Best Campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains in National Parks

The National Parks within the Blue Ridge Mountains contain some of the most remarkable national park campgrounds in the United States.   These campgrounds offer visitors an unparalleled camping experience, providing breathtaking views, cascading clear waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and easy access to some of the very best hiking trails. 

Below, we highlight some of the best campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains that are in national parks.  

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

In Virginia's stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park is a renowned destination for those who love adventure and the great outdoors. Encompassing over 200,000 acres of pristine wilderness, this remarkable park offers a diverse range of natural wonders, wildlife, recreational opportunities, and scenic drives.

Camping is also a very popular activity in Shenandoah National Park, with several campgrounds offering a range of amenities and scenic locations. Whether you prefer backcountry camping or a more developed campground, spending a night under the stars in Shenandoah is a magical experience.

Shenandoah National Park Campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, scenic drives, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Popular campgrounds in the Shenandoah National Park include: 

Big Meadows Campground

Big Meadows Campground is a scenic and tranquil campground that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park.

Big Meadows Campground is located in the central portion of the Shenandoah National Park, near milepost 51 on Skyline Drive. The campground sits in a peaceful meadow surrounded by forests and mountains.

The campground features nearly 200 campsites, including sites for tents, RVs, and trailers. All campsites are well-maintained and offer various amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and access to restroom facilities with hot showers. Some sites also have electrical hookups.  You do have to pay for showers, so bring some quarters.

Big Meadows Campground has a camp store, laundry facility, a restaurant, and a gift shop.  Visitors can enjoy hiking on the numerous trails that crisscross the park, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes.   You'll even see lots of wildlife, including deer in the campground almost every day.

There is a dump station for RVs to use, but only one.  Given the number of RV sites, this can cause for long waits when leaving, especially on a busy day.   There is no cell reception here or wi-fi available at the campsites.

Mathews Arm Campground

Mathews Arm Campground is situated in the northern section of Shenandoah National Park, near milepost 22 on Skyline Drive. This beautiful campground is surrounded by forest and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains as well.  

The campground has over 150 campsites, accommodating both tents and RVs. The campsites have picnic tables, fire pits, and access to restroom facilities with running water and flush toilets. However, there are no electrical hookups available at this campground.  

Mathews Arm is a more primitive camping facility and offers basic facilities including a camp store and a dump station for RVs and trailers.  The bathroom facilities are functional, but very dated when we visited, and no showers.  There is no cell phone service available in the campground.

There is access to many nearby hiking trails, and the campground provides easy access to many scenic views.  There are even two waterfalls nearby an accessible on the Mathews Arm Trail, however one is a pretty strenuous hike.

Loft Mountain Campground

Loft Mountain Campground in the southern portion of the park and offers a quiet, scenic and relaxing camping experience.  The campground is right off Skyline drive, making it very convenient.  

There are different campsites suitable for both tents and RVs. Individual campsites are spread out, offering a unique sense of privacy and space. Each site includes a picnic table and fire pit.

There are no electrical hookups available at Loft Mountain Campground, but there are restrooms with flush toilets and access to potable water. There are showers and laundry facilities as well, but you will need to pay (bring some quarters).  The campground also offers a dump station for RVs.

There is no Wi-Fi or cell phone service in this area.

Loft Mountain Campground has numerous trails nearby, including the challenging and rewarding hike to the summit of Loft Mountain. The campground is also close to the Appalachian Trail, which stretches across the eastern United States and provides opportunities for longer backpacking adventures for those interested.  

There are also some nearby waterfalls to hike to as well.

The campground is conveniently located near the Loft Mountain Wayside, where visitors can find a nice camp store that offers supplies, groceries, and firewood. Additionally, there is a ranger station nearby, providing information on park activities, trail conditions, and safety guidelines.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Campgrounds

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its diverse wildlife, ancient mountains, and historic sites. The park offers many different campgrounds and back-country campsites. Here are our best campgrounds in the Smoky Mountains:

Cades Cove Campground

Situated in the picturesque Cades Cove area, this campground offers a unique camping experience. The campground provides over 150 campsites suitable for tents, RVs, and trailers.

Cades Cove Campground and Cades Cove in general, are well known for their beautiful mountain views, abundant wildlife sightings, and access to the Cades Cove Loop Road, which is popular for biking and wildlife viewing.

The campground offers amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and drinking water.  The restrooms are easily accessible regardless of where you campsite is located, the camp store is well stocked and even has delicious hot food.  Most importantly, the campground is very clean and very well maintained.  

One of our favorites!

