Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area - Burnsville, NC
Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area – Dog-Friendly Adventures in Burnsville, NC
Located in the beautiful mountains of Burnsville, North Carolina, Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area offers a scenic retreat for campers, hikers, and dog lovers alike. While not a traditional fenced dog park, this pet-friendly area features plenty of walking and hiking trails along the stunning South Toe River, making it an excellent choice for those seeking dog-friendly hiking adventures. The trails are known for their steep elevation gains and rewarding views, perfect for energetic pets and their owners eager for a challenge.
Families appreciate the park’s amenities including well-kept bathrooms, warm showers, picnic spots under shade trees, and river access for swimming and playing. Although dogs must remain on a leash throughout the park and there isn’t an off-leash or fenced area, the natural setting, scenic water, and friendly atmosphere create a memorable outing for both people and their pups. Ample parking, restrooms, and the close-knit, community-focused vibe are just a few reasons visitors return to this cherished dog-friendly spot in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs must be kept on leash while in the park and on trails.
- Are there water areas or swimming for dogs? Dogs can enjoy access to the South Toe River, though the water is quite cold, even in summer months.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there are large shade trees and covered areas for picnics.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, well-maintained restrooms and showers are on site.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, several pet-friendly hiking trails originate from Carolina Hemlocks, with options for casual walks as well as challenging hikes.
- Is there a fee or membership required? Day-use visitors pay a parking fee.
- Are there staff or rangers present at the park? Yes, staff are present and maintain the park facilities.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there is a playground and open space for kids.
- Is there parking available? Yes, there is ample parking, though it can be limited at trailheads.
Reviews
Been here twice, and it’s one of our favorite campsites. We’ve stayed on the “main side” by the river and the “back side” on the other side of the highway. The back side was less crowded, and you were not as close to other people. But on the main side you have the obvious perks of beautiful views of the river and hearing the river the entire night. Also the bathrooms are closer on the main side. Would definitely come again (and again) on either side
My grandson had his birthday party there. Beautiful place. Camping, swimming but its mountain water, very cold even in the hottest months. Worth the drive.
Nice campground, very scenic. There are some nice campsites and some need work. Some of the tent sites are not flat. The bathrooms are nice and the showers are relatively warm. Very limited cell service. There are many places to sit by the South Toe River.
The campground is ridiculously priced for sites that are right on top of each other and separated by a state highway making all the upper number sites cross that to access the river or the only showers. All other visitors pay daily parking fees and I feel like with all that funding it should be much nicer with more amenities available. That said the river was beautiful and a lot of fun to float.
My family and I stayed at Carolina Hemlock’s this weekend, and we have been absolutely impressed at the host team working the campground. Neither one of them have stopped the entire time we have been here. The campground has been very busy with people here for the day and campers. The rains have made quite a mess out of the showers and bathrooms, and they have been keeping them clean nonstop. Very polite and cordial on top of that. Great experience! Thank you.