Important Update:
The Forest Service has announced an extension to Davidson River’s Closure until the end of September.
Press Release
from the
U.S. Forest Service - Pisgah Ranger District
Work crews are in their final sprint to reopen the Davidson River Campground. Depending on the weather, the contractor will continue asphalt paving through the month of September with a goal of reopening October 1 (if not sooner). We look forward to welcoming the public back to this beloved campground in timing for the fall leaf season!
Despite their best efforts, the heavy rainfall that has impacted much of Western North Carolina over the last several weeks created an unforeseen challenge for contractors working on site. With the weather forecast anticipated to improve in September, workers will be hard at work making sure the campground is ready for fall. We greatly appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we wrap up this project.
The Scope of the Project
Crews are undertaking a once‑in‑a‑generation investment to modernize and strengthen the campground’s core infrastructure. This comprehensive upgrade program is designed to elevate the visitor experience, improve accessibility, and ensure the site remains safe, resilient, and enjoyable for decades to come. These improvements reflect a long‑term commitment to sustainability, enhanced comfort, and the overall quality of the Davidson River experience.
Here’s what’s underway:
Work Supported by General Contractors
Roadway Repairs: Campground loops and the main access road will be repaved to improve safety and drivability.
Dump Station Expansion: The dump station will be expanded to two lanes to reduce wait times and improve traffic flow.
Utility Upgrades: Electric, water, and sewer systems are being upgraded to meet current standards and support future needs.
Church Bridge Reconstruction: The bridge near the church area will be rebuilt to ensure safe access and long‑term durability.
Bathroom Renovations: Outdated restrooms will be replaced with modern, accessible facilities comparable in design to those at Riverbend.
ALL bathroom buildings will be fully ADA‑accessible!
Work Supported by Naventure
Fiber Optic Installation: High-speed fiber is being installed to support future digital infrastructure and improve communications across the site.
Amphitheater Clean-up: The historic amphitheater will be restored — reviving a space for future programs, gatherings, and interpretive events.
Kiosk Revitalization: Campground kiosks will receive their first major update in over 20 years, featuring refreshed designs, local history, fun facts, and new kid‑friendly kiosks to make information more engaging for all visitors.
Guided Nature Trail: A new short interpretive trail will debut this summer, featuring fun and informative signs about local wildlife, native plants, and the unique ecology of Pisgah. Each trail will include both adult‑focused educational panels and kid‑friendly signs, making it easy for visitors of all ages to learn, explore, and enjoy time outdoors.
Work Supported by the Pisgah Conservancy
Replanting Efforts: Native vegetation will be replanted in disturbed areas to restore the forest floor and support long‑term ecosystem health.
Invasive Plant Removal: Non‑native and invasive plants will be removed to protect native species and promote healthy forest regeneration.
Ground Restoration Efforts: Erosion‑control measures and habitat‑friendly landscaping will help the area recover quickly and blend naturally with the surrounding forest.
These improvements represent a major, long‑overdue investment in the campground’s infrastructure. While some areas may look noticeably different during construction — especially where aging pipes and utilities had to be removed — every effort is being made to restore the landscape and preserve the natural character of Davidson River once the work is complete. We extend our sincere gratitude to the U.S. Forest Service Pisgah Ranger District Office for their leadership, planning, and continued support in the development and stewardship of Davidson River. Their work has been essential in making these upgrades possible and ensuring Davidson River could receive the improvements it needs for the future.
Every party involved greatly appreciates your patience and understanding as these essential improvements move forward. Naventure is proud to support these efforts alongside the Pisgah Conservancy and the general contractors involved. Your support and cooperation play an important role in ensuring this special place remains healthy, accessible, and welcoming for generations to come.
Statement from Our Heart
Bryan Ellis
Pisgah Grounds Manager
“Davidson River holds a special place in the hearts of so many people — mine included. I know this news is disappointing, and I want you to hear it directly from me: we are doing everything we can to get this campground open safely and beautifully. This is a place where families have made memories for generations, and we want to make sure it’s here and better than ever for generations to come. The winter hit us harder than expected, but the team on the ground has not slowed down. We are finishing something that will genuinely serve this community for years to come, and I can’t wait to welcome you back to the river.”
General
Questions
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The project has faced a series of challenges, including last fall’s partial government shutdown, unsuitable soils that required foundation changes, cold weather that delayed concrete work, and design modifications to improve future storm resiliency. These challenges have pushed the reopening later than planned.
