Best Campgrounds near Charlotte, NC
You'll find several good campgrounds within an hour of Charlotte, North Carolina for weekend trips. Morrow Mountain State Park Campground draws many families with its hiking trails and mountain views. Lake Norman State Park Campground sits right on the water, making it easy to swim or launch kayaks during hot summer days. Many campers like Iron City Campground because it has a dog park and updated bathhouses. The Charlotte area works well as a base camp since you can reach both the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains for day trips. Remember to keep your food locked up at night since raccoons and other wildlife are common around the campsites. Most Charlotte-area campgrounds fill up quickly between May and September, so booking ahead saves headaches. The Appalachian Trail runs through North Carolina about two hours from the city if you want a more challenging hiking experience. Summer brings the biggest crowds and highest temperatures to Charlotte camping areas. Most state parks and private campgrounds near Charlotte now use reservation systems instead of first-come spots. The camping options range from basic tent sites to full hookup spots depending on what gear you bring.