The best ranch camping near Hendersonville

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Between Pisgah National Forest and Nantahala National Forest and just south of Asheville, Hendersonville is a small town set among the dramatic Blue Ridge Mountains. The pedestrian-centered downtown explores the arts, while nearby Jones Gap State Park, Chimney Rock State Park, and Mount Mitchell State Park offer ample hiking trails, bike paths, and rock climbing adventures. This “City of 4 Seasons” offers year-round attractions, but fall is extra fun with local farms opening for apple picking, hayrides, and corn mazes. From farmsteads to family campgrounds, tent campsites, RV sites, and glamping lodging are all close at hand.

97% (376)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hendersonville

1. Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

100%
(200)
30mi from Hendersonville · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
This no ordinary campground. Pause is an adventure that will feel like you are exploring your own private mountain nature reserve. Aramesh is 120 acres of Blue Ridge heaven with something for every wilderness adventure seeker: unmatched mountain views, lush old growth forests, babbling brooks, and miles of trails for all skill levels. The property starts at 3700 ft altitude, with summit at 4500 ft on the Glades mountain ridge. We have only a few campsites on the vast property, so the wind in the trees and birds will be all you hear. Come and stay with us and be renewed! IMPORTANT: 4WD or AWD is required to access our property. There is a sometimes steep and windy gravel road into Pause. Please make sure your vehicle has 4WD or AWD before you book. Campsites: They are 3/4-1/4 mile from the entrance. Some are accessible by 4WD. There may be some vigorous hiking involved, but the views are worth it. The pads are various sizes. Let us know what the needs of your party are and we can help you choose from the available spots. We also have several more remote “off-menu” sites for those seeking a backpacking adventure - ask for more information if your are interested. Hiking: There are several miles of trails on the property. They range from an easy slope to very strenuous. The entire property is fenced so you won't easily get lost. Your climbing efforts will be amply rewarded by stunning views, especially at sunset. Trail maps are available upon request. On-Site Amenities: we provide a clean porta-potty and running water that is spring fed. We ask that you follow "Leave-No-Trace" procedures during your stay. Off-Site Amenities: If you choose to explore the area : we are a 10 minute drive from I-40 Exit 24. Asheville is 45 minutes away; Waynesville is 25 minutes away. Presnell's Grocery (highly recommended, family-owned store that sells locally farmed products) is 10 minutes away from the property entrance. The Ingles supermarket in Canton is a 15 minute drive. You will find every kind of fast food in that area. There are also several excellent local dining options in Canton, Clyde, and Waynesville which we are happy to recommend to you by request.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$49
 / night

2. Buffalo Creek Vacations

100%
(12)
34mi from Hendersonville · 8 sites · RVs, Lodging
Buffalo Creek Vacations was started after our father, Harold, retired from NY as a UPS driver.  He wanted to go somewhere & experience all 4 season!  Him & our mom settled in Haywood County, NC & built their own log cabin & started raising bison.  Then, myself, 3 siblings & our spouses purchases the 40 acres behind my folks 18 acres when it came up for sale.  We decided to build a cabin & then we started rented it out in 2007.  Now, we currently have 6 cabins & 2 train cabooses for rent.  We love living in God's country & raising the bison along w/ a bunch other farm animals.  We love hosting guest on our property & decided after many calls asking if we allow camping, to include a few lucky folks to camp at Buffalo Creek.  If you are looking for something other then "car camping" & being "on top of each other" at traditional camp grounds, then give us a call & come check us out.  You will be glad you did!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$43
 / night

