Places to Stay in Western North Carolina - Camping and Lodging Directory

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Camping

Developed Public Campgrounds

Several nice campgrounds are located throughout the National Forests, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, along the Blue Ridge parkway, and in several state parks. Below is a list of public campgrounds near mountain biking trails; all except the Mount Pisgah campground are close enough to the trails so you will not need a vehicle shuttle.

Piped drinking water is provided at all of these campgrounds. All sites are secluded, shady, and level, and tables, grills, and campfire rings are provided at each site. There are no RV hookups, but there at least a few sites at each campground long enough to accommodate RV's if you can live without water and electricity connections.

Reservations

Reservations can now be made online at recreation.gov. A link to each campground's reservations page is provided, where available. Also, an excellent Google map showing all National campgrounds and recreation facilities can be found here.

Lake Powhatan Campground

North Mills River Campground

Davidson River Campground

Tsali Campground

Mount Pisgah Campground

Backcountry Camping

Dispersed camping is allowed anywhere in the National Forests as long as you are:

Remember, a good camping site is found, not made. Don't destroy vegetation to make a campsite. Be fire safe; use common sense. Try to use existing fire rings if you do have a fire, but camp stoves are recommended. Do not scar large rocks or overhangs with your fire. Fires are prohibited in designated wilderness areas. Don't leave trash behind!

Roadside camping isn't allowed except in designated camping sites found along many forest service roads, and these are usually very nice (and close to the trails), yet sometimes overused.

Backcountry camping is prohibited on the Blue Ridge Parkway and its property, in Linville Gorge Wilderness (without permit), in Bent Creek Research and Demonstation Forest, and on State Park property. Backcountry camping is allowed in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park by permit only and only at designated backcountry sites.


Private Campgrounds

Black Forest Family Camping Resort
This campground is located 4 miles from the trailhead at the Dupont State Forest, making it the closest place to DSF to camp. Tent sites as well as RV sites with hookups are available and it gets rave reviews from visitors each year.
http://www.blackforestcampground.com

Tumbling Waters Campground
Tumbling Waters Campground and Trout Farm is just a 5 minute drive from Tsali. Click their name to see their web site and more information.
http://www.geocities.com/tumblingwaterscg/

Turkey Creek Campground
Located just 5 minutes from Tsali on NC 28 is this private campground, for those who would like a few more amenities than the Tsali public campground.
http://www.turkey-creek.com

Ash Grove Resort Cabins and Camping
Nature Revives the Spirit. Revive yours at one of our fully-equipped 1, 2 or 3 BR cabins, secluded tent campsites, or RV sites. Located less than 10 minutes from Dupont State Forest or downtown Brevard, and 20 minutes from Pisgah National Forest, we are a convenient and hospitable base for your mountain biking adventures. Our comfortably furnished cabins have gas log fireplaces, full kitchens and baths, TV/VCRs, heat and A/C, screened porches, grills and picnic tables. The secluded, walk-in tent sites (no water or electricity) include a level tent pad, fire ring/grill and picnic table. We also have shady tent sites and rv sites with water & electric service, picnic table and a fire ring/grill. Amenities on our 14 mountaintop acres include: a hot tub, hiking trails, waterfall, badminton, horseshoes, stone bonfire pit, and a bike washing station.
http://www.ash-grove.com

Lodging

The cities located throughout the area (Asheville, Waynesville, Brevard, Bryson City, Cherokee, etc.) offer plenty of hotel/motel chains, B&B's and other lodging opportunities, all within minutes of the trails. Below are just a small few suggestions of places to stay near the trails.

For a complete listing of places of lodging, including chain motels, in the Brevard area with contact information, visit Accomodations -- Brevard North Carolina.

Suggested Places of Lodging

(in alphabetical order)

Apple Blossom Cottage
Mountain biking, road riding and hiking galore are only minutes from Apple Blossom Cottage. We're 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway (milepost # 405.5), 10 minutes from Pisgah National forest, 20 minutes from Bent Creek trails and 20 minutes from downtown Asheville! Come back to the cottage after a fun filled day...wash and then store your bikes in the basement, enjoy a cool one on either the front or back porch, then head to the hot tub where you can sit and relax while gazing overhead at the stars and moon while enjoying the luminance of the fireflies! And don't forget...we're PET FRIENDLY!
http://www.ashevillecabinscottagesandmore.com/

