Asheville, in western North Carolina, is a tourist destination itself, nestled among the picturesque Appalachians and home to a thriving arts community as well as Biltmore Estate, the largest privately owned house in the United states. Many people visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park visit Asheville as well. Some people stay in or around the town, which offers the best of both worlds: urbane dining and shopping and the wild serenity of the park just a short drive away.
Things to Do
Campers staying in the area will have plenty of things to do, both in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and in Asheville. Great Smoky offers hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding and wildlife watching. The town has many art galleries as well as restaurants to suit every taste. You can play golf just outside downtown or unwind at a spa or yoga studio.
When to Go
Spring and fall are two of Asheville's best seasons, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s and fewer crowds than during the hot summer months. If you visit in summer, plan to cool off during the heat of the day, when temperatures can reach into the 80s, by planning a rafting trip or heading to higher elevations in the park. Winter in the Smokies is a beautiful and peaceful time, although some roads may be closed in higher elevations.
Camping in the Park
Campers who stay inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park will have easy access to Asheville, about a 30-minute drive away. Ten developed campgrounds are available in the park, many with spaces for trailers and RVs. All offer easy access to hiking trails. Others may be secluded or near waterways for boating and fishing. Backcountry camping is also allowed, with a permit. With more than 800 miles of trails to explore Great Smoky's wilderness, you will have no trouble escaping the crowds.
Camping in Asheville
Numerous campgrounds are available near downtown Asheville, outside the national park. One option, Wilson's Riverfront RV Park, will put campers a half hour from Great Smoky's borders. The campground sits on the French Broad River, and you can request a riverfront site. Both tent and RV sites are available, and the campground includes a bathhouse and picnic area.
Between Asheville and the Park
Camping also is available between Asheville and the national park, along Interstate 40 for quick access to both. One option is the Asheville West KOA campground, which offers campsites for both tents and RVs as long as 70 feet, as well as cabins for rent. A swimming pool is open seasonally, and you can easily access a nature trail from the campsites.
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