Best Tent Camping near Clemmons, NC

Tent campers exploring the Clemmons, North Carolina region have access to several primitive and established tent campgrounds within driving distance. The Uwharrie National Forest offers multiple tent camping options including Deep Water Trail Camp and East Morris Mountain Camp, both providing secluded tent sites in natural settings. Basin Cove along the Blue Ridge Parkway provides backcountry tent camping with more primitive conditions for those seeking a more remote experience.

Most tent campgrounds in the area feature basic amenities with varying levels of development. Sites typically include fire rings or rock fire pits, though campers should verify fire regulations before visiting. At Deep Water Trail Camp, the access road requires careful navigation as one visitor noted, "The drive down the trail can be a bit much if you're in a smaller car, we had to drive slowly down because of all the rocks." Several tent sites lack potable water sources, particularly at primitive locations like Basin Cove where campers must bring filtration systems. Vault toilets are available at some locations, while others require campers to practice proper backcountry waste disposal.

The tent camping experience near Clemmons offers opportunities for solitude and nature immersion. Sites at Basin Cove require a mile-long hike to reach the campground, creating a more secluded atmosphere. According to one camper, "The sites have NO vehicle access at all, you have to hike a mile into the campsite. The hike in is excellent, as it follows the river along the way." Many tent sites are positioned near water features, with Deep Water Trail Camp offering riverside camping ideal for fishing and water activities. The surrounding forests provide shade at most locations, though Lake Curriher Wilderness has tent sites in an open field with limited tree cover. Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for day hikes, fishing, and wildlife viewing, with extensive trail networks accessible from most campgrounds.

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Best Tent Sites Near Clemmons, North Carolina (15)

    1. Homeplace Recreational Park Inc.

    5 Reviews
    Pilot Mountain, NC
    27 miles
    +1 (336) 374-5173

    "In this park, all the sites are dirt only, no paved pads, but do have rock fire rings. The WiFi was pretty good considering the number of people who were probably using it."

    "Large trail to go for a little walk. Very reasonably priced. Will go again."

    2. Lake Curriher Wilderness

    4 Reviews
    China Grove, NC
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 857-4114

    $10 - $30 / night

    "It’s the quietest stay we’ve had yet, and we go camping nearly every weekend. I will say, having the ADA tent site makes a huge difference."

    "Very close to my home. I hike in to the remote campsite on the lake. Lots of fishermen and trash since the scum can’t seem to pick up after themselves. The cabins here are also great."

    3. Deep Water Trail Camp

    8 Reviews
    Badin, NC
    47 miles
    Website

    "I’ve got a 13 foot pull behind. Backed in mostly but a few could be pulled in an out. Road posted 25 mph but recommend 10 mph. Was also narrow in spots. Very bumpy. Last 1/2 mile don’t go."

    "First of all.. this place is FREE to camp at and surrounded by beautiful water, beautiful trees and the ancient rock of Uwharrie. A lovely place that we are so lucky to have access to... BUT. People."

    4. Willville Motorcycle Camp

    7 Reviews
    Woolwine, VA
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (469) 614-8620

    $150 - $200 / night

    "thwres a community fire ring where Will has a fire most nights. There are no reservations except for either the one cabin or the bunkhouse, and there're no designated spots."

    "It is motorcycle only, but he has limited space outside the campground proper for trailers should that be your thing."

    5. Uwharrie Hunt Camp

    6 Reviews
    Uwharrie National Forest, NC
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 576-6391

    "Horse trail riding is second on the list of activities within the park judging by the number of trails."

    "My husband and I took our two dogs backpacking for a weekend at Uhwarrie Park. After a long drive trying to find my husbands original spot we found a new one. Beautiful scenery."

    6. Hiddenite Family Campground

    2 Reviews
    Stony Point, NC
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 838-3579

    $25 - $50 / night

    7. Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway

    3 Reviews
    Blue Ridge Parkway, NC
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 348-3487

    "You have to make a reservation with the park office for your site and drop by the ranger station to pick up your permit."

    "Easy hike in, but far enough that you won’t find High-maintenance campers or crowds. Maybe some horseback people. Campground has tent pads, picnic tables, fire pits, pit toilets, water pump."