Elkmont Campground

Located in the heart of the national park, Elkmont Campground is one of the largest and most popular campgrounds.

The campground offers more than 200 campsites, including tent-only sites and sites for RVs and trailers. The campground is located in a quiet forested setting and offers amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, bathrooms, and drinking water.

Elkmont is known for its historic cabins and proximity to Little River, which offers opportunities for fishing and tubing.  There area also lots of trees around and in the campground, offering lots of shade, and a great place to hook-up the hammack.

Given the campground's popularity, it is very difficult to get reservations.  We recommend booking reservations at last 6-months in advance.

Smokemont Campground

Located near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, Smokemont Campground offers a peaceful camping experience. It features over 140 campsites, including tent and RV sites.

The campground is surrounded by lush forests and offers amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and drinking water.

It also provides access to hiking trails, including the nearby Bradley Fork Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.   A number of nice historic locations are nearby, including Mingus Mill and the Oconaluftee Farm village.  Wildlife is prevalent around the campground, including Elk!

Something to be aware of when camping at Smokemont is that there aren't may trees in the campground itself, and the camping area itself, while surrounded by forest, is pretty open.   This means you really get no privacy or solitude.  You'll be able to see multiple campsites all around yours.   Not a bad thing necessarily, but something to be aware of.

Cosby Campground

Situated in the northeastern part of the park, Cosby Campground is a quieter and more secluded camping option in the national park.

The campground offers over 150 campsites suitable for both tents and small RVs. The campground is known for its peaceful atmosphere and access to the Cosby Nature Trail, as well as the nearby Hen Wallow Falls Trail, which leads to a scenic waterfall.

Amenities at Cosby Campground include picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and drinking water.  Bathrooms do have running water, but no showers, and very limited hot water.  Similar to Smokemont, there isn't a great deal of privacy at this campground, however it's not as busy as some of the others.

Cataloochee Valley Campground

Cataloochee Valley Campground offers a unique camping experience in a very historic and scenic area of the national park. The campground provides approximately 27 campsites suitable for tents and small RVs and offers a more rustic camping experience with very limited amenities.

Being a much smaller campground than others in the Great Smoky Mountains National park, this campground offers a more intimate and and remote experience. 

The campsites have picnic tables and fire rings, but there are no hookups or showers available. The campground does provide access to flush toilets and drinking water.

You'll find the campground to be very quiet and very dark in the evenings.  Cataloochee Valley is also full of wildlife, an you'll often see turkeys and even Elk in the campground itself!

Deep Creek Campground

Located just outside of Bryson City NC, Deep Creek Campground offers a range of outdoor activities.  The campground provides over 90 campsites suitable for tents and RVs, and also offers a number of cabins for rent as well.   

The campground is well known for its access to the popular and beautiful Deep Creek, where visitors can enjoy tubing, hiking, and waterfall exploration. Amenities at Deep Creek Campground include picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and drinking water.

Due to being so close to Deep Creek, and it being a prime tubing destination in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Deep Creek is one of the best campgrounds for families, with lots to do immediately around the campground.   Additionally, Bryson City is only minutes away, and provides restaurants, shopping and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

Big Creek Campground

Big Creek Campground is located in a remote area of the park, near the North Carolina-Tennessee border and offers a small, private, and secluded creekside camping experience.  

The campground features 12 campsites that are suitable for tents only. There is a separate area for RVs, although there is an RV facility nearby.  

Campsites are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms with vault toilets. There are no showers available at this campground.

The great thing about this campground, other than it being small and pretty private, is that it's very close to a number of great hiking trails, and just a short hike from one of the most popular swimming holes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Midnight Hole.  Be sure to hike up the extra 1/4 mile to Mouse Creek Falls too.

The Best Blue Ridge Parkway Campgrounds

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic highway that stretches through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Along the parkway, there are numerous campgrounds where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Some of the best campgrounds on the Blue Ridge Parkway are:

Julian Price Park Campground 

Julian Price Park Campground is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and located in Julian Price Memorial Park.  The campground offers over 120 well-maintained campsites for tents and RVs.

The campground provides picturesque views of Price Lake and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.  Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

Nearby, the charming town of Blowing Rock provides additional amenities and attractions, including shops, restaurants, and the stunning Grandfather Mountain.   Just a little further is the city of Boone NC for more restaurant options, and the amenities of a city.  

The campground is clean and well kept, and provides bathrooms with showers.  Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and access to potable water.  There is no cell service or wi-fi, so come prepared.

The campground stays very busy, so make reservations early.   

