Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Cary, NC is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Discover great camping spots near Cary, reviewed by campers like you.
"Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina!"
"Poplar Point is located on the banks of the lake in the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area."
"This area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote. Like many state parks, this one excels in the services department. "
"Located just 30 miles west of Raleigh, Jordan Lake provides 7 different access points throughout this amazing natural preserve. "
$23 / night
"We've hiked umstead and other local trails almost every week for the past 5 months."
"Lots of great paths to walk."
$35 / night
"Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance. Public bathrooms and showers (cold water) are a 2 minute walk to Horse Complex H6, Barn B Very little tree cover."
"The actual address is 801 Youth Center Drive. One camping location is up in the woods behind the horse complex. The other is on the actual fairgrounds property along Youth Center Drive."
"Tucked away and nestled off of 98 highway, Rolling View campground is a great, secluded spot."
"I spent a night in Shinleaf walk in campground in April as part of a backpacking trip along the Falls Lake MST trail, sections 8-12."
$23 - $62 / night
"If you find yourself in the hustle and bustle of nearby Raleigh and looking to get away from the crowds and pavement in exchange for some nice shaded nature, hiking trails and calm peace & quiet that"
"Like the title, great water access to Falls Lake from both the campsites and a separate boat launch."
$23 - $75 / night
"The campground is walking distance to Raven Rock trails and you get a free walk up pass to get in. We had a very good time and will definitely go back."
"It is a place of beauty and next to cape fear river ,Has plenty of places to hike to and to camp."
$12 - $42 / night
"This is one of my favorite camping spots in the North Carolina triangle area. There is a tremendous amount of hiking and trails to do around here. "
"On Friday there were a few logs left for campers at the entrance to the sites, which we appreciated given the recent rain."
$12 - $62 / night
"Great hiking trails or you can just read and cook by the fire. Have been going there for years with my kids. An excellent, little known spot."
$30 / night
"There are tons of hiking trails all around and plenty of bike trails too! Conveniently located north of Raleigh, NC and close to many major highways."
"None of the sites are located right on the lake. You either walk the trails or drive down."
GuideThis is an excellent place to stay. It’s very clean, lots to do, beautiful view of lake. Great hiking trails.
GuideThis is a very large campground that can accommodate any size RV. They do not allow tents. All sites are gravel, but are quite level. I pulled in, and didn't have to adjust anything. Pets are welcome, but as everywhere, dogs must be on a leash (not more than 6' long). If you put the address into your GPS, it will take you to the main fairgrounds. You need to put NC state fairgrounds CAMPGROUND. It is about a quarter mile from the main fairgrounds.
TravelerMy fiance and I camped out a little longer than the actually extension period for individuals, but never had a problem. Several others have showed up to camp out a couple days but were gone shortly. For the most part it was just us. And whatever it is running around in the woods. I heard many coyotes elks and a an owl but nothing never stumbled to our campsite close enough to get a look at it other than one young fox which was running away when we pulled in one late night. I think the animals are aware that the campground is human territory so they stay away. It's at 10 different spots to set up with your car parked right next to your tent. Our Boost mobile wi-fi worked perfectly fine. There is a lake 2 mins away one way and another 7 mins away the other way. The city dump is also 2 mins away. And town is 5 mins away. I wish the gates never closed because we would still be there.
GuideLike the way the campsites take advantage of the rolling terrain. Campsites are roomy. Lots of shade. We had a substantial deluge while there, and the water drained just fine. Nice shower facilites. We stayed at the F Loop. Sites F36 and F40 are situated so the awning side of the camper has a direct, unobstructed view of the water. Also liked the numerous trash cans near the sites.
GuidePark is kinda full, but everyone pretty much keeps to themselves and is really quiet. Hardly anyone walks around. I’m in A15. Right across the bathrooms. Which are super nice and showers too. Walked to the lake and it was sooo nice.
GuideWhenever a few friends and I want to do a quick overnighter to hang out or test gear, we go to Shinleaf. It's in a convenient location, right off of Hwy 98 on New Light Rd. The campsites aren't very far apart from each other. But if you choose any of the campsites off of any of the "leafs" (not in the main gravel path), you will find more solitude and not have many daily walkers or trail runners coming down the leafs of the campground since they mainly stick to the main path. Every campsite here has a fire ring and picnic table for convenience, and you can bring in a few bundles of firewood or cut up some of the dead fall trees that are in your campsites general area. Shinleaf is great for the family or just a quick night or two outdoors. Oh, and bring a fishing rod if you have a fishing license. You can fish from many of the "leaf" campsite spots.
LegendLarge park with a hodgepodge of level sites and not so much. Boat ramp, swim beach and a small amphitheater. No water sites with electric.
ScoutNo amenities, but the price reflects that. Conveniently located to everything this area offers. Fun to check out whatever is happening at the fairgrounds and the horse complex is across the street. Big rig friendly but you might need to park your your truck/road a ver short walk away if you have a very large rig. The issue here is lack of oversight. There are security folks, but only if you call and request them. There is trash pickup, but no other staff anywhere. So people break the various rules often. Mainly they stay longer than 14 days. There were squatters when we were here one time - about 5 rigs and they wouldn’t leave and had no reservations. They were gone two weeks later when we came back (state troopers and Raleigh PD had to get involved).
TravelerI absolutely love this spot! I’ve been here a few times now and it was absolutely incredible! Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a chill hike and a nice campsite!
Camping near Cary, North Carolina, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin.
Camping around Cary, NC, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, Cary, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 56 campgrounds and RV parks near Cary, NC and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cary, NC is Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 50 reviews.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Cary, NC.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Cary, NC that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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