Kuykendall Group Camp
4.7515 reviews1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA
Kuykendall Group Camp
$130.00 - $130.00 / 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$130.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The group campsite fee is $130. Seasonal rates do not fluctuate.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Pisgah National Forest, Kuykendall Group Camp beckons adventure-seekers with its perfect blend of mountain solitude and outdoor recreation. This cozy mountain retreat has become a favorite gathering place for large groups seeking to reconnect with nature and each other. Whether you're casting a line in crystal-clear waters, exploring winding mountain bike trails, or simply lounging by the creek after a day of hiking, Kuykendall offers endless ways to embrace the great outdoors. The campground's secluded setting provides an intimate escape while still offering easy access to swimming holes, scenic picnic spots, and some of the region's most rewarding trails.
Kuykendall Group Camp is a group camping facility designed for large gatherings. It accommodates both tents and RVs.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsKuykendall's mountain climate brings its own dramatic character to each camping experience. The campground experiences notably cool temperatures year-round, with the most coveted camping weeks offering that perfect combination of dry mountain air, gentle breezes, and crystal-clear skies that make sleeping under the stars unforgettable. During the wetter seasons, the landscape transforms as rushing creek waters create a symphony of sound, though campers should plan accordingly as creek crossings can become challenging adventures in themselves. The interplay of weather and elevation creates ever-changing moods across the seasons, from misty mornings that shroud the peaks to brilliant autumn days when the hardwood canopy explodes in color.
ElevationPerched at 2,600 feet in the ancient Appalachian Mountains, the campground offers that sweet spot where the air turns crisp and clean, and the everyday world feels wonderfully distant.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 2,600 feet up in the Appalachians, Kuykendall Group Camp unfolds like a natural amphitheater where mountain magic happens daily. The star of the show is undoubtedly Kuykendall Creek, whose gentle babbling provides the soundtrack to your stay as it tumbles past the campground in a series of small cascades and quiet pools. Towering hardwoods create a living cathedral overhead, their canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. But perhaps the most beloved feature is the expansive open field that serves as the campground's heart - a vast natural gathering space where groups spread out for games, stargazing, and those memorable moments that define great camping trips. When morning mist rises from the creek and catches the first rays of sun filtering through the trees, or when fireflies dance across the meadow at dusk, you'll understand why visitors fall in love with this mountain sanctuary.
Geological RegionKuykendall Group Camp sits within the storied landscape of western North Carolina's Pisgah National Forest, where the ancient Appalachian Mountains showcase their timeless beauty. This geological wonderland features dramatic mile-high peaks that pierce the sky, creating the backdrop for countless adventures. The region's signature cascading waterfalls tumble down weathered rock faces, fed by mountain springs and streams like Kuykendall Creek that have carved their paths through these hills for millennia. The surrounding hardwood forests represent some of the most biologically diverse temperate forests on Earth, creating a rich tapestry of ecosystems that change with every bend in the trail. Here in Pisgah, the very rocks beneath your feet tell the story of mountains once as tall as the Himalayas, now worn smooth by ages of wind and water into the gentle, welcoming peaks that embrace visitors today.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campground offers a large open space suitable for groups, with plenty of room for camping and activities.
Sites PrivacyThe site is described as secluded, surrounded by natural features like the creek and forest, offering privacy for campers. "We absolutely love this campground. Very private and convenient with the creek running next to you."
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend vehicles with high clearance for creek crossings and suggest obtaining firewood locally due to its scarcity near the site.
Best CampsitesOnly one group site is available at Kuykendall Group Camp.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Maximum stay rules include up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit and 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 60 people.
Groups
The site is specifically designed for groups with a maximum capacity of 60 people. It features an open field and shared amenities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne large group site with ample open space and shaded areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round from January 1st to December 31st each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or app, or through the contact center.
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. Cancellation fees include $10 plus forfeiture of reservation fees and the first night's recreation fee if canceled less than 14 days before check-in. 'Late cancellation penalties may also apply,' as outlined in official policies.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, biking, and simply relaxing by the creek. "Visitors can explore the area's numerous hiking trails, check out crystal clear waterfalls or fish for trout in the creek and a nearby lake."
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are available in the area, featuring scenic views, waterfalls, and access to natural pools. "The creek is very clean and beautiful—we saw several crayfish and salamanders."Fishing
Fishing is available in Kuykendall Creek and a nearby lake. Trout fishing is specifically mentioned.Swimming
Swimming opportunities exist in the creek and natural pools near the campground.Biking
Mountain biking is one of the recreational activities available in the area.Wildlife viewing
Visitors have opportunities to observe local wildlife, including crayfish and salamanders in the creek.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned; the site is primarily used for group camping.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like swimming and potentially wading in the creek are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires must be fully extinguished before departure and are permitted only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsCreek crossings may become impassible during heavy rain events, necessitating high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. Wildlife activity and invasive species (privet) have been noted.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.8 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st to December 31st yearly, with no off-season rate changes.
Trash and recyclingVisitors must bring garbage bags and remove their own trash. "Please bring garbage bags; visitors must remove their own trash." Improper disposal may lead to restricted future access.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Kuykendall Creek with nearby waterfalls and natural pools.
Common complaintsIssues with creek crossing accessibility and lack of a bridge are recurring complaints: 'Why won't they build a bridge over the creek?' Additionally, securing reservations during summer months has been noted as challenging by some users.
HostManaged by Naventure. Contact the Group Campground Manager at (828) 577-4910 for assistance.
Campground Map
1 Davidson River Circle, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA
Driving directionsFrom Asheville, take State Highway 280 south to Brevard. At the junction of U.S. Highway 276/64/280, follow Highway 64 west through Brevard to Cathy's Creek Road/Forest Road 471. Take a right and go 1.25 miles to campground entrance.
The campground can be accessed via Cathy's Creek Road/Forest Road 471. Vehicles must cross a creek on the way to the facility, which may rise temporarily during heavy rains. A high-profile and/or four-wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended. "Take the guidance on the creek crossing seriously. Even in extended periods of no rain, the creek is still impassible with low clearance vehicles like sedans and minivans," mentions a user review.Nearby places
The town of Brevard is 4 miles away, approximately a 9-minute drive. The city of Asheville is about an hour away, around 40 miles distant.
Nearby supplies
Brevard (4 miles away) provides various amenities, including groceries and camping supplies. Firewood is available at Davidson River Campground for $10 (tax included) per bundle.
Camper Reviews
4.8
15 reviews
Kuykendall Group Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Kuykendall Group Camp is highly praised for its natural beauty, seclusion, and spaciousness. Users appreciate its proximity to hiking trails, the clean creek, and well-maintained facilities. However, concerns about the creek crossing and the difficulty of reserving a spot were frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlight the campground's seclusion, natural setting, and clean facilities. "This is a beautiful, secluded, piece of unadulterated nature." "We absolutely love this campground. Very private...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns include the difficulty of crossing the creek with low clearance vehicles and the challenging reservation process. "Take the guidance on the creek crossing seriously...the creek is still...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle to navigate the creek crossing. Book reservations well in advance as availability is limited. Consider contacting local suppliers for firewood as nearby...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are popular seasons due to pleasant weather and natural beauty. Summer can be busy, and reservations are harder to secure. Winter weather may limit use of the site.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This is a beautiful, secluded, piece of unadulterated nature." "Bathrooms were clean and we loved the location." "Every time I check, it's either not released yet, closed, or check out only."
Based on 15 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Many reviewers reference campsite 1 within the KUYK loop, praising its spaciousness and seclusion. Complaints often mention the creek crossing and lack of a bridge.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews mention accessibility features.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025