Rocky Knob Campground 

Rocky Knob Campground near Floyd Virginia is a scenic campground located on the Blue Ridge Parkway and situated within Rocky Knob Recreation Area in Virginia.  The campground offers a tranquil and nature-focused camping experience.

With around 81 campsites suitable for both tents and RVs, visitors can enjoy the peace of the surrounding forest and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The campground provides amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities with running water.

While there are no electrical hookups available, the campground offers a peaceful atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts to disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park and surrounding mountains.

Rocky Knob Campground serves as a great starting point for exploring the recreational activities in the area. Visitors can embark on scenic hikes, go fishing in the nearby streams, or take in the panoramic vistas along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The campground is also a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot deer, songbirds, and other native species. 

Peaks of Otter Campground

Peaks of Otter Campground is a charming campground located in the Peaks of Otter area of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. The park provides a great camping experience with its lovely surroundings and breathtaking views.

Included are a variety of campsites suitable for tents and RVs, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and pristine Abbott Lake.

The campground offers amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities with running water. There are no electrical hookups available, no cell phone service, and no wi-fi.

Top State Park Campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains

State park campgrounds are real hidden gems, offering mind-blowing views, wildlife galore, and some of the nicest remote camping options you'll find.  

From the stunning Roan Mountain State Park to to the wild high elevation wonders of Mount Mitchell State Park, we're uncover the coolest camping spots that will leave you itching for an adventure. 

Let's just in and explore our best picks for state park campgrounds in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Roan Mountain State Park, Tennessee

Roan Mountain State Park is 2000 acres of beautiful hardwood trees located in Carter County, Tennessee.  The campground is easily accessed off Interstate 26,  located on about 60 acres within the park.  

The campground has 30 cabins, each having a front porch with rocking chairs to relax and enjoy the incredible views. Cabins also have electricity(AC/heat) and a wood-burning stove.  The campground also has 106 sites for camping, 20 of them for tent camping. Each site comes with grills and picnic tables with bathhouses close by.  

With a campground store on site, you can conveniently pick up camping supplies and firewood. They have a dump station available to registered visitors as well.

While staying on the campground you can enjoy the surrounding areas that include Roan Mountain as well as 12 miles of hiking trails that rate easy to strenuous, one being just over 2 miles taking you to the top of Roan Mountain. If you enjoy biking there are 2.25 miles of biking trails. 

If that isn’t enough to fill your day you can pick up a fishing rod and fish in the Doe River as well as other streams.

If you enjoy flowers, about three miles from the campground inside the park is the Roan Mountain Rhododendron Gardens, they cover 600 acres and bloom between mid to late June each year.

Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia

Grayson Hills State Park, situated off U.S. Highway 58, approximately 25 miles to the west of Independence Virginia, offers two campgrounds for tent, RV, and horse campers. The campgrounds and visitor’s center sit at an elevation of 4,953 feet.

The Hickory Ridge Campground comprises 65 forested sites for tents and RVs, four yurts, and a group tent site. While Chestnut Hollow Horse Camp boasts 24 sites for horse campers.  

Picnic tables and fire pits come at every campsite. Electrical and water hookups are available for RV and horse sites, while horse sites also offer stable access. The facilities include bathhouses with showers, drinking water, a visitor center, a playground, picnic areas, and a small store.

The park's amphitheater features nature and outdoor programs. Pets are allowed in the park but there is a small fee.  They also have a dump station available to registered visitors.

Recreational activities are offered by the park for visitors, including hiking, fishing, wildlife watching, and picnicking. The park's trails are ideal for hiking, with over 25 miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous.

The park is known for its wild ponies, which are often seen on the trails and in the open meadows, especially on Wilburn Ridge. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the park's streams and ponds, which are stocked with trout. 

The surrounding area offers many attractions as well. Visitors can take scenic drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway or the Virginia Creeper Trail. They can also explore the towns of Marion and Abingdon, which have historic downtown districts.

Black Mountain Campground, Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina

Black Mountain Campground is in the heart of Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina, offering visitors an opportunity to enjoy a quiet escape from everyday life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the great outdoors.

The primitive campground has 37 primitive campsites with 3 campsites with electric hookups, with six group sites. All of the sites have a picnic table and a fire pit. The campground is open from April to October. There are several amenities available, including restrooms, hot showers, and a dump station. Additionally, visitors can purchase firewood and ice from the small supply store.

