Camping at W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir offers access to 4,000 acres of water and 55 miles of shoreline in the foothills of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. The reservoir sits at an elevation of 1,030 feet, creating a moderate climate with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and spring/fall in the 60s-70s. W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir campsites feature varied terrain with some waterfront locations requiring reservations months in advance during peak season.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Near Warrior Creek Campground, the trail system attracts enthusiasts from across the region. "Super mt bike trails that have been built and maintained by volunteers who really care and ride the trails often... 10 to 15 minutes drive by car to Wilkesboro with plants of food and amenities," notes one Warrior Creek visitor.
Disc golf course: Fort Hamby Park offers an on-site course suitable for various skill levels. "The campground has... disk golf. Quiet," mentions an Fort Hamby Park reviewer. The course is free to use and accessible year-round.
Hiking options: Stone Mountain State Park provides extensive trail networks with varying difficulty. "We camped here and didn't even leave. It has so much to do and see... There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," shares a camper who stayed at site 40.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Fort Hamby Park stands out for generous site dimensions. "The large campsites! In fact, not being able to see any of our neighbors made us feel so much more remote than we were!" remarks one reviewer who appreciated the privacy.
Quiet weekday camping: Warrior Creek offers peaceful mid-week stays. "It's beautiful and peaceful, at least Monday through Friday. Weekends tend to get filled up fast and often with large groups stretching the limits of a campsite," explains a Warrior Creek regular.
Creek-side camping: Stoney Fork Campground provides sites along a flowing creek. "It's right on a creek and it was lovely to drink morning coffee next to the water," writes a camper at Stoney Fork Campground. Their eight total sites offer full hookups with creek access.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir campsites operate seasonally. "We went in December and there wasn't many people there at all, maybe 4 other campers all weekend," notes a winter visitor at Stone Mountain State Park, one of the few year-round options.
Limited cell coverage: Prepare for spotty connectivity at most sites. "Terrible cell service so be prepared to dish out $8 a day for internet," warns a camper at Green Mountain Park.
Campground closures: Check status before planning trips. "Unfortunately we were unable to camp here. According to park ranger said this campground is closed for one year or longer. No explanation was given as to why," reported a Warrior Creek visitor in 2021.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Elk Shoals access at New River State Park provides child-friendly water spots. "I highly recommend spending an afternoon at the beach at the Elk Shoals access. Beautiful spot with awesome swimming hole!" recommends a visitor to New River State Park.
Transportation carts: Some walk-in sites offer equipment to transport gear. "The park provides little carts and wheelbarrows... The sites and the bathhouse are very well maintained," explains a New River State Park camper at the Wagoner access.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Stone Mountain State Park offers deer watching from select sites. "There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," shares an enthusiastic family who enjoyed site 40.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: New River State Park allows non-campers to use facilities for a fee. "Didn't stay but did use the dump station for $17, so wanted to update info," notes a passing RVer.
Site selection guidance: Bandits Roost Campground requires careful site research. "The site was 98b and was on the side of a hill. Rather that having one large area, it was divided with an upper and lower section connected by steps... It worked well with a tent, but a camper would take up the upper part and leave no room for hanging out under the awning," advises a Bandits Roost Campground visitor.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at many sites. "The sites are mostly level, well maintained and have tent pads, tables and fire rings," reports a camper at New River State Park's 221 access, one of the more RV-friendly areas.
