Graveyard Fields

Are you a North Carolina outdoor enthusiast yearning for an adventure that combines breathtaking mountain scenery, invigorating hikes, and the raw beauty of the Appalachian wilderness? Then you absolutely need to discover Graveyard Fields. While not a traditional "campground" in the sense of a manicured RV park with defined sites and amenities, Graveyard Fields is a renowned and beloved high-elevation area along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway that offers unparalleled opportunities for primitive camping, hiking, and immersing yourself in nature. It’s a truly unique destination that speaks to the heart of wilderness lovers in the Old North State.

Graveyard Fields is a geological wonder with a fascinating history and a distinctive landscape that sets it apart. Its name, though evocative, refers to a massive blowdown of spruce and fir trees centuries ago, which left large stumps resembling tombstones, and subsequent wildfires that created the open, heath-balds environment we see today. This unique ecosystem results in stunning fall foliage and diverse plant life. For those in North Carolina, Graveyard Fields represents a direct connection to the wild, untamed beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's a place where you can experience the awe-inspiring power of nature, explore a vast network of trails leading to beautiful waterfalls, and enjoy a sense of solitude that's increasingly rare. Understanding Graveyard Fields means embracing a different kind of outdoor experience – one focused on exploration, self-reliance, and profound appreciation for the natural world.

Graveyard Fields is located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, specifically around Milepost 418.8. The general address associated with this area would be North Carolina 28716, USA, which encompasses a broad region of the western NC mountains. More precisely, it falls within the Pisgah National Forest, near the communities of Balsam and Canton.

Accessibility to Graveyard Fields is exclusively via the Blue Ridge Parkway. For North Carolina residents, reaching this destination typically involves a scenic drive along the Parkway, which is renowned for its stunning vistas and winding mountain roads. While the Parkway itself is well-maintained, it's important to note that sections of it, particularly at higher elevations, can be subject to seasonal closures due to ice and snow, usually from late fall through early spring. Therefore, checking the Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Service website for current road conditions is crucial before planning a visit.

The beauty of accessing Graveyard Fields via the Parkway is that the drive itself is part of the experience. From Asheville, it's approximately an hour's drive south on the Parkway, passing through tunnels and offering numerous overlooks. For those coming from other parts of Western North Carolina, the Parkway provides a direct and incredibly picturesque route. The trailhead and parking area for Graveyard Fields are clearly marked at Milepost 418.8, ensuring straightforward arrival for visitors. This iconic location truly offers a quintessential Blue Ridge Mountain experience, easily reachable for North Carolinians looking for high-elevation adventure.

As a natural area primarily designated for hiking and primitive outdoor experiences rather than a commercial campground, Graveyard Fields does not offer the typical services you would find at a managed RV park or developed campground. Instead, it provides access to fundamental natural resources and opportunities for self-sufficient recreation. Visitors should be prepared to be self-reliant and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

• Designated Parking Area: There is a large, paved parking lot directly off the Blue Ridge Parkway (Milepost 418.8) that provides convenient access to the trailhead. This is the primary entry point for all visitors.
• Trailheads and Hiking Trails: The area is crisscrossed with a network of well-maintained hiking trails, including the popular loop trail to the various waterfalls (Lower Falls, Second Falls). These trails are the main "service" offered, providing marked paths for exploration.
• Access to Natural Water Sources: Hikers and primitive campers will find natural water sources (streams, creeks) throughout the area. However, all water collected from these sources must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption.
• Designated Primitive Camping Zones: While not marked campsites with amenities, primitive camping is generally permitted in designated areas within the Pisgah National Forest, adhering to Leave No Trace principles. Campers must pack in and pack out everything and follow strict regulations regarding fire and waste. Backpacking campsites are usually found off the main trails.
• Vault Toilets: There are typically basic vault toilets located near the main parking area for public use, although cleanliness and supplies can vary. Visitors should always carry their own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
• Picnic Areas: Some informal areas suitable for picnicking may be found near the parking lot or along the trails, allowing visitors to enjoy meals amidst nature.
• Interpretive Signage: Educational signage at the trailhead often provides information about the unique ecology, geology, and history of Graveyard Fields, enhancing the visitor's understanding of the area.
• Trash Receptacles (Limited): While some receptacles might be available near the parking lot, it is always advisable for visitors to practice pack-it-in, pack-it-out, minimizing reliance on public receptacles to keep the area pristine.