For those who enjoy hiking, there are several trails in the area, including a stroll on Devil’s Den Trail to Mount Mitchell trail that offer beautiful views as well hike to a waterfall on the 0.25-mile trail to Setrock Creek Falls. You can find this trail just past the group campground gate.

Visitors can also enjoy trout fishing in the nearby streams and rivers, this is catch-and-release fishing while using artificial bait and single hooks. Mountain bikers can explore the Briar Bottom Bicycle trail,  1.2 miles at the entrance to the campground.

Mount Mitchell State Park is a short drive away and offers visitors the chance to do more hiking. The Blue Ridge Parkway, which is also nearby, is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views. Asheville is also within driving distance and offers visitors a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries to explore.

Lake James State Park, North Carolina

Lake James State Park in North Carolina is about 7 miles off I-40 and close to both Marion and Morganton NC.  The  park has 6,510 acres and offers three separate campgrounds: Catawba River Area, Paddy's Creek Area, and Appalachian Area. Each campground has its unique features and amenities to offer campers.

The Catawba River Area campground is located on the western edge of the park. It offers 20 campsites for tent campers. Each campsite is 150-300 yards from the parking lot, so it is recommended that campers pack lightly. The campsites have picnic tables, fire rings, and access to shared restroom facilities with hot showers.. 

The Paddy's Creek Area campground is situated on the eastern shore of Lake James. It has 33 campsites and 4 group campsites. The campsites have picnic tables, fire rings, and access to shared restroom facilities with hot showers. It has a beachfront on the lake for visitors to enjoy swimming and other water activities. 

This campground is close to the hiking trails and provides beautiful views of the lake.

The Long Arm Peninsula campground is located on the southern end of Lake James and is the most primitive of the three campgrounds. It offers 22 primitive campsites, which are only accessible for paddle-in camping, accessible only by boat. 

There is no running water, campers must bring their own water for drinking and other needs. There are toilet facilities located throughout the camping area.

Linville Falls State Park, North Carolina

Linville Falls Campground is located in western North Carolina, in the Pisgah National Forest, it  is located just off Highway 221 and Highway 183. While some of the roads leading to the campground are narrow and winding, the campground is well-marked and easy to find with GPS directions.

Linville Falls Campground offers a stunning natural setting of lush pine trees for camping and outdoor recreation. The campground boasts 39 campsites you can reserve in advance and 25 campsites available on a first come first serve. Each has a picnic table and a fire ring.

There are no showers, and no electric, water, or sewer hookups are available. There is a dump station available seasonally.

One of the main attractions of Linville Falls Campground is its proximity to Linville Falls, a gorgeous waterfall. The falls feature several different viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective of the cascading water. Hiking trails in the area also provide opportunities for more adventurous visitors to explore the surrounding wilderness.

Other attractions in the area include the Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain, Linville Caverns, and the town of Boone, NC.

Stone Mountain State Park, Roaring Gap, NC

The park entrance is located off of John P. Frank Parkway (Highway 18) in Roaring Gap, NC. As you follow the park road, you will come across signage indicating the way to the campground.

The campground at Stone Mountain State Park offers amenities for campers with over 90 campsites, including sites for tents and RVs. The sites are spacious and well-maintained. Some sites have electric hookups available.

Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a grill, and a fire ring. Restroom facilities with hot showers and flush toilets are conveniently located within the campground. There is also a dump station available for RVs.

In addition to the campground, Stone Mountain State Park offers many recreational activities such as hiking trails with beautiful waterfalls, fishing in Stone Mountain Lake or the park's streams, rock climbing, picnics, and horseback riding.

Privately Owned Campgrounds

Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Luray, Virginia

The campground itself is situated on 73 acres of wooded land, providing a peaceful and scenic setting for camping and outdoor adventures. There are a variety of campsites available for tents and RVs, ranging from primitive sites with no hookups to full-service sites with water, electric, and sewer connections.

Additionally, there are cabins for rent, offering a comfortable and convenient alternative to traditional camping.  Pet-friendly rentals are available.

One of the main attractions of the park is its water park, which includes a large swimming pool, multiple water slides, and a splash pad. Other activities found on the campground include an arcade, pedal boats, mini golf, an outdoor movie theater, and a jumping pillow. It also has a camp store stocked with camping essentials and snacks.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the park offers hiking trails and fishing ponds. There is also a playground, basketball, and volleyball courts as well.

Shenandoah Valley Campground - Verona,Virginia 

Shenandoah Valley Campground is located in Verona, Virginia. It is situated in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. 

The campground offers a variety of accommodations, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The RV sites are equipped with full hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity. The tent sites are located in wooded areas and offer a more primitive camping experience.

