73 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Uwharrie National Forest provides the primary camping backdrop near Badin, North Carolina, with numerous established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas throughout the region. Badin Lake Campground, Morrow Mountain State Park, and Deep Water Trail Camp offer diverse accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals within 10 miles of the lake. The landscape features a mix of lakefront camping at Badin Lake, forested sites along the Uwharrie National Forest trails, and more developed options at Morrow Mountain State Park. Several campgrounds provide electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities, while primitive camping options exist for those seeking a more rustic experience. Campers visiting Badin can choose from over 145 campsites across various settings, from waterfront locations to secluded forest sites.
Road conditions vary significantly across the camping areas, particularly at sites like Deep Water Trail Camp where high-clearance vehicles are recommended. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though summer brings higher visitation, especially at waterfront locations. While most established campgrounds require reservations, dispersed camping in Uwharrie National Forest provides free alternatives with minimal amenities. Cell service tends to be limited throughout the region, with most primitive sites offering no utilities. Several campgrounds prohibit alcohol, and campers should verify specific rules before arrival. A review noted: "The drive down the trail can be a bit much if you're in a smaller car like we were, we had to drive slowly down because of all of the rocks."
Waterfront access represents the primary draw for many campers, with Badin Lake offering swimming beaches, boat launches, and fishing opportunities. The camping experience ranges from quiet, secluded primitive sites to more developed family-friendly campgrounds with amenities. Morrow Mountain State Park receives consistently positive reviews for its clean facilities, hiking trails, and mountain views, making it popular for family outings. Campers highlight the natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the area, though some primitive sites have experienced issues with trash left by previous visitors. One camper reported: "Great spot lots of trails and primitive at its best." Several reviews mention the area's fishing opportunities, especially at Deep Water Trail Camp where catfish are commonly caught in the adjacent waters.
"Within a short drive there is Town Creek Indian Mound that you can visit as well. Badin Lake is nearby as well."
"Lots of shade, plenty of trails that cover this State Park. The Kron house nearby, the swimming pool ( closed at time of our visit)."
from $17 - $107 / night
Check Availability"Sites along Badin Lake in the lower loop are often reserved. The surroundings are beautiful!"
"We stayed on the Lower Loop of Badin Lake Campground, specifically site 16."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Equestrian campgrounds, hunting camps and then Arrowhead and Badin Lake campgrounds, along with the boat launch area."
"The campsites do not offer a view of the water of Badin Lake, but it is nearby with a drive or hike. "
from $20 - $54 / night
Check Availability"The drive down the trail can be a bit much if you’re in a smaller car like we were, we had to drive slowly down because of all of the rocks."
"First of all.. this place is FREE to camp at and surrounded by beautiful water, beautiful trees and the ancient rock of Uwharrie. A lovely place that we are so lucky to have access to... BUT. People."
"It should be no shock to those familiar with North Carolina’s geography that if one is seeking higher altitudes and breathtaking overlooks, Uwharrie is not the place he should go."
"This area was one of my favorite ares for dispersed camping in Uwharrie National Forest while living in North Carolina. The area can be accessed by boat on the Little River, or by hiking in."
"We hit this campground right at the perfect time of year, BEFORE the opening day of off-road vehicle season in April. "
"There is a good trail around the lake that offers some beautiful views across the lake. Pretty good fishing too."
"Check out the walk through video in 360° to get a real feel for the National Forest Campground. https://youtu.be/NsKiCNFALVs](https://youtu.be/NsKiCNFALVs)"
"The pool doesn’t have normal steps that you walk down into the pool on, they only have the ladder steps which make it a little tricky getting in with a small child."
"The bath houses near our site were clean and functional, though I don't think they were the main ones."
from $42 - $70 / night
Check Availability"And it you are an off road enthusiast, they have made some fantastic off road trails south of the Forrest."
