Boondocking in Post-Hurricane North Carolina: Safe Spots, Family Adventures, and What You Need to Know

Hurricane Helene didn’t just knock—she barged in like an uninvited guest, leaving a mess that no one could ignore. Towns like Asheville, Swannanoa, and Spruce Pine took a serious beating, with flooding that turned roads into rivers and parks into puddles. Homes, businesses, and trails weren’t spared, and while some areas are slowly bouncing back, others still have a long way to go.

Seeing the damage firsthand was both heartbreaking and humbling. It’s tough to explain to toddlers why their favorite hiking trail is now a mudslide. Or why their “adventure snacks” are being eaten in the RV instead of a scenic picnic spot. But here’s the thing—North Carolinians are some of the most resilient people I’ve met. They’re rolling up their sleeves, rebuilding, and proving that even after Mother Nature throws a tantrum, community spirit can shine.

For those of us traveling in a 40-foot RV (with dogs, toddlers, and an ever-growing pile of “road trip essentials”), this means adjusting plans and being ready to pivot. Some spots are still no-go zones, so it’s crucial to do your homework. Trust me, nothing is worse than driving up a narrow mountain road only to find out the bridge is out. (Been there, done that, and let’s just say it wasn’t fun.)

If you’re curious about the nitty-gritty details of Helene’s impact—and want to see the full scope of her chaos—check out this AP News article about Hurricane Helene’s aftermath. It’s a good read, but be warned: you might find yourself tearing up and cheering for the people who are making a comeback, all in the same breath.

Whether you’re a seasoned boondocker or just testing the waters, navigating post-hurricane North Carolina is all about flexibility, a sense of humor, and a little extra planning. With a dash of patience (and plenty of snacks for the kiddos), you can still find those magical spots that make this state worth exploring.

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Where You Can Safely Boondock in North Carolina

Despite Hurricane Helene’s unwelcome visit, there are still plenty of amazing places to boondock in North Carolina. These spots aren’t just open—they’re rolling out the welcome mat for visitors. By stopping at these locations, you’re not only treating yourself to beautiful views but also helping support local businesses that are bouncing back. Win-win, right?

1. Banner Elk, Boone, and Beech Mountain

•Why Go: These cozy mountain towns were spared the worst of Helene’s wrath, making them perfect for a peaceful getaway. Banner Elk’s charm is off the charts, Boone has that college-town vibe with a dash of outdoorsy cool, and Beech Mountain? It’s literally the highest town on the East Coast.

•My Take: My kids thought Beech Mountain was “on top of the world,” and my dogs were thrilled by the crisp mountain air. Me? I was just happy they all slept well after a day of running around.

•What to Do: Visit the Banner Elk Winery, check out Tweetsie Railroad in Boone, and hike the Emerald Outback trails in Beech Mountain.

•Helpful Links: Explore Boone | Banner Elk Info | Beech Mountain

2. Hendersonville

•Why Go: This vibrant town near Asheville is open for business and bursting with charm. Downtown Hendersonville is full of mom-and-pop shops, incredible eats, and welcoming locals. It’s also a great base for exploring nearby hiking trails.

•My Take: The kids loved the Hands On! Children’s Museum downtown, and the dogs scored big at the Oklawaha Greenway trail. Bonus: Hendersonville has cideries galore, and let’s just say I didn’t leave thirsty.

•What to Do: Stroll Main Street, explore Dupont State Recreational Forest, or enjoy a cider flight at Bold Rock.

•Helpful Links: Hendersonville Tourism

3. Brevard

•Why Go: Waterfalls galore and easy access to Pisgah National Forest make Brevard a boondocking favorite. While some forest roads are still closed, the majority of this gem is open and waiting to be explored.

•My Take: One of my toddlers called it “Waterfall World,” and honestly, they weren’t wrong. The pups had a blast splashing around, too. Just don’t forget a towel—wet dogs and RVs aren’t a great combo.

•What to Do: Hike to Looking Glass Falls, explore the Cradle of Forestry, or bike along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

•Helpful Links: Explore Brevard

Parks and Trails: What’s Open and What’s Closed

North Carolina’s state parks have been hard at work getting back to normal, but not all of them are ready for visitors just yet. Here’s the scoop:

Open or Partially Open Parks

•Elk Knob State Park: Stunning views and excellent hiking. Just be ready for some uphill climbing—it’s worth it!

•Lake James State Park: Perfect for water lovers. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake’s calm waters.

•Stone Mountain State Park: The trails and waterfalls here are breathtaking, and it’s a boondocker’s dream for peace and quiet.