    8. Self Sufficient Holler

    1 Review
    Moravian Falls, NC
    44 miles

    $40 - $200 / night

    "What a magical experience floating in the trees surrounded by fire flies! Elizabeth and Mark were exceptional hosts. There is so much to do on property, and they are working on more!"

    9. Deep Water Trailt Horse Camp

    2 Reviews
    Badin, NC
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 576-6391

    "Too much trash left by previous campers"

    "Thankfully some campers nearby helped me rearrange my direction and get me out of the mud, but I still don’t know how I’m going to make it back out of here 😬. This might be my forever home?!"

    10. East Morris Mountain

    2 Reviews
    Uwharrie National Forest, NC
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    "Only three sites on this little out of the way fire trail. We go to the end of the road for complete privacy. No amenities other than a fire pit."

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Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

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Tent Camping Reviews near Clemmons, NC

661 Reviews of 15 Clemmons Campgrounds


  • A
    Oct. 27, 2021

    West Morris Mtn.

    Individual campsites

    Several individual campsites. Has trash bins located throughout the loop. There are picnic tables and fire rings at each site. No electric and no water. All spots are full shade.

  • Rachael H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 11, 2020

    Stone Mountain State Park Campground

    Loved it

    Primitive tent camp site. Water but no electric. Nice grassy area around the gravel tent pad. We had one tree for shade. Fire ring and table. Clean showers and bathrooms. We stayed here specifically for the sliding rock at widow creek falls. But we did hike Stone Mountain falls trail. There are 432 steps going up to the parking area from the bottom of the falls. Beautiful shaded trail. Mountain to sea trail runs through for a little bit. Dogs welcome leashes. Fairly busy trail.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2019

    Hanging Rock State Park Campground

    This is a great state park for hiking, seeing waterfalls, and for views!

    There are a lot of reasons to love Hanging Rock State Park. That’s why it is probably my favorite state park in North Carolina.  However, I am torn between giving it two stars and giving it five stars.  In general, I would give the park five stars, but for the camping facilities, I would rate it two stars.  There is so much to do without having to leave the state park.  First, let’s look at the park itself, and close to the end I will discuss the campground.

    To get to the park, you drive through beautiful rolling hills. The park has a modern visitor center with a nature center and friendly rangers.  There are lots of trails to explore, but they are not just trails to nowhere.  There are five waterfalls to see, a climbing access area, Cook’s Wall, and much more.  Moore’s Wall Loop Trail is a 4.3 mile strenuous hike, and it begins by walking by the lake.  There is a platform about halfway through the hike in which you can see the skylines of Greensboro and Winston-Salem.  My favorite trail is the Hanging Rock Trail, which is listed as moderate.  Parts of it are moderate, very short stretches are easy, and much of it is strenuous.  The last part of the Hanging Rock Trail is the most difficult, but the view at the end is worth the hike because it is spectacular.  From the hanging rock (I should say rocks since there are more than one), you can see for many miles across several counties.  The shortest hike to see a waterfall is relatively easy and is only three-tenths of a mile one way.  The lake has a swimming beach with mountains in the background, and there are also rowboats and canoes for rent.  According to what I understand from their website, canoe rentals and concession stands at the lake are open weekends only in the spring and fall (10am - 5:30pm).   I was hoping to take my kayaks next time, but unfortunately, private boats are not allowed.  Two large picnic shelters are also close to the lake. 

    Here is why I would give it two stars.  The camping sites are shaded and spacious with picnic tables, lantern poles, and fire rings, but the bathroom facility is outdated (built in the 1960s).  Even though it has hot water, it is NOT handicap accessible, and the shower doors are narrow.  If you are not a skinny person, you might have trouble squeezing through the shower doors.  There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups; however, there is access to water by way of frostproof hydrants. The campground hosts were very helpful and answered my questions.  You can also purchase bundles of firewood since taking your own firewood into the park is frowned upon.  If you are like me, however, and camp to experience the outdoors, you will not want to stay at your campsite very long.  There are just too many things to explore at this state park.  If you are going and want to truly experience the park, plan to camp at least three nights.  One day you can explore Upper Cascades falls and the hanging rock.  On another day, you can hike the Moore’s Wall trail and cool off in the lake.  On another day, see a couple more waterfalls or hike the Reuben Mountain Trail.

    There is also a group camping area.  I took the Boy Scouts there once, so I decided to visit this time to see if it was still the same.  They have added bathrooms and more well-defined tent sites—quite an improvement since the last time.