"While at Uwaharrie NF stayed at Biden Lake campground. Beautiful place with great views. Clean facilities close to sites."
from $75 / night
Check Availability"Nice lake to walk around, but paddle boats and center were closed. Lots of ducks that were used to human presence and feeding. Located in a nice sized park. Would definitely go back."
"Site next to one of the lake access trails. Spacious site. We were able to get our 37 ft camper level. Shaded so the a/c s were able to keep up with the heat no issue."
ScoutThe spots are alright but first night got ate up by ants so hadda move and the other spots are good but have no shade and no signal and not mutch to take pictures of so if you wanna have some survival type camping this is a great location.
LegendThis campground is essentially an expansive gravel parking lot made for RVs. While that may not sound appealing to some, race fans will love it because it is so close to all the racing action of the Charlotte Motor Speedway. We camped in the M section which is near the main road. There is a bit of road noise but it didn’t bother us because our RV has good sound protection and the road was quiet at night. We don’t like being right on top of other campers and since most people don’t want to be near the road, this worked in our favor. If you have Good Sam, there is a discount which is a pretty good deal for 50 amps, full hook-up site. Despite our site being close to the office, the wifi never worked well and we gave up opting for our Verizon hotspot. There is no cable but our over-the-air antenna worked well (35+ channels) and you would not have any trouble getting satellite reception. There are no trees for shade and we were glad the highs were only in the 70’s when we were there. The large sized gravel is nice to keep the dust down and not make this nasty when it rains but don’t even think about going barefoot on it. Even our dog was apprehensive and tender footed when she walked across it. There is not much for kids to do here– just a small playground. The laundry is located at the office but the only bathhouse is far away from the front of the campground. If you need the bathhouse you are going to want to be in the P, Q, or R sections of else you will have to walk pretty far. Garbage is picked up at your site but when we were there, it often sat for a day or two. The campground was probably only at ¼ capacity and the one dumpster was overflowing. Can’t imagine what they do during busy racing weekends. There is a free food pantry so if you have any canned goods or other items you want to share. For race fans, this is a great campground because you are within walking distance of the Carolina Motor Speedway and the associated dirt track and drag racing track. For $30 you can take a tour of all the race facilities and I highly recommend it.
TravelerThis quiet gem was just what I needed. It’s close enough to shoppes, diners, and other activities. It’s also close to the NC Zoo. With dedicated and mixed spots, it’s perfect for tents and RVs. Did I mention the staff? They’re friendly and helpful.
Zooland is a great place for solo, family, or group. The campground offers a pool, activities, walking trails, as well as laundry facilities and 2 bath houses. There’s also a dog park for your K9 family member(s).
Most sites have water and electrical hook ups. But one word of caution; you may or may not have cell service. But there is wi-fi throughout the property.
TravelerI don’t have any complaints about this campground! Sites are nice and feel like you aren’t close to anyone else. Very pretty area, quiet. Newest bathhouse I have ever seen at a state park! Awesome showers.
ScoutIs a very basic campground they are having allot of plumbing issues. no activities for the kids no hot tub, store, restaurant or music on weekends anymore
TravelerVery nice Good flat spots Quiet Showers Beautiful views Lots of squirrels Love it
ScoutWe reserved the site via The Dyrt months in advance. We arrived and found that the host wasn't at home and the one site they had was occupied by an obviously long term tenant. The host's phone went immediately to voicemail and texts were unanswered. We were able to scramble and find a site at another site several miles away. Not the way we wanted to start our trip. We will be expecting a full refund after this fiasco. Lesson learned - contact the host before you leave home.
LegendA nice campsite off of Tower Road with is also part of the TransAmerica Trail. It is a flat site with a with a great fire pit. There is are more sites in the field but we ended up not staying because it was hunting season and this area was open to hunting. It would be a nice place to stay if you are hunting in the area or if it is out of season.
