About BRIAR BOTTOM GROUP CAMPGROUND
Overview Briar Bottom Group Campground is the perfect getaway for visitors to enjoy mountain scenery and easy access to hiking trails. The campground sits at the base of Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, in Pisgah National Forest.Recreation With the South Toe River located near the campground, visitors will have no shortage of things to do, including picnicking, day hiking, scenic driving and trout fishing. Hikers will be pleased with a variety of trails from which to choose, including a leisurely half-mile walk through the forest or a challenging 5.6-mile hike up Mt. Mitchell. The adjacent Black Mountain Campground has a playing field, volleyball courts and horseshoe pit available.Facilities The facility has six separate campsites; each can accommodate up to 30 people. Sites are organized around a single loop with individual parking spurs, providing plenty of space for tents. The campground is equipped with flush toilets and campers can use showers at the adjacent Black Mountain Campground. A campground host is available for visitor assistance. Natural Features The campground sits at an elevation of 3,040 feet. The 6,684-foot Mt. Mitchell towers over the area, with several other high peaks of the Black Mountains nearby. The lush forest in this part of the Appalachian Mountains is rich with wildlife, plants and scenery. Nearby Attractions Groups can easily head out for a day of scenic driving along Blue Ridge Parkway or hiking in Mount Mitchell State Park.
How to Get There
From Asheville, North Carolina, take I-26 west to exit 9 onto 19 east toward Burnsville. Follow 19 to Micaville and turn right onto Highway 80. Continue south approximately 12-14 miles to Mount Mitchell Golf Course. Turn right on South Toe River Road and follow signs to Black Mountain Campground. Campers must enter through the main gate at Black Mountain Campground to get to Briar Bottom.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to BRIAR BOTTOM GROUP CAMPGROUND
Heading to BRIAR BOTTOM GROUP CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for BRIAR BOTTOM GROUP CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for BRIAR BOTTOM GROUP CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233947) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BRIAR BOTTOM GROUP CAMPGROUND?
From Asheville, North Carolina, take I-26 west to exit 9 onto 19 east toward Burnsville. Follow 19 to Micaville and turn right onto Highway 80. Continue south approximately 12-14 miles to Mount Mitchell Golf Course. Turn right on South Toe River Road and follow signs to Black Mountain Campground. Campers must enter through the main gate at Black Mountain Campground to get to Briar Bottom.
How do I contact BRIAR BOTTOM GROUP CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 828 675-5616 or email: cfaiacamp@citcom.net.
References & Official Resources
