Tent camping options near Belmont, North Carolina concentrate in the region's piedmont terrain, characterized by rolling hills and hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,700 feet above sea level. The area experiences moderate temperatures with distinct seasons, making spring and fall particularly favorable for camping with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 60-80°F. Most backcountry campgrounds require hiking with gear, with distances ranging from 0.5 to 3 miles depending on the specific location.
What to do
Gem mining adventures: The area near Hiddenite Family Campground is known for gemstone hunting opportunities. "This campground is close to its namesake town of Hiddenite, which is a famous gem mining area known for gemstones such as hiddenite (spodumene), emeralds, sapphires, etc," notes one camper.
Challenging hikes: For experienced hikers looking for a physical challenge near Belmont, Upper Falls Campsite offers rewarding but demanding trails. As one camper warns, "Get ready. You are about to hike up a LOT of sleep stairs. The sites are really well laid out."
Creek exploration: Multiple waterways provide opportunities for wading, rock-hopping and mild swimming during warm months. A visitor to Primitive Camping By the Creek remarked, "Close and secluded. My daughter and I decided to camp at the last minute. This place was close to the interstate but still very secluded. Plenty of firewood and next to a creek."
What campers like
Secluded camping sites: Many tent campers appreciate the privacy available at Primitive Camping By the Creek, where sites are set apart from each other. A reviewer noted, "The campsite was spacious for us to set up camp and keep the jeep nearby. He provided dry firewood in a shed to keep the fire going which was helpful after the hurricane rains."
Accessible water sources: Tent sites with nearby water access are particularly valued. At Upper Falls Campsite, sites 3 and 4 are favorites because "they are close to water access (bring a good filter). Plenty of trees to choose from for a hammock setup."
Wildlife observation: The forested settings provide opportunities to see local wildlife. At Lake Curriher Wilderness, campers can find more remote spots: "I hike in to the remote campsite on the lake. Lots of fishermen... I generally tent camp and the Point, not many know of this location as it's a decent hike in."
What you should know
Variable facilities: The best tent camping near Belmont, North Carolina ranges from completely primitive to sites with basic amenities. A camper at Little River Backcountry Campground notes: "The Reserve America site lacked some site specifics—From the Little River campground, the closest water source is a creek 0.6 miles away... The pit toilet had plenty of TP when we were there."
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds have limited availability in winter months. The Upper Falls Campground at South Mountains State Park maintains year-round access, with one camper noting it's "amazing during winter."
Campsite terrain challenges: Many tent sites in the region have natural limitations. At Little River Backcountry Campground, a camper observed that "The sites are a bit difficult to pitch on, due to the abundance of roots, hardpan earth, and slope, but you'll find a spot."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible backcountry sites: For families with children, select campgrounds with shorter access trails. One reviewer recommends Shinny Creek at South Mountains State Park: "Perfect trip if you have kids... It's only a bit over a mile to these four sites nestled by a stream. Clear, flat sites... The trail here is easy peasy rolling hills that follows the river."
Look for water features: Creeks and streams provide natural entertainment for children. A camper at Hippie Holler appreciated the peaceful setting: "I found my happy place here at Hippie Holler! No kids or loud obnoxious other campers, felt at home, safe, understood and able to relax completely."
Consider day use areas: Some state parks offer extensive picnic and recreation areas for day use before returning to camp. At South Mountains State Park, a visitor suggested: "One option would be to hike down to your cooler in the car and grill lunch or dinner at one of the shady picnic areas near the parking lot and river while day-hiking, then hike back up to camp overnight."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near Belmont offers few accommodations for larger vehicles. At Yates Family Camping, RV campers will find basic services: "There aren't really any extras here but if you're just looking for reliable water/electrical/sewer and wifi near Charlotte this is a fantastic option."
Reservation reliability: RV campers should confirm reservations directly with campground owners. One RVer at Yates Family Camping had a negative experience: "We made a reservation well in advance but the owner decided to cancel our confirmed reservation to accommodate a previous renter who decided to stay longer."
Limited amenities: Many RV sites in the area provide only basic services. One RVer noted about Yates Family Camping: "Well not much here, no office or bathrooms. Water and electric and a dump station. Friendly owners and very close to Charlotte motor speedway."
