The best camping in Chimney Rock State Park, NC

·

The best camping in Chimney Rock State Park, NC

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Creek runs throughout property.

2. Creekside Camper & Tent Site Rental

93%
(40)
7.4mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 4 sites · Lodging · Black Mountain, NC
Enjoy your stay in one of our 2 campers or either one of our 2 tent sites on 5 acres of private property. We are not a commercial campground but offer all the amenities you will need for an inexpensive weekend in this area. A babbling stream runs through our property providing soothing sounds. The area is loaded with rhododendrons, mountain laurels, hemlocks, birch and poplars to keep it cool and shady. The terrain is sloped and has a few beautiful "flatter" spaces for 2 nice campers with their own fire pit. The wooded private property provides unlimited free kindling and fire wood. Enjoy a comfortable, camper stay after visiting the hiking trails, and other sites in the Black Mountain/Asheville area. Nearby: The quaint city of Black Mountain offers unique shopping and restaurants just 11 miles North on the newly paved Hwy 9.  Chimney Rock State Park is 20 minutes South off Hwy 9. Visit Lake Lure where Dirty Dancing was filmed. Hike Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Trailhead in Gerton @ 10 miles away. Access the famous Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville 30 minutes away.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$68
 / night
Emberglow Outdoor Resort

3. Emberglow Outdoor Resort

100%
(62)
7.6mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mill Spring, NC
Come enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends in the rolling hills of Western North Carolina at Emberglow Outdoor Resort. We’ve assembled one-of-a-kind lodging options on 72 acres in a beautiful private valley, complete with spring-fed creeks and a night sky of a billion stars. We’re conveniently situated between Asheville, Charlotte, Greenville, and Columbia. Get a closer look at the beautiful Emberglow Outdoor Resort property in our photo galleries and book now to experience it for yourself. An elevated camping experience nestled in the Blue Ridge Foothills of Western NC. A CONVENIENT ESCAPE Located near Lake Lure, a less than 2-hour drive from Charlotte, Greenville, Columbia, and Asheville, we offer our guests a convenient escape from the commotion of the weekly grind. UNIQUE LODGING OPTIONS Pick your unique lodging experience or bring your own. Yurts, AirStreams, Treehouses, and more are available for rent or park your RV or pitch a tent in one of our beautiful campsites. OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS There are endless outdoor activities and attractions in nearby Lake Lure, or you can take advantage of our resort-quality amenities without ever leaving the property. At Emberglow, you can play outside on your own terms, limit your travel time, and disconnect from the daily hamster wheel. Our mission is to deliver to our guests an exceptional place to enjoy the great outdoors with a variety of comfortable lodging options and unique amenities. Book your stay today! EXPLORE OUR Unique Lodging Choose from more than 20 memorable lodging options or set up your own in one of our fully-equipped RV or tent sites, all with access to our resort-quality amenities. • Vintage Campers • Treehouses • Tiny Homes • Yurts • Glamping Pods • Safari Tent • Primitive Tree Houses • RV Rental Trailers • RV Sites • Primitive Tent Sites ON-SITE AMENITIES A resort-quality pool awaits you to kick your feet up. Take on the family in sand volleyball or hit the hiking trails. Emberglow’s premium on-site amenities are just the start of your vacation possibilities. • Resort Quality Pool • Hiking/Biking Trails • Dog Park • Pedal Kart Rentals • Free Wifi • The Jump Pad • Sand Volleyball • Bicycle Rentals (Adult + Youth Sizes) • Sport Fields • Community Fire Pit • GaGa Ball Pit • Playground
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$42
 / night
Bigfoot Brook Campground