  • Julie L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2021

    Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway

    VERY Primative

    This site should not be confused with any other sites in area by similar name. You have to make a reservation with the park office for your site and drop by the ranger station to pick up your permit. The sites have NO vehicle access at all, you have to hike a mile into the campsite. The hike in is excellent, as it follows the river along the way.

    There is NO clean water source, you have to bring a filter system with you. There are no picnic tables but each site does have wood logs as seats. There are fire pits and food storage lockers on site. 

    The site is surrounded by excellent hiking trails and is a great place to set as "base camp" for day hikes.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2022

    Beechnut Family Campground

    Nice Camping for Tents or RVs

    We camped in our tent at Beechnut for two nights. The owners are very friendly and helpful. The tent camping area is across a road from a stream, in a forest of tall trees, a very picturesque location. Each tent site had water, a picnic table, and a 30-amp electric outlet. It rained heavily both nights we stayed there, but we stayed dry. Unfortunately the rain had been going on for several days before we arrived, and wherever vehicles were parked on the ground, they left muddy ruts. The owner helped some guests who arrived at night at a tent site in small travel trailers, when they were stuck. He really is very helpful and kind. Bathhouses are clean and well-kept.

  • Dave V.
    Oct. 31, 2019

    Badin Lake Campground

    A relaxing lakeside atmosphere

    Uwharrie National Forest-Badin Lake Campground, New London, NC.

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48934 

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE\_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5368418.pdf

    Campground Overview: 34 sites, two loops...upper loop and lakeside loop. Relatively large sites with vegetation that blocks constant view of neighbors. 

    Each site has a gravel parking pad and separate gravel tent pad, a standing charcoal grill, firepit with adjustable grate, a picnic table and a metal pole for hanging lanterns, etc. I would advise securing online reservations, but they do have an Iron Ranger to drop your payment in should you find an empty site. Note: There are warnings that online reservations take precedence, so if you use the Iron Ranger payment drop chute and someone reserved the same campsite...you will be required to move to a different location when the online reservation campers arrive. Just so you know.

    No electric. 

    Oddly, no firewood for sale...although scrounging produced plenty of things and fallen branches to keep a fire going.

    I preferred the lower loop as nearly every outer site was on the lake with great views and lake access and sites are spread out. The inside sites of the lower loop are pretty spacious and deep. Water spigots were spaced out around the loop, so a short walk as we were equal distance between two. 

    Restroom/showerhouses were quad door buildings. Separate men’s and women’s restrooms and two separate shower rooms. Facilities were kept clean and stocked by resident hosts. 

    With Verizon, I never lost signal...a plus for a National Forest!

    The upper loop appeared to offer a little more solitude than the lower lake loop...but no lake views. 

    The lake loop trail crosses the main campground roadway between the two loops. This trail is relatively flat and meanders around the lake and it’s many fingers...offering lovely lake views and some nice fishing locations. 

    During my midweek visit it was quiet day and night. The sunset across the lake was gorgeous and relaxing. Loud powerboat noise was minimal as only a couple bass boats thought it essential to travel at high speeds from location to location. Next visit my canoe and mountain one will accompany me. 

    What I enjoyed: as much as I dislike tree rats, I was entertained by two feuding squirrels that chased each other relentlessly and knocking each other out of tree tops. Woodpecker and Turkey wake up calls. 

    For a National Forest, I was surprised by the level of daytime industrial noise nearby. 

    Overall, a fantastic location relatively close to Raleigh/Durham and Fayetteville for a great camping getaway. I was only able to stay one night as the campground was booked, all reserved in advance. So plan ahead.

  • Dave V.
    Jun. 1, 2018

    Hanging Rock State Park Campground

    Let’s just hang out!

