Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area

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Welcome to Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area, a cherished gem nestled in the breathtaking mountains of North Carolina, offering an authentic and unforgettable camping experience. For generations of local residents and visitors alike, this campground has served as a beloved retreat, providing the perfect setting for family adventures, peaceful getaways, and immersive outdoor recreation. We understand the allure of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the desire for a camping destination that truly connects you with nature while offering essential comforts. Carolina Hemlocks is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor enthusiasts, a tranquil escape from daily life, and a place where lasting memories are made. Our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the area while providing well-maintained facilities ensures that every visit is refreshing and enjoyable. With the South Toe River flowing alongside, ample shade from the heavily wooded surroundings, and a friendly atmosphere, Carolina Hemlocks truly embodies the spirit of North Carolina mountain camping.

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area is ideally located at 6000 NC-80, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA. This prime location places it deep within the heart of Western North Carolina's stunning mountain landscape, offering unparalleled access to some of the state's most iconic natural attractions. For local residents, getting to Carolina Hemlocks is a scenic journey, with NC-80 providing a picturesque route directly to the campground. Its proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway is a significant highlight, allowing campers to easily explore one of America's most famous scenic drives and access numerous overlooks and trailheads. Furthermore, the campground serves as an excellent base for visiting majestic Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, which is approximately an hour's drive away.

The strategic location near Burnsville means that while you feel wonderfully immersed in nature, you're not too far from essential supplies or local charm should you need to venture into town. The campground itself is thoughtfully split on either side of Highway 80, enhancing accessibility and often offering slightly different experiences depending on which section you choose. This easy accessibility from various parts of North Carolina makes Carolina Hemlocks a convenient choice for weekend trips, extended family vacations, or even spontaneous escapes into the mountains. The journey to this beautiful spot becomes part of the adventure, setting the tone for a truly memorable outdoor experience.

Services Offered:

• Spacious Campsites: Campsites offer ample space, a picnic table, a fire ring, and a tent pad, with enough room to park one vehicle.
• Tent and RV Accommodations: The campground caters to both tent campers and RVs, providing suitable spaces for various camping styles.
• Private, Heated Restrooms and Showers: Many reviewers highlight the presence of private, heated restrooms and showers, a significant comfort for campers.
• Non-Heated Showers: Some areas may have non-heated showers, catering to a more rustic experience or for those who don't mind cold water.
• Potable Water Access: Access to potable water is available for all campers.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase, with hosts often delivering it directly to your campsite for convenience.
• On-site Hosts: Awesome and helpful campground hosts are available to assist campers, as noted by positive guest reviews.
• Swimming Area: A great swimming area is available in the South Toe River, complete with a platform for easy access.
• Fishing Access: A second river access area is ideal for fishing in the South Toe River.
• Waste Disposal: Facilities for waste disposal are provided to maintain the cleanliness of the campground.

Features / Highlights:

• Direct River Access: Situated right on the South Toe River, offering perfect conditions for tubing, swimming (even in cold water!), and exploring the riverbed.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Described as a "great little campground for summer family camping," indicating a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
• Abundance of Natural Play Areas: Numerous rocks on the riverbanks are perfect for kids to climb on and adventure, fostering imaginative play.
• Heavily Wooded and Shaded Sites: The campground is very heavily wooded, providing almost full shade for many campsites, offering respite from the sun.
• Not Overly Busy: Characterized as "not too crazy busy," which allows for a more relaxed and peaceful camping experience compared to crowded parks.
• Proximity to Hiking Trails: Close to a lot of hiking opportunities, allowing campers to explore the surrounding mountain trails.
• Nearby Waterfalls: Convenient access to various beautiful waterfalls in the area for scenic excursions.
• Blue Ridge Parkway Access: Excellent proximity to the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, providing scenic drives and access to numerous points of interest.
• Close to Mount Mitchell: Approximately an hour's drive from Mount Mitchell, making it an ideal base for exploring North Carolina's highest peak.
• Spacious and Well-Laid Out Campsites: Campsites offer ample room and are well-designed, ensuring campers are "not on top of our neighbors."
• Improvements Over the Years: Veterans of the campground note significant positive improvements over time, indicating ongoing dedication to enhancing the visitor experience.

Contact Information:

Address: 6000 NC-80, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA

Phone: (828) 675-5509

Mobile Phone: +1 828-675-5509

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area is an undeniably suitable and highly recommended destination for locals across North Carolina, especially those with a love for mountain adventures and family-friendly outdoor experiences. For many North Carolinians, the desire to escape the daily grind and immerse themselves in the state's natural beauty is a strong pull. This campground perfectly fulfills that desire, offering a serene and beautiful setting right on the South Toe River, a feature that provides endless opportunities for swimming, tubing, and fishing – activities deeply cherished by local outdoor enthusiasts. The fact that many families, like the one whose husband spent summers there as a child and was impressed by recent improvements, choose to return speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and consistent quality. This sense of tradition and continuous enhancement makes it a reliable and beloved spot for generations of campers.

Furthermore, its location provides an unparalleled gateway to some of North Carolina's most iconic natural landmarks. Being so close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, numerous hiking trails, majestic waterfalls, and the towering presence of Mount Mitchell means that every day can be an adventure. This accessibility to world-class outdoor recreation right in our backyard is a significant advantage for local users. The combination of a peaceful, well-maintained campground with spacious sites and the convenience of heated restrooms, coupled with the myriad of activities available just a short drive away, makes Carolina Hemlocks an ideal choice. It offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, all within the stunning natural embrace of our own beloved North Carolina mountains. For families and individuals seeking an authentic and memorable camping experience close to home, Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area is truly a treasure.

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area

6000 NC-80, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA