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Best Campgrounds near Charlotte, NC

525 Reviews

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.

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Best Camping Sites Near Charlotte, North Carolina (84)

    1. McDowell Nature Preserve

    31 Reviews
    Lake Wylie, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (980) 314-2267

    $15 - $33 / night

    "This campground is just minutes from Charlotte, but secluded from the city noise. Nice open spaces with shade. No views to speak of but several short trails and nice areas around Lake Wylie."

    "Nice campground on the lake near charlotte. Nice facilities. Safety gates, seemed secure and quiet at night. Some of the rv sites were in quite a slope."

    2. Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort

    17 Reviews
    Pineville, NC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 588-2600

    "I've stayed here twice while visiting nearby Charlotte, and was pleased with the facility. RV spaces are a nice size with plenty of grass."

    "The sites are tight but there's shade and since we have to be close to the Charlotte airport it was perfect. Far enough not to have super loud plane noise but a very easy drive."

    3. Ebenezer Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    20 Reviews
    Rock Hill, SC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 366-6620

    "We live nearby so this is a nice little place to camp at. Nice sites, close to places to eat. Bathhouse was clean and well kept."

    "This park is tucked away and gorgeous. So quiet and well shaded. The beach was awesome and the kids loved swinging on the water. Will return"

    4. Charlotte-Fort Mill KOA

    11 Reviews
    Fort Mill, SC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 548-1148

    $62 / night

    "We came here to do some trailer maintenance and because it is very close to home. We were not expecting it to be a great camping experience, but we’re pleasantly surprised!"

    "Site was large enough for 36' fifth wheel, truck, and our car fit behind rig. We could have fit a couple more vehicles if we had them. In addition there is a fuel station out front."

    5. Elmore RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Charlotte, NC
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 597-1323

    6. Camping World Charlotte Motor Speedway

    6 Reviews
    Harrisburg, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 455-4445

    "Campground is huge & within walking distance of the raceway. Camping world is across the street if you forgot anything! Win!"

    7. Fieldridge Acres

    2 Reviews
    Belmont, NC
    8 miles
    +1 (704) 399-3521

    $30 / night

    "It is near the Charlotte airport, so there is noise from planes taking off and landing between 6 AM and 10 PM. Easy in and out. They only accept cash. "

    "Also fairly close to the CLT airport, which is why I took a star away. Noise takes some getting used to."

    8. Crown Cove RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Pineville, NC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 547-3500

    $68 - $98 / night

    "We were on a “hill” but since we were close to all the trees i didn’t mind it."

    9. Kings Mountain — Kings Mountain State Park

    46 Reviews
    Kings Mountain, SC
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 222-3209

    $13 - $31 / night

    "When not in the side, a short walk takes you to the Trading Post, a small store selling firewood ($7), ice, souvenirs, and sundries. Next to that is a large playground connected to a pavilion."

    "There are lots of trails close to the campground with one around a lake and a stream off of it. Facilities were very well maintained."

    10. Cane Creek Park

    28 Reviews
    Mineral Springs, NC
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 843-5909

    "Great spot only 45min from Charlotte."

    "It is located south and east of the town of waxhaw, and an easy drive from Charlotte."

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Recent Camping Photos near Charlotte, NC

178 Photos of 84 Charlotte Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Charlotte, NC

525 Reviews of 84 Charlotte Campgrounds

Guide to Charlotte

Camping near Charlotte, North Carolina, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds have great hiking options. For example, at Morrow Mountain State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Lots of hiking nearby. Beautiful area! Highly recommend."
  • Fishing and Boating: If you enjoy fishing, Badin Lake Campground is a great choice. A visitor said, "It was awesome, great for fishing and hunting."
  • Historical Sites: Check out Andrew Jackson State Park Campground for a mix of history and nature. One camper noted, "The park is better suited for small rigs... There are several excellent sites on the lake, which is for fishing or kayaking."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Lake Norman State Park Campground, a reviewer said, "The bath house was an unexpected luxury and was immaculately maintained."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpfulness of campground hosts. One visitor at Iron City Campground, Inc. shared, "Lisa is the best host."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. A review for Kings Mountain State Park mentioned, "Large sites, mostly level, with table and fire ring."

