About MOUNT PISGAH CAMPGROUND
Overview One of the most popular of the Parkway's campgrounds, Mount Pisgah Campground is perched in the rolling mountains of western North Carolina on the southernmost end of the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. Surrounded by dense hardwood forests at an elevation of 4980 feet, it offers shady, cool respite from the summer heat. Whichever end of the day appeals, spectacular sunrise and sunset panoramic views can be enjoyed from nearby overlooks. Several popular hiking trails, ranging from moderate to strenuous, are accessible from the campground. Drenched in history, this area was once part of the holdings of George Vanderbilt and the site of his hunting camp house, Buck Springs (no longer standing), is close by. Recreation Several popular hiking trails, ranging from moderate to difficult, are easily accessible from the campground. The Frying Pan Trail leads adventurers 1.6 miles (2.6 km) south to the Fire Tower at Frying Pan Mountain. Hiking north on the trail you'll arrive at the Pisgah Inn and from there, the Buck Spring Trail leads visitors through the thick hardwood forest and along rocky terrain to the Mt. Pisgah Parking Area. From the parking area it is a 1.6 mile (2.6 km) uphill trek to the top of Mt. Pisgah. The Shut-In Trail is the original route from the Biltmore Estate to the Buck Spring Lodge, and heads north along the Blue Ridge Parkway toward Asheville. The Buck Spring Lodge was a mountain getaway for George Vanderbilt, owner of the famous Biltmore Estate. The North Carolina Mountains to Sea Trail follows both the Buck Spring and Shut-In Trails, and connects to trails in Pisgah National Forest. Facilities Both RV and tent sites are available at this campground. Modern amenities like flush toilets, drinking water, dump station, and a country store create a comfortable camping experience. Sites come with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for barbecues and marshmallow roasting. In addition to the sites available for advance reservation, several campsites
How to Get There
From Interstate 40 west, take exit 47 and turn south onto Highway 191. Stay in the right hand lane and turn south again onto the Blue Ridge Parkway at the North Carolina Arboretum; enjoy the amazing views and nine tunnels along the Blue Ridge Parkway for 15 miles (24 km). You will pass the Mt. Pisgah Parking Area, the Country Store and the Pisgah Inn on the left. The campground is on the right immediately after the Pisgah Inn. From Waynesville, North Carolina, take Highway 276 for about 22 miles to The Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn north onto the parkway and continue four miles to the campground on the left.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to MOUNT PISGAH CAMPGROUND
Heading to MOUNT PISGAH CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for MOUNT PISGAH CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for MOUNT PISGAH CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234182) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to MOUNT PISGAH CAMPGROUND?
From Interstate 40 west, take exit 47 and turn south onto Highway 191. Stay in the right hand lane and turn south again onto the Blue Ridge Parkway at the North Carolina Arboretum; enjoy the amazing views and nine tunnels along the Blue Ridge Parkway for 15 miles (24 km). You will pass the Mt. Pisgah Parking Area, the Country Store and the Pisgah Inn on the left. The campground is on the right imm…
How do I contact MOUNT PISGAH CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 828-648-2644 (MAY - OCTOBER) or email: blri_campgrounds@nps.gov.
References & Official Resources
