FIND Outdoors, a 47-year-old nonprofit based in Pisgah Forest, is working closely with the US Forest service to safely reopen Black Mountain, Carolina Hemlocks and Briar Bottom Campgrounds beginning June 15, 2020.
The two campgrounds, located on the Appalachian Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest and just outside of Burnsville, NC, are situated on the South Toe River just within sight of Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak in NC. Both areas offer visitors a chance to explore the nooks and crannies of pristine forests, clear waters and recreational opportunities that would make any outdoor enthusiast green with envy.
“We’ve been working closely with the Appalachian Ranger District to make sure every aspect of safety is a priority,” explained Natalie Britt, Executive Director for FIND Outdoors. “We’re so excited to give these incredible areas the attention they deserve for our forest users very soon!”
According to Judy Doyle, Director of Campgrounds for FIND Outdoors, all campsites at Black Mountain, Briar Bottom and Carolina Hemlocks will reopen on June 15, 2020, however Briar Bottom group campground will have a reduced capacity of only 20 campers until July 15, 2020. “We are thrilled to open these well-loved facilities,” Doyle commented about the reopening. “These areas are such a staple in the community. The proximity to Mt. Mitchell and the Blue Ridge Parkway makes it the perfect spot for a getaway.”
In addition to the limited numbers at Briar Bottom, the rental pavilion at Carolina Hemlocks along the South Toe River will remain closed until July 15 and the day use parking area will have a reduced capacity. “Protecting the health and safety of our staff and visitors is paramount,” said Doyle of the decision. “It’s so important to adhere to safety guidelines now to make sure that we can offer these areas in full capacity in the future.”
While the fresh air, forested trails and time spent outdoors is enticing to so many Americans right now, FIND Outdoors strongly encourages the public to bring their own face coverings for the safety of others. “It’s still all about making sure you’re protecting the people around you that are also enjoying these beautiful sites,” concluded Doyle. “It’s our job to recreate responsibly.” #recreateresponsibly #gofindoutdoors
About FIND Outdoors
FIND Outdoors, formerly Cradle of Forestry in America Interpretive Association, is a 47-year-old 501(c)(3) nonprofit with headquarters in Pisgah Forest, NC at the entrance to Pisgah National Forest. FIND’s mission promotes educational, recreational and interpretive opportunities about forest and water resources, natural history, and the Cradle of Forestry in America. FIND Outdoors serves approximately 800,000 visitors each year with over 150 educational and recreational programs, special events, and tours, and manages 21 recreation, education and camping facilities in North Carolina, Georgia and Indiana; offers to the public environmental education programs and forest-related gifts, educational books and other resources; and provides partnership opportunities for the health, safety and education of all forest users on local and regional public and private lands.
