There’s something spellbinding about the Appalachians. Their rugged beauty is softened by a harmony that every traveler recognizes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are a place of adventure and of peace. But while majestic scenery is often first thing in the mind of a prospective camper, there is something else that’s equally attractive — a sense of community. And among the RV parks in Western North Carolina, there is a place where you can experience both the beauty of the land and the dignity of the people. A place that is immersed in the wild but only a short drive from Asheville. That place is Rutledge Lake RV Park Resort.
So, let’s take a moment to share what Rutledge Lake RV Park Resort so special — from its luscious backdrop to its Appalachian culture.
Why Stay at Rutledge Lake RV Park
As an RVer, it’s not always easy to find a park that offers the scenery and seclusion you crave. Much less one that is a convenient distance from a vibrant and eclectic city. Asheville, North Carolina is one of the hottest attractions in the American South. In 2023 alone, the city welcomed almost 14 million visitors. While many RV parks in the area are at least 45 minutes away from the city, at the Rutledge Lake RV Park Resort, you can have the views that epitomize the region — and still be only 15 minutes from Asheville. All in the warm embrace of a family-owned park that exemplifies the hospitality of Appalachia.
Things to Know About the Park
Rutledge Lake RV Park is nestled in the town of Fletcher, North Carolina. The resort is cradled by dense forested peaks surrounding the region. Known for its friendly vibes and strong sense of community, the park is home to both short- and long-term RVers. The park is equipped with pull-through sites, back-in sites, and full hookups. They can accommodate an RV from 10 feet to 50 feet in length. Additionally, the on-site general store means you can rest at ease if you need some milk for your coffee in the morning.
At your campsite, keep an eye out for some unique wildlife! Not only will you see ducks and geese, and hawks diving down into the placid waters, there have also been sightings of rare white squirrels in the park.
Staying Busy on Site
- Events. The park hosts regular events, including Halloween contests and trick-or-treating for kids. They update their social media, on instagram @rutlegdelake and Facebook Rutledge Lake RV Park Resort, to keep everyone abreast of local events.
- Trails. There are lovely walking trails in the woods around the lake on park grounds, as well as a park for kids and a dog park.
- Boats. The park has canoes and paddle boards for use around the lake. But don’t fall in! There are some impressive species of fish here. Speaking of which …
- Fishing. The lake is full of bluegill, carp, and catfish. Don’t be alarmed if you see some dinosaurs showing their scales at the lake’s edge. A few of the resident carp and catfish are over five feet in length! One catfish that hangs out regularly under the dock is over four feet long. The locals have a well-earned nickname for it: Jaws. (And if you’re wondering about cooking the fish you catch, I can help with that too.)
- Rec Center. Te resort’s recreation center is equipped with a kitchenette, a pool table, and a ping pong table. This is also a great place to host birthday parties and other events if the park is amenable to it.
Tips and Advice on Navigating the Park
- Roads. Like many mountain roads, the sharp curves and switch backs can be tricky to navigate with an oversized rig. Make sure that you have some experience towing your RV on tight winding roads before you make this trek.
- Bears. Western North Carolina has arguably more bears than it does deer. I personally have seen more bears in this region than any other mammal. (Aside from squirrels and, you know, humans.) To some outsiders, this can be alarming. While staying at an RV park in West Asheville this summer, I watched a black bear surprise a woman sitting outside her camper-van. He snuck up behind her, curious and intent upon entering her van. That was a sight that will forever be etched in my memory. But if you encounter a bear: Don’t worry. They are usually friendly. But if you see babies, take a few calm and slow steps backwards.The biggest problem with black bears in the area is your trash. Please be responsible and put it in the designated bear boxes at the park, and don’t leave any morsels of food lying around at night.
Booking a Site at Rutledge Lake RV Park Resort
The Rutledge RV Park Resort is open year-round. Campsites range in daily price from $65 to $84, depending on the time of year (like holiday), campsite location (deluxe or lakefront), and whether you have a discount. Concerning the latter, they off a 10 percent discount for military, AAA, Good Sam, and AARP members, as well as senior citizens. The park also have cabins available that range from about $115 to $132 a night.
The best way to book your stay is to reserve your campsite online. But you can also call the front desk at 828-654-7873. (For cabins, all reservations must be made by phone.) Check in for RVs is at 1 p.m., and the check out time is at noon.
Asheville: On and Off the Beaten Path
I think what makes Asheville so magical, is the immense diversity of people, activities, and tradition. Want to learn archery off the back of a galloping horse? There’s an Asheville group for that. From aerial arts to tequila tasting, from rock climbing to comedy tours on a bus, Asheville has the broadest spectrum of colorful and diverse activities for every type of individual. Here are some favorites to choose from:
On the Beaten Path
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