Basecamp at Black Mountain Campground
Nestled at the base of Mount Mitchell and close to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Black Mountain Campground in Pisgah National Forest serves as a great basecamp to explore the area with plenty of on-site adventures.
When the sweltering heat of summer in the city has taken its toll on the family, then head up past 3,000ft where the nights dip down into the 50's and the mild, much less humid days are built for exploring the Appalachians.
Setting up a basecamp at Black Mountain campground will give you access to a lot of adventure without ever having to get back in the rig again until you break camp. After a 4pm check-in, a great post-ride hike is the short 1/2-mile round trip up to Setrock Creek Falls. The trail picks up near Campsite #15 (which is without a doubt the jewel of the 41 available) and then brushes again by the Toe River.
Campground Trailheads
Setrock Creek Falls itself is a charming location with some big boulders, nooks, and crannies to explore. In the summer months you can still make it back to camp to prepare dinner and get a campfire started before the sun dips behind Mt. Mitchell.
With trailheads right from camp, there is a hike for all levels – difficult to easy:
- Mt Mitchell: 11.2 miles RT to Mt Mitchell (6684 ft) - strenuous
- Green Knob: 6.4 miles RT -difficult
- Higgins Bald Trail: 2.6 miles RT - moderate
- River Loop, upper: 3.7 miles moderate
- River Loop, lower: 2.5 miles- easy
- Devil’s Den Nature Trail: 1.4 miles RT - easy
- Setrock Creek Falls Trail: 0.4 mile RT - easy
Maps are available at the camp office and the friendly camp hosts are happy to point you in the right direction.
The Toe River
Spend any time in camp and the one thing you'll be pleasantly surprised by is the constant babble of the Toe River. Renowned for its fly fishing, the South Toe River is also great for tubing, swimming, and a whole of host of water play activities. Three designated picnic tables are located along the bank, all with easy water access.
