From the shores of Cape Hatteras to the ancient mountains of Great Smoky Mountain National Park, North Carolina is a state that is as beautiful as it is diverse in natural wonders. Whether you fancy a day of surfing in the waves of the Atlantic Ocean or a climb up Mount Mitchell, the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi, there’s an outdoor adventure waiting for you. So grab your bathing suit or your hiking poles (or both!) and find the best camping in North Carolina. 


The pristine beauty of North Carolina’s Outer Banks have always drawn vacationers looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives. Fortunately for those that like sleeping under the stars, camping in North Carolina at one of the state’s many beaches is a great way to experience the sun and sand without the expense of a vacation rental. With over 300 miles of coastline, there are dozens of state and private campgrounds to choose from. 


If pitching your tent in coastal sand dunes isn’t your cup of tea then pack your bag and head to the mountains of Western North Carolina—a region known throughout the southeast for its abundant opportunities to recreate outdoors. Whether you’re rafting down the Nantahala River that winds through the beautiful and remote Nantahala National Forest or hiking on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, a 1,175 mile footpath that spans the width of North Carolina, you won’t run out of reasons to be outside. 


North Carolina has 40 mountains that rise above 6,000 feet (aforementioned Mount Mitchell is the tallest, clocking in at 6,684 feet) and 100 that stand more than 5,000 feet. Camping in the shadows of these peaks is just one thing that makes camping in North Carolina so special. And with 2.1 million acres of public land in the state, finding a campground is as easy as pulling out a map. 


Whether it’s saltwater waves, pristine peaks or rushing rivers that excite you, let The Dyrt help you discover the best camping in North Carolina. 

North Carolina

The Best Camping in North Carolina | 100+ NC Campgrounds

Canton is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Canton is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Canton, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Canton

The Best Camping Near Canton, North Carolina

We are stewards of the mountain and our cabins offer guests an authentic and off-grid Appalachian experience on 500 private acres atop the Newfound Mountains in Western North Carolina.

The Hike-In

Your mountain retreat begins with a 2 mile hike-in, kicking off at our Trailhead at the base of the mountain. The trail follows an old forest service road, beside a spring fed creek, which brings you gracefully to the top of the mountain. Verdant moss and the sound of trickling water accompany you as you climb 1,350 feet in elevation to reach your haven.

The Cabins

Originally built in the 1800’s in Douglas Lake, Tennessee, the main lodge is two stories and offers a loft upstairs with beds that accommodate up to 10 people. Downstairs offers one private bedroom, a cozy den with a library, a dining area, and a kitchen complete with a wood and gas stove. The front porch is spacious with ample seating, a porch swing, and one of the most iconic sunrise views in Western North Carolina!

Our upper cabin, located about 200 feet from the main lodge in a wooded setting, is a dovetail-style antique log cabin which includes a kitchenette, wood stove, half bathroom, campfire pit, and idyllic front porch. There is a king size bed in the main room and a loft that can sleep an additional 6 people.

The Property

We are located on 500 private acres at an average elevation of 5,000 feet atop the Newfound Mountains in Western North Carolina. Our only neighbors are a couple cattle farms and a few hundred acres of untouched land protected by the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy.

We have 5 natural springs on property, including the one that feeds crystal clear water with a distinctly delicious mineral content directly to our cabins. A network of moderate to challenging hiking trails on property offers guests a self-guided tour of our lush landscape which is home to a diversity of tree flora including yellow birch, beech, locust, hickory, frasier fir, buckeye and tulip poplar. On our acreage you can also find copious amounts of wildlife, flowering plants, herbs, fruits, and mushrooms. Wild blueberries, strawberries, nettles, ramps, and red clover delight during spring and summer, while the fall boasts world famous foliage!

The high point of our property, Sandy Mush Bald, rises to 5,138 feet in elevation and is accessible via a steep .5 mile trail from the cabins. This vast mountain top meadow looks directly over the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and the infamous Max Patch area and offers guests what is arguably the best sunset view in all of Appalachia!