4. Bigfoot Brook Campground

98%
(32)
8.2mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 3 sites · Tents · Lake Lure, NC
If you are looking for peace and tranquility in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this privately owned, primitive campground is a great place for your tent! Nestled in Medford Mountain at about 1200 ft., each creek-side slip has a magnificent view of the 1532 ft. mountaintop. Whether surrounded by spring blossoms or fall foliage, animal and leaf lovers often see turkeys at dawn and deer at dusk. Foxes and bobcats have also been spotted on occasion. It is important to note that bear and coyote roam freely on the adjacent mountaintop, although are rarely seen or heard. Proper wilderness precautions must always be taken while camping. Aside from the flora and fauna, one of the biggest attractions is the star-filled sky. On a clear night, it is imperative to take a break from your private campfire to appreciate the Milky Way. You may also enjoy the meteor showers in August and other celestial events. Not to be outdone, the day sky does not disappoint. If a pop-up shower passes through, a double rainbow is often left in its wake. In the surrounding area, there are many outdoor activities to enjoy during the day. In a half hour or less, you may go horseback riding, ziplining, kayaking, tubing, fishing, hiking, and climbing. Public access to Lake Lure is less than 15 mi. away, but access to a lakeside road with amazing views is only a couple of minutes away. In addition, there is a little-known waterfall about 8 minutes up the street. If spending the day on site, be sure to walk the trail on the opposite side of the creek and hike up the hill for a different view. In addition, badminton, volleyball, ladder ball, cornhole, Yardzee, croquet, bocce, frisbees, footballs, board games and books are available for free rental. Plus, children may enjoy gem mining in the creek (for an additional fee). Of course, everyone can play Slapsquatch on the grounds for free. *Last minute decision? No worries! Check out our equipment package for two. We also sell firewood and rent tents, hammocks and other equipment separately. In addition, some toiletries and basic camping supplies are available for purchase. ***Disclaimer: Bigfoot activity has neither been confirmed nor denied.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Green River Getaway

5. Green River Getaway

100%
(11)
8.6mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mill Spring, NC
If you’re looking for accessible and convenient camping in the foothills, bring your camper/RV/tent to Green River Getaway! Not your typical campsite 🏕️-with only 1 other camp site beside you-you’ll be Surrounded by nature🌳🦌 yet convenient to shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Your site is walking distance (.5mi) from the Green River and only: 8 miles from Tryon International Equestrian Center 🐎, 20 minutes from Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, 30 minutes from Hendersonville, and 1 hour from Asheville. If you’re looking for outdoor fun, there are many local hiking trails 🥾, horseback 🐴 riding barns, and local farms 🎃🍎🍑🫐 and vineyards🍷🍷. ***Following Hurricane Helene 🌀, some trails remain closed and the river access near our campsite is quite messy. We can advise you on available hikes, sightseeing, and water activities to help make your stay enjoyable. ***If you have T-mobile service, there is little/no reception at the site. You can get it by driving up the hill in either direction***
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Barnhill Mountain in Fletcher, NC

7. Barnhill Mountain in Fletcher, NC

99%
(224)
9.4mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Hoopers Creek, NC
My wife and I moved to the area, from Boone, in the spring of 2014. Our dream was to own a house, preferably a cabin, on top of a mountain with long range views and a gradual winding road to the top. Living in Boone, this dream was definitely out of reach. When we began our search for a new home in the Asheville area, we discovered that the more affordable homes were in fact on the mountains. Perfect! In general I always have a pretty positive outlook on what’s possible, however, I was skeptical that we would ever find our dream home. As Jeannie began her Zillow browsing adventures, one particular cabin with acreage, that was outside of our budget continued to pop up. Jeannie would delete it and then it would come back. At some point the price began to drop, and drop, and drop. On our way back into town one weekend after attending a wedding, I convinced Jeannie to drive by the cabin just because we had the time. Immediately we fell in love and reached out to our realtor buddy. It was more of a shot in the dark but it couldn’t hurt, right? We held our breath for the next month totally expecting someone to get it under contract before us or the sellers not accepting our offer. It had already been reduced significantly so we knew our chances of a lowball offer were slim. We offered the most that we could get a loan for. They accepted! I still get anxious thinking back to that month, October 2014. Many years and two children later, here we are, just as excited everyday to make the long trek up our mountain as we were that August of 2014, and now we are happy to offer a similar experience to you, without having to buy the place. Never stop dreaming! Hope to see you soon, cheers! Learn more about this land:   Pitch your tent in the grass on the tip top of the mountain or park your camper in the flat gravel spot with a fire pit just below the top with beautiful views overlooking Cane Creek.  In the fall and winter enjoy 360 degree views and in the summer enjoy the shade and cool breeze while relaxing & snacking on wild wine berries and black raspberries.   What you will not find is light pollution, traffic, and a desire to leave the mountain.  Fall asleep to the calls of the hoot owl and wake up to the knocking of the wood pecker.       If & when you decide to explore the area, be sure to checkout Hickory Nut Gap farm just 7.9 miles away & Whistle Hop Brewery 7.7 miles away.  Turgua brewery just down on Cane Creek road is only 6.2 miles from camp.  Cane Creek Valley Farm as well as the Cane Creek Community swimming pool is also at the base of camp just in case the kids need a dip of ice cream or a dip in the pool.  Justus Apple Orchard is only 10 miles down the mountain towards Hendersonville.  We love taking our kids there.      We are only 15 miles from downtown Asheville & Hendersonville, and 22 miles from Lake Lure. The site backs up to over 100 acres of forest for a truly wilderness feel just outside of town. *Please message me proof of Military Service to receive your 25% discount code.  We support our troops and their families.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Sage Nesbitt Farm

