Best Campgrounds near Cedar Grove, NC
The Cedar Grove area of North Carolina provides access to several mixed-use campgrounds within the Uwharrie National Forest region. Badin Lake Campground and Arrowhead Campground offer established sites with amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and toilet facilities. The Uwharrie National Forest also contains dispersed camping areas such as Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area, which provides free primitive camping without developed facilities. Campgrounds in this region typically accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some locations like Deep River Campground offering cabin options for those seeking additional comfort.
Road conditions vary throughout the region, with some dispersed camping areas requiring high-clearance vehicles. Most established campgrounds maintain gravel parking pads and tent sites, though many campers note that finding level ground can be challenging. Water access points are common features at campgrounds like Badin Lake, where shoreline camping is popular. Permits are not required for most dispersed camping in Uwharrie National Forest, but established campgrounds typically require reservations, especially during peak seasons. Cell service is generally available but can be spotty in more remote areas. A visitor to Uwharrie National Forest noted, "The Uwharrie Trail, which pretty much spans the park north/south is about 20 miles point to point. The trailhead is kind of hard to follow sometimes, sections of the trail are prone to flooding and creek crossings can become difficult following heavy rains."
Lakefront camping receives consistently positive reviews from visitors to the area. Badin Lake Campground's lower loop features sites with direct lake access, making it popular for fishing and water activities. Campers frequently mention the privacy between sites due to abundant vegetation. Several reviewers highlighted the clean facilities at Arrowhead Campground, which features paved roadways and newer restrooms compared to other campgrounds in the area. Off-road enthusiasts frequently use these campgrounds as base camps for exploring the extensive trail systems throughout Uwharrie National Forest. Noise levels remain relatively low at most campgrounds, particularly during weekdays when occupancy is lower. One camper described Badin Lake as having "relatively large sites with vegetation that blocks constant view of neighbors" and noted that "the sunset across the lake was gorgeous and relaxing."