The Cabins at Sandy Mush Bald

Get back to nature at this incredible private campground nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina! This tranquil campground offers a peaceful place to unwind while listening to the wonderful sights and sounds of nature at its best! There are 11 unique and cozy campsites to choose from as well as a shower and portable potties. This campground has a pond for fishing and swimming, a creek running along the campsites and is surrounded by the most magnificent and beautiful foliage and wildlife! Prepare to have the most peaceful sleep under the glorious celestial stars of Western North Carolina!

\*We also have a sink for dishes alongside the shower house as well as a drinkable well water spicket in the back of the campground!

\*We are also located close to stores for your convenience as well as many nearby attractions!

\* Please contact us regarding pets before booking…

\*We recommend checking in before 10 pm…. The property gets really dark and hard to navigate at night without being shown where to go! If for any reason you will be getting here later please inform us upon booking so we can plan for your arrival!

If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of life and return to the simplicity of nature this is your spot!

We hope to see you soon!!



Appalachian Pond Campground

Welcome to Creekside Stayz Campground! We offer two glamping tents, a camper and 1 large tent site, all with electricity, and water. We are on the Trail Fork Creek. Less than a 30 min drive to Hartford or Hot Springs, and 42 min to the Cosby entrance to The Smoky Mountains.

We have other amenities you might be interested in like WIFI, firewood, linens, food packages, cast iron cookware, and laundry and shower facilities, just inquire! Book now and connect with nature in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.



Creekside Stayz Glamping and camping in the Smokies

This site is ***ALL GEAR INCLUSIVE***! No hassle of time-consuming set up/pack up! Tents, shower, bathroom, air beds, linens, lanterns, solar lights, cookstove, basic kitchenware/cookware/dinnerware, grill, chairs, benches, fire pit, and SECLUSION. You will have your OWN 1 ACRE SITE, versus the "circus" atmosphere of any public campground or state park! Enjoy being disconnected from today's modern/confining world, communing with the simplicity and serenity of nature!

Site sits at 3400' elevation and is located 2 mi north of Bear Lake off NC Hwy 281. Area is popular with all outdoor enthusiasts due to the central location of 7 lakes, East Fork of the Tuckasegee to the Tuckasegee River (The Tuck), Blue Ridge Parkway, Nantahala & Pisgah National Forests and Smoky Mountain National Park. Cashiers, Highlands, Cherokee and Asheville are all within an hour of a scenic drive.

Perfect for couples, families, small groups, hikers, backpackers, and nature enthusiasts! Enjoy nature's 24/7 music and nightly light shows of fireflies, shooting stars, and the Milky Way!





Camp Uptown Backwoods

This is no ordinary campground. Your experience will be as if you are exploring your own private mountain nature reserve. Aramesh is 160 acres of blue ridge heaven with something for every wilderness adventure seeker: unmatched mountain views, lush old growth forest, babbling brooks, and miles of trails for all skill levels. The property starts at 3700 feet altitude, with summit at 4500 feet on the Glades Mountain in Ridge. We have only a few campsites on the vast property, so the wind and the trees, and the birds will be all you hear. Come and stay with us, and be renewed!

Access: The last 1/2 mile to the property entrance is a winding gravel road that is steep in parts. We strongly recommend AWD or 4WD.

Campsites: they are one 12:45 half mile from the entrance. Some are accessible by four-wheel-drive. There may be some vigorous hiking involved, but the views are worth it. The sites are various sizes: some are perfect for a two person, party and small tent, others can accommodate large families in multiple tents. These campsites are dispersed throughout the vast property, so you will have privacy. Let us know what the needs of your party are, and we can help you choose from the available spots. We have several more remote open “off menu“ site for those seeking a backpacking adventure– ask for more information if you are interested

Hiking: there are several miles from trails on the property. They range from an easy slope two very strenuous. The entire property as fast so you won’t easily get lost. You’re climbing efforts will be amply rewarded by stunning views, especially at sunset. Trail maps are available upon request.