Check it out in our video
https://youtu.be/Fv-DYCm_qXY
LegendI was able to map out 41 free dispersed campsites on Moccasin Creek Road; Forest Service Road 576. It is a 7.5 mile drive to the end at what is referred to as Deep Water Trail Camp. But you'll only need to go about a mile before you find the first campsite on the left. Many of the sites are able to accommodate large groups of campers. This area is popular for the Off Highway Vehicle trail systems which are open April through December. We first came here on opening weekend for the OHV trails so it was pretty busy and the weather was dry so it was really dusty. We also come back at the end of December and camped near the Deep Water Trail Camp. This time instead of nearly every site being occupied, only 5 other sites had people for that weekend. It is a amazing area to visit if you are into OHV(Off Highway Vehicle) trail riding, mountain biking or hiking. It gets pretty busy sometimes and a few sites had trash but all in all a large majority of the sites were well kept. I would definitely recommend this area for dispersed camping. There are a few sites that you need a truck to get into but for the most part all of them are accessible by car. A couple of them are walk in sites.
All sites are shown and GPS coordinates listed in our video description.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1dJ268F1uw
Camping spots near Badin, North Carolina range from secluded forest sites to lakeside retreats with elevations between 300-1,000 feet in the ancient Uwharrie Mountains. The region receives approximately 45 inches of rainfall annually, creating moderate humidity levels during summer camping seasons. Primitive camping options in the national forest create opportunities for wilderness experiences within a relatively short drive of populated areas.
Fishing opportunities: Deep Water Trail Camp offers direct access to prime fishing locations. One visitor reported, "My friends both caught a couple of channel cats. One enormous female catfish we released because she had eggs on board." The fishing areas are accessible via a short but steep walk down to the river.
Mountain biking: Uwharrie National Forest trails provide terrain for various skill levels. A camper noted, "There are some great trails through here as well, that you don't have to share with the motorized enthusiast." The network connects multiple camping areas throughout the forest.
Canoeing and kayaking: Badin Lake Campground offers direct water access for paddlers. A reviewer shared, "Our group explored the trails which were scenic and easy to transverse. Great access to Badin Lake for kayaking, swimming and fishing." Sites on the lake allow campers to launch directly from their campsites.
Wildlife viewing: Morrow Mountain State Park provides opportunities to observe local species. One camper observed, "Saw several deer while I was there. The family campground is separated from the road by some trees but there is still noise from cars." Early morning and evening hours offer the best viewing conditions.
Clean facilities: Morrow Mountain State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities. A recent visitor stated, "I campground as well kept and clean. The bathhouse is brand new. The camp host was very helpful and checked on everybody, every day." The bathhouse facilities receive regular maintenance.
Privacy between sites: Arrowhead Campground offers reasonable separation between campers. As one reviewer described, "Sites are reasonably large and offer a picnic table, firepit, charcoal grill and metal hanging pole for lanterns, etc. some foliage exists between Campsites." The campground layout provides a balance between accessibility and privacy.
Affordable pricing: West Morris Mountain campground offers budget-friendly options. A camper noted, "The price has increased this year from $5 to $10 even though they have made no improvements. Pit toilets are looked at daily and stocked with toilet paper." Despite the price increase, it remains one of the most economical options in the area.
Lake views: Many campers appreciate waterfront camping options. One visitor to Deep Water Trail Camp shared, "If you want to get away, this is where you go. Secluded but still able to get into town for supplies. Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground." The camp offers multiple sites with water views.
Road conditions: Access to Deep Water Trail Camp requires careful navigation. A visitor cautioned, "PLEASE take something with a little ground clearance and better than 2 wheel drive to get here. My Honda Element was on two wheels at one point but the AWD handled it like a champ." Preparation for rough roads is essential.
Reservations recommended: Arrowhead Campground fills quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper advised, "Reserve well in advance if you desire a site...these campgrounds fill quickly." Weekends and summer months see the highest demand.
