Campgrounds in the western mountain region of North Carolina and South Carolina have remained “open and accessible” following Hurricane Helene’s impact.
The Carolinas Association of Campgrounds & RV Parks (CARVC) confirmed that while some areas are still in recovery efforts, most campgrounds are operational and ready to accommodate guests.
According to a press release, Dee Witting, executive director of CARVC, reported that campground operators are consistently updating with status reports. These updates include damage assessments and indications of significant cancellations, leading to an urgent need for bookings to fill the vacant campsites.
“Our campgrounds, whether or not they were directly affected by the hurricane, are suffering financially from cancellations during the typically lucrative fall travel season,” said Witting. Witting emphasized the importance of informing the public that camping in North Carolina is safe, not only for leisure travel but also for those participating in clean-up and recovery efforts.
Tim Murphy, owner of Emberglow Outdoor Resort in Mill Spring, NC, also highlighted the need for accurate information regarding the region’s camping status. “There could be a campground with only minor damage three miles from a campground that was destroyed,” he stated.
Murphy reported that his park experienced only minor damage, which has since been mostly addressed. He and his team are committed to supporting their local community by serving as a base camp for volunteers and leisure travelers alike. The ongoing restoration of power and the clearance of roads have also improved conditions, allowing for the resumption of normal operations.
“With power being restored, roads being cleared, and flood waters receding, the biggest threat to our area now is losing an entire fall camping and tourism season,” Murphy explained.
He expressed gratitude for the camping community, recognizing their generous spirit and the potential impact of tourism on local recovery efforts. He encouraged campers to patronize area businesses that rely on tourist income while volunteering for local recovery initiatives.