On site amenities: we provide a clean Porta potty and running potable water that is spring fed. Seasonally we have an outdoor spring fed shower available. Each campsite comes with a steel fire pit. We ask that you follow “leave no trace” procedures during your stay.

Offsite amenities: if you choose to explore the area, we are at 10 minute drive from I 40. Exit 24. Asheville is 40 minutes away; Waynesville is 25 minutes away. Pressnell‘s grocery (highly recommended family owned store that sells locally farmed products) is 10 minutes away from the property entrance. The Ingles supermarket in Canton is a 15 minute drive. You will find every kind of fast food in that area. There are also several excellent local dining options in Canton, Clyde, and Waynesville, which we are happy to help you with by request.



Pause || Eco-Retreat

Welcome to our picturesque RV site, where you can experience stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, Cherokee National Forest, and Pisgah National Forest. The natural beauty of this area is truly breathtaking, with layers upon layers of mountain vistas stretching as far as the eye can see.

Our site is conveniently located just 5 miles from the Martha Sundquist State Forest, offering easy access to hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there's also white water rafting just 4.5 miles away!

If you're looking to explore the surrounding towns and cities, you're in luck. Our site is located just an hour from Gatlinburg, TN, and Pigeon Forge, TN - two popular tourist destinations known for their theme parks, attractions, and shopping. You're also just an hour away from Asheville, NC, a vibrant city known for its arts, music, and culinary scene. And if you're looking for a more low-key experience, Hot Springs, NC is just 45 minutes away, offering natural hot springs, charming shops, and restaurants.

Our RV site is the perfect basecamp for your next adventure in the mountains. You'll have access to all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including electric and water hookups, and ample space for parking. And when you're ready to relax after a long day of exploring, you can kick back and enjoy the stunning views from your RV or around the campfire.

We can't wait to welcome you to our little slice of paradise in the mountains!



Sunset Ridge in the Smoky Mountains

You will be tucked deep in Chunn's Cove listening to birds and the wind and still be eight minutes from downtown. This vintage camper is cute, cozy, and completely redone.

Take a hot shower in our custom-built outdoor shower in the bamboo forest. Lounge on the front deck and watch the clouds go by in this little piece of paradise.

This hideout is a perfect home base to explore all of Asheville, downtown is 2.9 miles. The Biltmore, River Arts District, and W. Asheville are all within minutes. A beautiful dirt road leads up to the Blue Ridge Parkway to access hikes, waterfalls, and epic views.

Queen bed with memory foam mattress, quality linens, new A/C, central heat, refrigerator, and gas stove. The camper comes stocked with linens, towels, soaps, fresh coffee, salt, pepper, olive oil and a full kitchenette.

If you want to book in less than 24 hours give me a call.

You may see wild turkey or hear coyotes howling in the cove. If you're really lucky you might spot one our shy bears.



Utopia

**Camp Driftwood Asheville is a rustic riverside retreat, just outside of Asheville, North Carolina. Our family-owned and operated vacation hideaway spans a third of a mile directly on the banks of The French Broad River, rumored to be *the third oldest river in the world!***

**​Camp Driftwood offers travelers a variety of vacation accommodations. Choose from; 8 primitive riverside tent sites, 3 Glamping Cottages, and 3 Vacation Homes. Whichever you choose you will have direct access to the river, a fire ring, a picnic table, and space to sit next to the water. **

**​All guests are welcome to stroll the length of the property and enjoy the Community Areas, including; the Swimming Beach, a Fishing Beach, the Tree Swing, the Rapids, and the large Community Fire Pit.**

All of the camping is primitive. All camping is for tents/cars only and we do not have room for any campers/RVs. Even some vans are too long, please check with us on vehicle length. It is an easy in and out, and you park at your site. Glamping Cottages, ie no kitchen or bathroom are also available. Each is quirky and fabulous. They all have queen beds, well appointed with good mattresses and nice linens. They all offer kitchenettes, with minifridges, microwaves, and coffee makers. Each provide a covered outdoor sitting space and satellite TV, as well as temperature control via mini-splits. Kick camping up a notch and Glamp instead!

