Mount Pisgah Campground
4.52155 reviewsMilepost 408.8 Blue Ridge Parkway
Mount Pisgah Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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
All sites, including Standard Nonelectric, Tent Only Nonelectric, and RV Nonelectric sites, are priced at $30 per night during peak season, excluding discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Perched at nearly 5,000 feet in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mount Pisgah Campground invites you to sleep beneath a canopy of ancient hardwoods where cool mountain breezes whisper through the leaves. This elevated sanctuary combines the rugged beauty of wilderness camping with thoughtful modern conveniences, while serving as your gateway to some of the region's most spectacular hiking trails and panoramic overlooks. Here, morning mist dances through the forest and evening brings a symphony of nature's sounds to your tent flap.
Mount Pisgah Campground accommodates tent camping, RV sites, and standard non-electric sites. Primitive camping and group camping are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of Gilded Age history where George Vanderbilt once escaped the grandeur of Biltmore Estate for rustic mountain retreats. These very grounds housed his Buck Springs hunting camp, where America's elite once gathered to experience the untamed beauty of the Southern Appalachians. Today's campers follow in the footsteps of this visionary conservationist, whose early appreciation for these mountains helped preserve them for generations to come.
Weather and SeasonsAt this lofty elevation of 4,980 feet, Mount Pisgah enjoys a delightfully temperate climate that feels like nature's own air conditioning. Summer days bring refreshing mountain breezes and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking, while crisp mornings often greet campers with ethereal fog rolling through the valleys below. The elevation creates an ideal environment for outdoor adventures without the sweltering heat found at lower altitudes, making every camping season a pleasure.
ElevationRising to 4,980 feet above sea level, the campground offers a true mountaintop experience where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and the stars seem close enough to touch. This impressive elevation not only provides natural climate control but also positions you perfectly for breathtaking vistas that stretch across multiple mountain ranges, creating those postcard-perfect moments at sunrise and sunset.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a kaleidoscope of colors as morning light filters through a cathedral of oak, maple, and hickory trees. Mount Pisgah's dense hardwood forest transforms with the seasons - from the delicate wildflower carpets of spring to the blazing reds and golds of autumn that set the mountainside ablaze with color. As day turns to dusk, find yourself mesmerized by panoramic views painted in shades of purple and orange, while the ancient forest settles into its nightly chorus.
Geological RegionMount Pisgah stands as a proud sentinel in the ancient Appalachian Mountain Range, where millions of years of geological history unfold beneath your hiking boots. This magnificent hardwood ecosystem, thriving at 4,980 feet, showcases nature's seasonal artistry - from spring's delicate trilliums and bloodroot pushing through the forest floor to autumn's spectacular display that rivals any masterpiece. The cool mountain climate nurtures this botanical wonderland, creating an ever-changing tapestry that makes each visit unique.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible showers are available. There are paved roads and parking areas, though some reviews noted difficulty finding restroom access paths at night.
Sites SizeCampsites range in size; tent pads are typically 10'x10', though some campers wished for accommodations for larger tents (e.g., 12'x14').
Sites PrivacyMixed reviews on privacy: "Most sites are private nestled in the rhododendron," noted one camper. Others described sites as "too close together" with "no privacy."
Total Campsites124 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the Blue Ridge Parkway due to traffic noise. Tent loops C and D generally offer level pads for tents.
Best CampsitesSites such as C05 were highlighted for privacy and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time varies but official guidance is likely before 3 PM.
Check-out
Checkout time regulations are not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
- Maximum 30 nights during one visit
- maximum 30 nights annually.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 people per site unless designated as Group Camping.
Groups
Not applicable.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes multiple loops, such as Loop A for RVs and Loops C and D for tents.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to October 26, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availability53 sites are reservable, while 71 sites are first-come, first-served. These must be booked in person at the campground kiosk.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur the first night's recreation use fee plus a $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a wide variety of recreational activities, including hiking, birding, photography, star gazing, and wildlife viewing. Nearby trails include Frying Pan Trail, Buck Spring Trail, Shut-In Trail, and Mountains to Sea Trail. Campers praised the hiking opportunities and scenic views.