    RANGER REVIEW: Mountain House New Homestyle Turkey Dinner Casserole at Hanging Rock State Park, Danbury, NC

    CAMPGROUND REVIEW: HANGING ROCK STATE PARK

    Locating Hanging Rock State Park was not a simple task as it is well off the beaten path… most great parks are…but once there, you’ve found a gem! (Google Maps directions were inaccurate).At over 8,000 acres…offering trails of all length and difficultly level, multiple waterfalls, lake, scenic long views and picnic areas…it is no wonder it is claimed to be the most beautiful park in North Carolina. https://www.ncparks.gov/hanging-rock-state-park

    Rich in history, the mid 1930’s through 1942 saw the CCC construct most of what you still see and use here at Hanging Rock. Their stonework and creativity has stood the test of time. During an earlier war many elevated locations were were used as hideaways for British by sympathizers

    Park roadway signage directs you to your desired destination within the park.

    https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=CHLjG8FrpRg

    There are 73 campsites, separated into two loops…sites 1-42 in the main loop and 43-73 in the second more linear “loop”. Campground loop roads are one way to eliminate confusion.

    Individual camp sites are rather spacious, and offer 40-50’ between sites. Gravel parking pads are different lengths and shapes (most appear long enough for a pop-up or medium length RV/Camper) and are outlined by 12”x12” timber pylons jutting from the ground about a foot high. These short massive posts no doubt keep vehicle and trailer from wandering beyond the parking pad…but are a fantastic tripping hazard day or night. There is some “breakup” between sites from mature trees but your neighbors are still visible.

    The tent pads are elevated 3-4 inches, outlined by horizontal timbers and backfilled with fine pea gravel and sand. Easy on the knees, tent floor and when inserting tent stakes. Site 35’s tent pad was 13’x 19’ And fairly level. However, it appeared each site had a different sized pad based on terrain and available space. Some outer loop sites have some steeper drop-aways, so split-rail fences outline the tent pad, picnic area or both for safety.

    The park is heavily forested, so shade is abundant. During mid-May, it was warm, dry and enjoyed a constant refreshing breeze.

    Water spigots dot the campground loop roadway every few sites, so it is a short walk to fill up. Secure trash receptacles are spread out further but still plentiful. No electric and sketchy cell service (at best)…of which the payphone at the information board reminds you. Make the hike up to Moore’s Knob and you’ll find decent cell phone reception, if need be.

    Reservations are recommended and online is suggested. Arriving during business hours, available sites can be reserved and paid at the Visitor’s Center. After hours, payment of cash or check only can be made with the campground host as you enter the campground area. Each numbered site marker has a unique flag that flips up and over it’s site number denoting the site is reserved. Site cost per night were $18, which is a great price considering what this park offers.

    The centrally located showerhouse is clean and functional. The ladies called it ‘dated’ …but I liked the authentic retro look. The lights remain illuminated throughout, so it draws local insects…some monstrous! Huge beetles and stink bugs clung to the screen door desiring entrance. A hornet the size of a hummingbird circled the yellow porch light, with its buzzing eclipsing all other night sounds.

    The second loop is more linear, has a newer showerhouse (with electrical outlets). Sites to the left have the campground roadway behind them, so they may experience traffic noise…but with gates locking at 10 p.m. traffic is halted…and those sites appeared to be closer together. The outer sites are more private and enjoy spacious forest behind them.

    Shower houses are not open year-round, even though the park is. So there are still “outhouse style” singular pit latrines present.

    Whitetail deer mosey past your site and linger during the evening…ample squirrel and robins, woodpeckers and cardinals compete for air time. Skinks, newts and salamanders populate these wooded lands and scurry about. There are snakes, some venomous, but unfortunately, none were observed on our visit.

    The miles of trails are wonderful and well-traveled. Being known as “the mountains away from the mountains,” we did not hike any flat trails. Trails either go up or down…but each offer spectacular destinations and views. I highly recommend every trail and every waterfall. And yes, both Moore’s Knob and Hanging Rock are the highest elevations…offering fabulous views.

    The visitor’s center is the hub where many trails originate…and is a tremendous little facility full of local information. Staff personnel and Park Rangers are extremely helpful. Restrooms and water are located inside and outside the facility. The parking lot is expansive and the large number of day-use picnic tables, grills and shelters let you know this park gets a tremendous amount of use during peak times.

    Another, often overlooked feature is 7.2 miles of the Mountain To Sea Trail travels through this splendid park.

    For a mid-May Monday night, we shared the campground with five other campers…but weekends and holidays are ordinarily full so secure your reservations online well in advance.

    Hanging Rock State Park made my list for future visits!

    PRODUCT REVIEW: MOUNTAIN HOUSE NEW HOMESTYLE TURKEY DINNER CASSEROLE

    Having enjoyed Mountain House dinners on numerous camping and backpacking occasions, I welcomed the opportunity to try Mountain House's new Turkey Dinner Casserole.

