Waterfalls, fall color, and dispersed camping along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Pisgah NF wraps Asheville with mountains, waterfalls, and rhododendron tunnels. Dispersed camping is allowed on most forest roads, with the Blue Ridge Parkway threading through it for endless overlooks.
Why it's special
Eastern hardwood forest at its richest. Fall color in October is among the best in the country, and waterfalls are everywhere.
Best time to go
April–June and September–November. Fall color peaks mid-October.
Getting there
Asheville, NC is the hub. NC-215 and US-276 access the heart of the forest.
Know before you go
- Black bears are present and habituated in some areas.
- Rain is frequent; roads can get greasy.
- Cell service: limited.
- Stay 200 ft from water sources when dispersed camping.
Pro tips from boondockers
- Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock are crowded; go early.
- FR 475 (Davidson River area) is a classic dispersed corridor.
- Asheville for serious resupply, brewery, and food scene.
- Hunting season — wear orange in fall.
Combine with
Great Smoky Mountains NP, Nantahala NF, Blue Ridge Parkway.