Primitive camping sites within Uwharrie National Forest serve as the primary option for tent camping near Badin, North Carolina. The forest encompasses 51,000 acres with elevations ranging from 350 to 1,000 feet throughout the Piedmont region. Campers face variable terrain with rocky outcroppings and mixed pine-hardwood forests that create natural boundaries between dispersed sites.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: The Yadkin River and surrounding lakes provide fishing opportunities for channel catfish and other species. At Deep Water Trail Camp, one visitor noted, "Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground, and some damn good fishing. My friends both caught a couple of channel cats."
Wildlife observation: Forested areas throughout the region support diverse wildlife populations. A camper at Uwharrie Hunt Camp shared, "This is a beautiful campground with good facilities. There is a good trail around the lake that offers some beautiful views across the lake."
Rock collecting: The area features interesting geological formations with quartz deposits. One camper reported, "The big pieces of quartz we found were gorgeous, and so was the view at the water! It's nestled in fall's reservoir, but the little road in looked to be washed out."
What campers like
Affordability and accessibility: Many sites in the area require minimal or no fees. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, a visitor highlighted, "Only $5 per night! With only 6 sites and what appears to be an over-sized parking lot right next to it, the lot accommodates the OHV trailers."
Privacy options: For those seeking solitude, several locations offer secluded camping areas. At East Morris Mountain, a camper noted, "Only three sites on this little out of the way fire trail. We go to the end of the road for complete privacy. No amenities other than a fire pit."
Scenic water views: Campsites near rivers and lakes provide scenic settings. At Deep Water Trail Horse Camp, visitors mentioned, "Awesome view" despite challenging access conditions.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Access to many primitive sites demands appropriate vehicles with sufficient clearance. One camper at Lake Curriher Wilderness advised, "I hike in to the remote campsite on the lake. Lots of fishermen and trash since the scum can't seem to pick up after themselves."
Road conditions: Seasonal changes affect accessibility of forest roads. A visitor warned, "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."
Campsite selection strategy: Finding level ground requires careful site selection. One camper suggested, "Choose your campsite wisely. The one to the left by the bad spots in the road wasn't as flat as we'd hoped, but it was still manageable."
Tips for camping with families
Best locations for kids: Some areas provide better amenities for family camping. At Sandhills Campground B, a camper noted, "This is a campground located in the Sandhills Gamelands in NC. If you're looking for primitive, this is it. No bathrooms, no water spigots, no camp store, nothing like that. Bring all your own EVERYTHING."
Swimming opportunities: Several locations offer safe swimming areas during warmer months. One visitor mentioned, "We brought our two pups & they had a blast playing & laying in the water! We stayed at a campsite next to the river bend, not on the actual Deep Water Trail, because it got super bumpy."
Site preparation: Setting up camp on uneven terrain requires planning. According to a camper, "The campsites are rustic, grassy and comfortable, though no privacy in between. Most sites are a short walk from the parking lot, so you might have to do a little bit of schlepping, but not much."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many forest roads restrict access for larger rigs. One RVer at Uwharrie Hunt Camp stated, "The campground is a quaint, and only $5 per night! With only 6 sites and what appears to be an over-sized parking lot right next to it, the lot accommodates the OHV trailers."
Hookup availability: Most dispersed camping areas lack traditional RV amenities. A visitor mentioned, "I've got a 13 foot pull behind. Backed in mostly but a few could be pulled in an out. Road posted 25 mph but recommend 10 mph. Was also narrow in spots."
Supply planning: Limited resources in the immediate area require advance preparation. One camper warned, "There is a small convenience store in Uwharrie, offering sandwiches and made-to-order food, but not much in the way of groceries. Another 10 miles and you'll be in Troy which has a bigger grocery store."