    Mountain House's heritage is a rich Red, White and Blue one. Many don't realize that Oregon Freeze Dry began making nutritious meals, named LRP "Long Range Patrol" rations for our U.S. Military Special Operations units. MCW, "Meals Cold Weather" were designed to meet the needs of Special Forces operating in every adverse climate and condition on the planet. As opportunities arose and civilian demand increased, Mountain House began labeling and producing wonderful meals for both the front and backcountry. https://www.mountainhouse.com/

    The convenience of preparing a delicious meal by merely boiling water and adding it to the pouch is quick and easy. In fact, you can even eat it directly from the pouch without having to use a separate pot or bowl. Just open the pouch, remove the silica packet, pour in the boiling water, stir for a minute or so…seal the pouch with it's "ziplock" style closure…wait five minutes, open and stir again…Presto! Your meals awaits!

    Mountain House's new Turkey Dinner Casserole is the real deal. I found it delicious and very much like a Thanksgiving meal. Let it be known, I do not prefer stuffing and don't eat it at Thanksgiving or any other time…but..I found it to be very tasty and satisfying in this meal. https://www.mountainhouse.com/M/product/homestyle-turkey-dinner-casserole.html?variant_id=235

    My wife and I enjoyed this as our anniversary meal while camping…I spare no expense (free meal at an inexpensive campground…think frugal:) This particular meal provides two (2) servings, and if we had not been hiking most the day, it would have sufficed. I found myself desiring a bit more. Real chunks of turkey, stuffing, veggies, smothered in a thin gravy.

    Mountain House offers various size pouches, some 1 serving, as well as, 2 serving, 2.5 serving pouches, Pro-paks, #10 cans, and multi-packs. They offer delicious breakfasts and delectable desserts.

  • Amy F.
    Oct. 5, 2020

    Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground

    Great spot right on the Blue Ridge Pkwy!

    Camped in one of 5 tent camping spaces. They also have cabins / RV spaces and a motel. Check in was quick and the people running the campground were so friendly and great to deal with! Each site has a water pump and power. And the bathhouses are immaculate - showers are nice and hot and have good pressure. Firewood and fire starter available for purchase. Laundry room on site. Would absolutely stay here again!

  • J
    Aug. 1, 2021

    COE W Kerr Scott Reservoir Bandits Roost Campground

    Gorgeous campground!

    This place has it all! Swimming, kayaking, boat launch, small hiking trail. Sites have a fire pit, picnic table (it’s really heavy!) and a grill. I loved how each site is fairly unique. Many have steps to go down to the fire pit area. Lots of sites on the water. Site 32 was on a little cul-de-sac next to the beach and had a perfect spot for my hammock overlooking the water.

    I stayed on an rv site in a tent. There are tent specific sites. The tent sites are heavily wooded.

    The bathhouse was unremarkable but clean.

    They had movie night on Saturday night (RV) but I didn’t realize it until Sunday morning haha.

    The campground was very quiet all weekend. Appeared to be mostly families. There is no alcohol allowed and I did not notice anyone breaking this rule.

    There is firewood ($5 bundle - must have exact change!) available and ice but no camp store. Walmart is close by though.


Guide to Clemmons

Explore the great outdoors with tent camping near Clemmons, North Carolina, where you can find a variety of campgrounds offering unique amenities and experiences.

Tent campers should check out Bear Creek Tee Pee Retreat

  • Enjoy a unique glamping experience at Bear Creek Tee Pee Retreat, where you can stay in a teepee while still enjoying the comforts of home.
  • This private campground allows campfires and provides drinking water, making it a cozy spot for a night under the stars.
  • With only four sites available, it offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Tips for tent camping near Clemmons

  • Be prepared for a hike at Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway, as this site requires a mile hike to reach the campsites, offering a true backcountry experience.
  • If you're looking for a peaceful spot, consider Uwharrie Hunt Camp, which is free and often less crowded, especially in the off-season.
  • Remember to bring your own water and supplies when visiting Hiddenite Family Campground, as it has limited amenities but offers a tranquil setting beside the South Yadkin River.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Clemmons, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Clemmons, NC is Homeplace Recreational Park Inc. with a 5-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Clemmons, NC?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Clemmons, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.