Hiking
Several trails are accessible, including Frying Pan Trail (1.6 miles south to Fire Tower at Frying Pan Mountain), Buck Spring Trail (rocky terrain leading to Mt. Pisgah), and Shut-In Trail (original route from Biltmore Estate to Buck Spring Lodge). "Great trails to explore; the Pisgah Inn/restaurant and gift shop are a big plus," noted one camper.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently mentioned encountering wildlife, including bears and chipmunks. "Three visits from bears on the first night—be proactive with food storage," advised one reviewer.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led campfire programs and interpretive walks are available. "Love the Saturday eve ranger talks," commented a camper.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports are not applicable.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Only heat-treated firewood is allowed. Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are officially set from 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear presence requires strict food storage practices. Vehicle maneuverability can be challenging due to steep loops and tight spaces.
Active alertsNo current advisories available.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.9 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
Medical facilities, fuel, and grocery stores are available in Asheville, approximately 20 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - October 26, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles and recycling bins are available at the Pisgah Inn. Some users noted confusion regarding trash disposal locations.
Proximity to water featuresNo detailed water features are mentioned.
Common complaintsCrowded campsites and issues with campsite levelness are frequently mentioned, along with limited privacy, noisy neighbors, and poorly maintained restrooms.
HostNo detailed campground host information is provided.
Campground Map
Milepost 408.8 Blue Ridge Parkway
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 40 west, take exit 47 and turn south onto Highway 191. Stay in the right-hand lane and turn south again onto the Blue Ridge Parkway at the North Carolina Arboretum; enjoy the amazing views and nine tunnels along the Blue Ridge Parkway for 15 miles (24 km). You will pass the Mt. Pisgah Parking Area, the Country Store, and the Pisgah Inn on the left. The campground is on the right immediately after the Pisgah Inn.
The campground is accessible from major roads such as I-40 and Highway 191. The driving route includes navigating nine tunnels on the Blue Ridge Parkway and offers scenic views, but GPS and mapping devices may not provide accurate directions, necessitating careful navigation.Nearby places
Approximately 20 miles from Asheville, North Carolina.
Nearby supplies
The Pisgah Inn, located adjacent to the campground, offers a restaurant, country store, and basic supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.5
155 reviews
Mount Pisgah Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews vary widely, with many praising the scenic location, helpful staff, and well-maintained facilities. However, issues such as cramped sites, generator noise, dirty bathrooms, and bear encounters were raised.
Review Summaries
Based on 155 reviews
What Campers Love
"Beautiful campground" and "great ranger staff" were common sentiments. Many users appreciated clean facilities, helpful staff, and proximity to trails.
Based on 155 reviewsCommon Concerns
Cramped campsites, lack of privacy, noisy generators, and dirty or undersized bathrooms were frequent issues mentioned. "The campground is in need of repairs," noted one user.
Based on 155 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Choose sites away from the Parkway for quieter stays. Bring bear-proof containers and avoid hanging trash on lantern posts.
Based on 155 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are cooler due to high elevation (4,980 feet). Fall offers colorful foliage, while spring features blooming wildflowers.
Based on 155 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The elevation allowed us to get away from the heat for a few days," stated one camper. Another said, "Fantastic camping trip for October."
Based on 155 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site A13: "Very tight as far as setting up the camper." Site A22: "No privacy; picnic table was a foot from the road." Site C10: "Bathrooms were filthy." Site B21: "Campground was very quiet." Site...
Based on 155 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible showers and paved roads were praised; however, one user noted difficulty finding restroom paths at night.
Based on 155 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed; some campers enjoyed bringing their dogs, though no specific pet amenities were mentioned.
Based on 155 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025