Campers visiting the Traphill area can explore diverse backcountry options beyond the established campgrounds. Located in the foothills where Wilkes County meets the Blue Ridge, the terrain rises from approximately 1,200 feet to over 2,500 feet at Stone Mountain's summit. Backcountry camping sites at Stone Mountain State Park require a 1.5-mile uphill hike and offer creek-side locations with varying degrees of privacy from neighboring sites. Winter camping remains available at several locations when temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails at Stone Mountain: Access multiple trail systems directly from Stone Mountain State Park Campground, including routes to waterfalls and scenic overlooks. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," notes Joe B., who rated the park 5 stars. The iconic Stone Mountain Loop trail connects to the campground and provides access to the park's namesake granite dome.
Paddling the New River: Wagoner — New River State Park serves as a base for river activities with paddle-in camping options. One visitor reported, "The park is spread out over several different, disconnected properties throughout the county which offered a lot of different recreational opportunities... Overall the park has miles and miles of blue way." The gentle current makes this section ideal for novice paddlers.
Mountain biking at W. Kerr Scott Reservoir: Ride directly from Bandits Roost Campground to access lakeside trail networks. "Rode the bike trails and loved it. Did some kayaking too," shares Kelley G. The trails accommodate various skill levels with both wooded sections and open waterfront routes.
Wine tasting: Multiple vineyards operate within short distances of camping areas. As one Byrd's Branch Campground visitor noted, "The trails headed east toward Elkin and Grassy Creek Winery are more of an easy hike, with plenty of beautiful hardwoods and creeks to cross. The winery itself was beautiful and worth the trip."
What campers like
Creek access for water play: Cedar Rock Campground offers direct stream access popular with families. "We have tent camped here many times and it is always a great time. Nothing beats falling asleep and waking up to the sound of the creek. Small playground isn't much to look at but my kids (10 and under) always use the heck out of it," writes Megan M. The campground features a small beach area where children can wade safely.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Doughton Park Campground provides frequent animal sightings due to its location at higher elevation. Anna R. reported, "This was the only place we saw bears but not in our campsite just wandering in another loop. We stayed in loop b and found a perfectly shaded site that was quiet and private and near the comfort station."
Stargazing conditions: The mountainous terrain blocks light pollution from nearby towns. According to Emily D. at Stone Mountain State Park, the area offers "the best stargazing you could ask for." The clearest skies typically occur during fall and winter months when humidity levels drop.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites with natural barriers. "Most sites have trees for hammocks," notes one visitor to New River State Park. At Sandy Creek Family Campground, tent sites along the tree line offer significant shade and separation from neighboring campers.
What you should know
Primitive camping considerations: Basin Cove Campground requires preparation for true backcountry conditions. "This site should not be confused with any other sites in area by similar name. You have to make a reservation with the park office for your site and drop by the ranger station to pick up your permit. The sites have NO vehicle access at all, you have to hike a mile into the campsite," explains Julie L.
Seasonal facility closures: While several campgrounds operate year-round, amenities may be limited during winter. According to David B. at Stone Mountain State Park: "I stayed here for three nights in early November, 2022. The camp sites are mostly level, well maintained and have tent pads, tables and fire rings. I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups. The bathrooms were heated, clean and the men's bathroom had two showers."
Variable bathroom conditions: Maintenance quality differs significantly between campgrounds. A visitor to Sandy Creek noted: "Nice campground. Had a nice site on a little creek. Owner was nice. However, the shower house was the worst of any campground I have ever seen. Dirty, plumbing was a mess."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically across camping spots near Traphill, North Carolina. Some higher-elevation sites maintain connections while valley locations experience dead zones. "Internet and phone service available in some parts of the park," reports Annell N. about Stone Mountain.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sandy Creek Family Campground caters to children with dedicated play areas. "Our group had both an RV and a large tent. The room allowed for both was very generous. The grounds and bath house were clean and well maintained... The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground," shares Ann H.
Educational opportunities: Visit parks with interpretive centers that explain local ecology. A visitor to New River State Park mentioned, "amazing visitors center," where children can learn about river ecosystems through interactive displays.
Water features for hot days: Seek out campgrounds with natural swimming areas. "In the summer you have to check out Widows Creek. Sliding rocks and waterfalls and a swimming hole only .2 miles off the road," recommends a Cedar Rock Campground visitor. Stone Mountain State Park features several accessible swimming spots along its creek systems.
Bicycle-friendly campgrounds: Choose locations with minimal vehicle traffic where children can safely ride. Megan M. of Cedar Rock Campground notes, "My kids love riding their bikes along the gravel road and grassy hillside."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for varied terrain at most Traphill area campgrounds. "The actual campsites can be a bit tricky to park but overall great time," warns Kelley G. about Bandits Roost. Sites at Stone Mountain feature tent pads but may require additional equipment for larger RVs to achieve level positioning.
Hookup availability: Riverwalk RV Park offers the most comprehensive RV amenities in the area. "All the sites were very roomy, many pull through sites, very clean and very friendly hosts. All sites were gravel and have a fire pit that you can move around to where you want to build your fire," shares Ricky J.
Road access considerations: Many campgrounds feature narrow access roads with tight turns. "Most or all are back in," notes Roger W. about sites at Doughton Park. Higher-elevation campgrounds may have steep sections requiring adequate vehicle power.
Winter camping preparation: Several campgrounds maintain year-round operations but with limited facilities. RVers should verify water availability during freezing conditions as many parks winterize certain systems. Propane refill services are limited in the immediate area.