Portable toilets span the southern end of the property, near the tent sites. And we have a single-stall bathhouse in the center of the Camp, near the cabins. There is potable water from a yard hydrant near the bathhouse, along with an outlet if you are tent camping and need to charge something.

**We offer a passive campground experience geared toward adults, we don't actually allow guests under 12 yo without prior management approval. There are no fences or safety measures in place along the river. We don't have a camp store, there is no office-no playground surrounded by mulch, you'll have to bring your own ice cream. But..we do have direct access to an incredible ancient river, and a thriving mountain City-the best kind of playground! **The sound of the water will captivate you no matter where you are in Camp.

All of this in a very convenient location..just 15 minutes from downtown Asheville. Shopping and conveniences are only 3 miles away in Weaverville. The camp is located right below Old Marshall Highway (River Road), a super popular road biking route, but you do hear vehicles, mostly during work hours. There are train tracks across the River, which we think is a super cool WNC feature, but some things to be aware of.

Load up your pups, tubes, SUPS, and bikes, and spend a couple of days with us at Camp Driftwood Asheville! Leave no trace and Enjoy the River!!



Camp Driftwood Asheville

Watch the sun rise on one side of Troublesome Gap and watch it set on the other side. There is a circle drive for 2 teardrop / squaredrop or pop up campers and plenty of spots to pitch tents. There are also great spots to hang your hammock.

Camp where my family camps. My parents bought the property in the 1960s and we have camped up here, hiked, hunted, and cut firewood many weekends. We decided to share the property so you can enjoy camping up here too!

The property is in a remote location where you can enjoy the wildlife and the cooler temps in the summer. You'll have 3 acres all to yourself. You wont have to share the spot with anyone else unless you bring them. The closest grocery store is an hour away but the Trust General Store with a restaurant and gas approximately is 7 miles away. There is also a burger joint (Dave's 209) on the way to the Trust General Store.

This camping site is in a remote area and the nearest neighbor about 1/2 mile away. Max Patch is about 25 minutes away and features beautiful hiking.

The quaint town of Marshall is about 30 minutes away. Asheville is about an hour away.

The campsite is easily accessible from Baltimore Branch Road. However Baltimore Brand Road (public road) is steep in places and we don't recommend an RV bigger than a popup camper.

We also provide a porta-a-john for your convenience.

Once the reservation is made, I'll send out an info sheet with important info like the gate combination. Please let me know if you haven't received the info sheet within a week of making the reservation.





Troublesome Gap

Peace and privacy await you on our farm, pasture and woods, this working herb farm is a haven for rest and exploring. The Sites are situated far enough from each other to allow for privacy. Our land was originally where the Cherokee grew their medicine with Mt. Pisgah looking over us.



Our farm is Organic and we minimize the amount of chemicals used on it out of respect to the land. The creek has clean water, although we provide well water for the humans.



Situated 20 minutes from Asheville and 2 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, we are close to civilization and far from the everyday hustle and bustle.



This is a great place to unwind in nature. We will soon be adding Forest Bathing.



The frogs eat most of the mosquitos and the fireflies will provide the nightly entertainment from May till August.



Green Heart Farm Creek & Woods

Dallas, NC is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Dallas, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Dallas. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Dallas

The Best Camping Near Dallas, North Carolina

Though it doesn’t offer much within its city limits, the outskirts of Charlotte, North Carolina, and surrounding cities more than make up for it. With Lake Wylie and Mountain Island Lake outside of the city, travelers looking for waterfront camping and hiking won’t be disappointed.