3. Blue Ridge Camping

100%
(126)
45mi from Hendersonville · 10 sites · Tents
Get away from the crowds. On 300 beautiful acres once operated as a children's summer adventure camp, this property has a house with a dormitory style bathroom for camper use. There are 3 primitive campsites, 2 cottages, and a horse sanctuary. The campsites are spaced out around the property for privacy. Ask about bathroom use depending on the season. 4WD or AWD is recommended for all sites due to 1/2 mile gravel road and then completely off road for a short distance. Or, if you are bringing 2WD, there is plenty of parking and then walk to your campsite. We don't recommend trying to bring large RV's due to the access. We have not had a problem with Black Bears on the property. Help us keep it that way. Do not store or keep food in your tent. Don't sleep with food. Keep in mind bears are omnivores much like us. They eat mostly plants but also eat meat. For more info on bear safety, visit www.bearwise.org Winter camping is encouraged with free firewood. However, you will probably need to park on the gravel and walk to your campsite to limit soil erosion of the off-road trail. Pets are welcome only at some sites, but please please let us know you are bringing them and they will need to be leashed due to other animals. A large part of the property is forest with hiking trails, creeks, and wildlife. You can see wildflowers and lightning bugs in season along with deer, turkey, and horses. And all of our spots have a great view of the sky! We're not far from the Bare Dark Sky Observatory. The grass horse arena and the pond were originally built for the summer camp. The pond is stocked with bass and bluegill and has a chorus of bullfrogs in summer. The arena is flat and has a long range mountain view all the way to Mt. Mitchell (highest peak east of the Mississippi). There are also a meadow spot encircled by trees.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

5. Root Cellar Tiny House

100%
(10)
49mi from Hendersonville · 1 site · Lodging
This 1890's farm was many things in times long ago! It acted as a working Tobacco Farm, a country store and was known to have the purest spring in the region by the indians and mountain men! It also has a dark past complete with murder and moonshine! For a full history check out this book, Red Hill. The untold story of the Whitson Brothers and the Murder of Kit Byrd. The short version of the story: The farm also acted as a country store that was also a front for moonshine. The Whitson Brothers who owned our farm had a deal with Kit Byrd;  a mountaineer from "on the mountain" who had a knack for making good shine. It ultimately was the death of him at the hands of the 3 Whitson Brothers. This murder years later led to the death of a large percentage of the population in this small NC Mtn town. Learn more about this land:On a mountain by a river in a true "holler". This 1890's historic tobacco farm features our Root Cellar Tiny House, perfect for 2-4 people.  Full over Full Bunk Bed, Wifi,  AC/heater, tiny fridge,  small coffee maker, one car parking in front for easy access. Includes a covered porch, RV toilet & sink, outdoor heated shower, outdoor fire pit & covered kitchen for cooking.  Space includes 2 person tent site making the tiny suitable to sleep 6. Stay includes $20 adventure trip credit with NC Outdoor Adventures.The spaceThe Root Cellar Tiny House is sitting above Whitson Branch surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is a little over 100 yards to the Toe River and one of the areas last remaining walking wood suspension bridges.This is our quiet space that we want to share with you. Our slice of heaven. Please keep that in mind and respect it. Throw trash away, don't leave out food or trash or you might wake to a big bear treat! Slow down when driving into the holler!Help us help our environment! The toilets and outdoor showers have been carefully planned out to be environmentally conscious, with special consideration to our creeks that drain into the Toe River. The "outhouse/camp" toilet has instructions so please read it and also has a foot pump hand cleaning sink beside it. The shower is an instant hot water shower heated by propane. While this space is not winterized it has some insulation and a propane heater. The Tiny can be rented during the winter for $68 a night good Nov-March.Guest accessGuests' space is a tiny house with a covered porch, attached bathroom, shower, covered outdoor kitchen, and one 2 person tent site. The tent site is best used April-October unless you have proper winter camping equipment.Looking for adventure...look no further it is right outside your door, literally. Use your $20 adventure credit onsite with NCOA: whitewater, tubing, rock climbing and more. A few of the river activities end or begin a short walk from the Root Cellar House. You can also purchase hiking/river essentials at the Tiny Hike Shop. Important notes:*Linens for bedding provided but we ask that you please bring your own bath towels and use biodegradable soaps like Bronners Soap (available for purchase at the Adventure Outpost on-site).*rooms are cleaned every three days unless someone requests otherwise for an additional charge. *Please drive slow as we have a hound dog and cats that run around as do some neighbors. Deer are everywhere, drive carefully. It is super curvy and steep with no guard rails. RVs or large trucks can not get down our road or through the one-car train tunnel to the river!!! No turnaround.* Sorry farm stay not pets allowed. We have a very protective cat (only towards other animals not people).Any questions for the host?
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$67
 / night

