
Davidson River Recreation Area North Carolina
Idyllic riverside camping in Pisgah National Forest, perfect for bikers, hikers, and nature lovers seeking adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Davidson River Recreation Area North Carolina
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Idyllic riverside camping in Pisgah National Forest, perfect for bikers, hikers, and nature lovers seeking adventure.
"We love it here! Been coming back 4 six years."

Book Early! 🗓️
Campsites fill up fast, especially on weekends and during peak season. Reserve your spot well in advance.
Earplugs for Sleep 😴
Some sites near the road can experience noise. Earplugs can help ensure a peaceful night's rest.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Davidson River Access
Campground sites
Enjoy direct access to the river for fishing, wading, and relaxing by the water. Perfect for families and nature lovers.

Proximity to Pisgah & Dupont
Near Brevard, NC
Ideal location for biking enthusiasts, with easy access to world-class trails in Pisgah and Dupont State Recreational Forests.

Clean, Private Campsites
Various loops
Spacious campsites, many offering privacy and a natural setting. Some sites feature private, single-stall restrooms.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Be Prepared for Nature's Soundtrack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Early! 🗓️
Campsites fill up fast, especially on weekends and during peak season. Reserve your spot well in advance.
Earplugs for Sleep 😴
Some sites near the road can experience noise. Earplugs can help ensure a peaceful night's rest.
River Fun 🌊
Kids love playing in the river. Bring water shoes and enjoy the natural playground.
Biking Hub 🚴
Perfect basecamp for exploring Pisgah and Dupont's famous mountain biking trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Early! 🗓️
Campsites fill up fast, especially on weekends and during peak season. Reserve your spot well in advance.
Earplugs for Sleep 😴
Some sites near the road can experience noise. Earplugs can help ensure a peaceful night's rest.
River Fun 🌊
Kids love playing in the river. Bring water shoes and enjoy the natural playground.
Biking Hub 🚴
Perfect basecamp for exploring Pisgah and Dupont's famous mountain biking trails.
Check Water Quality 💧
Water taste can vary. Refill your tank when it tastes good; it can change unexpectedly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Davidson River Campground for its stunning riverside location and proximity to premier biking and hiking trails. The spacious campsites and clean facilities are highlights, though some campers note occasional road noise and variable water taste. Renovations are planned for the restrooms in late 2025.
"A nice campground right outside of Brevard. The location is amazing if you're planning to bike in Pisgah or Dupont, can just bike to the trailhead. Check-in/out was very fast and friendly. Bathrooms were nicely clean by campground standards. On Hemlock loop, the back bathrooms are all private single-stall units."
Walter Piper
"Stayed for 6 nights at the far end loop near the river beach. We enjoyed our stay in our truck camper with our dog. Appreciated the many dog bags available to clean up.
Only issues:
• It is September and leaves are falling so.. 11am on Monday a staff member wanted to leaf blow the site right next to us (maintenance is appreciated, but I am camping to get away from noise and enjoy a bit of nature). Annoying.
• On our loop by the river, the road is right there above on the other side - so there is some road noise - which is only an issue when, for some reason, truck engine breaks are used by folks. We slept with ear plugs.
• Refilled our water tank once and the water tasted good. Refilled on our last day and it tastes very clorinated. Confusing! Gross.
••• They will be redoing the restrooms and doing major renovation from maybe Oct/Nov 2025 – May2026* and will be closed in the time"
Laura
"We've always loved Davidson River Campground. It's right on the river, our kids love playing in it when it's warm. Great hikes close by. Large private campsites compared to others."
Kip Owens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Davidson River Recreation Area is located near Brevard, North Carolina. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage from the main roads. Many visitors use it as a base for exploring the surrounding Pisgah National Forest.
Yes, Davidson River Campground offers sites for both tents and RVs. The campground is situated within Pisgah National Forest, offering a scenic natural setting for RV travelers.
From Asheville, take I-26 E towards Hendersonville, then US-64 W towards Brevard. The campground is well-marked off US-64. The drive is scenic and takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
While Davidson River Campground is a developed campground, dispersed camping is available in other parts of Pisgah National Forest. Popular areas include Headwater and Yellow Gap, but check weekend availability as it can be busy.
From Brevard, head west on US-64 W. The campground entrance will be on your right, clearly marked. It's a short drive from the town center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely! Davidson River Campground is extremely popular and fills up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Booking your campsite well in advance is highly recommended to guarantee a spot.
The recreation area and campground are generally open year-round, but specific hours for check-in/check-out apply to the campground. It's best to check the official Forest Service website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and any potential closures.
Campsite fees vary depending on the type of site and season. It's advisable to check the official reservation system or the Forest Service website for current pricing. Expect fees to be competitive for a well-equipped campground.
