Crabtree Falls Campground
4.4553 reviewsMilepost 339.5 Blue Ridge Parkway
Crabtree Falls Campground
$8.00 - $30.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $8 (reservation fee) to $30 for a campsite, with additional charges for late cancellations or modifications as described below.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Crabtree Falls Campground emerges as a sanctuary for those seeking respite from the modern world. This tranquil retreat beckons with its perfect blend of accessibility and seclusion, where reserved sites guarantee your spot in paradise while walk-up options welcome spontaneous adventurers. Just steps from your campsite, the renowned Crabtree Falls trail promises cascading water and mountain vistas. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with fire rings for evening gatherings, sturdy picnic tables for outdoor meals, and the convenience of flush toilets—ensuring comfort doesn't take a backseat to adventure.
Crabtree Falls Campground accommodates both tent and RV camping. It offers a blend of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. The campground is ideal for campers seeking a rustic experience close to nature.
Historical SignificanceYour campground serves as a gateway to the storied Blue Ridge Parkway, where every mile tells a tale of American heritage. Venture to the nearby Orchard at Altapass, where generations of mountain culture come alive through music, storytelling, and heirloom apples. Revolutionary War history echoes through these ancient hills, with historical sites dotting the landscape like breadcrumbs through time. Here, you're not just camping—you're stepping into the living history of Appalachia.
Weather and SeasonsOctober transforms this mountain haven into a painter's palette of crimson, gold, and amber as fall foliage reaches its magnificent peak. During this magical season, days warm to a pleasant 70°F while crisp nights dip to around 30°F—perfect for cozy campfires and stargazing. Thanks to the generous elevation, summer temperatures remain refreshingly cool compared to the valleys below, creating an ideal escape when lowland heat becomes oppressive. Pack layers and prepare for mountain weather that changes as dramatically as the views.
ElevationPerched high in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the campground's lofty position gifts visitors with naturally air-conditioned summers and crisp, invigorating mornings year-round. This elevated sanctuary sits at a height where clouds often drift through the trees like ghostly visitors, and the air carries that distinctive mountain freshness that city dwellers dream about. The altitude creates its own microclimate, keeping temperatures notably cooler than the surrounding lowlands.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape where ancient hardwood forests create cathedral-like canopies overhead, and meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers that would make any botanist swoon. The campground takes its name from the wild crabapple trees that once dominated these slopes, their spring blossoms creating clouds of pink and white. Today, massive rhododendron thickets frame hiking paths, while towering oaks and maples provide shade and shelter. Keep your camera ready—white-tailed deer browse peacefully at dawn and dusk, while the haunting calls of coyotes remind you that wilderness still reigns here.
Geological RegionCrabtree Falls Campground claims its place along the magnificent Blue Ridge Parkway, riding the ancient spine of the central and southern Appalachians. These weathered mountains, among the oldest on Earth, showcase nature's patient artistry through rolling ridgelines and deep valleys carved over millions of years. The diverse ecosystem supports everything from delicate trilliums carpeting the forest floor to mighty hardwoods reaching skyward. This geological wonderland offers endless exploration opportunities, where every trail reveals new perspectives on these timeless mountains.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites feature accessible grills and picnic tables, but there is limited mention of comprehensive accessibility features in user reviews. One user expressed doubts about the wheelchair accessibility of the bathroom stalls.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some being spacious and level, while others are smaller or have uneven ground. Tent pads are available at most sites but may feel small for larger setups.
Sites PrivacyMany campsites lack privacy due to their proximity to each other. Outer loop sites may offer slightly more seclusion. Some users noted frequent foot traffic through their sites.
Total Campsites81 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOuter loops offer quieter experiences but are closer to vehicle noise from the Parkway during the day. Sites in Loop A are often mentioned for good amenities and peaceful stays.