Asheville Cabins
Just 10 minutes from Asheville, Bent Creek, Biltmore and all the area has to offer. This is a 4 bedroom cabin with deluxe 6 person mountain view spa. At its 10 person capacity our cabin rental rate is only $20 per person per night! It comes with everything you need including the spa, gas grill, 700 square feet of deck, games including ping pong, darts and foosball, and deluxe linens and appliances.
http://www.theashevillecabins.com/

Asheville Rose Cabin
Come enjoy the hospitality of the North Carolina Mountains, near Asheville, NC. The Asheville Rose Cabin is a guest rental cabin perfect for weekend or week-long or longer stays. Honeymoons, anniversaries, vacations or weekend get-a-ways are well spent in this charming cabin. On the edge of everything, The Asheville Rose Cabin provides the peace and tranquility of the woods, nestled in its own private forest, and the convenience of staying only minutes from downtown Asheville, the Biltmore Estate, the Blue Ridge Parkway, The Asheville Botanical Gardens and more.
http://www.ashevillerose.com

Ash Grove Resort Cabins and Camping
Nature Revives the Spirit. Revive yours at one of our fully-equipped 1, 2 or 3 BR cabins, secluded tent campsites, or RV sites. Located less than 10 minutes from Dupont State Forest or downtown Brevard, and 20 minutes from Pisgah National Forest, we are a convenient and hospitable base for your mountain biking adventures. Our comfortably furnished cabins have gas log fireplaces, full kitchens and baths, TV/VCRs, heat and A/C, screened porches, grills and picnic tables. The secluded, walk-in tent sites (no water or electricity) include a level tent pad, fire ring/grill and picnic table. We also have shady tent sites and RV sites with water & electric service, picnic table and a fire ring/grill. Amenities on our 14 mountaintop acres include: a hot tub, hiking trails, waterfall, badminton, horseshoes, stone bonfire pit, and a bike washing station.
http://www.ash-grove.com

Beartracks & Whisper Mountain Cabins
We are located just 3 miles west of the Tsali Recreation Area on NC 28. Beartracks is a 2BR/1BA cabin, and Whisper Mountain is a 3BR/2BA chalet. Both are fully furnished, with kitchen appliances, washer/dryer, and satellite DirecTV. Both cabins have wonderful hot tubs to soother your tired biking muscles and we offer a secluded setting. We are also very close to Nantahala Whitewater Rafting (8 miles). Give Sandi (239-898-5253) or Clad (239-898-5254) a call to book your next mountain biking vacation at our clean and comfortable homes. Rent one or both in case you have a large group. And if you have a very large party, we can put you in touch with other local homeowners who rent as well!
http://www.nccabinvacations.com

Bent Creek Lodge
Bent Creek Lodge offers the perfect place to stay for your Western North Carolina biking adventure. The inviting lodge is located in a section of forest between the Blue Ridge Parkway and the French Broad River. You can easily bike or drive from the Lodge to the Bent Creek Recreation Area. The North and South Mills River areas are just a short drive down the road, and the Davidson River area and Dupont State Forest are only 45 minutes away. After a ride you can come back to the Lodge, soak those tired muscles in a whirlpool tub and head for the night life and great restaurants in Asheville, only 15 minutes away!
http://www.bentcreeknc.com

Big Branch Cabins
Experience the best of a Blue Ridge Mountain getaway in beautiful Brevard, North Carolina! Enjoy our charming mountain cabins and our 12 private, wooded acres, bordered by thousands of acres of forestry land. You'll be just a short distance from Dupont State Forest, Pisgah National Forest, Gorges State Park, and Nantahala National Forest including the spectacular Whitewater Falls, highest in the Eastern US. You can hike the Big Branch trail to stream, or enjoy nature in the surrounding thousands of acres of public forest lands. Our two-bedroom cabins are decorated with unique antiques & include a fully functional kitchen, AC, TV/DVD, bed linens/towels, covered porches, outdoor grills, washer/dryer, and a picnic area.
http://www.bigbranchcabins.com/

Bon Paul & Sharky's Hostel of Asheville
Relax in our back deck hot tub and watch the sunset with beautiful views of Mount Pisgah. Our friendly knowledgeable staff will tell you about all the great places to hike and check out in town. High Speed wireless internet is available. Linens are included. We have bikes to borrow, bus and airport pick up, and camping available as well!
http://www.bonpaulandsharkys.com

