Great American Campout
With Great American Campout just around the corner, we’ve got camping on the mind! This weekend (June 22-23), join families across the country in connecting with wildlife and one another as they sleep under the stars. Right here in Western North Carolina, families can head to Lake Julian Park for a weekend of hikes, a night walk, a scavenger hunt, a traditional campfire, and s’mores.
But, of course, camping isn’t limited to just this weekend. From picking the best camping spot to picking the right camping tent, we’ve got a few tips and tricks up our sleeve — for this weekend and every weekend.
Pick the Best Camping Spot
We’re lucky to call Western North Carolina home. This outdoor mecca of the East is a treasure trove of awesome camping spots, from backcountry to glamping. We’ve picked out a few of our favorites.
Backcountry: Max Patch
With its grassy summit and 360-degree views, Max Patch is the perfect spot for sunrises and sunsets, cloud gazing and stargazing, picnics and frisbee games. Though camping isn’t allowed on the summit itself, several trails lead to backpacking campsites, perfect for overnight trips. Just be sure to pack your camera to capture the jaw-dropping views!
Campground: Linville Falls Campground
Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Linville Falls Campground offers everything from full hook-up sites to primitive tent areas. Nearby are outdoor hot spots such as Linville Falls & Gorge, Grandfather Mountain, Linville Caverns and Gem Mountain. Prime biking trails and fishing spots are also close by!
Glamping: Pisgah Glamping
Looking to enjoy the outdoors and scenery without sacrificing the comforts and luxuries of home? Pisgah Glamping, an Asheville-based recreation area and glamping site, brings luxury to the wilderness. Designed exclusively for Pisgah Glamping, our canvas Wall Tents bring all the comforts of a hotel room to the wild: including a queen bed, foldable cot, bedside table and luggage rack. Each tent accommodates up to four guests, though each site allows up to six, with room for an extra tent or hammock next to the canvas structure.
Pick the Right Camping Tent
Different kinds of outings call for different kinds of tents, from family-friendly to minimalist. We’ve picked out a few of our favorites, so you can ensure you’re picking the best option for your adventure.
Freedome 2 ½
This roomy dome tent is ideal for car campers and weekend warriors who are looking for a family-friendly tent that will last for decades. Built with plenty of space, the Freedome 2 ½ comfortably sleeps two adults and one kid (or one furry companion). With eco-friendly materials, DAC poles and micro-innovations (like light-diffusing pockets and tablet-viewing sleeves) the Freedome 2 ½ puts a modern twist on the classic dome tent.
Combat Tent
For the hardcore. The military-inspired Combat Tent features blackout fabrics, camouflage components, and top-of-line accessories such as Easton stakes. Built to withstand all four seasons, the tent also features military-grade fabrics, water-resistant coating, and stormproof protection such as DAC poles. No worrying about the elements in this bad boy.
Fast Pitch
Sometimes less is more. Looking for a more minimalist option for your next outing? The Fast Pitch’s roomy vestibule maximizes space, while its basic design (just use the fly as your shelter!) cuts some serious weight. One thing’s for sure: you’ll spend less time setting up and way more time exploring nature. Choose from an eco-friendly design or military-inspired version.
