- Camping with Swimming
The best camping in Transylvania County with swimming
98% (610) • 120 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Transylvania County
At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
1. At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
95%
(198)
Balsam Grove, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to At the Ridge Camp – “Simple Mountain Camping” at Its Best.
Nestled just seven miles from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, At the Ridge Camp offers a peaceful escape in the heart of North Carolina’s stunning Pisgah National Forest—also known as the Land of the Waterfalls.
We offer 7 cozy camping cabins, 14 spacious tent/RV sites, and two convenient bathhouses to make your stay comfortable. Whether you're here to hike to breathtaking waterfalls, cast a line in a quiet stream, or simply unwind by the campfire under the stars, this is your place to reconnect with nature.
And one of our favorite pastimes? Just sitting back and watching the water flow by.
Come enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains—without breaking the bank.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$34
/ night
DuPont Bike Retreat
2. DuPont Bike Retreat
99%
(519)
Brevard, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
DuPont Bike Retreat is located 1/4 mile from the Fawn Lake Access area into DuPont State Forest. The DBR is 37 acres and has a pond with a dock and numerous camping sites available. The property used to hold Glass Feather Studio, which was a glass art studio and is now Glass Feather Lodge. The mountain view from the indoor porch is amazing and there are several places to relax and enjoy this view. There is an outdoor shower and bike wash station behind the lodge and two indoor bathrooms (one with shower) off the porch. The lower Pond Area of the property has a port-a-john near the pond. Starter bundles of firewood are included, and additional can usually be purchased on-site. Come enjoy the forest straight from your campsite!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$50
/ night
Pisgah Riverbend
3. Pisgah Riverbend
98%
(131)
Brevard, NC · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
This property is situated on 50 acres, surrounded by private property with views of the nearby Pisgah National Forest and a 10 minute drive to DuPont State Forest.
Campsites are adjacent to the French Broad River. Excellent fishing and boating. It is heavily populated by deer and other wildlife. For this reason, dogs must be kept on a leash.
Please note that due to the campground being in low-lying land, the drive in is subject to being slick and muddy, 4WD is required. Message us with any questions.
Due to the property proximity to the river and situated in floodway, the sites are subject to flooding during heavy rain events. Voluntary and/or mandatory evacuation may be necessary during any reservation due to high waters or forecast for high water events. If evacuation is necessary, unused portions of reservation will be refunded.
Campers are advised to be self-sufficient with water and shower facilities. We do provide a port a potty and firewood is for sale on site (Venmo, PayPal or cash). IF YOU ARE CAMPING WITH A RV OR TRAILER, PLEASE CONTACT US TO DISCUSS A SITE. All sites can accommodate smaller RV camper units. However, larger RV's have limited site availability.
Campsites are situated along the river edge. Embankments are steep and near deep water. Although not prohibited, constant supervision for children is a must to avoid serious injury due to natural hazards.
If you are floating in from the French Broad River the recommended take out is located at 35.24007° N, -82.69972° W. See images in our photos for the posted Riverbend sign for where to take out.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$42
/ night
Pisgah National Forest
4. Pisgah National Forest
97%
(157)
National forest in North Carolina · 251 sites
One of Pisgah's gems is Richland Balsam, the highest peak on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,410 feet.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Nantahala National Forest
5. Nantahala National Forest
95%
(73)
National forest in North Carolina · 438 sites
Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Back Yard Campground
6. Back Yard Campground
94%
(51)
Penrose, NC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hello, we are Scott and Lynn. We hope you
Enjoy your stay with us in our Back Yard Campground!