Dry Ridge Inn
Most important to your Asheville getaway is a warm welcome and courteous attention. This is what you will receive at the Dry Ridge Inn. Our historical three story home has eight rooms and all include private baths, gas fireplaces, and Cable TV and DVD Player. Some can be combined to make suites for large families. Our bed and breakfast country inn is just a short drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway - ideal for recreation or simply to enjoy the enchantment of the Blue Ridge mountains. The Biltmore Estate and downtown Asheville are also just 10 minutes away. The inn provides a wonderful getaway for those romantic special occasions: honeymoons, an anniversary, or any other time when romance is in the air! Our desire is that your stay with us at our bed and breakfast accommodation be a comfortable, happy, and memorable one. You will find our home comfortable, food delicious and our spacious grounds inviting and relaxing. Enjoy a book on the porch swing or gaze into the water garden and let the waterfall soothe you.
http://www.dryridgeinn.com

Fall Creek Cabins
Our private log cabins, located on 54 acres, set the atmosphere to create many long-lasting memories. All of our cabins are ideal for honeymoons romantic getaways, yet equipped to handle most family vacations. Enjoy a cozy country setting, romance by the stone fireplace, and pamper yourself in your bubbling hot tub. Amenities includes: an equipped kitchen, TV/VCR, firewood, covered porch with rocking chairs, gas grill, picnic table, campfire pit, swing, and much more. Nature lovers will enjoy our rushing trout stream and clear meandering creek that cascades over rock faces and ledges creating beautiful waterfalls and rock pools. Enjoy our numerous hiking trails, have a picnic by the creek, and if you're lucky you may spot some of our non-paying guests which include deer, turkey, raccoon, squirrel, fox and others. Mountain bikers will love riding along Fall Creek Road, a quiet, paved country road, which parallels Fall Creek for several miles with country scenery. Our tranquil setting is just east of the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance near Deep Gap, centrally located between the towns of Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson, and Wilkesboro.
http://www.fallcreekcabins.com

Fall Creek Vacation Rentals
Featuring log cabin vacation rentals in the Boone, Todd, and Ashe County area. Mountain views, New River access, peaceful settings, wildlife viewing & privacy. Ideal location for canoeing, tubing, kayaking, biking, walking, & fly fishing. Hot tubs, fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, covered porches, rocking chairs, grill, game tables & much more. Ideal for weekend getaways & family vacations. Call today and reserve your Mountain Escape.
http://www.fallcreekvacationrentals.com

Freeman's Motel and Cottages
Located just three miles east of Tsali on NC Highway 28, Freeman's Motel and Cottages offers reasonably priced motel rooms as well as a variety of cabins, suitable for individuals or groups of up to ten people. All rooms are clean and comfortable with heat, air conditioning, TV, towels and linens. All cabins are also fully furnished with fireplaces, kitchens, porches and barbecue grills. Facilities include a pool, large playing field, outdoor grills and picnic tables, laundromat, and bike wash-down area.
http://www.freemansmotel.com

Grandmamma's House and Grandpapa's Getaway
Grandmama's House and Grandpapa's Getaway are centrally located in Pisgah Forest, NC at the intersection of Ecusta Rd. and Old Hendersonville Hwy. You'll be just minutes from the trails in Pisgah National Forest including Davidson River and Mills River, and Dupont State Forest, and within a short drive of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, and other attractions in Western North Carolina. Relax on our front porch rocking chairs, or kick back and watch a movie after your day's activities. Mountain bikers will appreciate having a secure garage to store their bikes, and a dry place to work on them during rainy weather. Our historic 2- and 3- bedroom houses have all modern amenities, such as a full kitchen with utensils, microwave, fridge, coffee maker, grill, and washer/dryer.
http://www.brevardnc.com/grandmamas/index.htm

The Hinton Center
The Hinton Center is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina just outside the city limits of Hayesville, North Carolina and approximately 2 hours from Atlanta, Asheville and Chattanooga. Our facilities have gorgeous views of Lake Chatuge and the surrounding mountains. We are conveniently located near many outdoor recreation areas including the Nantahala National Forest, and the North Carolina Section of the Appalachian Trail. Lodging is available year round for groups and individuals and include special off-season discounted rates. For more informatin, please visit our web site below.
http://www.hintoncenter.org

Inn On Main
A romantic, century-old Victorian bed and breakfast, featuring seven guestrooms, some with whirlpool tubs and fireplaces and furnished in lovely antiques. Enjoy mountain views from the huge porches. Just 10 minutes north of Asheville, 15 minutes from the Biltmore Estate and a short, scenic drive below Bull Gap on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Also nearby are whitewater rafting, skiing, golf, trail rides and the private mineral baths at Hot Springs Spa. Quaint, quiet Weaverville, NC is home to Secret Garden Spa, art and craft studios and galleries, the Milling Company restaurant, Sunnyside Cafe, Well-Bred Bakery, Blue Mountain Pizza and Zebulon Vance Birthplace.
http://www.innonmain.com/

