Lake Powhatan Glamping

Star4.58
87 reviews
375 WESLEY BRANCH RD.
Lake Powhatan Glamping
$30.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates for standard electric sites are $100 per night with an additional $30 charge during weekends. Rates are subject to discounts,...
Show more
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
(828) 577-7278info@pisgahcampgrounds.com

About this campground

Nestled in the serene Hardtimes Loop, Lake Powhatan Glamping invites you to experience the magic of outdoor living without sacrificing comfort. Twelve thoughtfully furnished canvas tents await, each offering a private sanctuary beneath a canopy of shade trees. Just a leisurely stroll from the shimmering waters of Lake Powhatan, your glamping haven comes complete with everything you need for the perfect escape—from crackling campfire rings where stories come alive to modern charging stations that keep you connected. With flush toilets, picnic tables, and the gentle sounds of nature as your soundtrack, this is where adventure meets relaxation in perfect harmony.
Lake Powhatan offers a mix of traditional camping options and upscale glamping accommodations. The glamping sites are a unique feature, providing fully furnished tents for a comfortable experience.
Historical SignificanceYour glamping basecamp opens doors to some of North Carolina's most treasured landmarks. Plunge down the natural waterslide at Sliding Rock, where generations have created summer memories. Stand in awe at Looking Glass Falls, where water cascades 60 feet over ancient granite. Wind your way along the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway, America's favorite scenic drive. Explore the living collection at the North Carolina Arboretum, or step back in time at the magnificent Biltmore Estate, where Gilded Age grandeur meets mountain majesty. Each destination tells a story of this remarkable region's natural and cultural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full symphony of Appalachian seasons at Lake Powhatan. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and crisp mornings that warm into perfect hiking weather. Summer brings long, golden days ideal for lake adventures and evening campfires under star-filled skies. Fall transforms the landscape into a breathtaking tapestry of amber and crimson, with comfortable temperatures that make every outdoor moment memorable. While winter brings a peaceful quiet to the mountains, the glamping season runs from spring through fall, when nature puts on its finest show and temperatures create the perfect backdrop for your mountain retreat.
ElevationPerched at 2,200 feet in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Lake Powhatan offers a refreshing mountain climate that feels worlds away from the everyday. This sweet spot of elevation brings cooler summer nights perfect for sleeping under canvas, crisp autumn air that invigorates morning hikes, and stunning vistas that stretch across ancient ridgelines. Here, you'll breathe deeper, sleep better, and wake to mornings touched with mountain mist.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering hardwoods and whispering conifers create nature's own cathedral around Lake Powhatan's tranquil waters. This heavily wooded paradise showcases the Appalachian Mountains at their finest—where morning mist rises from the lake surface, afternoon sunlight filters through dense forest canopy, and the distant sound of cascading waterfalls provides nature's soundtrack. Every glamping tent offers front-row seats to this ever-changing natural theater, where each season paints the landscape in new colors and every day brings fresh discoveries.
Geological RegionWelcome to the ancient Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina, where time is measured in millions of years and beauty in countless moments. At 2,200 feet elevation, Lake Powhatan sits cradled among mile-high peaks that have witnessed eons of geological history. These mountains, some of the oldest on Earth, showcase nature's artistry through cascading waterfalls that have carved their paths over millennia, slopes blanketed in dense forests of hardwoods and conifers, and rock formations that tell the story of our planet's dramatic past. It's a landscape that humbles and inspires, offering both adventure seekers and peace seekers their perfect mountain sanctuary.
Advertisement

Campsite details

AccessibilityCampground hosts are available and attentive. Specific sites are well-marked for accessibility. However, trails and campsite layouts may require additional attention for those with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and offer ample room for tents and vehicles. The glamping tents are noted as being larger than expected and accommodating families of five.
Sites PrivacySites are shaded and provide a good level of privacy, with many described as being set apart or wooded. One review noted 'generously spaced allowing for privacy.'
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites 73 or 80 for proximity to bathhouses. Sites in the Hardtimes Loop offer extra privacy and shade.
Best CampsitesSites 73, 74, 77, 80, and 83 were frequently mentioned as desirable for their proximity to amenities and spacious layouts.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
  • 4PM for regular sites
  • 6 PM for glamping sites.
Check-out
  • 11 AM for regular sites
  • 10 AM for glamping sites.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights. Campers may stay up to 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of 6 people per site with 2 passenger vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutOrganized into four loops, with glamping sites located in the upper Hardtimes Loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 22nd to November 15th each year. Out-of-season bookings are not available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come, first-served availability from June 19th to June 20th during peak season. All other dates require advance reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (starting midnight 1 day before check-in) incur the first night's recreation fee loss along with the $10 fee. No-show customers are charged a $20 penalty and forfeit the first night's fee.