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Yes! Brevard and the surrounding area are very much open and ready to welcome you. Dozens of local restaurants, shops, breweries, outfitters, and attractions are here to help you have a memorable visit or family vacation. Even with the campground closed, there is still so much to enjoy.
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Yes! The Art Loeb Trail and surrounding trail network remain open. While you cannot walk through the campground itself due to active construction equipment and safety hazards, the Art Loeb trailhead parking area is open, and there is plenty of space to explore the surrounding forest.
In addition, the Pisgah Ranger Station across the street offers access to several excellent trails, including a family‑friendly loop with a rope bridge. You’ll find both short and long trail options suitable for all ages and experience levels, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors during construction.
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Yes! The Davidson River remains open for fishing throughout construction. Please use caution around riverbanks and follow normal safety practices while enjoying the water.
North Mills River also remains open and is a well‑known fishing spot.
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There is an incredible amount to see, learn, and experience in Brevard. From waterfalls and mountain biking to art galleries, live music, dining, and family activities, there’s something for everyone.
You can also enjoy Sliding Rock, a classic natural waterslide that remains open and offers a fun, refreshing way to experience the area.
For even more ideas, visit brevardnc.org or explorebrevard.com to discover all the adventures waiting for you.
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Reservation Questions
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This is a tentative reopen period with an expected reopen date of October 1st; we will share updates on this page as we receive them. All new bookings must be made through Recreation.gov for stays beginning late summer later.
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My reservation is entirely between May 19 and October 31: Your reservation has been cancelled, and a full refund is being processed. No action is needed on your end. If you would like to rebook for September 1 or later, we would love to have you stay with us.
My reservation begins before Oct. 1 but extends beyond Oct 1:
Action is required. Please choose one of the following options:
OPTION 1 — Cancel your reservation for a full refund: Log in to your Rec.Gov account, navigate to the "My Account" section, and cancel your reservation. A full refund will be processed automatically.
OPTION 2— Modify your reservation to a new start date of Oct 1 or later: Log in to your Rec.Gov account and update your start date. No modification fee will be applied to this change.
**If no action is taken before your original start date, your reservation will be automatically cancelled at that time.
My reservation begins on October 1st or later: Your reservation remains fully intact.
Please note: We are unable to hold, adjust, or move any reservations. All reservations are managed exclusively through Recreation.gov, and any changes or new bookings must be made directly on that platform.
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Yes — you will receive a full refund. Refunds are being processed automatically through Recreation.gov. Timing can vary depending on your bank or payment method, but it should appear soon.
If you haven’t seen it after a reasonable amount of time, please reach out to Recreation.gov directly.
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Yes — new reservations for October 1 and beyond are available.
you’re welcome to make a new reservation for any stay beginning OCtober 1st or later, and all bookings are handled directly through Recreation.gov just like before. You may book online or over the phone at (877) 444 - 6777.
We’re looking forward to welcoming all guests back once we reopen!
Alternative Camping Options
There are several excellent alternatives both inside Pisgah National Forest and nearby:
Lake Powhatan Campground – Located just outside Asheville and offering a variety of sites, including glamping options for those who want the comforts of home while still enjoying the outdoors.
North Mills River Campground – A short drive from Brevard with beautiful riverside sites.
Sunburst Campground– A scenic, more remote option with great access to water and trails.
Wash Creek & Wolf Ford - Both areas are available for dispersed horse camping and offer convenient access to surrounding trails.
Group Sites: White Pines, Kuykendall, Lower Cove Creek, and Upper Cove Creek are all available within Pisgah National Forest and offer fantastic group camping experiences.
Private Lodging & Campgrounds – Brevard has many privately operated cabins, campgrounds, and lodging options. You can explore these through Heart of Brevard or Explore Brevard.
There are plenty of ways to stay close to the forest while still enjoying everything the area has to offer.
Visit Brevard & How to Support Local Business
While the campground may be temporarily closed for improvements, your favorite local restaurants, shops, and outfitters are still open and ready to welcome you!
Naventure encourages all visitors to continue supporting these incredible local businesses that make Brevard such a vibrant and memorable destination.
Brevard offers outstanding food and drinks, unique shopping, live entertainment, and plenty of family‑friendly activities to enjoy year‑round. There are also additional recreation sites throughout Pisgah National Forest, along with private campgrounds and lodging options, to help make your visit or family vacation just as special.