8. Sage Nesbitt Farm

98%
(22)
9.7mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fairview, NC
Cabin and/or camping spots on a large wooded farm. Secluded, yet only a short drive to Asheville, Black Mountain, Lake Lure, waterfalls and hikes! There are so many fun places to explore whether you are coming to eat and drink or hike, bike or climb. Cabin is located on our 12 acre farm, with 2 full hookup camper spots in the woods behind it. Take an afternoon walk down through the pasture and sit by the creek. Don't mind the chickens that may walk up and ask for a treat. And the pigs may be shy at first, but they warm up fast if you share with them. Build a fire at night, and sit under the stars as you listen to the nocturnal sounds of Appalachia. This tranquil farm stay is made even more revitalizing by the mist on the mountains in the morning as you enjoy coffee from the porch or your campsite.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Above the Fray Glamping, Black Mtn.

9. Above the Fray Glamping, Black Mtn.

98%
(383)
10mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 6 sites · Lodging · Black Mountain, NC
The views are hypnotic, looking down and out over the continental divide. Good morning, and sunsets can be seen from the same spot. Your car is parked within feet of your deck, so Car Campers and experienced campers can enjoy. Designed with campers and dogs in mind. The deck is large (384 square feet) with a tin roof. Some roofs are full size, some are two-thirds, and some are one-third, depending on what one wants for tent size or sun exposure. (See pictures of each site/deck) Each deck features sun and rain curtains to help keep you comfortable in normal weather conditions. Dogs enjoy a two-gate system, allowing guests and dogs be leash-free and away from the road. All dog owners know to pick up after their pets. The human Private Porta John is cleaned on a weekly basis. Lights and electrical outlets are 110V (3 prongs) for YOUR coffee pots, electric grills, mattress inflators, crockpots, electric blankets, fans, et I do not provide any electrical appliances, other than counter area lighting and low-level string lights, so one can see the night sky Many of my campers will "Pay it Forward" and leave coffee pots, hot plates, fans and such, so count yourself lucky to find a deck with them. I provide chairs, 5 gallons of fresh water in containers, a fickle solar shower, and a pop-up changing room, along with an assortment of camping supplies from dog bowls to antimicrobial. I provide various-size garbage bags to manage your garbage. Your parking area is next to the deck. Black Mountain’s tasty restaurants are 4 miles away, and All Trails is an excellent app for finding trails suited for your interests. Be respectful to the place and please be friendly to the people yo Learn more about this land: Private Glamping Decks with a view that pictures do not do justice. Private decks on a dead-end gravel road mean hopefully the sounds will only be of nature. The conveniences of electricity, porta john, water, chairs, table, roof, cleaning supplies, rain curtains, and astounding views have my Glampers coming back often. Designed with Dogs in mind with a two-gate system and no need for a leash when on the deck. Obnoxious, barking dogs are not welcome, so bring only controlled and well-socialized dogs. Help me keep it dog-friendly. Never block the road with a park car.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$68
 / night
Site View

