Twice, when there was no openings in the surrounding Shining Rock area, we found space at Sunburst. All 10 sites are first-come first-serve; the lack of reservations keeps this intimate campground off the radar of most tent travelers. Hikers will love the fact that a short hike up FR 97 takes you to the 6-mile Haywood Gap Trail, which penetrates the Middle Prong Wilderness. Or, take a short drive on up NC 215 and pick up the Mountains-to-Sea Trail just before the Blue Ridge Parkway: go right into the Middle Prong, go left into the scenic Sam’s Knob/Little Sam’s Knob/Black Balsam/Shining Rock area.
Expert Picks
Scott WoodWhy is a shoe in the travel section? Because, I never knew what shoes to wear to the airport until these came along. They are super comfortable, light, slip on and off easily for TSA, and yet are totally fine for the hotel gym, a morning run or even an unplanned hike. This is the way to go for travel.
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmSuch an easy and fast way to purify water on the trail or on a trip. Easily the fastest and most user friendly water treatment system I have used.
Chapel Hill
Amy QuinnThese flip-flops are so comfortable! Even my husband, who does not like flip-flops, wears these.
Raleigh
Bittu AliThe Pro Angler with 360 Mirage Drive is Hobie’s top-of-the-line, no compromise human powered Kayak Fishing solution. You will not find a more full-featured and capable pedal drive Fishing Kayak.
Raleigh
Amy QuinnI love this shirt! Nice and lightweight, and not too clingy for those hot summer days. I especially love the floral print!
Raleigh
Amy QuinnI’m so glad they’re making these for girls too! I love the sun protection and the graphics are so cute.
Raleigh
Amy QuinnMy son hates wearing sunscreen, which is why he wears this shirt! It’s such high quality, I know we’ll be able to hand it down, which is an added bonus.
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmMy workhorse harness ‘biner- big enough for everything you need to clip to it. Hot forged with a bomber lock.
Chapel Hill