7. Enchanting 2-Acre Asheville Oasis

85%
(37)
16mi from Hendersonville · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Discover a serene 2-acre retreat adorned with vibrant roses, red orchids, and the melodies of hummingbirds and bluebirds. Perfectly blending natural beauty and functionality, this property features: -Main House: A welcoming residence paired with a lower-level beauty salon, a hub for pampering and social gatherings. -Charming Cabin: With a chapel-style front room, it's the ideal venue for makeover parties, beer tastings, surprise celebrations, and more. -Tiny Sunset Condo: Cozy accommodations for two with breathtaking mountain views and unforgettable Asheville sunsets. -Outdoor Spaces: Relax by the fire pit, swing with a loved one, or entertain across multiple patios surrounded by lush gardens. This property is perfect for living, hosting, and creating lasting memories. A rare gem in the heart of Western NC! 🌸✨
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

8. Imagine Equus Farm

100%
(6)
24mi from Hendersonville · 2 sites · Lodging
I first saw this property in 2009 and fell in love with it. The property is gorgeous and the land has a magical feel. Situated in the foothills of the Blueridge Mountains we are in horse and wine county! The area is also part of the isothermal belt so the weather is always better than the rest of the South or the Mountains. The land is about 1/2 pastures and the remainder are beautiful forests with trails, creeks and even our own waterfall. The animals and equines living here make the place even more special. Learn more about this land: Tiny home cabin on 28 acre horse farm with creeks, woods, and incredible pasture views. Your cabin is set in a grove of pine trees with gorgeous views from your deck and inside the home. We are in the horse and wine country of Polk County. There are 5 wineries within minutes. We are 7 miles from the new and fabulous Tryon International Equestrian Center. We are just over 20 minutes to Saluda with awesome kayaking and tubing on the Green River, hiking, biking and ziplining too. We are excited to add that we now are part of the Art of the Horse tour through Our Carolina Foothills!  Imagine Equus Farm are the new proud owners of Mil Flores, a beautiful horse painted by artist Mary Tolles.  Mil Flores now adorns the front of the farm!   The cabin has 1 queen sized bedroom and 1 bath, plus a full kitchen, living room and dining area. You will have all of the comforts when you are inside with wifi, cable TV, a mini-split for heat and air conditioning, a fireplace and a dishwasher. We keep the cabins stocked with everything you will need for your perfect getaway. We feature high in beds and 100% organic cotton sheets. The cabins are new and stylishly designed. The property is private and quiet. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a home base for TIEC horse shows, wine tastings or a quiet retreat. You will see miniature donkeys, horses, goats and even a steer roaming the pastures from your cabin. We want your time here to be wonderful, so we have strived to create a peaceful oasis.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$135
 / night

9. Intrepid Acres

36mi from Hendersonville · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to our magical farm and forest retreat — a glamping getaway where nature and agriculture live side by side. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains between Asheville and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our site offers the perfect balance of wild beauty and working-farm charm. We’re just 7 miles from the Max Patch trailhead — one of the most iconic and scenic bald hikes along the Appalachian Trail — and only 2 miles from Ferguson’s Supply, a beloved local general store and café for biscuits, burgers, or forgotten essentials. Wake up to birdsong and mountain air, but don’t be surprised if you also hear the baa of a sheep or catch a whiff of compost or fresh hay. This is a real farm, after all — complete with horses, mini cows, mini sheep, chickens, turkeys, peafowl, emus, livestock guardian dogs, and a cat. We grow, forage, and graze much of what we live on, and we love sharing that experience with guests who appreciate the rhythms of the land. Whether you're here to hike, relax, stargaze, or get your hands a little dirty, we invite you to slow down and enjoy the honest magic of this place.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night

Between Pisgah National Forest and Nantahala National Forest and just south of Asheville, Hendersonville is a small town set among the dramatic Blue Ridge Mountains. The pedestrian-centered downtown explores the arts, while nearby Jones Gap State Park, Chimney Rock State Park, and Mount Mitchell State Park offer ample hiking trails, bike paths, and rock climbing adventures. This “City of 4 Seasons” offers year-round attractions, but fall is extra fun with local farms opening for apple picking, hayrides, and corn mazes. From farmsteads to family campgrounds, tent campsites, RV sites, and glamping lodging are all close at hand.

