewood and ice, visit the general store near the main road. Dog owners should consider protective...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is highly recommended for camping due to warm conditions and easy access to water activities, although some campers report cold water even in warmer months. Winter reviews are rare, and cold...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Showers are clean and hot." - Casey Noles. "I love this place, did I say that already." - Casey Noles. "Mt Mitchell Trail is not for beginners." - Laura S.
Based on 99 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 8 is noted for its proximity to water and restrooms. "We stayed at site 8, which was right next to the water supply, a short walk to the restrooms and to river access." - Nika Briggs.
Based on 99 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is good, with parking spurs and short walks to facilities. "Restrooms conveniently placed throughout the campground." - Mary Parker Blackwelder.
Based on 99 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but dog owners should use protective footwear due to rocky terrain. "Dog-friendly however recommend shoes for your pups if they play hard in the water." - Katie Foxx.
Based on 99 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025