Campsite selection: At Morrow Mountain, site selection can impact your experience. One camper explained, "So, if you end up in a crap site you might drop those 4 stars to 3. Its going to be impossible to determine a great site from a bad without going there since the only pic they have online is from site 1." Research or early arrival helps secure optimal sites.
Alcohol restrictions: Badin Lake Campground prohibits alcohol. A visitor mentioned, "Great spot, really calm and quiet and right on the lake. Perfect for non-partying types (no alcohol allowed)." Similar restrictions apply at several other campgrounds in the area.
Playground access: Norwood Campground offers dedicated play areas. A camper shared, "Great little gem in the area to avoid the chaos and calamity with the other Uwharrie area campgrounds. Very quiet and peaceful. Includes a pool, walking trails, and access to Lake Tillery."
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities. At Morrow Mountain, a visitor noted, "They offer canoe and row boat rentals, they have a swimming pool that is open after Memorial Day. They also have a museum you can check out during the day."
Trail difficulty: Consider hiking trail challenges when planning family outings. A Morrow Mountain visitor explained, "We went on the Big Rocks Trail. There wasn't much to see until we got to the end of it and went down the cliff. Then the views were amazing. It was not a loop trail, but you hike to the cliff then turn around."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs. At Morrow Mountain, facilities include interpretive displays and ranger-led activities during summer months, plus a museum with exhibits about local natural history and geography.
Campsite leveling: Arrowhead Campground requires preparation for uneven terrain. A visitor noted, "Great sites but hardly any are level so be prepared to manage that. Nice fire pits and grills - love having both." Bring leveling blocks and stabilizers.
Hookup availability: Norwood Campground offers comprehensive services. A camper reported, "General store, ice, firewood, propane refill all on-site. Playground and swimming pool clean and in good condition." Full hookup sites accommodate larger rigs.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide sewer connections. At Badin Lake, a visitor mentioned, "Bathrooms were clean and well lite. There is a trail that takes you around the lake edge, easy walking. Not a lots if fishing right from the edge by the campsites due to tall grasses."
Site dimensions: Consider vehicle and campsite compatibility when booking. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, space limitations may exist for larger rigs. The campground accommodates smaller to mid-sized RVs with limited hookup options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the campgrounds located around Badin Lake in North Carolina?
Several campgrounds are located in the Uwharrie National Forest surrounding Badin Lake. Badin Lake Campground offers sites along the lakeshore with both upper and lower loops. Arrowhead Campground is situated nearby within the forest, though not directly on the water. Other options include Deep Water Trail Camp, the Badin Lake Group Camp, and various dispersed camping areas throughout Uwharrie National Forest. Most campgrounds are accessible via drive-in routes, though some primitive sites can be reached by boat or hiking trails. The camping areas are generally clustered in one section of the forest, providing good access to lake activities and forest trails.
How do I make reservations for camping at Badin Lake campgrounds?
For Uwharrie National Forest campgrounds, including those around Badin Lake, reservations can be made through Recreation.gov. Many sites, particularly those along Badin Lake in the lower loop, are often reserved well in advance, especially during peak seasons. The Uwharrie National Forest Badin Lake Group Camp is reservable for larger gatherings. For some areas like Deep Water Trail Camp, sites are first-come, first-served with no reservation option. It's recommended to book several months ahead for summer weekends and holidays. Have alternative sites in mind as backup options, especially for waterfront locations which are the most popular.
What swimming and public access areas are available at Badin Lake?
Badin Lake offers several swimming and public access points. At Deep Water Trail Camp, visitors can enjoy water access, though the trail to reach it may be rocky and require careful driving. Kings Mountain Point provides a fishing pier and shoreline access. For campers at Arrowhead Campground, the lake is nearby but requires a short drive or hike to reach the water. The lower loop of Badin Lake Campground offers excellent swimming access with sites just a stone's throw from the water. There's also a designated swimming area with a sandy beach available for day use. Boat ramps are available for those wanting to explore the lake by watercraft.
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