Best CampsitesA9 is highlighted as one of the best sites for its proximity and quiet surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive nights allowed are 30.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site are not to exceed six people unless designated otherwise for group camping.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground contains loops identified as A and B, with varying site sizes and levels of privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is listed as May-October for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availability54 campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. These cannot be reserved online and must be booked in person at the campground kiosk.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to arrival for a $10 fee, plus charges for reservation fees and the first night's stay in case of late cancellation. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night’s fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Crabtree Falls Campground offers a range of activities focusing on hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The nearby Crabtree Falls Trail is a major highlight. Other activities include star gazing, picnicking, and exploring nearby attractions like Mount Mitchell State Park and the Museum of North Carolina Minerals.
Hiking
The Crabtree Falls Trail, a 3-mile loop, is considered moderate to strenuous. It features wildflowers, towering trees, and a 70-foot waterfall plunging into a pool. Campers recommend carrying water and taking breaks on the switchbacks. Nearby trails include those in Mount Mitchell State Park and the Orchard Trail, accessible from the Minerals Museum.Wildlife viewing
Campers report seeing deer and owls within the campground. Coyotes have also been mentioned. Wildflowers and rhododendrons attract numerous species, enhancing the experience.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Museum of North Carolina Minerals offers interactive exhibits on the area's geology and mining history. The Overmountain Victory Trail highlights Revolutionary War history.Winter Activities
The campground provides a serene experience in colder months, but specific winter activities are not detailed.Water Sports
No water sports facilities are mentioned or available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Heat-treated firewood must be used, or dead/down wood collected nearby. Collecting firewood outside the immediate area and moving it is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, and mosquitoes are a notable problem during warmer months. Poison ivy was noted by some reviewers.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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 town for emergency services is Spruce Pine, which has grocery stores, restaurants, and other provisions. Specific details regarding hospitals or police stations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-October is considered peak season for foliage and visitor activity.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but users are urged to store food and scented items securely to prevent wildlife encounters, particularly with bears. Bear lockers are available at some sites.
Proximity to water featuresCrabtree Falls, a 70-foot waterfall, is within walking distance.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention lack of maintenance (collapsed bathroom roofs, broken dryers) and noise at night from inconsiderate campers.
HostMentioned occasionally in reviews as friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
Milepost 339.5 Blue Ridge Parkway
Driving directionsFrom Asheville, take the Blue Ridge Parkway north about 40 miles to Milepost 339.5.
The campground is accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is a paved scenic byway. There are no noted seasonal closures or terrain issues mentioned for this specific location.Nearby places
Spruce Pine (approximately 15 miles north)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Spruce Pine, which has a Walmart, restaurants, and other stores.
Camper Reviews
4.5
53 reviews
Crabtree Falls Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally describe Crabtree Falls Campground as a beautiful, serene location with convenient access to Crabtree Falls and other attractions along the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, maintenance issues with restrooms and campground facilities are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the proximity to Crabtree Falls, the peaceful environment, and the helpfulness of staff. Some reviewers highlight the cleanliness of the sites and the well-maintained trails. 'The...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Recurring issues include outdated or poorly maintained bathrooms, lack of privacy at campsites, and occasional noise disturbances from other campers. One user mentioned, 'The bathrooms have broken...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing mosquito repellent, as mosquitoes can be a nuisance during warmer months. Others recommend visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience. A common tip is to hike the...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Campers frequently visit in fall to enjoy the foliage, and the campground is described as less crowded on weekdays. Peak season brings higher activity, but many sites remain available even then....
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were atrocious.' - Justin Q
2. 'Great access to Crabtree Falls which is fabulous.' - William V
3. 'I selfishly want Crabtree Falls to remain a hidden gem.' - Patrick N
Based on 53 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 81 in Loop B received mixed reviews due to noise disturbances and site proximity, while Site 9 in Loop A was praised for its quiet and shaded location. Multiple users noted that sites on the...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
There are limited mentions of accessibility. One user expressed concerns about the wheelchair accessibility of the bathrooms.
Based on 53 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Several campers appreciated the pet-friendly policies, noting that dogs are welcome on trails and at campsites.
Based on 53 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025