10. Asheville Area Luxury Solo RV'ing

99%
(204)
10mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 1 site · RV · Fletcher, NC
Asheville Area Luxury Dwellings offers a gated year round solo RV site with full hook ups, firewood, kindling, bike wash or pet wash station, and trash service provided by your host in the nightly rate. ADDITIONALLY, you can enhance your stay by adding any of the FIVE EXTRA AMENITIES before checking out. Extras which are available for a one time fee are onsite which include a partially covered lighted outdoor shelter with a grill, bar sink, bar stools, and infrared heater above the couch to warm up on those chilly nights. This outdoor covered porch can be added to your stay in the extras sections if you so choose. The hot tub and outdoor shower are also available for rent for a one time charge under the extras section. Working remotely? Add wifi in the extras section. Rv'ing with a friend? No problem, you can add one additional RV to your booking. Our site can accommodate two large rigs. If these items are not needed then you can still use the site only at the nightly price. Remember, your nightly rate includes a bike wash or pet wash station to clean up after a day of exploring the Asheville area, firewood, kindling, and trash service are always included in your nightly price. 0ur site is only 10 miles to downtown Asheville and 8 miles to the Biltmore Estate. Come relax by the outdoor fire pit and listen to the sound of the natural spring flowing down the mountain. Come enjoy our RV site in the beautiful Asheville Area. We are glad to offer a one of a kind private mountainous solo RV site. Our Second site is now open. If you have guests that DO NOT have an RV and you want a site for them while you are at the Solo RV site then we have a perfect spot. Asheville Area Glamping Deck is now open for bookings on Hipcamp. click our profile to see this property to book. It is great for larger gatherings.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night
Paradise Ridge Permaculture

11. Paradise Ridge Permaculture

100%
(94)
11mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Fairview, NC
The name Paradise Ridge came from the area my family settled in during the late 1600's. That place is now called Joelton. I love the old name and I love that my family came through North Carolina to Tennessee, so I decided to bring the name back east with me. Creating Paradise Ridge as a permaculture paradise is my life's work. It is a slow and painful process in a world set on instant gratification but very rewarding to see it step by step each year. We hope to share our passion with you. Learn more about this land: Paradise Ridge is on a dead end road, with a gated community at the top of the mountain. It is a wonderful place in Fairview, NC. A small 5-acre lot completely off grid, we have no animals due to the storm that rocked the area. Most of the property has been untouched for the past 30 years. The small area kept under hand is managed with a permaculture approach to make as little disturbance as possible and to keep it protected for the wildlife around the area. The property has been chemical free for the past 20 years under Paradise Ridge; thus, it has plenty of wild edibles around for your pleasure. Mushrooms, weeds and added edibles for your experience. At the moment, we accept tents, hammocks, and the like for anyone to enjoy this little piece of paradise on Flat Top Mountain. We are located between Asheville and Chimney Rock. There is SO much the area has to offer; it is too much to list here. You can find great food, good beer, and lively music in either direction from Paradise Ridge. Or you can enjoy a simple quiet shared camp fire area. We are in the process of repairing fences, reseeding the pastures, and restructuring the hen house.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
living room area

