ALERT

In response to the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Helene, all recreation sites on the Pisgah and Nantahala remain closed until hazardous conditions improve and assessments can be completed. Visit fs.usda.gov/nfsnc for more information.

Campground & Recreation Area

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area

Alert

Carolina Hemlocks is closed until further notice. All guests with existing reservations will receive an email regarding the closure and a full refund for affected dates. There will not be any campsites available and day use areas will be closed during this time. For more information, please visit the US Forest Service.

Location
8516 Highway 80 South
Burnsville, NC 28714
Phone
828.675.5509
Hours

Open April-October

Reservations
Reservations CANNOT be made by calling the office. To reserve the Pavillion, call 877.444.6777. Use the reserve link below or follow this step-by-step guide.
Have You Been here?
Maps & Rules

Be lulled to sleep by the beautiful South Toe River at night while you fish, tube, swim and explore during the day!

Located in the Appalachian District of the Pisgah National Forest, Carolina Hemlocks is just a short drive from Mount Mitchell State Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. With access to the South Toe River, guests can enjoy swimming, fishing, tubing, hiking and picnicking or just simply relax in the cool shade of the forest. The campground has sites available for both tents and RV’s, some sites with river views.

Conveniently located just one hour from Asheville, NC; 2 hours from Greenville, SC; and 2.5 hours from Charlotte, NC, Carolina Hemlocks is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle. Be sure to check out our other camping options at Black Mountain and Briar Bottom Campgrounds, just down the road. Camping in NC is the best way to spend a vacation, getaway or special occasion!

Fees

Standard/Interagency & Senior

Day Use:

Per Person – $5 / $2.50
Season – $25 / $12.50

Campsites:

Standard Campsite — $28 / $14

Pavilions

The large pavilion is right on the river and is perfect for groups of 30 people.
Large Pavilion (Full Day) – $70

Cash and credit cards accepted at this facility. Federal Interagency Senior/Access discounts only apply to single standard site rate. Does not apply to any other items or services. Cardholder must be present on site to use discount.

Season Passes

Season passes are available. Click here to purchase.

Directions

From Asheville, North Carolina, take I-26 west to exit 9, onto 19 east toward Burnsville. Follow 19 to Micaville and turn right onto Highway 80. Follow 80 south approximately 8 miles to the Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area.

FIND Your Next Adventure

Amenities
  • 31 Campsites
  • Modern Bath Houses with Hot Showers
  • Sites with River Access
Things to Do…
  • Swimming
  • Picnics
Please, be sure to #RecreateResponsibly so that your public lands can be enjoyed for generations to come!
Nearby…

Love the RV life?

You could be a campground host!

Being a campground host is an exciting opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, meet new friends and provide assistance and information to visitors.  

FIND Outdoors Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our cherished public lands have faced significant challenges. Your support is crucial in helping us restore and reopen these vital spaces. 

Here’s how your donation can make a profound impact:

  • Repair and Restoration of Public Lands

Your contribution will directly fund the rebuilding of bridges and boardwalks damaged by flooding, rerouting heavily eroded trails, and clearing debris from our beautiful outdoor areas. These spaces are not just paths and parks; they are the backdrop for family memories, adventures, and connections to nature.

  • Education on Emergency Preparedness

We’re committed to empowering our communities with the knowledge and resources to prepare for future emergencies, ensuring everyone can enjoy the great outdoors safely.

  • Support for Displaced Employees

Many people who care for public lands have been affected by the storm. Your generosity will help provide them with vital support during this challenging time.