Laurel Creek Cabin
Located only 10 minutes from Tsali, this is the perfect mountain-biking getaway. After a long day on the trails, cool off with a swim in Lake Fontana (a quick 5-minute walk from cabin). Laurel Creek Cabin sits on 5 secluded acres surrounded by National Forest Service Land. Enjoy the rustic charm & beautiful knotty pine interior. Relax in the cool summer evenings, or take in the autumn colors, by sitting on the large screened-in porch. Conveniently located 10 minutes from Nantahala Outdoor Center, Appalachian Trail access & many other popular tourist destinations.
For more info: (850) 386-7229.
http://www.vrbo.com/125751

Mountain Creek Bed & Breakfast
Mountain Creek Bed & Breakfast, a romantic retreat, is located in the mountains of Western North Carolina near the Great Smoky National Park. Only minutes to Waynesville and Maggie Valley, North Carolina, and thirty minutes to Asheville and the Biltmore Estate. Excellent area for hiking, bicycling, rafting and exploring waterfalls. Some of the rooms have balconies, outdoor fireplaces and/or Jacuzzi tubs. Mountain Creek Bed & Breakfast is also Pet Friendly!
http://www.mountaincreekbb.com

A Mountain Memory
We're offering you a romantic Smoky Mountain 2 bedroom, 2 bath, honeymoon rental cabin with a hot tub close to the Nantahala River. We're just one mile from the Nantahala River and just 18 miles from the Tsali Recreation Area. We're also a convenient distance from white water rafting, kayaking, the Nantahala Outdoor Center, the Appalachian Trail, Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Lake Fontana and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
http://romanticcabin.com

Nantahala Mountaintop Cabin Rentals
Located minutes from Tsali, these brand-new cabins are perfect for groups. A great view, luxurious interior (including Jacuzzi hot tub and all new modern furnishings), and reasonable rates make this a great mountain bike getaway for you and your friends. The cabins are a short 10 minute drive from local dining and shops. Two cabins are available: one housing up to 6 and one housing up to 14 (10 adults). With as few as 5 people in a group, each person pays about what an average hotel room costs per night, yet the cabins house up to 14 guests making for a great deal on lodging.
http://www.nantahalamountaintop.com

Norally Vision Vacation Rentals
Norally House is a 4500 sq. ft. 6 bedroom, 4 bath completely supplied vacation rental that includes game room, hot tub and breath taking views of the mountains. Large groups up to 32 can rent both the Norally House and cottage. The 3 bedroom two bath cottage is with in walking distance.
http://norallyvisionvacationrentals.com

Pisgah Inn
Located in Flat Laurel Gap on the Pisgah Ridge at an elevation of 5000' next to the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Mt. Pisgah Recreation Area and finally...across from the Mount Pisgah campground. Now that we've narrowed down where it is...it offers luxury traditional hotel style accommodations and is one of the highest places of lodging on the East Coast. It's a man-made rest stop in a sea of forest and mountains. Boasting a spectacular view, the inn also has a great restaurant for after your long rides. The scenery in the area (just below Mt. Pisgah's 5720' peak) is fantastic and it is within a short drive of the Bent Creek, Mills River, and Davidson River riding areas. Reservations are recommended, however, as it is a popular destination.
http://www.pisgahinn.com

Red House Inn English Bed and Breakfast
The newly renovated Red House Inn provides comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation in downtown Brevard, NC. The Inn is a short walk from many shopping and dining opportunities and within easy driving distance to Brevard Music Center, Pisgah National Forest and Dupont State forest. It is ideally situated for exploring the North Carolina mountains, visiting waterfalls, hiking, mountain biking and fishing.
http://brevardbedandbreakfast.com/

Riverbend Lodging
Located near Tsali in Bryson City, this motel is at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains and the beautiful Tuckasegee River flows alongside the property. They offer 11 rooms with AC and cable TV and one cottage rental which sleeps up to 6 and has the same furnishings.
http://www.riverbendlodging.com.