97% (376)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hendersonville

1. Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh

100%
(200)
30mi from Hendersonville · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
This no ordinary campground. Pause is an adventure that will feel like you are exploring your own private mountain nature reserve. Aramesh is 120 acres of Blue Ridge heaven with something for every wilderness adventure seeker: unmatched mountain views, lush old growth forests, babbling brooks, and miles of trails for all skill levels. The property starts at 3700 ft altitude, with summit at 4500 ft on the Glades mountain ridge. We have only a few campsites on the vast property, so the wind in the trees and birds will be all you hear. Come and stay with us and be renewed! IMPORTANT: 4WD or AWD is required to access our property. There is a sometimes steep and windy gravel road into Pause. Please make sure your vehicle has 4WD or AWD before you book. Campsites: They are 3/4-1/4 mile from the entrance. Some are accessible by 4WD. There may be some vigorous hiking involved, but the views are worth it. The pads are various sizes. Let us know what the needs of your party are and we can help you choose from the available spots. We also have several more remote “off-menu” sites for those seeking a backpacking adventure - ask for more information if your are interested. Hiking: There are several miles of trails on the property. They range from an easy slope to very strenuous. The entire property is fenced so you won't easily get lost. Your climbing efforts will be amply rewarded by stunning views, especially at sunset. Trail maps are available upon request. On-Site Amenities: we provide a clean porta-potty and running water that is spring fed. We ask that you follow "Leave-No-Trace" procedures during your stay. Off-Site Amenities: If you choose to explore the area : we are a 10 minute drive from I-40 Exit 24. Asheville is 45 minutes away; Waynesville is 25 minutes away. Presnell's Grocery (highly recommended, family-owned store that sells locally farmed products) is 10 minutes away from the property entrance. The Ingles supermarket in Canton is a 15 minute drive. You will find every kind of fast food in that area. There are also several excellent local dining options in Canton, Clyde, and Waynesville which we are happy to recommend to you by request.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$49
 / night

2. Buffalo Creek Vacations

100%
(12)
34mi from Hendersonville · 8 sites · RVs, Lodging
Buffalo Creek Vacations was started after our father, Harold, retired from NY as a UPS driver.  He wanted to go somewhere & experience all 4 season!  Him & our mom settled in Haywood County, NC & built their own log cabin & started raising bison.  Then, myself, 3 siblings & our spouses purchases the 40 acres behind my folks 18 acres when it came up for sale.  We decided to build a cabin & then we started rented it out in 2007.  Now, we currently have 6 cabins & 2 train cabooses for rent.  We love living in God's country & raising the bison along w/ a bunch other farm animals.  We love hosting guest on our property & decided after many calls asking if we allow camping, to include a few lucky folks to camp at Buffalo Creek.  If you are looking for something other then "car camping" & being "on top of each other" at traditional camp grounds, then give us a call & come check us out.  You will be glad you did!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$43
 / night

3. Blue Ridge Camping

100%
(126)
45mi from Hendersonville · 10 sites · Tents
Get away from the crowds. On 300 beautiful acres once operated as a children's summer adventure camp, this property has a house with a dormitory style bathroom for camper use. There are 3 primitive campsites, 2 cottages, and a horse sanctuary. The campsites are spaced out around the property for privacy. Ask about bathroom use depending on the season. 4WD or AWD is recommended for all sites due to 1/2 mile gravel road and then completely off road for a short distance. Or, if you are bringing 2WD, there is plenty of parking and then walk to your campsite. We don't recommend trying to bring large RV's due to the access. We have not had a problem with Black Bears on the property. Help us keep it that way. Do not store or keep food in your tent. Don't sleep with food. Keep in mind bears are omnivores much like us. They eat mostly plants but also eat meat. For more info on bear safety, visit www.bearwise.org Winter camping is encouraged with free firewood. However, you will probably need to park on the gravel and walk to your campsite to limit soil erosion of the off-road trail. Pets are welcome only at some sites, but please please let us know you are bringing them and they will need to be leashed due to other animals. A large part of the property is forest with hiking trails, creeks, and wildlife. You can see wildflowers and lightning bugs in season along with deer, turkey, and horses. And all of our spots have a great view of the sky! We're not far from the Bare Dark Sky Observatory. The grass horse arena and the pond were originally built for the summer camp. The pond is stocked with bass and bluegill and has a chorus of bullfrogs in summer. The arena is flat and has a long range mountain view all the way to Mt. Mitchell (highest peak east of the Mississippi). There are also a meadow spot encircled by trees.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