Graveyard Fields stands out due to its truly unique features and highlights, which combine to create an unforgettable and distinctly wild North Carolina outdoor experience. It's a place where natural forces have sculpted a landscape unlike any other along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

• Unique Geological History: The name "Graveyard Fields" comes from a devastating 18th-century windstorm that toppled trees, leaving "tombstone-like" stumps, followed by a massive fire. This history has created an unusual, open landscape with heath balds and low-growing shrubs, a stark contrast to the dense forests typically found at this elevation. This distinctive environment is a major draw for its ecological and visual uniqueness.
• High-Elevation Wilderness: Located at approximately 5,000 feet, Graveyard Fields offers a true high-elevation experience. This translates to cooler temperatures, especially in summer, and unique alpine-like flora, providing a different feel from lower elevation trails in North Carolina.
• Multiple Waterfalls on a Single Trail: A significant highlight is the opportunity to visit multiple stunning waterfalls on a single hiking loop. The most popular trail leads to both the Lower Falls (a beautiful cascading waterfall with a swimming hole) and the impressive Second Falls, making it a fantastic destination for waterfall enthusiasts.
• Vibrant Fall Foliage: Due to its diverse plant life, including blueberry bushes and other low-growing shrubs, Graveyard Fields explodes with vibrant reds and oranges during the fall, making it one of the Blue Ridge Parkway's most sought-after spots for autumn color viewing.
• Excellent Hiking Opportunities: The area boasts a well-maintained network of trails suitable for various skill levels, from relatively easy loops to more challenging backcountry routes, offering diverse options for hikers and backpackers alike.
• Blueberry Picking: In late summer, particularly July and August, Graveyard Fields becomes a popular spot for wild blueberry picking, adding a delightful and unique recreational activity for visitors (check local regulations and availability).
• Stunning Panoramic Views: Throughout the area and along the surrounding Parkway, visitors are treated to expansive, breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, providing countless photo opportunities.
• Primitive Camping/Backpacking Potential: For the adventurous, the ability to engage in primitive backcountry camping offers a true wilderness immersion experience, allowing for an intimate connection with nature under the stars.

As Graveyard Fields is a natural area and not a commercial campground with a dedicated reception, direct contact for inquiries primarily involves the managing authority of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Pisgah National Forest. There is no specific phone number for the Graveyard Fields area itself. However, for general inquiries, road conditions, or specific regulations, you can reach out to the relevant National Park Service or Forest Service offices:

Address: Graveyard Fields is located at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 418.8, within the Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina 28716, USA.

For official information, contact the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Information Line or the Pisgah National Forest:

Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Information: While there isn't a single direct line for Graveyard Fields, general Parkway information and road conditions can often be obtained by calling the Blue Ridge Parkway Headquarters or a nearby Visitor Center. For up-to-date road closures, the official Blue Ridge Parkway website is the most reliable resource.

Pisgah National Forest Ranger District (closest to Graveyard Fields, such as Pisgah Ranger District): (828) 877-3265 (This number is for general forest information, not direct Graveyard Fields specific inquiries regarding camping beyond general regulations).

It is always highly recommended to check the official National Park Service and US Forest Service websites for the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest, respectively, for the most current information regarding trail conditions, primitive camping regulations, potential advisories, and, most importantly, seasonal road closures on the Blue Ridge Parkway that could affect access to Graveyard Fields. This due diligence ensures a safe and well-planned visit.

For North Carolina locals, Graveyard Fields stands out as an exceptionally suitable and compelling destination for a truly immersive and scenic outdoor experience. It offers unique opportunities that resonate deeply with those who cherish the state's natural heritage and seek authentic mountain adventures.

Firstly, its unparalleled access via the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway means that this spectacular high-elevation wilderness is within a scenic drive for many residents across the state. This accessibility allows for day trips filled with invigorating hikes to "multiple waterfalls" and breathtaking "panoramic views," making it an ideal escape for active families and individuals seeking a refreshing break from city life.

Secondly, the distinctive geological history and the resulting unique landscape of Graveyard Fields offer an experience unlike any other traditional campground. For North Carolinians who appreciate ecological wonders and want to explore a truly special environment, the open heath balds and vibrant fall foliage provide a sense of wonder and connection to the raw beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. The opportunity for wild blueberry picking in late summer adds a delightful and seasonal activity that locals can look forward to year after year.

Finally, for the more adventurous, the potential for primitive backcountry camping allows for a deep immersion into the wilderness, fostering a sense of self-reliance and profound appreciation for nature. Graveyard Fields is more than just a place to visit; it’s a living testament to North Carolina’s natural grandeur, offering endless opportunities for exploration, rejuvenation, and creating unforgettable memories right in their own beautiful backyard.

Graveyard Fields

North Carolina 28716, USA