While some campgrounds allow walk-ins if space is available, it's strongly advised to book in advance. Many sites are reserved online, and arriving without a reservation, especially on a weekend, could mean no available spots.
The recreation area itself typically does not have a separate entrance fee, but camping fees apply for overnight stays. Day-use visitors can enjoy the river access and trails without charge.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The campground offers flush toilets and hot showers, which are a significant plus for campers. Many sites are spacious and offer a good degree of privacy. Dog waste bags are also provided.
Cell service can be spotty within the campground and surrounding forest areas. It's recommended to download any necessary maps or information offline before you arrive.
Yes, pets are generally allowed at Davidson River Campground, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Remember to clean up after your pet.
You can enjoy fishing in the Davidson River, wading, and relaxing by the water. It's also a prime location for hiking and mountain biking, with access to numerous trails in Pisgah National Forest.
Yes, the area is surrounded by Pisgah National Forest, offering access to stunning hikes like Looking Glass Falls and waterfalls with natural slides like Cove Creek. It's also a great jumping-off point for exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Water Activities
The Davidson River is known for trout fishing. However, some recent visitors have noted a decline in catches since a hurricane, suggesting stocking might be needed. It's still a popular spot for anglers.
While swimming is not officially designated, many visitors enjoy wading and playing in the river, especially during warmer months. The river beach area is a popular spot for this.
Historically, the river is stocked with trout, including brook trout. However, recent reports suggest catches have been lower.
Yes, a valid North Carolina fishing license is required to fish in the Davidson River. You can obtain licenses online or from local bait and tackle shops.
Besides fishing and wading, the river offers a beautiful natural setting for relaxation. Some campers enjoy simply sitting by the riverbank and enjoying the sounds of the water.
📸 📸 Photography & Scenery
The river itself provides beautiful shots, especially with the surrounding forest. Nearby, Looking Glass Falls and other waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest offer stunning photographic subjects.
Absolutely. The combination of the river, lush forests, and proximity to mountain vistas makes it a great spot for landscape photographers. Early mornings and late afternoons often offer the best light.
Yes, the Blue Ridge Parkway is nearby and offers numerous scenic overlooks. Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower, accessible via a short hike, provides panoramic views.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the forest canopy provides some shade.
Drone usage is subject to Forest Service regulations. It's essential to check the specific rules for Pisgah National Forest regarding drone operation to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the campground, the proximity to easily accessible waterfalls like Looking Glass Falls provides exciting day trip options. Gentle hiking trails within Pisgah National Forest are also suitable for younger adventurers. Remember to pack water shoes for river play and be mindful of the natural environment.
🚴 Mountain Bikers
Consider bringing your own bikes or renting from a local shop in Brevard. Many riders rave about the convenience and the ability to easily explore different trail systems from this central hub.
🎣 Anglers
For those seeking a more consistent fishing experience, nearby Lake Powhatan is mentioned as being well-stocked. However, the natural beauty and ambiance of fishing in the Davidson River itself are often the primary draw for visitors to this area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Biking Paradise: Pisgah & Dupont
Pisgah National Forest, in particular, is a mecca for serious mountain bikers, offering miles of singletrack, fire roads, and challenging climbs. Dupont State Recreational Forest is famous for its stunning waterfalls and well-maintained trails, making it a popular choice for day trips. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride through the woods or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, this area has it all.
Pro Tip: Many local bike shops in Brevard offer rentals and can provide trail recommendations based on your experience level.
Riverside Camping & Relaxation
The river provides a natural playground for wading, skipping stones, or simply enjoying the cool mountain air. While fishing is a popular activity here, many visitors find just as much joy in relaxing by the water's edge, reading a book, or picnicking with a view. The ambiance of camping by the river contributes significantly to the overall tranquil and immersive nature experience.
Important Note: While the river is inviting, always supervise children closely and be aware of water currents, especially after heavy rainfall.
Exploring Nearby Waterfalls & Vistas
For panoramic views, venturing onto the Blue Ridge Parkway is highly recommended. A short drive from the campground can lead you to stunning overlooks and hiking opportunities. The Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower, accessible via a relatively short hike, offers expansive vistas that are often described as superior to those from more crowded peaks. These natural attractions provide excellent opportunities for photography and connecting with the grandeur of the Appalachian Mountains.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit