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North Carolina has a diverse landscape worth exploring. You’ll find coastal areas and mountainous forests. With so much variety, there is a bit of something for everyone. Today, we will look at Pisgah National Forest and discover the adventures waiting for you there.
Where Is Pisgah National Forest?
Pisgah National Forest is in far Southwest North Carolina, less than 45 minutes outside of Asheville. You can easily access the area from Great Smoky Mountain National Park. If you visit the national park, you’ll only need to travel about half an hour from their closest points.
Best Time of Year to Visit Pisgah National Forest
You don’t want to miss the fall season if you only have one chance to visit Pisgah National Forest. The crisp mornings and pops of color will have you reaching for your pumpkin spice. While the area is always beautiful, you can see the spectacular vibrant colors in the autumn months.
Things to Do in Pisgah National Forest
If you’ve decided to plan a trip to Pisgah National Forest, you’ll have plenty of things to fill your day. Let’s look at a few of the great adventures the area has to offer.
Visit Looking Glass Falls
Looking Glass Falls is an especially great stop for those with children, those short on time, or others with mobility issues. You can access this beautiful waterfall via road as opposed to having to hike to get to it. The 60-ft falls land in a great swimming hole where you can cool off during the summer months.
Take a Ride Down Sliding Rock
For those feeling a bit adventurous, take a trip to Sliding Rock. This natural mountain waterfall is within Pisgah National Forest. Adults and children enjoy sliding down the 60-ft gently sloping rock. In the end, you’ll find yourself in an 8-ft deep pool of water to safely splash. This popular activity is worth waiting in line.
Hike to Moore Cove Falls
The 1.74-mile hike to Moore Cove Falls provides access to an iconic waterfall that you can walk right through. It provides hours of fun splashing around at its base. All ages and abilities can enjoy this hike. The mostly level path has few obstacles and a few fun bridges to cross.
Visit the Pisgah Visitors Center
The Pisgah Ranger Station and Visitor Center provide a fun way to learn about the area and is an excellent base for nearby hikes and activities. Rangers can answer any questions you may have and direct you to activities that fit your schedule. You can grab a postcard or other souvenir to remember your trip at the visitor center gift shop.
Where to Camp in Pisgah National Forest
You’ll want to spend a few days exploring Pisgah National Forest, and camping is a great way to do so. Here are a few of our top campground picks.
Rocky Bluff Campground
Rocky Bluff Campground has 15 campsites that you must reserve ahead of time via the website or by phone. Each site has a picnic table and fire grate. You have access to water but no electricity or dump station; however, campers can use the restroom with flush toilets.
Mortimer Campground
Those camping at Mortimer Campground will have their choice of 17 first-come, first-served campsites. You can use flush toilets and showers. Those looking to have a larger gathering can use the picnic shelter, and if you have any issues, you can contact the campground host.
Boone Fork Campground
Those looking for a no-frills experience will enjoy Boone Fork Campground. This primitive campground has no water or other hookups provided, so all campers must come with everything they need. Campers will have to hike into this location, and they don’t accept reservations.
Lake Powhatan Campground
Lake Powhatan Campground is a full-service campground within walking distance of the lake. Shaded sites offer privacy and have picnic tables, lantern posts, and a campfire ring with a grill. They also have glamping tents available for rent.
Time to Visit Pisgah National Forest
You can explore waterfalls, go on hikes, and enjoy some quiet camping in Pisgah National Forest. You can spend a long weekend or even a week-long trip adventuring in the area. Have you visited this area of North Carolina before? What activities would you suggest to someone on their first trip to this location?
The Davidson River campground is another great place to camp for the Pisgah National Forest. We tent camped there last spring and it was a beautiful. Another activity are the great mountain biking trails in the area.