Pink Beds Picnic Shelter

About

Pink Beds Picnic Shelter is a day-use picnic facility in Pisgah National Forest, named for the rhododendron, mountain laurel, and azalea that bloom in spring and summer. At 3,280 feet elevation, it sits in a relatively flat valley sustaining large pine trees and rare mountain bogs. This is NOT an overnight campground; camping is explicitly prohibited. The reservable shelter accommodates groups up to 40 people and is located about 100 yards from the parking area. The picnic area includes 21 tables, grills, flush toilet restrooms (closed mid-November through late March), and a historic Civilian Conservation Corps gazebo. No potable water is available on site. The Pink Beds Loop Trail, an easy 5-mile hike, begins from the parking area. The site is adjacent to the Cradle of Forestry in America Historic Site and four miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and Sliding Rock Recreation Area.

Directions

From Pisgah Ranger Station/Visitor Center parking lot, turn right onto US 276. Drive north approximately 10 miles to Pink Beds Picnic Area. The facility is located along Hwy 276 (Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway), 4 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and 11 miles from the intersection of Hwy 280 and US 64 in Pisgah Forest, NC.