The cabins offer all the comforts of home, including air conditioning, heat, and a kitchenette.

There is a swimming pool, hot tubs, playground, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and a game room. You will also find a camp store that sells snacks, camping supplies, and firewood as well as a cafe & pizza shop.

The Shenandoah Valley Campground is located near many attractions and outdoor activities. The nearby Shenandoah National Park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing. The historic town of Staunton is also a short drive away, with its downtown area, restaurants, and shops. Other things around the area are caverns and museums.

Moonshine Creek Campground - Sylva NC

Moonshine Creek Campground is situated just outside of Waynesville NC.  This beautiful campground has a rushing stream throughout the campground and is surrounded by beautiful forest.   Before we moved to Waynesville, we RV camped in the area often, and Moonshine Creek was our favorite place.

Amenities offered include tent and RV sites with electric and water hookups plus picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms with showers, a camp store, and laundry facilities. This campground is meant as a low-impact campground so that visitors may enjoy the serenity of the surrounding nature. 

There is nearby river rafting, tubing, golf, fishing, and antique shopping, and about 2 ½ miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway.  Towns close by are Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Cherokee, and Asheville is only about 40 minutes away. 

Up the Creek RV Camp - Pigeon Forge TN

Up the Creek RV Camp is a charming and scenic campground located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Located in the middle of the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, this campground offers a real mountain retreat.

The campground features a variety of amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors. RV sites are available with full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer connections, allowing campers to easily settle in and make the most of their camping experience.

Additionally, the sites are spacious and well-maintained, providing ample room for RVs of all sizes.

The campground is right next to a beautiful creek, which adds to the ambiance while camping. Visitors can relax by the creek, enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water, or even try their hand at fishing. The camp also offers hiking trails nearby, allowing guests to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

For those seeking entertainment and activities, Up the Creek RV Camp doesn't disappoint. The campground features a swimming pool, providing a refreshing way to cool off during the warmer months. There is also a playground area for children, ensuring that the whole family can have fun and create lasting memories.

Pride RV Resort and Family Campground

Pride RV Resort and Family Campground is a premier camping destination located in Maggie Valley NC. Located in the the majestic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, this resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation, outdoor activities, and family-friendly fun.

The campground provides a range of amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for guests of all ages. RV sites are available with full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer connections, accommodating RVs of various sizes. The sites are well-maintained and spacious, providing ample room for visitors to set up camp and enjoy their stay.

One of the highlights of Pride RV Resort and Family Campground is its commitment to providing entertainment and activities for the whole family. The resort features a swimming pool, allowing guests to take a refreshing dip and cool off on hot summer days.

There is also a playground area where children can let their imaginations run wild and have fun. The resort also offers a variety of recreational facilities, including basketball and volleyball courts, ensuring that guests of all ages can engage in outdoor sports and games.

There are hiking trails nearby, providing opportunities for campers to explore the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Additionally, the campground is close to several outdoor attractions, such as fishing spots and waterfalls, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region's natural splendor.

Maggie Valley itself offers a charming small-town atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Guests can explore the local attractions, take in the breathtaking mountain views, or indulge in the region's renowned southern cuisine.

Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock State Park is located just outside of Lake Lure in the town of the same name, Chimney Rock. Chimney Rock NC is located about 40 minutes southeast of Asheville, North Carolina.  

The park offers several trails for visitors to explore. The trail up to the Chimney itself is well worth the stair climb and even has several marvellous views on the way up. If you can’t make the climb up, there is an elevator to the top.  

The Chimney itself sits 315 feet above the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, you can see for miles and, in particular, see beautiful Lake Lure nestled between the mountains in the distance (see the photo above).

If you are up for more incredible views and an even more intense hike, travel up the Skyline Trail, which goes above the Chimney on the upper cliffs. The Skyline trail has some steep inclines and is pretty rough and rocky in some areas, so we recommend this for the more experienced hikers only.

Black Balsam Knob

Black Balsam Knob is located in the Pisgah National Forest and this stunning peak sits at 6,214 feet in elevation, making it the 23rd highest peak in North Carolina.

The hike up to the summit is 2 miles round-trip and considered a moderate hike. The trail is mostly flat and well maintained, but it does have a few inclines in various portions on the trail.

You'll begin your hike from the parking area off Black Balsam Road, where the head of the trail is well marked. As you hike along the trail, you will begin a moderate climb upward and go through a beautiful pine forest that leads into a grassy meadow with almost 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. It can get windy here, so dress appropriately.

