Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area

Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of the Pisgah National Forest, Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area stands as a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a refreshing escape in Western North Carolina. This welcoming campground provides a perfect blend of natural tranquility and convenient amenities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to reconnect with nature without sacrificing comfort. From the soothing sounds of the South Toe River to the majestic shade of towering hemlocks, Carolina Hemlocks offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor, whether you're a seasoned camper or looking for your next family adventure.

Our aim with this guide is to provide a comprehensive overview of Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area, highlighting everything you need to know to plan your visit. We'll cover its prime location, the array of services and features available, and why it's consistently praised by local campers. Get ready to discover your new favorite mountain getaway!

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area is ideally situated at 6000 NC-80, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA. This prime location places it deep within the scenic Pisgah National Forest, offering a truly immersive mountain experience. The campground is conveniently split on either side of Highway 80, with a popular section right along the South Toe River. This makes for easy access to the river's many recreational opportunities. While you'll feel miles away from the hustle and bustle, the campground is still within a reasonable drive of several North Carolina towns. It's approximately an hour's drive from Asheville, two hours from Greenville, SC, and two and a half hours from Charlotte, NC, making it an accessible retreat for many residents across the region. Visitors often combine their camping trip with scenic drives along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway or a visit to Mount Mitchell State Park, both just a short distance away, enhancing the overall appeal and accessibility of this beautiful recreation area.

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: Carolina Hemlocks offers 35 primitive campsites, with sites accommodating both tents and small to medium-sized RVs. Each site is thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, tent pads, lantern posts, and campfire rings with grills, providing all the essentials for a comfortable stay.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: A standout feature highlighted by many visitors are the clean, heated restrooms and hot showers, especially in the lower loop. These well-maintained facilities offer a welcome comfort for campers, whether you're tenting or in an RV.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is readily available throughout the campground, ensuring you have access to fresh water during your stay.
• Firewood and Camping Essentials for Sale: For added convenience, campers can purchase firewood directly from the campground hosts, often with the added bonus of delivery right to your campsite! Ice, tee shirts, and souvenirs are also available.
• Picnic Area and Group Pavilion: The recreation area includes a dedicated picnic area with tables and grills. A large pavilion is also available for reservation, making it an excellent spot for group gatherings or family reunions.
• On-site Hosts: Friendly and attentive campground hosts are available to assist visitors, provide information, and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Their helpfulness is frequently praised by past campers.

• South Toe River Access: The South Toe River is a central attraction, offering excellent opportunities for swimming, tubing, and fishing. There's a great swimming area with a platform and another access point perfect for anglers. The river is stocked with trout, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
• Heavily Wooded, Shaded Campsites: As its name suggests, Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area boasts a dense hemlock forest mixed with deciduous trees and rhododendrons, providing abundant shade for most campsites. This creates a cool and refreshing atmosphere, particularly appreciated during warmer months.
• Spacious and Well-Laid Out Campsites: Many campers commend the generous size and thoughtful layout of the campsites, noting that they offer ample room and a sense of privacy, ensuring you’re not "on top of your neighbors."
• Proximity to Scenic Attractions: The campground’s location is ideal for exploring nearby attractions, including the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway and Mount Mitchell State Park, home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi.
• Hiking Trails: Two notable hiking trails are accessible from the recreation area. The Carolina Hemlock Trail is a beautiful one-mile nature trail following the South Toe River, while the 3.8-mile Colbert Ridge Trail offers splendid views of the Black Mountain Range Crest and South Toe Valley.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area, provided they are kept on a leash and cleaned up after. However, pets are not permitted in the bathrooms or swimming area.

While specific ongoing promotions for Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area are not consistently advertised, it is operated by FIND Outdoors in partnership with the National Forests in North Carolina. Guests should always check the official Recreation.gov website or contact the campground directly for the most up-to-date information on fees, season passes, and any potential discounts. Federal Interagency Senior/Access discounts may apply to single standard site rates for eligible cardholders who are present on-site. It's always a good idea to inquire about any current deals when making your reservation or upon arrival.

For inquiries and information about Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area, you can reach them at:

Address: 6000 NC-80, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA

Phone: (828) 675-5509

For reservations, it is recommended to visit Recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777. The campground operates seasonally, typically from mid-April through late October. It’s always best to check their operational hours and availability before planning your trip.

For residents of North Carolina, Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area offers an unparalleled local getaway that truly embodies the spirit of mountain living. Its convenient location in the Pisgah National Forest, just a short drive from major cities like Asheville, makes it an easily accessible escape for a weekend or longer. The campground's split layout, with campsites both along and across Highway 80, provides diverse options for campers, ensuring you can find your ideal spot whether you prefer riverside tranquility or deep forest shade.

The consistent praise from previous visitors, many of whom are returning locals or those with cherished childhood memories of the campground, speaks volumes about its enduring appeal. The private, heated restrooms and showers offer a touch of comfort that is often a deciding factor for families and those new to camping. The spacious, well-maintained campsites mean you can enjoy your privacy while still being part of a friendly community atmosphere. Furthermore, the attentive and welcoming camp hosts often go the extra mile, even delivering firewood directly to your site, making your stay even more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Beyond the excellent facilities, the natural allure of the South Toe River, with its inviting swimming areas and prime fishing spots, provides endless opportunities for recreation right at your doorstep. The heavily wooded environment ensures cool shade and a peaceful ambiance, perfect for unwinding. With the added benefit of nearby attractions like the Blue Ridge Parkway and Mount Mitchell, Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area isn't just a campground; it’s a gateway to experiencing the best of Western North Carolina's natural beauty and outdoor adventures, all within a comfortable and welcoming setting designed for locals, by locals. It's truly a place where new memories are made and old traditions are cherished.