
Mitchell County
Mitchell County, the County was formed
at the start of the Civil War, and until 1911 encompassed
most of present-day Avery County, North Carolina. County
government is of the county manager/county commission type,
with 5 sitting Board members. There are two incorporated
towns in Mitchell County. The county seat is Bakersville, in
the northern section, with a population of about 500. The
County's largest town is Spruce Pine, located in the
southern section, which has a population of about 2,500.
Both towns feature the mayor/town council form of
government.
The county is well-known for its
scenery. It is home to Roan Mountain, which has the largest
naturally-occurring rhododendron gardens in the world.
Bakersville pays homage to the blooming of those gardens
each June during the North Carolina Rhododendron Festival,
which is held at Bowman Middle School. The Blue Ridge
Parkway skirts the southern sections of the county, with
many places to stop off and admire the beautiful scenery of
the area. Mitchell County is bounded by the highest peak
east of the Mississippi River, Mount Mitchell, which is
located in neighboring Yancey County and by one of the
oldest mountains in the world, Grandfather Mountain, located
in adjoining Avery County.
Mitchell County is also known for its
rich trove of gems and minerals. The world-famous North
Carolina Mineral and Gem Festival, one of the oldest
festivals of its kind, makes Spruce Pine and Mitchell County
its home each August. Rock hounds from around the world
descend on the region to explore the vast treasures stored
underground.
Campgrounds and Cottages within 50 miles.
Cottages
Campgrounds |
Catawba Falls Campground Old Fort, 828-668-4831 WiFi available |
Springmaid Mountain, Spruce Pine 828-297-0725 |
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Marion 828-652-7208 |