You will hike to a smaller bald first and then approximately another half a mile to Black Balsam Knob. Once you reach the top of the bald, it provides a 360-degree and stunning view of the surrounding Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains.

Sam’s Knob

Sam’s Knob is located in the Pisgah National Forest  close to Waynesville, NC and the peak sits at around 6,040 feet in elevation.

You can reach the trail to Sam's Knob from the Black Balsam access road and parking lot at MP420.2 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

The trail to Sam's Knob begins at the pit toilets at the edge of the parking area and onto an old roadbed. As you hike, you will come to a gorgeous meadow full of flowers and butterflies during the spring and summer. In the distance, on the far side of the meadow, you will see the Sam's Knob ahead.

You'll take a right at the T intersection to head up to the summit. The hike is approximately 2.5 miles round-trip, and the trail is moderate and well maintained.  There are some inclines and steep areas, but your efforts are well worth it once you get to the top.

From the summit of Sam's Knob you will see the surrounding Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. On a clear day, you can see for over 20 miles.

Bring a picnic with you, because you won’t want to leave these views soon!

Craggy Gardens/Craggy Pinnacle - Closed

Currently closed due to the parkway being closed in this area due to damage from Hurricane Helene. 

Craggy Gardens Pinnacle sits on a peak at MP364.1 above the Blue Ridge Parkway at 5,892 elevation. Craggy Gardens is located just north of Asheville NC, and is one of the most beautiful areas and stops along the Parkway. The views from the road-side visitor center are beautiful, but if you hike to the top of the Pinnacle, you'll be rewarded with exceptional high elevation views.

The Craggy Gardens area includes a visitors center, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Although the Craggy Gardens Pinnacle Trail is short, at 1.4 miles round trip, it is a somewhat steep. The trail is beautiful, with a dense forest of birch trees and rhododendrons surrounding the trail on the way up. 

At the top, the views are stunning, and nearly 360 degrees. This is an exceptionally excellent location for viewing a sunrise or sunset. The observation area offers places to sit and you can have a picnic. This is also a popular place for photographers.

Rough Ridge

One of the Top Blue Ridge Parkway Hiking Trails for stellar views is Rough Ridge Trail at milepost 302.8. The trail up the top is just under a mile, but it is strenuous and steep. 

The ridge sits at 4,773-feet in elevation. You will hike the trail from the parking lot directly off the Parkway, up to the boardwalk, which is there to protect the plant growth.

From there, continue to walk towards the ridge itself. On the way, you can enjoy the views which of Grandfather Mountain and Linn Cove Viaduct. Once you reach the ridge, you can enjoy the spectacular long-distance views (on a clear day you may even see the Charlotte skyline). This is a perfect place for a picnic, and a very popular place for a stunning sunrise.

Max Patch

Max Patch is a hidden gem and some even call it the Crown Jewel. Max Patch is found on the Appalachian Trail, in Pisgah National Forest, near the NC and TN border. The summit at Max Patch is at 4,629-feet in elevation bald, offering stunning long distance and 360 degree views.   

The trailhead is located along an old dirt road through the Harmon Den area off I-40. Parking can be an issue during peak seasons, an especially on weekends and holidays. You'll want to arrive early to avoid the crowds and people.

There will be are loop trails, one is 1.4 miles, and the other is 2.4 miles. Both trails begin at the parking area, and large trail sign.  There is a 3rd trail up the middle, but it is not a formal trail, and causes damage to the area when used.

Max Patch isn't the tallest summit on our list or in the Blue Ridge Mountains, but the views from the top are truly stunning,  especially for sunrises and sunsets.  

Max Patch makes for a beautiful place for couples to sit watching the sunset and have a romantic picnic. Max Patch is also very family friendly, and children will enjoy the large fields to play in (don’t forget to bring a kite). Even the family dog can come along!

Devil’s Courthouse - Closed

Currently closed due to the parkway being closed in this area due to damage from Hurricane Helene. 

Devil’s Courthouse is an overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway at MP422 that is a popular stopping point for many traveling on the scenic road. It gets its name from a local Cherokee legend that says the mountain is where the devil (Judaculla in English, and Tsul'Kalu in Cherokee) held court in the caves below the mountain.

To hike to the top you will take a path and trail from the parking lot. While the hike is short, it is very steep, with most of it being paved but turning to gravel and rocks towards the top. This is one of, if not the steepest hikes on the Parkway, but is short.

Once you get to the top, there are gorgeous 360 views all around you from the observation area. There are also places just to sit and relax after the hike. If you have time to stick around for the sunset, you may see a beautiful display of colors in the sky as the sun goes down.

