Public Land Camping

NORTH MILLS RIVER

MILLS RIVER, NCManaged by FS
NORTH MILLS RIVER

Things to Do

CampingFishingHikingSwimming siteWater sports

RV & Site Information

For RV enthusiasts planning a visit, NORTH MILLS RIVER accommodates recreational vehicles up to 35 feet in length. This USDA Forest Service is available for advance reservation, making it a reliable choice for planned trips.

Guests at NORTH MILLS RIVER can enjoy essential amenities including Shower/Bath Type: Shower Stall, Water Hookup, and Water (Seasonal). The site is maintained by USDA Forest Service, ensuring consistent upkeep and facilities management.

Popular activities at this location include Camping, Fishing, Hiking, and Swimming site. The campground's proximity to MILLS RIVER offers convenient access to additional outdoor recreation opportunities in the North Carolina region.

Located in MILLS RIVER, North Carolina, NORTH MILLS RIVER provides bookable camping options for visitors exploring America's public lands. Contact the site directly for real-time availability and current conditions.

About this place

Overview North Mills River Campground is a rustic mountain getaway in Pisgah National Forest in western North Carolina. Located just outside the popular city of Asheville, the campground provides access to a variety of cultural and natural attractions, including an arboretum, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and numerous hiking, fishing, and mountain biking opportunities.Winter Operations (November 16, 2025 - March 20, 2026):During winter months, this facility operates with limited services:No running waterNo electricityPit toilets onlySites 1-13 are available on a first-come, first-served basis for $15 per night (14-day stay limit). Sites 14-26 are closed during winter. Payment by cash or check must be placed in the fee tube within 30 minutes of arrival. Winter sites cannot be reserved online.Recreation The forest is known for its hiking and mountain biking trails, several of which are near the campground. Mills River offers excellent trout fishing, as well as tubing and swimming, which are kid-friendly favorite activities. Visitors wishing to learn more about the area can attend educational programs during the summer.Facilities This is a relatively small facility with campsites organized into two loops on opposite sides of the river. Sites are mostly shaded and lie within a short distance of the water.

The facility provides picnic tables, tent pads, lantern posts and campfire rings with grills, in addition to restrooms with hot showers and flush toilets. Campers can purchase firewood and fire starter on-site.Natural Features The campground is situated in the Appalachian Mountains at an elevation of 2,200 feet. The surrounding land boasts mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls and slopes densely forested with hardwoods. The group camping area is adjacent to the beautiful, shallow waters of the Mills River. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (828) 577-4167. Nearby Attractions Several natural and cultural attractions are within close proximity to the campground. Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls and the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway are among the most popular sites. The small town of Brevard offers various amenities and services, and visitors can take a trip to Asheville to visit art galleries, music venues, shops and restaurants.

Getting There

From Asheville, take U.S. Highway 280 west to North Mills River Road. Follow North Mills River Road to the campground.

Amenities

Shower/Bath Type: Shower Stall
Water Hookup
Water (Seasonal)
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