North Carolina is known for its stunning mountain ranges, which offer an ideal setting for camping enthusiasts to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer trip, there’s no shortage of places to pitch your tent and enjoy the great outdoors. Here are the top five places to go camping in the mountains of North Carolina, along with their distance from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and website information.
- Pisgah National Forest Located just over two hours from Fort Bragg, Pisgah National Forest is one of the most popular destinations for camping in North Carolina. The forest spans over 500,000 acres and features numerous campgrounds, including the Davidson River Campground and the Lake Powhatan Campground. These sites offer access to hiking trails, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can also explore the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Distance from Fort Bragg: Approximately 125 miles
- Linville Gorge Wilderness For more adventurous campers, the Linville Gorge Wilderness is a must-see destination. This rugged and remote area offers breathtaking views of the Linville River and Linville Falls, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking. There are several primitive campsites within the wilderness area, including sites along the river, but no designated campgrounds. Permits are required for overnight camping in the area.
Distance from Fort Bragg: Approximately 190 miles
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park Spanning the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular destinations for camping in the eastern United States. The park offers over ten campgrounds, including the Cades Cove Campground and the Elkmont Campground, which offer access to hiking trails, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also explore the park’s historic buildings and scenic drives.
Distance from Fort Bragg: Approximately 400 miles
- Mount Mitchell State Park At 6,684 feet, Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, making it a popular destination for hikers and campers. The park offers several campgrounds, including the Black Mountain Campground and the Carolina Hemlocks Campground, which offer access to hiking trails, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from the Mount Mitchell Observation Deck.
Distance from Fort Bragg: Approximately 240 miles
- The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that spans 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, offering numerous opportunities for camping and outdoor recreation. Along the parkway, visitors can explore several campgrounds, including the Julian Price Campground and the Mount Pisgah Campground, which offer access to hiking trails, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy scenic overlooks, historic sites, and cultural exhibits along the drive.
Distance from Fort Bragg: Approximately 180 miles
North Carolina’s mountain ranges offer a wealth of opportunities for camping enthusiasts to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a rugged wilderness experience or a more relaxed camping trip, there’s a destination that’s sure to meet your needs. So pack your bags, grab your tent, and head to one of these top five places to go camping in the mountains of North Carolina.