We started the campground in 2016 after friends of the family pitched their tents down along the creek. They shared their enjoyment with us, and we realized how much we enjoyed knowing they were down there camping. We both have a great appreciation for God's creation and decided to open our gates to you. Lynn is a true Blue Ridge native and we both hope you enjoy the proximity to our towns, the mountains, rivers, streams, and waterfalls. The local apple orchards are also amazing! Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and rafting are only a few of the activities available within a short drive. So, soak it all in, come back home to Back Yard Campground, watch the sunset and enjoy sweet dreams.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$30
/ night
Lovely River Cabins
7. Lovely River Cabins
100%
(8)
Brevard, NC · 2 sites
Two dry tiny houses in beautiful Cedar Mountain less than 3 miles from DuPont State Forest, world class mountain biking, hiking and waterfalls! An easy 20 minute drive to Pretty Place or to Brevard. Tiny houses have mattresses to accommodate two people in each, electricity, WiFi, and AC for the warmer months. A composting toilet is steps away in a separate building. Fire pit, outdoor pizza oven, hibachi, and covered seating platform right next to the river! Tiny homes are lockable, and all you need to bring are your sleeping bags and personal items.
Toilets
Campfires
Wifi
from
$65
/ night
Bell’s Scenic RV Pasture
8. Bell’s Scenic RV Pasture
100%
(34)
Brevard, NC · 1 site
We have lived in the valley of a farming community for 11 years now. We've been overwhelmed with the beauty outside our window. The view from your RV is acres worth of a working farmland surrounded by mountains. You might catch a farmer driving his tractor down the road, a person on horseback or a team of cyclist bike pass by. But you never know what surprise the sky has in store! Fortunately, we are a quarter of a mile from highway 64 that leads to everywhere, as in hiking, kayaking, mountain biking etc. We are centered between Pisgah and Dupont National Forests, Panthertown Valley, Bracken Mountain Preserve and Gorges State Park. We are in the heart of the cyclist route for all the major road bike races and less than 10 minutes from downtown Brevard, NC.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$50
/ night
Valley Bear Farms & Resort
9. Valley Bear Farms & Resort
100%
(2)
Balsam Grove, NC · 10 sites
If you're craving a unique way to unplug and recharge in the great outdoors, Valley Bear Farms might just be your new favorite escape. Tucked away in the quiet beauty of Balsam Grove, NC just an hour outside of Asheville this 150-acre mountain retreat offers more than just a place to stay. It's where fresh air, forest trails, and starry nights come standard.
Our cabins are comfy, cozy, and surrounded by nothing but nature. Each one is tucked into the trees with views for days, a private patio for morning coffee or late-night stargazing, and everything you need to settle in and relax. Whether you’re stretching out on a king bed or sharing laughs in a cabin with queen bunk beds, you’ll feel right at home just with way better scenery.
During your stay, wander our nature trails, cool off at a hidden waterfall, or challenge your crew to a game of volleyball or pickleball. There's even a private garden if you're in the mood for something more mellow.
It’s camping just without the sleeping bags and soggy socks. Whether you're here for a quick weekend reset or a full week off-grid, Valley Bear Farms is all about slowing down, soaking it in, and reconnecting with what really matters.
Plus, you're only 12 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, so you can explore even more of what makes this part of North Carolina so unforgettable
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$125
/ night
Gatlin Ridge RV Park
10. Gatlin Ridge RV Park
97%
(17)
Rosman, NC · 5 sites
Overlooking the French Broad River, Gatlin Ridge is a quaint, full-service, RV Park in Rosman, NC. Just across the road from Headwater Outfitters, and less than a mile from the Champion Park Public River Access, our campground offers immaculately landscaped lots each outfitted with water, sewer, 50/30/20 electric, Wi-Fi, trash collection, and private fire pits.
After a long day exploring the trails, rivers, and waterfalls, Gatlin Ridge is the perfect place to set-up camp. Currently offering only 5 sites, avoid the crowd, and book with us today!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$70
/ night
98% (610) • 120 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Transylvania County
At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
1. At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
95%
(198)
Balsam Grove, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to At the Ridge Camp – “Simple Mountain Camping” at Its Best.
Nestled just seven miles from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, At the Ridge Camp offers a peaceful escape in the heart of North Carolina’s stunning Pisgah National Forest—also known as the Land of the Waterfalls.
We offer 7 cozy camping cabins, 14 spacious tent/RV sites, and two convenient bathhouses to make your stay comfortable. Whether you're here to hike to breathtaking waterfalls, cast a line in a quiet stream, or simply unwind by the campfire under the stars, this is your place to reconnect with nature.
