Located on Highway 105 at the base of Grandfather Mountain, the Grandfather Campground is the closest developed campground to the mountain. Visitors can choose among more than 75 campsites, ranging from electric and non-electric tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with water, sewer and 30- to 50-amp electrical hookups. Each site includes a picnic table and campfire ring, and campers have access to restrooms, showers, laundry facilities and an RV dumping station. Fully furnished one- and two-bedroom cabins are also available, and you can find rates and reservation information on the campground's official website. Hikers can find several easy to moderate trails within the park, or head to the nearby peak for a more challenging hike.
Founded in 2008, Grandfather Mountain State Park spans 2,456 acres, including most of the mountain itself. While the park has no traditional campground, it does have a 12-mile trail system with 13 backcountry campsites scattered along the trails. The sites are quiet and secluded, and campers are responsible for hiking to their sites with all necessary gear and leaving no trace of their presence after they leave. Campfires are permitted only at sites that have designated fire rings. At the time of publication, hiking and camping permits are required to access the trails and campsites in Grandfather Mountain State Park. Permits are free of charge, and you can get one at the Profile trailhead parking area, located off Highway 105.
Although Grandfather Mountain mostly lies within state park land and the privately owned Grandfather Mountain area, which does not offer camping, the peak is entirely surrounded by the 192,000-acre Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The national forest has hundreds of miles of trails and numerous camping options. Three campgrounds within the district provide accommodations for tents and RVs, though amenities are generally limited. The closest option is the Mortimer Campground, located about 30 minutes from Grandfather Mountain on NC 90. Backcountry camping is also allowed along trails in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, 20 minutes southwest of Grandfather Mountain. You can find information on obtaining a free national forest camping permit through the USDA Forest Service website.
Many of the hiking trails on Grandfather Mountain are very challenging, so be careful not to overestimate your abilities. Weather conditions can change rapidly; it's best to dress in layers, including a waterproof outer layer. Some of the highest wind speeds in the country have been recorded on Grandfather Mountain, so be cautious in exposed areas. Drinking water within the state park and most of the national forest is available only from springs and streams, and this water must be treated, filtered or boiled before drinking. Water sources on the mountain are not always reliable, especially in summer, so fill up your containers at every opportunity and carry as much water as possible. Black bears are often spotted in the Grandfather Mountain area -- hike cautiously, practice safe food storage techniques and always stay a respectful distance from wildlife.