The best camping near Charlotte is on Copperhead Island. This spot offers affordably-priced lakefront campsites, perfect for a relaxing weekend. If you’re willing to make a bit of a drive, head easy to the Uwharrie National Forest, on the other side of Badin Lake near Eldorado, NC. Badin Lake is another fantastic option for a camping weekend with several picturesque campgrounds. Whether in an RV or tent, you’ll love Badin Lake!

Charlotte

Charlotte is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Charlotte is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Charlotte, NC. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

The Best Camping Near Charlotte, North Carolina

Looking for the best campgrounds near Raleigh, NC? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Raleigh. Find the best campgrounds near Raleigh, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Raleigh

The Best Campgrounds Near Raleigh, NC | NC Camping

Looking for the best campgrounds near Greensboro, NC? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Greensboro camping trip.

Greensboro

The Best Campgrounds Near Greensboro, NC | NC Camping

Greensboro is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Greensboro is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Greensboro camping trip.

The Best Camping Near Greensboro, North Carolina

Join the fun near Winston-Salem. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Winston-Salem camping trip.

Winston-Salem

The Best Campgrounds Near Winston Salem, NC | NC Camping

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Durham. Durham is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Durham and user-submitted reviews.

Durham

The Best Camping Near Durham, North Carolina

Join the fun near Fayetteville. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that North Carolina camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your North Carolina camping adventure.

Fayetteville

The Best Camping Near Fayetteville, North Carolina

Wilmington is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Wilmington campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Wilmington, NC. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Wilmington

The Best Camping Near Wilmington, North Carolina

High Point is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. High Point is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near High Point, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

High Point

The Best Camping Near High Point, North Carolina

Looking for the best campgrounds near Uwharrie National Forest, NC? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Uwharrie National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Uwharrie National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Uwharrie National Forest

The Best Camping Near Uwharrie National Forest, North Carolina

North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains National Park draws millions of visitors annually for its unbridled beauty and free admission. Expect long entrance lines but know that your experience will make it all worthwhile.

Great Smoky offers 10 front-country camping locations for tents and RVs. For those looking for a longer trek, the park has a host of backcountry campgrounds at just $4 per night. Ideally, you camp in the park. However, as this is the most visited national park, you may have to make other plans. If you can’t stay in the park, the best camping near the Great Smoky Mountains is usually found in the nearby national forests. If you’re looking for something with more amenities, the eclectic city of Asheville, NC is where you’ll want to be.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your North Carolina camping adventure.

The Best Camping Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Croatan National Forest, NC is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Croatan National Forest is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Croatan National Forest camping trip.

Croatan National Forest

The Best Camping Near Croatan National Forest, North Carolina

Appalachian National Forest, NC is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Appalachian National Forest. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Appalachian National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Appalachian National Forest

The Best Camping Near Appalachian National Forest, North Carolina

Searching for the best camping near Pisgah National Forest, NC? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Pisgah National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Pisgah National Forest

The Best Camping Near Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina

Join the fun near Cape Hatteras National Seashore. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Cape Hatteras National Seashore, NC. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

The Best Camping Near Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina

Looking for the best campgrounds near Tusquitee National Forest, NC? Tusquitee National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Tusquitee National Forest, NC. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Tusquitee National Forest

The Best Camping Near Tusquitee National Forest, North Carolina

Looking for the best campgrounds near Nantahala National Forest, NC? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Nantahala National Forest. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Nantahala National Forest

The Best Camping Near Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, National Forests in North Carolina, NC is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—National Forests in North Carolina is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near National Forests in North Carolina. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

National Forests in North Carolina

The Best Camping Near National Forests in North Carolina, North Carolina

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir, NC has a lot to offer. W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Get the dirt on all the best camping near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

The Best Camping in Canton

Top Campgrounds in Canton (602)

1.