Accomodation available

GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups

Activities you can enjoy

Numerous recreational opportunities are available, including hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing. The lake is a major draw for anglers and families. The area is known for its extensive trail system (44 miles), making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
The campground's proximity to 44 miles of trails offers extensive opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. Trails range in difficulty and are a highlight for many visitors, although some reviews note overgrown and poorly marked paths in certain areas.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Lake Powhatan and the nearby French Broad River. The lake is noted for trout fishing, but personal watercraft use is not allowed to protect the ecosystem.
Swimming
The lake features a sandy swimming beach that is popular among families. However, some reviews mention the water being muddy, which could detract from the swimming experience.
Biking
The extensive trail system is a highlight for mountain biking enthusiasts. Users praised the variety and accessibility of the trails.
Wildlife viewing
The heavily wooded surroundings and proximity to a lake make this a great spot for observing wildlife, including bears. Bear safety measures are mandatory.
Beach activities
The sandy beach is a central feature of the campground. While popular for relaxation, some visitors noted issues with the muddy water.
Winter Activities
Limited information available; the campground operates mainly in warmer months.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities like swimming are possible, but no specific support for kayaking or canoeing is mentioned.
Advertisement

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fires are only allowed in established fire rings. Burning of materials with metal objects is strictly prohibited.
  • Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM

Hazards

General hazardsBlack bear territory—food and smellable items must be stored in bear-proof containers or vehicles. Strict safety protocols are enforced.
Active alertsNo current active alerts.

Weather forecast

59
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 87%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 8.8 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Overcast

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Nearest emergency services include Asheville hospitals and police stations approximately 10 minutes away.

Good to know

Peak season datesMarch 22 to November 15.
Trash and recyclingFacilities are well-maintained, and guests are instructed to follow bear safety protocols. This includes proper storage of food and trash to minimize wildlife encounters.
Proximity to water featuresWalking distance to Lake Powhatan and nearby French Broad River, which offers fishing, tubing, and swimming.
Common complaintsSome reviews mentioned issues such as poor shower pressure, noise from nearby hosts, and unmarked or overgrown trails. Complaints about insects and cleanliness were also recorded.
HostHosts are available and marked clearly. Mixed reviews noted variability in host helpfulness and quiet hour enforcement.

Campground Map

375 WESLEY BRANCH RD.
Driving directionsFrom Asheville, take I-26 to exit 33. Go south approximately 2 miles on State Route 191 to the Lake Powhatan Recreation Area sign. Turn right and follow signs to the campground.
Accessible via paved roads. The campground is easily reachable from Asheville and nearby highways. No seasonal closures were mentioned.
Nearby places
Asheville (10 minutes), Hendersonville (approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available nearby in Asheville
visitors can purchase firewood and ice at the campground gatehouse.

Camper Reviews

4.6
87 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Lake Powhatan Glamping is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives high praise for its location, cleanliness, and the overall glamping experience. Some issues include low water pressure in showers, poorly marked trails, and occasional staff-related concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 87 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include the spacious and private campsites, clean facilities, and well-maintained trails. Glamping accommodations were particularly appreciated for their comfort and convenience.
Based on 87 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include poor water pressure in showers, unmarked trails, and noise from staff or other guests breaking quiet hours. Some glamping tents were noted to have insect issues.
Based on 87 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra bedding for colder nights and flashlights due to minimal lighting at glamping sites. Purchase firewood on-site to avoid transporting it. Plan ahead for limited cell phone service.
Based on 87 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are popular for the swimming beach and hiking opportunities. Fall offers scenic views along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Some winter reviews note limited amenities during this off-season.
Based on 87 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The glamping tents proved spacious and very protective of the intermittent rain storms.' 2. 'The lake features a sandy swimming beach, but the water is pretty muddy.' 3. 'Camp hosts were friendly...
Show more
Based on 87 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites in the Lakeside Loop and upper Hardtimes Loop received praise for privacy and proximity to amenities. Site 73 was highlighted for its convenience to the bathhouse.
Based on 87 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is mentioned positively in some reviews. However, additional efforts could ensure better trail access for those with mobility issues.
Based on 87 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome but must be leashed. Some reviews mentioned the campground's suitability for dogs, while others noted challenges in keeping pets within designated areas.
Based on 87 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in North Carolina

Campgrounds
National Forests in North Carolina
Lake Powhatan Glamping