Mount Mitchell State Park Campground in Burnsville North Carolina is the highest peak east of the Mississippi at 6,684 feet with dramatic views for hundreds of miles in to the distance. This was North Carolina's first state park and provides 9 tent campsites situated along a single hike in access trail. A designated camping area is located at the bottom of the access trail where campers can then shuttle their gear up to the sites. All of the sites are unique, private and afford incredible scenery. The sites have picnic tables and fire rings; they also share a restroom facility. 11 miles of hiking trails meander through the park with trail-heads for hikers, backpackers, and equestrians using trail system on adjacent U.S. Forest Service lands.
There is a main visitor center with restaurant and interpretive displays located down the highway. open seasonally this unique location is a great place to rough it in a tent with a back-country feel only a few steps from your vehicle.
Experienced cyclists can ride the paved highway for a strenuous climb and thrilling descent. Located further up the highway is a lookout point popular for amazing views.
Camping is available May thru October; campers should be prepared for all types of weather conditions.
The campsites are located off Highway 128 which is a spur off the Blue Ridge Highway south of Asheville.
Advanced reservations can be made and are strongly encouraged.
What campers say
Mt. Mitchell Campground sits at the mountain summit among balsam firs and moss, offering cool temperatures, quiet nights and dramatic views from the exposed sites. The walk‑in loop has just nine tent sites (book well in advance); lower‑numbered sites are closest to the parking area while others offer better vistas but are windier and require climbing steps with gear. Facilities are basic but clean — flush toilets and sinks, no showers and limited drinking water reported — and bear boxes are available. Rangers and staff are generally helpful. Be prepared for rapidly changing, often wet weather and bring full‑coverage shelter.