And one of our favorite pastimes? Just sitting back and watching the water flow by.
Come enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains—without breaking the bank.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$34
/ night
DuPont Bike Retreat
2. DuPont Bike Retreat
99%
(519)
Brevard, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
DuPont Bike Retreat is located 1/4 mile from the Fawn Lake Access area into DuPont State Forest. The DBR is 37 acres and has a pond with a dock and numerous camping sites available. The property used to hold Glass Feather Studio, which was a glass art studio and is now Glass Feather Lodge. The mountain view from the indoor porch is amazing and there are several places to relax and enjoy this view. There is an outdoor shower and bike wash station behind the lodge and two indoor bathrooms (one with shower) off the porch. The lower Pond Area of the property has a port-a-john near the pond. Starter bundles of firewood are included, and additional can usually be purchased on-site. Come enjoy the forest straight from your campsite!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$50
/ night
Pisgah Riverbend
3. Pisgah Riverbend
98%
(131)
Brevard, NC · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
This property is situated on 50 acres, surrounded by private property with views of the nearby Pisgah National Forest and a 10 minute drive to DuPont State Forest.
Campsites are adjacent to the French Broad River. Excellent fishing and boating. It is heavily populated by deer and other wildlife. For this reason, dogs must be kept on a leash.
Please note that due to the campground being in low-lying land, the drive in is subject to being slick and muddy, 4WD is required. Message us with any questions.
Due to the property proximity to the river and situated in floodway, the sites are subject to flooding during heavy rain events. Voluntary and/or mandatory evacuation may be necessary during any reservation due to high waters or forecast for high water events. If evacuation is necessary, unused portions of reservation will be refunded.
Campers are advised to be self-sufficient with water and shower facilities. We do provide a port a potty and firewood is for sale on site (Venmo, PayPal or cash). IF YOU ARE CAMPING WITH A RV OR TRAILER, PLEASE CONTACT US TO DISCUSS A SITE. All sites can accommodate smaller RV camper units. However, larger RV's have limited site availability.
Campsites are situated along the river edge. Embankments are steep and near deep water. Although not prohibited, constant supervision for children is a must to avoid serious injury due to natural hazards.
If you are floating in from the French Broad River the recommended take out is located at 35.24007° N, -82.69972° W. See images in our photos for the posted Riverbend sign for where to take out.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$42
/ night
Pisgah National Forest
4. Pisgah National Forest
97%
(157)
National forest in North Carolina · 251 sites
One of Pisgah's gems is Richland Balsam, the highest peak on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,410 feet.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Nantahala National Forest
5. Nantahala National Forest
95%
(73)
National forest in North Carolina · 438 sites
Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Back Yard Campground
6. Back Yard Campground
94%
(51)
Penrose, NC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hello, we are Scott and Lynn. We hope you
Enjoy your stay with us in our Back Yard Campground!
We started the campground in 2016 after friends of the family pitched their tents down along the creek. They shared their enjoyment with us, and we realized how much we enjoyed knowing they were down there camping. We both have a great appreciation for God's creation and decided to open our gates to you. Lynn is a true Blue Ridge native and we both hope you enjoy the proximity to our towns, the mountains, rivers, streams, and waterfalls. The local apple orchards are also amazing! Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and rafting are only a few of the activities available within a short drive. So, soak it all in, come back home to Back Yard Campground, watch the sunset and enjoy sweet dreams.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$30
/ night
Lovely River Cabins
7. Lovely River Cabins
100%
(8)
Brevard, NC · 2 sites
Two dry tiny houses in beautiful Cedar Mountain less than 3 miles from DuPont State Forest, world class mountain biking, hiking and waterfalls! An easy 20 minute drive to Pretty Place or to Brevard. Tiny houses have mattresses to accommodate two people in each, electricity, WiFi, and AC for the warmer months. A composting toilet is steps away in a separate building. Fire pit, outdoor pizza oven, hibachi, and covered seating platform right next to the river! Tiny homes are lockable, and all you need to bring are your sleeping bags and personal items.