•My Take: Stone Mountain felt like a hidden retreat. My toddlers played “rock explorers,” and my dogs claimed a shady spot to snooze. I, of course, claimed the snacks.

•Helpful Links: NC State Parks

Still Closed Parks

•Chimney Rock State Park: Significant storm damage means this iconic spot is still off-limits.

•Mount Mitchell State Park: The highest peak east of the Mississippi is a no-go for now.

•South Mountains State Park: Sadly, this beauty is still recovering from flooding.

•Pro Tip: Before heading out, double-check each park’s status. Trust me, it’s way better to spend five minutes on the phone than trying to back your RV down a washed-out road.

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How to Prepare for Your Boondocking Adventure

•Call Ahead: Most places are doing their best to reopen, but conditions can change quickly. Give a quick call to confirm before you hit the road.

•Stay Flexible: Your favorite park might still be closed, but it’s a great chance to explore somewhere new.

•Support Local: These communities rely on tourism, so stop for lunch, grab a coffee, or snag a souvenir to help them rebuild.

•Helpful Gear: Don’t forget essentials like a portable fire pit (some areas don’t allow ground fires), all-weather RV mats, and a reliable road atlas (This is what I use and its excellent) in case GPS decides to quit on you.

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Boondocking Essentials for Families and Pets

When you’re hitting the road with toddlers and dogs, preparation isn’t just important—it’s survival. Add a post-hurricane twist to the mix, and suddenly your packing list needs to cover everything from freezing nights to surprise mud baths. Here are the must-haves that have saved my sanity (and possibly my RV’s upholstery):

Winter Survival Gear

•Heated Water Hose: Say goodbye to frozen pipes and hello to a warm shower. Trust me, waking up to a                         frozen hose is not the way to start your day. Grab one here.

•Portable Space Heater: Keep the RV toasty, especially for the little ones and furry friends. We love this                         energy-efficient model.

•Thermal Blankets: Perfect for snuggling toddlers, dogs, and—let’s be honest—yourself. These lightweight    but warm blankets are a lifesaver.

Summer Essentials

•Solar-Powered Fan: Keep the RV (and your family) cool without draining the battery. This compact fan is a game-changer.

•Dog Cooling Vests: My pups thought these were weird at first, but now they’re obsessed. Bonus: no more overheated panting marathons. Get one here.

•Sunshade Canopy: Whether it’s for lounging outside or keeping the RV cooler, a pop-up canopy is a must-have.

General Must-Haves

•Portable Dog/Toddler Fence: Yes, its not a mistake! I use it for both my toddlers and my dog babies!!!! Let your pups roam without worrying about wandering off. We swear by this easy-to-set-up fence.

•Outdoor Rug: Keeps dirt, mud, and whatever else the dogs and kids drag in at bay. This all-weather rug works like magic.

•First Aid Kit: For cuts, scrapes, and the inevitable toddler “boo-boo.” Get a complete kit and keep it handy. Make sure its FAE certified!!!

•Pet Travel Kit: Includes collapsible bowls, waste bags, and an emergency leash. This kit has it all.

Bonus Tips for Happy Boondocking

1.Stock Snacks: Happy toddlers = happy parents. Load up on easy-to-grab snacks like granola bars or fruit pouches.

2.Paw Wipes: Muddy paws are inevitable—be prepared with a stash of pet wipes.

3.Portable Washer: Okay, this one’s a splurge, but it’s amazing for cleaning up after muddy kids and pets. Check it out here. I mean if you have toddlers like me, you know this is sooooo important!

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Pro Parent & Pet Hacks

Entertainment Pack

•For Toddlers: Keep a stash of books, toys, and a tablet loaded with their favorite shows or educational apps.                             My go-to picks include:

•Interactive Toddler Books that keep little hands busy.

•A Compact Toy Organizer to keep the chaos contained.

•A Kid-Friendly Tablet, pre-loaded with shows and games, so you don’t burn through your data.

•For Dogs: Don’t forget their favorites!

•This Durable Chew Toy keeps them entertained for hours.

With the right gear and a few simple hacks, you can keep your crew—human and furry—happy and entertained, no matter where your boondocking adventure takes you.

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Final Thoughts

Boondocking in North Carolina might take a little extra planning post-Hurricane Helene, but trust me—it’s worth it. From mountain towns to waterfall-filled forests, there’s still so much to see and do. And hey, with a sense of humor, a flexible itinerary, and a few snacks to keep the kiddos happy, your North Carolina adventure will be one for the books.

Got a favorite boondocking spot in NC? Drop it in the comments—I’m always looking for new places to explore!

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