Mortimer Campground

For North Carolina residents seeking an authentic and immersive outdoor experience, away from the hustle and bustle, Mortimer Campground offers a compelling retreat deep within the stunning Pisgah National Forest. This U.S. Forest Service campground provides a rustic yet equipped base camp for exploring some of Western North Carolina's most breathtaking natural wonders, including pristine waterfalls, exhilarating hiking trails, and the renowned Wild and Scenic Wilson Creek.

Mortimer Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a gateway to an untouched wilderness. As one satisfied visitor noted, it's "a gem of a quiet campground nestled in the Pisgah National Forest." While occasional challenges with facility maintenance can arise, as highlighted by one reviewer concerning toilet paper and overflowing garbage during a busy weekend, the fundamental appeal of its location and the natural beauty it offers remain undeniable. Another compelling review from a visitor conducting a "wellness check on a waterfall they hold dear" after Hurricane Helene happily reported that the "waterfalls and pools are still intact, offering a breathtaking experience just a short walk down Thorps Creek Trail," emphasizing the enduring allure of this special place.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Mortimer Campground. We'll delve into its advantageous location, the essential services it provides, its standout features and highlights that draw nature lovers, and ultimately, why it remains a highly suitable choice for North Carolinians looking for a genuine Appalachian adventure.

Mortimer Campground is a primitive campground operated by the US Forest Service, located within the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest. It is situated at the site of an old Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp, imbuing it with a sense of history amidst its natural splendor. This campground provides a truly rustic camping experience, allowing visitors to disconnect and immerse themselves in a secluded streamside setting, shaded by large hemlocks and pine trees, at an elevation of 1,400 feet.

The campground is known for its quiet atmosphere and close proximity to Wilson Creek, a designated National Wild and Scenic River. It caters to both tent campers and small RVs (up to 35 feet), offering a variety of sites. It's an ideal spot for those who prioritize access to hiking, swimming, fishing, and kayaking in a less developed, more natural environment. Despite being primitive, it offers essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay while maintaining its wild charm.

Mortimer Campground is located at 8384 NC-90, Collettsville, NC 28611, USA. This address places it in Caldwell County, deep within the heart of the Pisgah National Forest in Western North Carolina. Collettsville is a small, unincorporated community that serves as a gateway to this rugged and beautiful section of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The campground is about 10 miles north of Brown Mountain Beach in Mortimer, or approximately 3.2 miles from the Wilson Creek Visitor Center. While it offers a secluded feel, it is accessible via well-maintained state roads like NC-90. For North Carolina residents, reaching Mortimer Campground typically involves a scenic drive through winding mountain roads, which are part of the adventure in this region. Visitors from larger cities in the Piedmont or other parts of Western NC will find the drive manageable, leading them into a truly wild landscape.

Its location is a major draw, providing immediate access to the revered Wilson Creek, known for its pristine waters and recreational opportunities. The surrounding area is a haven for outdoor activities, and the campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the diverse natural attractions of the Pisgah National Forest. Despite its somewhat remote feel, it remains connected enough to be a practical destination for local explorers.

Mortimer Campground, while rustic, provides essential services and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience within the Pisgah National Forest:

• Campsites: The campground features 17 sites. The lower loop offers 5 tent-only walk-in sites with a central parking lot, providing a more secluded tent camping experience. The upper loop includes 14 fully accessible, barrier-free sites that can accommodate small RVs up to 35 feet. Most sites include a tent pad, picnic table, lantern post, and a fire ring (though one review noted some fire pits might be too deep for grilling without an insert).
• Restrooms: Flush toilets are available, a welcome amenity in a primitive campground setting.
• Hot Showers: Unlike many primitive campgrounds, Mortimer Campground offers hot showers, which is a significant convenience for campers, especially after a day of hiking or water activities.
• Running Water: Potable water is available throughout the campground, ensuring access to drinking water.
• Bear-Proof Trash and Recycling Receptacles: Provided to encourage responsible waste disposal and ensure safety in an area with wildlife.
• Campground Host: A campground host is typically on site to provide visitor assistance and oversee operations, enhancing safety and convenience.
• Picnic Shelter: A picnic shelter is available for communal use, providing a covered area for gatherings.

