Camping near Colfax, North Carolina typically peaks during late spring and early fall, with daytime temperatures ranging from 65-85°F during these optimal seasons. The area sits at approximately 900 feet elevation in the Piedmont region, creating distinct camping microclimates between lowland areas and the nearby elevated terrain. Unlike many North Carolina camping destinations, Colfax's proximity to multiple water features provides unique opportunities for fishing and paddling without requiring extensive travel from campsites.
What to do
Kayaking at Lake Reidsville: The 750-acre lake offers affordable paddling options with equipment available on-site. Lake Reidsville Recreation Park provides "easy access to the water, playgrounds & hiking trails just moments away from the camper," according to camper Steven F.
Rock climbing at Pilot Mountain: Located about 25 miles northwest of Colfax, the area offers routes for various skill levels. One visitor noted, "I've been here several times, and it's one of my favorite places for toprope climbing in the area. If you're not a climber, the views are still worth the drive."
Disc golf at Hagan Stone: The park maintains a popular disc golf course throughout the year. According to a reviewer, "The park itself is BEAUTIFUL. In fact, it is one of the nicest city parks we have ever visited. Staff were friendly. And the grounds and facilities were well maintained."
Trail running at Hanging Rock State Park: The park offers several trail races throughout the year on challenging terrain. As one camper mentioned, "We camped here for the Reach the Peaks trail running race and it was a great experience. The trails were very challenging and the views were spectacular. Definitely worth the trip."
What campers like
Tent platforms at Oak Hollow: The elevated camping areas keep tents dry and level. One camper shared, "We tent camped on Aug 28. This was our first time setting up on a platform and it was very easy. Our site had a great view of the beautiful lake."
Privacy at Jomeokee Campground: The quiet atmosphere makes for peaceful stays. A camper observed, "This is a very quiet campground at night. The camp host leads you in and makes sure you are situated in your site. Another camp host delivers firewood to your site if you place order."
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds in the area remain open year-round with different amenities. According to a Hanging Rock visitor, "Had a really good weekend!! Campground was all I needed for the two nights I stayed. Slightly wished the bathhouses had been open. Camp site very clean, big enough for tent camping."
Farm stay experiences: For a unique alternative to traditional camping, Brookhaven Mill Farm offers camping with animal encounters. One camper wrote, "I stayed overnight while passing through to Mississippi. The host was very gracious in our email conversations. I setup right near the picnic table with a view of the mini horses."
What you should know
Leveling challenges: Many sites require additional equipment to level RVs. At Tanglewood Park, campers note, "unlevel lots (we had to lower ours by over 4" and still weren't level, but couldn't adjust anymore)" and "some of the sites are very steep."
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant traffic noise. At Greensboro KOA, a camper mentioned, "As previously mentioned, serves its purpose for an overnight. Right off the highway, and by that I mean you see, and HEAR the traffic. The billboard in front of the trailer is an interesting touch."
Water spigot arrangements: Some campgrounds have shared water hookups. At Hagan Stone Park, "Water is shared between sites" and "you may need as much as 50' water hose" to reach spigots in certain areas.
Gate closure times: State parks enforce strict entrance/exit policies. One camper at Pilot Mountain noted, "The park does require a two-night minimum stay if camping over a holiday weekend. Also be aware that the campground entrance closes at 10 pm. You will not be able to enter or exit until the gate opens the next morning."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and swimming: Oak Hollow provides both swimming and play areas in one location. A camper noted, "There was a pool our kids could swim in until 7:00pm. They let us borrow a metal fire pit so we could make s'mores."
Multiple waterfall hikes: Hanging Rock State Park offers waterfall trails of varying difficulties. A family reported, "The shortest hike to see a waterfall is relatively easy and is only three-tenths of a mile one way."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to see native animals. One Tanglewood Park camper mentioned, "Deer roam throughout the park and campground" while another described them as "nearly tame deer all over the place."
Field space for games: Jomeokee Campground offers wide-open areas for children. A camper observed, "The large grassy fields have lots of kids and adults playing ball and frisbee. They allow tent groups and everyone seems to be having a great time."
Tips from RVers
Electrical cord length: Prepare for varying electrical outlet placements. At Oak Hollow, one RVer warned, "I was excited to have a lake view spot with electric but my 25 foot cord was not long enough so make sure you have at least 50 feet."
Pull-through accessibility: For larger rigs, certain campgrounds offer better options. At Greensboro KOA, one RVer noted, "The RV sites are spacious and mostly level with electric, water, and sewer hookups."
Bathroom renovation status: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Hagan Stone, one RVer mentioned, "There is a newer bath house a little further away from our site that seemed a little nicer" compared to the older facilities.
Winter camping considerations: RVers can find year-round options with varying amenities. At Lake Reidsville, one camper reported, "We stayed here in the winter months (Feb - April) and it was really nice. Nearest town for groceries is 10 min away but you'll have to travel to Greensboro for bigger stores."
