Camping at Mount Pisgah Campground with Kids: A Family Review

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What to Expect at the Mt. Pisgah Campground

As it sits at an elevation of nearly 5,000 feet, the entire area has much cooler temperatures than Greenville. Even in the middle of summer, don’t forget a light jacket. If you’re camping in the fall, enduring the chilly air brings the payoff of vibrant fall color your family won’t soon forget.

The campground accommodates both tents and RVs with 125 total sites, and includes:

• Drinking water
• Fire rings
• Picnic tables
• Full-service bathrooms (a big win with kids!)

The campground is open seasonally (typically late May through late October — 2026 dates: May 22–October 25), so be sure to plan accordingly.

Reserving a Campsite

Some sites can be reserved online and some are first-come, first-served.

• 71 sites are reservable on Recreation.gov (up to 6 months ahead)
• 54 sites are first-come, first-served
• $30 per night (50% discount for Senior/Access pass holders)
• No power hook-ups, so plan accordingly

And don’t forget to head down to the campfire circle for fun programs and marshmallow roasting. Ranger-led programs are often offered on Saturday evenings at 7:30 pm in the amphitheater at the top of B loop.

The Camp Store (and Nearby Dining!)

Directly across the street, through trails behind the campsites, is a quaint camp store that is always fun to visit. It’s got you covered when you realize what you forgot—lighter fluid, matches, and even coffee if you can’t get that fire going in the morning.

• Open daily: 8 am – 8 pm

Right next door is the Pisgah Inn, which has a restaurant with mountain views. It’s a great option if you want a break from cooking or a warm meal after a long hike.

Things to Do Around the Mt. Pisgah Campground

What else can you do? Plenty!

The campground offers hiking straight from the sites. If you’re feeling ambitious (and your kids are too), you can trek about two miles up to the summit of Mt. Pisgah to a viewing platform that’s truly worth the effort. Our kiddos have done this many times over the years and have always enjoyed the hike.

Or drive about a mile to the trailhead of Frying Pan Tower trail, an uphill climb to an old fire watch tower with 360-degree views of the mountains.

If you want to take a dip or explore more, just head down the mountain along Highway 276 toward home and enjoy:

• Looking Glass Falls
• Sliding Rock
• Cradle of Forestry
• Davidson River
• Pisgah National Forest trout hatchery

Head further along the Blue Ridge Parkway and find yourself in Asheville for the afternoon.

One of my kids’ favorite pastimes at this camp spot is simply driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway with the windows down and screaming their heads off in every tunnel we encounter. A warning, dear friends: there are many tunnels on the BRP. Share this tradition if you dare!

Best Time to Visit Mt. Pisgah Campground

• Summer: Cooler temps than Greenville (great escape from the heat)
• Fall: Amazing foliage and crisp air (pack layers!)
• Late spring: Wildflowers and fewer crowds

What to Pack for Your Trip

A little planning goes a long way here! Be sure to bring:

• Layers (even in summer)
• Flashlights or headlamps
• Fire-starting supplies
• Food and snacks (limited options on-site)
• Water shoes for nearby waterfalls and rivers
• Bug spray and sunscreen

Driving Directions from Greenville, SC

From Greenville, take I-26 West toward Asheville, then connect to the Blue Ridge Parkway. From there, head south to Milepost 408.6 where you’ll find the campground entrance.

The drive itself is part of the fun—especially once you hit the Parkway!

FAQs About Mt. Pisgah Campground

Do you need reservations for Mount Pisgah Campground?

Not always. About half the sites are reservable online, while the rest are first-come, first-served. During busy summer and fall weekends, reservations are a good idea.

Is Mt. Pisgah Campground good for families?

Yes! With bathrooms, easy hiking access, and nearby attractions like waterfalls and Sliding Rock, it’s a great family-friendly camping spot.

What is there to do near Mt. Pisgah?

Families can enjoy hiking, scenic drives, waterfalls like Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, the Cradle of Forestry, and even a quick trip into Asheville.