12. Charming tiny house on 16 acres

100%
(10)
11mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Fairview, NC
Learn more about this land:20 minutes from the beautiful city of Asheville, this charming 300 square foot rustic hideaway is attached to our home, yet it has own private entrance, private bath with shower, and kitchenette with fridge, microwave, hot plate, and coffee maker. Wifi/AC. Tiny house vibes. Glamping! This truly is the best of both worlds. My husband and I built this ourselves, and we love hosting people. Electric heater easily warms this up in the cooler months. For all seasons!You'll have access to a private hiking trail, and in the warmer months, a swimming pond. Small, but spacious enough for a couple, or quiet party of 3. People always tell us how comfortable they feel here!!We provide tea, coffee and a few toiletries, as well.Comfy queen bed in roomy loft space. Enjoy lots of light, high ceilings, singing birds.Grill is also available on request.Please note, in the bathroom there is an eco-friendly , modern composting toilet by “Natures Head”. This is user friendly and modern (see picture), but does require reading simple instructions the first time you use. We can direct you through it!You'll have your own private back deck to enjoy overlooking beautiful pasture,  as well as other delightful features on the property. You can enjoy different spaces on the 16 acres such as a swimming pond by a gazebo, a private hiking trail. Wildflowers and berries in season.Quiet,  nurturing, and deeply relaxing. Modern, with a rustic flare.  15 minutes to Asheville. You'll be within minutes to everything you'll love about this area:  Blue Ridge parkway (10 minutes) hiking (on premise, on private land,  w/ many other hiking  trails close by) coffee shop and breakfast spot (5 minutes), breweries and multiple food trucks all close by, restaurants, and any kind of grocery store you'll need.Private, rural studio connected to a restored tobacco barn on 16 acres of family owned land. *Where rustic meets refined. *Lines, blankets, coffee provided.*Eco friendly composting toilet*Private entrance, private bath+ cozy sleeping loft.*Perfect for a couple; couch can be converted into a single bed for one additional guest.*Modern kitchenette with coffee maker, hot plate, fridge, and microwave. *Access to private hiking trail + swimming pond.*Enjoy a beverage on a back private deck. *Mountain views w/in minutes.*Under $100 a night.*15 minutes to Asheville.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$68
 / night
Mountain View Acres

14. Mountain View Acres

98%
(225)
12mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Flat Rock, NC
Make some memories at this unique and family-friendly place. Completely remodeled January of 2022. Our cabin sits on 20 acres with beautiful mountain views. Away from the hustle and bustle, but only 30 minutes to Asheville, and close to shopping, restaurants, hiking, rafting, waterfalls, and much, much more! Enjoy getting away as a couple, or with the kids. Just steps away from our game room with pool, ping pong, foos ball, air hockey, darts, and exercise room. Come pet the animals! This 1 room cabin includes 1 King bed, pullout queen sofa, large comfy chair, dining table for 4, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, grill, picnic table, fire pit, cooking essentials, towels, and linens. This cabin is next to a bathhouse. There is a mens and womens restroom. Both restrooms are equipped with 6 showers, 4 stalls, and 8 sinks. You will have complete access to restrooms and showers. You will also have access to the gameroom and exercise room. Across from the cabin is a large pasture and our animals.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
The Cabin At Wild Ridge Trail

16. The Cabin At Wild Ridge Trail

100%
(37)
14mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Swannanoa, NC
If you're looking to escape to the mountains, look no further! Wild Ridge Trail is a place where you can come to unwind, relax, and take in the fresh air of our N.C. mountains! We are located only 10/15 minutes from all of the exciting things Asheville has to offer and just as close to the charming small town of Black Mountain! The cabin at wild ridge is OFF GRID (meaning no power or running water) but I promise, with our solar panels and rain collection system you won't miss being ON the grid at all! The cabin and the drive (or hike) up was designed for the adventurous at heart! So, drive on up if you have 4WD or AWD and if you don't, no worries! Just park in the designated space, grab your gear and hike on up! (The hike in is steep... about 300 ft but takes less than 5 minutes) We have a cooler up there for any perishables you may have, just bring ice :) Please note: We have to close the outdoor heated shower during the cold winter months, however we provide an all season 5 gallon solar shower bag to use during this time. We also have a list at the cabin of other places nearby that provide hot showers in the winter months for a small fee. In the rare event that heavy snow is expected, we will have to close the road leading up to the cabin because of its steepness. If this occurs, you will be given a full refund for the cancellation. To heat the cabin, there is a un-vented wall mounted heater that heats the space really well! Since the cabin is insulated, the heater works quick to heat the small area up so you will stay nice and cozy!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$85
 / night
View from tent spot