5. Root Cellar Tiny House

100%
(10)
49mi from Hendersonville · 1 site · Lodging
This 1890's farm was many things in times long ago! It acted as a working Tobacco Farm, a country store and was known to have the purest spring in the region by the indians and mountain men! It also has a dark past complete with murder and moonshine! For a full history check out this book, Red Hill. The untold story of the Whitson Brothers and the Murder of Kit Byrd. The short version of the story: The farm also acted as a country store that was also a front for moonshine. The Whitson Brothers who owned our farm had a deal with Kit Byrd;  a mountaineer from "on the mountain" who had a knack for making good shine. It ultimately was the death of him at the hands of the 3 Whitson Brothers. This murder years later led to the death of a large percentage of the population in this small NC Mtn town. Learn more about this land:On a mountain by a river in a true "holler". This 1890's historic tobacco farm features our Root Cellar Tiny House, perfect for 2-4 people.  Full over Full Bunk Bed, Wifi,  AC/heater, tiny fridge,  small coffee maker, one car parking in front for easy access. Includes a covered porch, RV toilet & sink, outdoor heated shower, outdoor fire pit & covered kitchen for cooking.  Space includes 2 person tent site making the tiny suitable to sleep 6. Stay includes $20 adventure trip credit with NC Outdoor Adventures.The spaceThe Root Cellar Tiny House is sitting above Whitson Branch surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is a little over 100 yards to the Toe River and one of the areas last remaining walking wood suspension bridges.This is our quiet space that we want to share with you. Our slice of heaven. Please keep that in mind and respect it. Throw trash away, don't leave out food or trash or you might wake to a big bear treat! Slow down when driving into the holler!Help us help our environment! The toilets and outdoor showers have been carefully planned out to be environmentally conscious, with special consideration to our creeks that drain into the Toe River. The "outhouse/camp" toilet has instructions so please read it and also has a foot pump hand cleaning sink beside it. The shower is an instant hot water shower heated by propane. While this space is not winterized it has some insulation and a propane heater. The Tiny can be rented during the winter for $68 a night good Nov-March.Guest accessGuests' space is a tiny house with a covered porch, attached bathroom, shower, covered outdoor kitchen, and one 2 person tent site. The tent site is best used April-October unless you have proper winter camping equipment.Looking for adventure...look no further it is right outside your door, literally. Use your $20 adventure credit onsite with NCOA: whitewater, tubing, rock climbing and more. A few of the river activities end or begin a short walk from the Root Cellar House. You can also purchase hiking/river essentials at the Tiny Hike Shop. Important notes:*Linens for bedding provided but we ask that you please bring your own bath towels and use biodegradable soaps like Bronners Soap (available for purchase at the Adventure Outpost on-site).*rooms are cleaned every three days unless someone requests otherwise for an additional charge. *Please drive slow as we have a hound dog and cats that run around as do some neighbors. Deer are everywhere, drive carefully. It is super curvy and steep with no guard rails. RVs or large trucks can not get down our road or through the one-car train tunnel to the river!!! No turnaround.* Sorry farm stay not pets allowed. We have a very protective cat (only towards other animals not people).Any questions for the host?
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$67
 / night

7. Enchanting 2-Acre Asheville Oasis

85%
(37)
16mi from Hendersonville · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Discover a serene 2-acre retreat adorned with vibrant roses, red orchids, and the melodies of hummingbirds and bluebirds. Perfectly blending natural beauty and functionality, this property features: -Main House: A welcoming residence paired with a lower-level beauty salon, a hub for pampering and social gatherings. -Charming Cabin: With a chapel-style front room, it's the ideal venue for makeover parties, beer tastings, surprise celebrations, and more. -Tiny Sunset Condo: Cozy accommodations for two with breathtaking mountain views and unforgettable Asheville sunsets. -Outdoor Spaces: Relax by the fire pit, swing with a loved one, or entertain across multiple patios surrounded by lush gardens. This property is perfect for living, hosting, and creating lasting memories. A rare gem in the heart of Western NC! 🌸✨
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

