Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area

What sets the Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area apart is its idyllic riverside setting, shaded by a dense canopy of hemlock and hardwood trees, offering campers tranquil sites infused with the cool ambiance of the South Toe River. This campground merges seclusion with accessibility, featuring well-maintained facilities and direct access to outdoor adventures like river tubing, trout fishing, and hiking on nearby scenic trails.

Located along NC Highway 80, eight miles south of Burnsville, North Carolina, the campground is part of the Pisgah National Forest and positioned at an elevation of 2,900 feet, ensuring cooler temperatures during the camping season. Its 36 campsites—divided into two paved loops—cater to tents and RVs, with some sites offering river views. Every campsite is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts, while drinking water, hot showers, and flush toilets are conveniently located in the lower loop.

The South Toe River is the centerpiece of the area, beloved for its clear waters perfect for swimming, tubing, and fishing, with trout and smallmouth bass being frequent catches. Hiking is another highlight, with the one-mile Carolina Hemlock Trail providing a serene riverside walk, and the 3.8-mile Colbert Ridge Trail offering breathtaking views of the Black Mountain Range. Nearby, within a 30-minute drive, campers can explore Mount Mitchell State Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, both famed for their remarkable vistas and outdoor opportunities.