It's important to note that while the campground offers showers and flush toilets, recent reviews indicate that maintenance of these facilities (e.g., restocking toilet paper) can sometimes be an issue during busy periods, suggesting campers should come prepared.

Mortimer Campground boasts several appealing features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for North Carolina locals:

• Nestled in Pisgah National Forest: Its prime location within this expansive and beautiful national forest provides immediate access to miles of wilderness, lush forests, and stunning mountain scenery.
• Proximity to Wilson Creek: The campground is very close to Wilson Creek, a federally designated Wild and Scenic River. This makes it an excellent base for activities like trout fishing, swimming in cool creek pools, and kayaking, particularly known for its rugged features.
• Access to Waterfalls and Hiking Trails: Several notable waterfalls and hiking trails are easily accessible from the campground. The "Thorps Creek Trail provides a short (approx. 1/4 mile) hike to Thorps Creek Falls," which remained intact even after hurricane damage, offering a "breathtaking experience." Other nearby trails lead to destinations like Harper Creek Falls, Hunt Fish Falls, and many other parts of the expansive trail network in the Wilson Creek area.
• Primitive, Quiet Atmosphere: Described as a "gem of a quiet campground," it offers a more rustic and peaceful experience compared to highly developed campgrounds, appealing to those seeking solitude and a true connection with nature.
• Rich Natural Features: Located in a rich mountain hardwood forest at 1,400 ft. elevation, it provides a secluded streamside setting. The area is known for "beautiful scenery year-round, from stunning fall foliage displays to abundant spring and summer wildflowers."
• Historic Significance: Being the site of an old CCC camp adds a layer of historical interest for visitors.
• Variety of Sites: With both secluded walk-in tent sites and accessible RV sites up to 35 ft, it caters to a range of camping preferences.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural forest setting allows for opportunities to observe local wildlife.

For reservations, current conditions, or specific inquiries regarding Mortimer Campground, especially its operational status after any significant weather events, it is best to contact the U.S. Forest Service office for the Grandfather Ranger District, which manages the campground:

Address: 8384 NC-90, Collettsville, NC 28611, USA (Mortimer Campground physical address)

Grandfather Ranger District Office: 109 Lawing Drive, Nebo, NC 28761

Phone: (828) 652-2144 (General Pisgah National Forest - Grandfather Ranger District line, inquire about Mortimer Campground)

Reservations for Mortimer Campground are primarily handled through Recreation.gov. It is advisable to check the Recreation.gov website for specific site availability, booking windows, and any alerts regarding closures or conditions. While a campground host is often on-site, direct phone contact with the managing district office can provide the most comprehensive and up-to-date information.

Mortimer Campground stands as an exceptionally suitable destination for North Carolina locals, particularly those who seek an authentic, serene, and activity-rich outdoor experience deep within our state's majestic Pisgah National Forest. For residents across the Commonwealth, it offers a compelling blend of rugged natural beauty, direct access to pristine waters, and a quiet retreat from everyday life.

Its primary suitability lies in its prime location within the "gem" of Pisgah National Forest. This ensures immediate access to the Wild and Scenic Wilson Creek, renowned for its trout fishing, swimming holes, and kayaking, making it a dream destination for water enthusiasts. Furthermore, the abundance of hiking trails leading to breathtaking waterfalls, like Thorps Creek Falls, allows North Carolinians to explore the diverse landscapes and natural wonders that are right in their backyard. The opportunity for a "breathtaking experience just a short walk" highlights the accessible beauty.

Despite being a primitive campground, the presence of flush toilets and hot showers (when maintained) adds a level of comfort that enhances the rustic experience. This balance makes it approachable for a wider range of campers while still providing that "get away from it all" feeling. The quiet atmosphere, emphasized by its identity as a "gem of a quiet campground," appeals to those seeking peace and a genuine connection with nature, away from the crowds often found in more commercialized areas.

In essence, Mortimer Campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a launchpad for adventure and a sanctuary for tranquility. For any North Carolina local yearning for an immersive forest experience, complete with stunning waterfalls, engaging trails, and the calming presence of a wild river, Mortimer Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural heritage of our great state.

Mortimer Campground

8384 NC-90, Collettsville, NC 28611, USA