17. E-volving Hearts Wellness Farm

96%
(13)
14mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 2 sites · Tents · Old Fort, NC
The E-volving Hearts Wellness Farm is 14 acres of mostly wooded land in Old Fort, NC. Just a short drive to Black Mountain and approximately a 30 minute drive to Asheville. Here at the farm we provide a sanctuary setting for humans and animals and provide Equine Facilitated Wellness with our two mini rescue horses. We are offering our small, semi private (we and two other tenants live on the property), primitive campsite area to the public this fall in order to generate income to support our mini horses in their continued rehabilitation process. While you are simply renting the campsite, if you desire to participate in some Equine Facilitated Wellness I'd be grateful to discuss adding this to your stay. The campsite is a small tent area carved into the woods near the front of the property and is next to our cleared pasture area and Ceremonial Grounds. It is a short walk from the outhouse and while there is no running water, we will happily fill up jugs. While the property is 14 acres, due to the private dwellings, any private wellness sessions that might be happening on the property, and the fact that we have not recovered our trails after Hurricane Helene, we will ask that you limit your activity to the space provided. Please note that we have many roosters who enjoy celebrating the coming of the morning light! We also have the friendly, mostly free-ranging "Bird Herd". There are coyotes that hunt in the fields around us and bring their celebrations at night and we aren't sure if Little Bear has moved along or not. Overall, this is a great place for those who want more privacy than a campground but don't want to haul yourself deep into the wilderness. You are safe and secure on the property but do know that wildlife is all around. We welcome those who are quiet, peaceful, with an open mind and open heart who are willing and able to honor this sanctuary. We cannot have dogs on the property. PLEASE DO NOT ASK. This isn't about your dog, this is about ours. Finally, we also have a 2 person tent that can be rented for $10 a night if needed.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$20
 / night
Ramble on Rose Pets welcome

19. Ecusta Trail Campsite

95%
(10)
15mi from Chimney Rock State Park · 3 sites · RVs · Hendersonville, NC
Come stay with us! Bring the whole family, there is something for everyone here! You can bring your own RV! We can hold up to two campers onsite, plus a tent, and up to four personal vehicles! Our site is located minutes from Main Street in Hendersonville NC in the Lenox Park area! We are literally trailside, along the, "Ecusta Trail", with a brewery(Trailside), food truck(s), live music, coffee shop, brandy bar a stones throw away! You are nestled in the city with the feel of nature with a trail as your backdrop! With a short walk to downtown Hendersonville, located in historic Lenox Park, this adorable camp site is on the end of a quiet neighborhood street on the Ecusta trail! Private, safe, carefree setting. The perfect starting point to visit WNC/the Asheville metro area. Again we are next door to Lenox Station/Trailside Brewing (lesss than 200 feet away) with live music, food trucks, a coffee shop, and Brandy bar+. Minutes to Rhododendron Park, Patton/Jackson, and Lil Bradley Falls. Besides Main St., Another few minutes away 7th Ave (gentrified w/ Kava bar, shopping, fabulous bakery, coffee, plus free parking). Minutes to Glassy Mtn, Carl Sand Burg, and all the parks and national forests in WNC are nearby. You can bike, hike, walk, and more from your RV/campsite!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$55
 / night

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Chimney Rock State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Chimney Rock State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Other options near Chimney Rock State Park

The best camping in Chimney Rock State Park, NC guide

Overview

About

Just 25 miles from downtown Asheville, Chimney Rock State Park is an easy escape from the city. The park’s centerpiece is the 535 million-year-old, 315-foot, granite monolith for which it’s named. Whether you reach the rock by elevator or by climbing the 500 steps, you’ll be treated to 75-mile, panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge. From the top, you can then hike to Exclamation Point, the park’s highest peak, and along the Skyline Trail. The park is also home to a 400-foot waterfall and great opportunities for birding. While overnight camping is not permitted, tent, RV, and cabin options are available nearby.

When to go

Chimney Rock State Park is open year-round. Summer temperatures tend to be in the low 80s, but humidity can create unpleasant conditions. The ideal time to visit may be in spring, when you can avoid both the humidity and crowds that arrive in the summer months, or during fall foliage when the landscape blazes with hues of red and gold.

Know before you go

  • Admission is charged at the principal Chimney Rock Access, although the nearby Rumbling Bald Climbing Access is admission-free with access to one of the park’s six trails.
  • Climbing requires registration and permits. Free permits can be found on the trailheads. 
  • No park trails are wheelchair- or stroller-accessible.
  • You can buy snacks at the Sky Lounge’s concession stand or have a meal in the Old Rock Café, located at the main gate. 
Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.