Tent camping options around Shelby, North Carolina extend into the surrounding foothills region where elevations range from 700 to 3,000 feet. The area experiences moderate temperatures with summer highs averaging in the upper 80s and winter lows occasionally dropping below freezing. Most backcountry camping requires permits secured through North Carolina State Parks' reservation system, with sites typically available 11 months in advance.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 1.5 miles to High Shoals Falls at South Mountains State Park provides a moderate trek with stone steps and wooden boardwalks. A visitor at Upper Falls Campsite mentions, "Get ready. You are about to hike up a LOT of sleep stairs."
Rock climbing: Beginner routes available near Crowders Mountain with natural rock faces. According to a camper at Crowders Mountain State Park, "My brother and I spent the day rock climbing. It was his first time climbing, and we were able to set up some beginner-friendly routes."
Creek exploration: Wade through shallow waters just steps from your tent. A camper at Primitive Camping By the Creek notes, "Lots of places to play on the river, rock hopping or swimming around the Jacob Fork Parking area."
What campers like
Reliable water sources: Many backcountry sites offer creek access for filtering. A camper describes Jacob Branch sites: "Water is just down the hill. It's ample and clear, as of May 2023."
Ample deadfall wood: Gather firewood near many sites. One camper at Hippie Holler appreciated the "Cool solar lights made it trippy" while noting the quiet, relaxed atmosphere.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. At Little River Backcountry Campground, "The four sites were well-spaced so we did not see other campers, with the exception of site 1 which is right off the entrance trail."
Bear boxes at backcountry sites: Food storage available at most South Mountains locations. A camper notes about Shinny Creek: "Bear box. Critter-proof trash bin. Pit privy. Water access from every site within ten paces."
What you should know
Elevation challenges: Most backcountry sites require uphill hiking. One camper described Little River campground: "Be aware that the hike up to the campground, though only 1.5 miles, is pretty steep from the Jacob Fork parking area (600ft elevation gain)."
Limited water access: Some sites require additional hiking to water sources. A reviewer notes, "From the Little River campground, the closest water source is a creek 0.6 miles (1.2 miles round trip) away- filter it- the walk back to camp is a steep uphill."
Difficult tent pitching: Some sites have challenging terrain for setting up. According to a review of Jacob Branch Backcountry Campground: "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."
Seasonal considerations: Summer weekends bring crowds to waterfall trails. A visitor noted, "The hikes near the falls were quite busy on Memorial Day weekend, but the backcountry campsites were quiet and well-kept."
Tips for camping with families
Choose Shinny Creek for easiest access: This site offers the most kid-friendly approach. A camper describes it as "Perfect trip if you have kids…or just want something close by. It's only a bit over a mile to these four sites nestled by a stream."
Consider day-use parking issues: Plan arrival times carefully. One visitor warned, "We were able to park there since we had campsite reservations but others were waiting in a long line to park for day-use, so be aware."
Pack trekking poles for hilly terrain: Many trails have steep sections. A reviewer advises, "Trails are broad and veeeeeery hilly in places. If your knees complain, bring the trekking poles. You'll thank me."
Combine car access with backcountry: One creative strategy from a camper at South Mountains: "So 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 camping options: The best tent camping near Shelby offers few RV accommodations. At Primitive Camping By the Creek, a visitor notes: "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."
Consider alternatives to backcountry: RVers staying near Shelby often find accommodations at state park family campgrounds outside the immediate area or at private campgrounds like Primitive Camping By the Creek, where a camper reports: "David was very accommodating and flexible about check in and even started a fire for us before we got there!"