Rolling Thunder River Company
Provides white water rafting and camping in the Tsali area.
http://www.rollingthunderriverco.com

Smoky Mountain Retreat
Located approximately 6 miles from Tsali, this retreat offers 4 hand-crafted log homes to stay in. One will accommodate 10 guests; one 14; and 2 will accommodate 16 each. Also offered is the Mountain Place which will accommodate 14 guests and the Brick Annex which will accommodate 8 guests. Homes are completely furnished with all modern amenities.
http://www.virtualcities.com/nc/smokymtretreat.htm

Stone Mountain Retreat
Treat yourself to this newly restored log cabin, located on 8 private acres just six minutes from Dupont State Forest! This newly updated log home offers you a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living room with stone fireplace, skylight and hardwood floors, full bath, master bedroom, large bedroom loft with skylights, front porch and a screened porch. It sleeps six people comfortably (with three full size beds).
http://www.stonemountainretreat.com

Stony Fork Creek Cabin
This cabin borders Pisgah National Forest and is nestled among hemlocks & rhododendrons. It's only 4 miles from the entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Mountains to Sea trail. Enjoy hiking & dog walking right out the front door or go for a road bike ride right up to the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Bent Creek area, where many locals bike, is about 20 minutes away. Downtown Asheville and the Biltmore Estate are about 20 minute drive. This 1950�s vintage cabin has 2 bedrooms with a large screened front porch. The creek runs in front of the cabin. The kitchen and bath are fully furnished with everything you need. Enjoy soaking in the outdoor 4 person hot tub while gazing at the stars by night or birdwatching by day. Amenities include local phone service, DSL, satellite TV/XM radio, gas grill, a movies & CD selection, W&D, linens provided, privacy & much more plus pets are welcome!
http://www.accandm.com

Suzanne's Farm and Gardens B&B
Your People-Friendly, Pet-Friendly Home Away From Home, conveniently located just minutes from downtown Asheville. Suzanne's Farm and Gardens Bed and Breakfast offers a spacious, quiet, and friendly place to come home to. After a day of hiking or biking, relax on the wraparound porch, dip your feet in the creek, or wander through the 7 acres where we grow flowers and herbs for local markets. Pets and children are always welcome! We are just a 10-minute drive to mountain biking in Bent Creek, hiking at the Arboretum or in Pisgah National Forest, or dining in style in downtown Asheville. And we'll let you use our pressure washer to clean that WNC mud off your bike!
http://www.suzannesfarm.com

Toad Hall Bed & Breakfast Inn
Located in Highlands, this inn offers guests a spectacular place to stay on a peninsula reaching into the beautiful Lake Sequoyah. Highlands is the second-highest town in the Eastern US, and at an elevation of 4,500 feet, this true mountain retreat is a great place to beat the summer heat or experience the wonderful Appalachian winters.
http://www.toadhallb-b.com

The Cody House
The Cody House, located in Hot Springs, NC, is a rental cottage located one block from Main Street. It's a short walk to all Hot Springs has to offer: Hot Springs Spa, Bluff Mountain Outfitters, Fine Dining, Hiking, Biking and Whitewater rafting.
http://www.bluffmountain.com/-codyhouse

Wolf Branch Cabin
This cabin is located 34 miles (or a 40-minute drive) north of downtown Asheville, on 25 private acres surrounded by trees & water. The cabin is about 12 miles from the Appalachian Trail where it crosses Sam's Gap at the NC/TN state line. Enjoy soaking in the hot tub on the deck while listening to the creek, which runs right in front of the cabin. This cabin has 2 bedrooms. The main BR is in the loft with a skylight over the bed - great for stargazing! The kitchen & 1.5 baths are fully equipped. Amenities include a gas grill, satellite TV, XM radio, extensive movie, book & CD collection, gas fireplace, W&D, privacy, and much more. Linens are provided plus Pets are Welcome!
http://www.accandm.com

Watauga Lake Cabins
These three attractive mountain cabins are located on Watauga Lake just over the border into Tennessee, near the town of Boone, NC. Watauga lake is the second-cleanest lake in the United States, inviting visitors to enjoy the cool, refreshing mountain waters and excellent recreational opportunities.
http://www.lakecabin4rent.com.

Wolf Den Cabins
We have three brand-new cabins located 1/2 mile from the famous Railroad Grade Road and the New River, near Todd, NC. Located on ten secluded acres on a quiet country road, each room is custom stenciled and the cabins are truly unique. All the cabins are smoke and pet free. They are located 13 miles east of Boone, NC, 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, and just 19 miles from Blowing Rock. We offer accommodations to larger cycling groups. Each of our cabins sleep 6 and has two bedrooms/two full baths, washer and dryers and sleeping loft. We are centrally located near all the famous cycling routes here in the High Country. Here's what Lance Armstrong had to say about the Watauga/Ashe counties area of WNC:

"It's a great area for riding, very hilly, but I'd say it's the best area for training in the whole of the United States."
Cycle Sport (June 1998)
http://www.wolfdencabins.com

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