Toilets
Campfires
Wifi
from
$65
/ night
Bell’s Scenic RV Pasture
8. Bell’s Scenic RV Pasture
100%
(34)
Brevard, NC · 1 site
We have lived in the valley of a farming community for 11 years now. We've been overwhelmed with the beauty outside our window. The view from your RV is acres worth of a working farmland surrounded by mountains. You might catch a farmer driving his tractor down the road, a person on horseback or a team of cyclist bike pass by. But you never know what surprise the sky has in store! Fortunately, we are a quarter of a mile from highway 64 that leads to everywhere, as in hiking, kayaking, mountain biking etc. We are centered between Pisgah and Dupont National Forests, Panthertown Valley, Bracken Mountain Preserve and Gorges State Park. We are in the heart of the cyclist route for all the major road bike races and less than 10 minutes from downtown Brevard, NC.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$50
/ night
Valley Bear Farms & Resort
9. Valley Bear Farms & Resort
100%
(2)
Balsam Grove, NC · 10 sites
If you're craving a unique way to unplug and recharge in the great outdoors, Valley Bear Farms might just be your new favorite escape. Tucked away in the quiet beauty of Balsam Grove, NC just an hour outside of Asheville this 150-acre mountain retreat offers more than just a place to stay. It's where fresh air, forest trails, and starry nights come standard.
Our cabins are comfy, cozy, and surrounded by nothing but nature. Each one is tucked into the trees with views for days, a private patio for morning coffee or late-night stargazing, and everything you need to settle in and relax. Whether you’re stretching out on a king bed or sharing laughs in a cabin with queen bunk beds, you’ll feel right at home just with way better scenery.
During your stay, wander our nature trails, cool off at a hidden waterfall, or challenge your crew to a game of volleyball or pickleball. There's even a private garden if you're in the mood for something more mellow.
It’s camping just without the sleeping bags and soggy socks. Whether you're here for a quick weekend reset or a full week off-grid, Valley Bear Farms is all about slowing down, soaking it in, and reconnecting with what really matters.
Plus, you're only 12 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, so you can explore even more of what makes this part of North Carolina so unforgettable
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$125
/ night
Gatlin Ridge RV Park
10. Gatlin Ridge RV Park
97%
(17)
Rosman, NC · 5 sites
Overlooking the French Broad River, Gatlin Ridge is a quaint, full-service, RV Park in Rosman, NC. Just across the road from Headwater Outfitters, and less than a mile from the Champion Park Public River Access, our campground offers immaculately landscaped lots each outfitted with water, sewer, 50/30/20 electric, Wi-Fi, trash collection, and private fire pits.
After a long day exploring the trails, rivers, and waterfalls, Gatlin Ridge is the perfect place to set-up camp. Currently offering only 5 sites, avoid the crowd, and book with us today!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$70
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jessica
3 weeks ago
With pets
Stayed at site #5, It was super cute and secluded! Everyone was very friendly and pups are welcome on and off leash. Only 20 minutes from town if you don’t feel like cooking over the fire.
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C
Cameron
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
We had a quick stay after a day hike - got in late and had to leave semi-early, but we hope to be back to spend more time here! The host was quick to respond, the amenities were exactly as described, and the area was well marked. The site was plenty of room and just what we needed for a car camp. Really appreciated the clear description and instructions and having firewood in the fire pit upon arrival was a huge plus! Would recommend to anyone - whether you’re looking for primitive camping, car/RV camping, or lodges. Would love to come back with a small group and explore the trails and hang on the lodge porch and around the communal fire pit!
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Liz
March 2026
1 night at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
I loved it and will return. I knew there would be electricity, a fridge, a bed, etc., but I did not expect a fancy bathhouse with flushing toilets and hot showers! And there was wi-fi! The mattress was very comfy and there was an easy chair to relax in. So cozy! The cabin is right on the river, and I enjoyed just sitting on a chair on the porch and watching the water. There are several cabins in a row next to each other, but plenty of space between and privacy walls. There are hiking trails just a stone's throw away, and it was great to be able to do a long hike and then get right back to the cozy cabin. Tom and Carrie were amazing, so helpful and communicative! Thank you!