Waterrock Knob

Waterrock Knob is another very popular mountain peak located off the Blue Ridge Parkway at MP451.2 near Maggie Valley NC. 

Waterrock Knob is popular because of the almost 360 view from the parking lot. "The Knob" also has restroom facilities and a visitors center (our friend Gina works there, be sure to tell her hello!). While you are hanging in the parking lot, you can witness some of the most breathtaking sunrises and sunsets on the parkway and in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Waterrock is truly spectacular.

The peak of Waterrock is at 6,292-feet in elevation, making it the highest peak in this area. To access the peak, you'll have to take the hiking trail up to the top, from the parking area. The trail is strenuous, with a round trip distance of only 1.2 miles, but it's steep and can be very rocky in some places. We encourage you to be prepared for a real hike, not a casual stroll.

Pro Tip - The best time to see a sunset is if they are calling for a storm to move in or if a storm is moving out. 

Hawksbill Mountain 

Hawksbill Mountain is located close to the town of Linville, NC and sits at an elevation of 4,009-feet. There are two parking areas and from them you can find the three different trailheads for this area. There are three different trails you can take to the Hawksbill Mountain viewing area.

The first one is Hawksbill Loop Hike, which is less than 3 miles. A much easier, but longer trail is the Upper Hawksbill Trail to the Summit. This hike it adds an extra half a mile to the hike. The last trail is Hawksbill Summit Hike which is less than 2 miles but is much steeper and strenuous.

Once you get to the top, Hawksbill offers incredible 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, and you can even see the Charlotte skyline on a clear day.

Trillium (Trillium spp.) 

Trilliums (also known as wake robins or trinity flowers) are one of the most popular spring flowers in the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains.  They are found in various colors (white, pink, deep red, yellow, and green) and sizes ranging from 8 to 18 inches tall.

They are known for their characteristics of having three petals for each flower with a maroon center sitting in the middle of three leaves.   Trilliums are often found in shaded moist but well-drained areas.

These beautiful flowers are found in late March to early May.

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) flowers grow on slender stems and consist of pure white petals surrounding a bright yellow center. They typically grow to a height of 6-12 inches with distinctive features, lobed leaves that resemble the shape of a human hand. 

Bloodroot prefers partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil like forests and along stream banks.

They typically bloom in early to mid-spring April and May.

Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum) 

Wild Geranium (also known as the Spotted Cranesbill) are lavender or pink in color having five petals. The petals reach 1-2 inches across and have delicate veining in the petals which gives them more appeal. 

They grow in clumps and are usually found in the meadows or the forest edges where the soil is dry to moist. They can get 1-2 feet in size and bloom and bloom in April and May.

Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica) 

Virginia Bluebells(also known as Roanoke bells or Virginia cowslip) are a common flower that begin as pink then grow into a blue-purple color with a trumpet shape the size of a penny and grow in clusters with a light sweet smell.

Their foliage is oval-shaped and has the texture of velvet.  

Their average height is 12 to 24 inches and their width of 12 to 18 inches.  They can be found in moist woodland areas or along streams and rivers. These wildflowers bloom in mid to late April to May for about four to six weeks. 

Dutchman's Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria)  

The name "Dutchman's Breeches" refers to the shape of the flower that resembles the pants worn by Dutchmen in the 18th century.

Dutchman's Breeches has delicate, fern-like leaves that emerge from a bulb in early spring. The leaves are light green and have a feathery texture. The flowers of Dutchman's Breeches hang in rows on long, thin stems and are white or pink in color. They are uniquely shaped like tiny, upside-down pantaloons, with two petals that resemble legs and a third petal that forms a triangular "breeches" shape.

The plant usually grows to about 6 to 12 inches in height.

These wildflowers are found in moist woodlands, meadows, and stream banks. They prefer soils that are rich in organic matter and grow best in partial to full shade.

Dutchman's Breeches bloom in early spring, usually from March to April. The flowers last for about two weeks before the foliage dies back in the summer. 

Trout Lily (Erythronium americanum) 

The Trout Lily is a yellow single flower, having petals and sepals that are bent backward exposing the stamens (male fertilizing organ).  Each stem has one flower each growing 3 to 6 inches in height and has mottled brownish leaves that resemble a trout’s back which is where they get their name. 

The Trout Lily grows in part to fully shaded areas, moist to well-drained areas along riversides and forests.

They bloom mid-spring in May.

Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) 

Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) is known for its umbrella-shaped leaves and striking white flowers.  It typically grows to a height of 1-1.5 feet and has large, deeply lobed leaves that resemble the shape of an umbrella.

The flowers themselves are on a single stem in the center of the leaves and consist of one to two white petals surrounding a bright yellow center.

Mayapple prefers partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil like in the forests and along stream banks.

They typically bloom in early to mid-spring April to May

Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

Wild Columbine (also known as Red Columbine), is a bell-shaped blooming flower coming in shades of mostly red and yellow centers.  Each flower blooms on a long slender stem having five petals that grow backward.  

It grows 1-3 feet in height and has deeply lobed fern-like leaves making it a wonderful flower for hummingbirds.   Wild Columbine likes partially shaded areas and well-drained soil. 

It blooms in late April to early June.

Blue-eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium spp.)

Blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium spp.) is a small wildflower known for its vibrant blue or purple blooms and grass-like foliage.

The blue-eyed grass grows to a height of 6-18 inches and features narrow, grass-like leaves that can grow from a few inches to a foot.  The delicate flowers grow on slender stems and have 6 petals in shades of blue or purple, with a yellow center. 

This is merely a "grass" in name because it is an Iris family member with linear, flattened grass-like foliage that grows in thick, tufted clumps. The green blooming stems are flattened and extensively winged.  

Blue-eyed Grass naturally grows in low woodlands, along river and creeks, damp meadows, and moist roadside ditches.

It typically blooms from late spring to early summer April to May

Jack-In-The-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum)

Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum) is also known as Indian turnip, bog onion, or wild turnip. 

The plant has a unique appearance that resembles a preacher in a pulpit, which is where it gets its name. The "pulpit" is a hood that encloses a spadix or the "preacher" that stands erect in the center. The flower is typically green or brown with white or purple stripes, while the spadix is a greenish-yellow color. 

Jack-in-the-Pulpit can be found in damp and shady forests, wetlands, and meadows it grows up to 1 to 2 feet tall. They thrive in moist, well-drained soils and require some shade to grow.

They usually grow in the spring from April to June.  Once the plant has matured, it produces a single flower that can last for up to three weeks.

Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica)

Spring Beauty is a wildflower that is a small flower that grows up to 6 inches tall. It has hairless stems with narrow, lance-shaped leaves. The leaves are green and slightly glossy, and they usually have a purplish tint at the base.

The Flowers of Spring Beauty are small, star-shaped flowers that grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The petals are usually pink or white with darker pink veins. The flowers are usually half an inch in diameter and have a sweet fragrance.

Spring Beauty likes to grow in woodlands, meadows, and open fields. They prefer moist, well-drained soils and are most commonly found in areas with partial shade.  

Spring Beauty blooms in the early spring, usually from March to May, depending on the climate.  The flowers only last for a few weeks before they start to die off. 

Blue Ridge Mountains Wildflower FAQ

Here are some commonly asked questions about Blue Ridge Mountains Wildflowers, and answers for you.

What kind of flowers are in the Blue Ridge Mountains?

There are many different flowers that can be found in the Blue Ridge Mountains during the spring and summer months, including trillium, bloodroot, wild geranium, wild columbine, and mayapple also some wildflowers are mountain laurel, rhododendron, flame azalea, and butterfly weed.

What are the spring flowers of the Blue Ridge Mountains?

Some of the spring flowers of the Blue Ridge Mountains include Dogwood, Redbud, Trillium, Virginia BlueBells, Redroot, Wild Columbine, Spring Beauty, Dutchman’s Breeches, Jack-in-the-Pulpit and Trout Lily.

When is the best time to see the spring flowers in the Blue Ridge Mountains? 

The best time to see the spring flowers is usually in the months of March to May depending on the elevation as well as the climate

What are the pink flowers on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Although there are many pink flowers along the Blue Ridge here are some of the most common ones to be found, including pink lady's slipper orchids, pink turtleheads, pink coneflowers, and mountain laurel. 

What are typical the first flowers in the spring? 

Depending on location and climate usually trillium (Trillium nivale), harbinger-of-spring (Erigenia bulbosa), and bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis). 

Other early spring flowers in the region include hepatica (Hepatica americana), spring beauty (Claytonia virginica), and trout lily (Erythronium americanum) 

Where can I find spring flowers in the Blue Ridge?

You can find spring flowers in both the local and state parks like Shenandoah National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and Pisgah National Forest.

Are there rare or endangered spring flowers in the Blue Ridge Mountains?

Yes, there are several including including Virginia spiraea, mountain spleenwort, and Appalachian blue violet.