8. Imagine Equus Farm

100%
(6)
24mi from Hendersonville · 2 sites · Lodging
I first saw this property in 2009 and fell in love with it. The property is gorgeous and the land has a magical feel. Situated in the foothills of the Blueridge Mountains we are in horse and wine county! The area is also part of the isothermal belt so the weather is always better than the rest of the South or the Mountains. The land is about 1/2 pastures and the remainder are beautiful forests with trails, creeks and even our own waterfall. The animals and equines living here make the place even more special. Learn more about this land: Tiny home cabin on 28 acre horse farm with creeks, woods, and incredible pasture views. Your cabin is set in a grove of pine trees with gorgeous views from your deck and inside the home. We are in the horse and wine country of Polk County. There are 5 wineries within minutes. We are 7 miles from the new and fabulous Tryon International Equestrian Center. We are just over 20 minutes to Saluda with awesome kayaking and tubing on the Green River, hiking, biking and ziplining too. We are excited to add that we now are part of the Art of the Horse tour through Our Carolina Foothills!  Imagine Equus Farm are the new proud owners of Mil Flores, a beautiful horse painted by artist Mary Tolles.  Mil Flores now adorns the front of the farm!   The cabin has 1 queen sized bedroom and 1 bath, plus a full kitchen, living room and dining area. You will have all of the comforts when you are inside with wifi, cable TV, a mini-split for heat and air conditioning, a fireplace and a dishwasher. We keep the cabins stocked with everything you will need for your perfect getaway. We feature high in beds and 100% organic cotton sheets. The cabins are new and stylishly designed. The property is private and quiet. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a home base for TIEC horse shows, wine tastings or a quiet retreat. You will see miniature donkeys, horses, goats and even a steer roaming the pastures from your cabin. We want your time here to be wonderful, so we have strived to create a peaceful oasis.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$135
 / night

9. Intrepid Acres

36mi from Hendersonville · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to our magical farm and forest retreat — a glamping getaway where nature and agriculture live side by side. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains between Asheville and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our site offers the perfect balance of wild beauty and working-farm charm. We’re just 7 miles from the Max Patch trailhead — one of the most iconic and scenic bald hikes along the Appalachian Trail — and only 2 miles from Ferguson’s Supply, a beloved local general store and café for biscuits, burgers, or forgotten essentials. Wake up to birdsong and mountain air, but don’t be surprised if you also hear the baa of a sheep or catch a whiff of compost or fresh hay. This is a real farm, after all — complete with horses, mini cows, mini sheep, chickens, turkeys, peafowl, emus, livestock guardian dogs, and a cat. We grow, forage, and graze much of what we live on, and we love sharing that experience with guests who appreciate the rhythms of the land. Whether you're here to hike, relax, stargaze, or get your hands a little dirty, we invite you to slow down and enjoy the honest magic of this place.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night

Camper favorites near Hendersonville

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch camping near Hendersonville guide

Where to go

Jones Gap State Park

Just past the border into South Carolina is Jones Gap State Park, a massive 13,000 acre reserve featuring two majestic waterfalls, over 60 miles of hiking trails, and the impressive Middle Saluda River. Fish for brown and rainbow trout from a riverside campsite, or birdwatch for native and migratory species. Many campsites don’t allow campfires, so bring alternative heating and cooking sources. Hipcampers planning to explore Jones Gap should be sure to make a day-use reservation ahead of time.

Chimney Rock State Park

Northeast of Hendersonville, Chimney Rock State Park is named after its towering rock spire that reaches more than 300 feet—climb the tower itself or take an elevator. The park also has hiking trails to Hickory Nut Falls, as well as more rugged routes to nearby Eagle Rock and Rumbling Bald. This park is also a popular destination for bouldering, with many rock faces in the area ripe for climbing. Nearby glamping spots and RV campgrounds are available.

Mount Mitchell State Park

Mount Mitchell is the highest point east of the Mississippi River, and the viewpoint from the summit’s observation deck is well worth the strenuous hike to reach it. Mount Mitchell State Park also includes moderate and difficult trails for exploring the nearby Pisgah National Forest and its waterfalls, mountains, and rivers. Stay at a nearby RV park equipped with full hookups and wifi.

When to go

Hendersonville has the most to offer in hot summer months, with July temperatures reaching average highs of 85°F. Clear summer skies make for amazing views from the mountain peaks, however, this also means bigger crowds in more popular parks. Choosing some of the larger state parks in the area can be a good way to enjoy a more peaceful experience. Hendersonville winters are fairly cold (average January lows of 25°F), and some trails, campsites, and attractions close for the season, though some trails are open in wintertime for those with the right equipment.