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J
Jodie
February 2026
Weekend Trip to At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
Absolutely amazing and super friendly. Will most definitely be back soon.
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H
Hayden
February 2026
Tent
The site was very well maintained. Very clean and easy to navigate setup even in the dark. Location was gorgeous and very friendly locale. We definitely plan to return in the future
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Jessica
February 2026
With pets
Clear communication, clean space! Very relaxing right on the water.
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S
Sandy
January 2026
With pets
We loved watching the beautiful rapids on the river from our porch. Host was always available and very nice. Can’t wait to go back— maybe when it’s a little warmer!!
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Eric
January 2026
With pets
Tom let us move to cabin 2 which had more room for dogs and it was great. He is helpful with things to do in the area and checking in if we need anything. Cabin 2 was great and creekside.
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A
December 2025
2 nights at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
I love the camp site!
The host was incredibly accommodating and genuinely kind and pleasant!
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Bonnie
December 2025
15 ft travel trailer
With pets
Had a great time at the campground in my trailer. Peaceful location on the river. Hosts are very helpful and friendly.
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D
Denise
November 2025
3 nights at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
I loved the small cabin #1 on Carrie and Tom's land. It was the perfect amount of space for two people. Tom was super friendly and made his rounds everyday to make sure we had everything we needed. The river was so close we could walk right down and fish. The grounds were well kept, clean and always kept warm in 20 degree low temps with plenty of heaters and an extra blanket to hang over our door for extra warmth. We will be coming back in the spring and summer and bringing friends for sure to enjoy with us! A+++++
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L
Lauren
November 2025
29 ft Class C
We loved our campsite! Hosts were friendly and helpful. We were right by the river just as the pictures showed and other campers weren't super close. There was a small play set for the kids and an easy hiking trail toward the end of the property. We were able to get firewood on the site and we had a great time!
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Audrey
November 2025
25 ft travel trailer
Beautiful location, wild fishies, great hosts. Tom was very helpful recommending hikes and recommendations!
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M
Matt
November 2025
16 ft car
Location is great. Hosts are friendly. Sites are spaced out and feels private. My first experience with hipcamp and this will be hard to beat.
See moreJ
Joey
November 2025
20 ft campervan
Sweet spot I the heart of the outdoors. Great hospitality and I’ll be back. Thanks!
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R
Rachel
November 2025
1 night at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
I loved camping here! It was quiet, peaceful, and cozy. Just the getaway I needed! 😊
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D
DEBORAH
November 2025
2 nights at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
Had a great time in cabin #2. This is a rustic cabin next to a stream. Waze GPS got us right to camp site. Tom the camp host greeted us shortly after we arrived and was so helpful on tips to keep cabin cozy. He also gave us a map and excellent directions to Dupont Forest. Camp restrooms/showers are a short walk from cabin. Port a potty even closer than restrooms. Camp ground has a good vibe. Front door didn't lock. Smore kit for extra fee was awesome, also some assorted snacks available. There is a small store nearby to get basics. No phone or internet service available at campground. Relax and unplug!
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Scott
November 2025
22 ft campervan
Had a great time camping and will definitely be back. Biking from the campground straight into DuPont was a treat. All amenities were as described. Heed the warnings about the gravel drive to the pond campsites; we made it fine with an AWD van but would be spicy in bad weather!
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Austen
November 2025
1 night at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
Great spot near the stream. Trailhead on site. Coffee shop across the street, not sure the hours, and another down into Rosman. Experienced great hospitality. Warm cabin, even for a cold night!
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A
Ashley
November 2025
Weekend Trip to At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes
A great place on the river. The bed was broken and not comfortable at all. It does not have a k cup just a regular coffee pot. Bring coffee filters and not k cups. There is 2 pieces of wood going on to the deck that was rotten and I almost fell through. We only seen one porta potty for about 15 sites.
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