What you should know:

  • Site Layout: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at South Mountains State Park Campground said, "Camp sites are nice, close bathrooms, nice facilities."
  • Cell Service: Be prepared for limited cell service in some areas. One visitor at Morrow Mountain State Park Campground warned, "Beware! Cell/Internet coverage is non-existent."
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow or winding roads. A reviewer at Kings Mountain State Park noted, "The road into the campground is narrow, hilly and windy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. At Iron City Campground, Inc., one parent said, "Fun for kids: pool with splash mushroom; playground."
  • Activities: Choose a campground with various activities. A family at Lake Norman State Park Campground enjoyed, "The park offers some very nice hiking trails."
  • Safety: Many campgrounds have security or patrols. A visitor at McDowell Nature Preserve mentioned, "The campground is guarded by two gates and I saw the police patrol around a few times after hours."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites. A reviewer at Morrow Mountain State Park Campground said, "The campsites tend to be spacious and wooded—perfect for privacy and hammocks."
  • Electric Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. One camper at Lake Norman State Park Campground noted, "RV sites are paved, with a picnic table and fire ring."
  • Dump Stations: Check for dump stations if you're in an RV. A visitor at Badin Lake Campground mentioned, "They have really nice established spots with great views of the lake."

Camping around Charlotte, NC, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. With a mix of activities, clean facilities, and friendly staff, you're sure to find a spot that fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Charlotte, NC for weekend getaways?

For weekend getaways from Charlotte, Morrow Mountain State Park Campground stands out just over an hour away, making it perfect for short trips. The park offers electric hookups, hiking trails, and canoeing opportunities. Another excellent option is Iron City Campground, Inc., a favorite escape featuring level lots, a swimming pool, enclosed dog area, and clean facilities. Other notable options within a 45-minute drive include Cane Creek Park and Lake Norman State Park, both offering beautiful natural settings with recreational activities. McDowell Nature Preserve provides a quick escape minutes from the city while still feeling secluded, with easy access to Lake Wylie.

Where can I find free camping or boondocking options near Charlotte, NC?

Free camping and boondocking options are limited near Charlotte, but some possibilities exist. Crowders Mountain State Park Campground has primitive camping options that are more affordable than full-service sites. While not free, Kings Mountain State Park offers some of the more economical camping in the region. For true free camping, you'll need to venture farther into national forests like Uwharrie National Forest (about 1.5 hours northeast) or Pisgah National Forest (2+ hours west), where dispersed camping is permitted. Always check current regulations, as some areas require permits even for free camping. Walmart parking lots in the Charlotte area sometimes allow overnight parking, but policies vary by location.

What is dispersed camping and where can I find it near Charlotte, NC?

Dispersed camping means setting up camp outside of designated campgrounds, typically without amenities like bathrooms, running water, or established sites. This primitive camping style follows Leave No Trace principles and usually has restrictions on length of stay. Near Charlotte, true dispersed camping options are limited, as most public lands are developed. Cane Creek Park offers more primitive sites that provide a semi-dispersed experience. For authentic dispersed camping, you'll need to travel to Uwharrie National Forest (about 1.5 hours northeast) or Lake Norman State Park Campground which has some more secluded options. Always check current regulations, obtain any required permits, and respect fire restrictions before setting up camp.

Are there lakeside camping sites available near Charlotte, NC?

McDowell Nature Preserve offers excellent lakeside camping just minutes from Charlotte on Lake Wylie, with secured gate access and clean facilities. Andrew Jackson State Park Campground features sites right next to a lake perfect for paddling, though watch for stumps while kayaking. The park has reasonable rates with electric and water hookups at all sites. Lake Norman State Park also provides camping near water with its Lakeshore Trail offering swimming opportunities. For families interested in combining water activities with entertainment, Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort provides access to nearby water recreation. Most lakeside options around Charlotte require reservations, especially during summer months.

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