Tent camping in Cedar Grove, North Carolina features numerous primitive sites throughout the Uwharrie National Forest at elevations ranging from 300-1,000 feet. The region sits at the intersection of the Piedmont and Coastal Plain, creating diverse camping terrain with a moderate climate allowing for year-round camping. Winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing, while summer nights offer relief from daytime heat.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Yadkin River and surrounding lakes provide excellent fishing for catfish and other species. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, campers report "Pretty good fishing" with one reviewer noting the "trail around the lake that offers some beautiful views across the lake."
Hiking trail exploration: The region offers extensive trail networks for day hikes from most campsites. A visitor to Lake Curriher Wilderness mentioned, "I hike in to the remote campsite on the lake," describing a less-known spot called "the Point" that requires "a decent hike in."
Mountain biking: Several trails accommodate mountain bikers looking for moderate to challenging terrain. San-Lee Park features "hiking and biking trails as well as kayaking and other water sports on the lake there," according to one reviewer who found it "an okay place, great if you are with a large group."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Most primitive sites offer considerable distance between campers. At East Morris Mountain, there are "only three sites on this little out of the way fire trail. We go to the end of the road for complete privacy."
Affordability: Many sites in the area are free or low-cost. Woodrun Camp provides free tent camping, while another camper mentioned being surprised by Hunt Camp's affordability, noting "$5 per night...What? What?" and describing it as a "quaint" campground with "rustic, grassy and comfortable" sites.
Water access: Direct access to rivers and lakes ranks high among camper preferences. One visitor to Deep Water Trail Camp shared, "Great spot lots of trails and primitive at its best," while another noted, "We brought our two pups & they had a blast playing & laying in the water!"
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many roads to primitive sites demand appropriate vehicles. A camper at Deep Water Trail Camp warned, "PLEASE take something with a little ground clearance and better than 2 wheel drive to get here. My Honda Element was on two wheels at one point but the AWD handled it like a champ."
Reservation systems: Policies vary by campground and season. At San-Lee Park, "Reservations are not taken, but rather, tent campers can book a campsite on a first-come, first-served basis." However, recent policy changes have caused confusion, with one visitor reporting they "were told you have to call and make a reservation... 72 hours ahead of time."
Weather preparedness: The region can experience sudden storms, particularly in summer. At Deep Water Trail Camp, one camper had to cut their trip short "due to a tropical storm coming in but the area itself is beautiful to walk around."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible sites: Some areas offer more family-friendly terrain than others. At Cedarock Park, families appreciate that "The sites are all super flat, which makes finding some place comfortable to set up a tent that much easier."
Noise considerations: Traffic sounds can affect some campgrounds. One family at Cedarock Park mentioned, "The only downside is the road noise at night - it was very loud. Next time we will bring something to help quiet the noise."
Activities for children: Multiple campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. A Cedarock Park visitor noted the park "offers hike-in camping with a handful of sites scattered along Rock Creek" and is "home to 6 miles of hiking trails and 6 miles of equestrian trails," plus "a basketball court, volleyball court, and playground."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive sites cannot accommodate large RVs. At Hunt Camp, a reviewer described "what appears to be an over-sized parking lot right next to it, the lot accommodates the OHV trailers," indicating smaller RVs may fit but space is designed primarily for off-highway vehicles.
Seasonal access restrictions: RVers should check seasonal limitations. One visitor to East Morris Mountain noted, "This camp site is only open during hunting season," limiting when RVs can access the area.
Water and power considerations: Few sites offer hookups. Lake Tillery Family Campground stands as an exception with certain amenities available, though most tent camping in Cedar Grove requires complete self-sufficiency for RVers as well as tent campers.
