Asheville Correctional Center: Overview

Asheville Correctional Center, located in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina, is a medium-security prison for adult males. Officially known as Craggy Correctional Center, it houses a population of 408 inmates and offers both medium and minimum-security classifications. The facility primarily focuses on rehabilitation and reentry programs, equipping inmates with vocational training, educational programs, and substance abuse recovery. Minimum-custody inmates can work on community assignments, such as road crews or within correctional industries like laundry services​

Asheville Correctional Center main building in Asheville, NC.

Contact Information for Asheville Correctional Center

  • Address: 2992 Riverside Drive, Asheville, NC 28804
  • Mailing Address: P.O. Box 8909, Asheville, NC 28814
  • Phone: (828) 645-5315
  • Inmate Mailing Address: Inmate Name, ID Number, Craggy Correctional Center, P.O. Box 8909, Asheville, NC 28814

Visiting Information at Asheville Correctional Center

Visiting an inmate at Asheville Correctional Center requires advanced approval. Visitors must submit an application, which needs to be approved by the prison administration before any visit can take place. Once approved, visits occur on a rotating schedule based on the inmate’s last name. Currently, visiting hours are on Sundays with multiple available slots:

  • 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
  • 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
  • 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

When visiting, guests should dress conservatively and be aware of the facility’s strict rules on permissible items. Visitors are allowed to bring minimal personal items, such as ID, car keys, and a small amount of cash. Visits typically last for about 2 hours, depending on the inmate’s custody level. The institution also offers video visitation options for those unable to travel to the prison​

How to Book a Visit to Asheville Correctional Center

Booking a visit at Asheville Correctional Center requires visitors to first complete an application. Once approved, visitors can schedule their appointments based on the inmate’s visitation slot. Visitors need to provide valid identification and confirm their appointment 24 hours prior to the visit. Up to three people can attend the visit at a time

Directions and Parking at Asheville Correctional Center

Located at 2992 Riverside Drive, Asheville Correctional Center is situated in the scenic outskirts of Asheville, North Carolina. If driving, visitors can access the facility via I-26 or I-40, following signs toward Riverside Drive. There is ample parking available for visitors on site. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is recommended for most visitors​(

 

What is Life Like Inside Asheville Correctional Center?

Life at Asheville Correctional Center involves a structured daily routine with a focus on rehabilitation and preparation for reentry into society. Inmates participate in various programs, including vocational training in fields such as laundry services, building maintenance, and culinary work. The center also offers educational courses where inmates can earn a GED, along with a 28-day substance abuse treatment program known as “A New Direction”

Recent reports highlight the center’s efforts to alleviate staff shortages, a challenge faced by many correctional facilities across the state. Despite this, Asheville Correctional Center continues to focus on maintaining a safe and supportive environment for its inmate population​

Famous Prisoners at Asheville Correctional Center

As a medium-security facility primarily for rehabilitation, Asheville Correctional Center has not housed many widely known prisoners. However, it has been part of North Carolina’s correctional system since 1989 and continues to play a vital role in rehabilitating inmates through various programs​

FAQs about Asheville Correctional Center

  1. What is the capacity of Asheville Correctional Center?

    • Asheville Correctional Center can house up to 408 inmates​
  2. How can I send mail to an inmate at Asheville Correctional Center?

    • Mail should be addressed to the inmate using their full name and ID number, sent to P.O. Box 8909, Asheville, NC 28814​
  3. How do I book a visit to Asheville Correctional Center?

    • Visitors must first apply and be approved before scheduling a visit. Call the facility or check the website for available visiting slots​
  4. Are there rehabilitation programs at Asheville Correctional Center?

    • Yes, the facility offers vocational training, GED education, and a substance abuse treatment program called “A New Direction”
  5. Can I visit an inmate any day of the week?

    • Visits are limited to Sundays, and you must call ahead to confirm the schedule​
  6. How long does a typical visit last?

    • Visits typically last for 2 hours, though the exact time may vary based on the schedule and inmate custody level
  7. Does Asheville Correctional Center offer video visitation?

    • Yes, video visitation is available as an option for families unable to visit in person
  8. Is there a dress code for visitors?

    • Yes, visitors are required to dress modestly, and strict rules govern what can be brought into the facility​
  9. What security level is Asheville Correctional Center?

    • Asheville Correctional Center is a medium-security facility, with some minimum-security inmates as well​
  10. How can I contact Asheville Correctional Center?

  • You can contact the facility by calling (828) 645-5315 or mailing P.O. Box 8909, Asheville, NC

     

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