North Carolina's Piedmont region near Colfax offers diverse camping options at elevations between 800-1,000 feet above sea level. The area experiences moderate year-round temperatures with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s. Located at the intersection of several major highways, Colfax serves as a convenient base camp for exploring both urban attractions and natural areas throughout Guilford County.
What to Do
Hiking at Pilot Mountain: Just 30 miles from Colfax, Pilot Mountain State Park offers excellent trails for all skill levels. "Very peaceful campgrounds with clean facilities. Good hiking, mostly moderate with gorgeous views from the overlooks," notes Fletcher S. about Pilot Mountain State Park Campground.
Lake activities: Lake Reidsville Recreation Park provides multiple water-based recreation options. "You can rent paddle boats or kayak's or paddle boards. You may fish or rude boats," shares Jack and Lisa L. about their experience at Lake Reidsville Recreation Park. The park also features disc golf and nature trails.
Visit Mount Airy: Take a day trip to the town that inspired Mayberry from The Andy Griffith Show. "The Mt. Airy town is nice to visit. You are close to all the amenities when staying here. Check out the Andy Griffith museum, Main Street, and the granite quarry," recommends Jason E. who stayed at Mayberry Campground.
Climbing opportunities: Experienced rock climbers can find routes at Pilot Mountain. "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," says DrDavid P.
What Campers Like
Lakeside camping platforms: Sites with water views remain popular at Oak Hollow City Campground. "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," shares Larisa C. Many platforms feature their own electrical hookups and small beach areas.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and grounds are frequently mentioned in reviews. At Lake Myers RV Resort, campers appreciate the amenities: "A+ campground.. fun activities.. kid friendly.. love playing BINGO here!!" mentions Kristy W.
Family-oriented activities: Structured recreation programs keep families engaged. "Absolutely had a blast and met another great family here! Me and my kids camp via Tent there. Amenities available were: General Store, Pool, Gaga Ball, Bouncing Pillow, Bath House by the pool, fishing pond laser tag, and a bunch of activities," reports Tucker M. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Colfax, North Carolina, several campgrounds now offer these permanent tent structures as an alternative to traditional camping. The canvas yurts typically include beds, electricity, and some furnishings without requiring guests to bring their own gear.
What You Should Know
Highway noise: Several campgrounds in the area are located near major roads. "This campground is right by a highway so traffic noise is high but the views are nice," mentions libby M. about Oak Hollow. Similarly, at Greensboro KOA, "Easy on-Easy off access to several major highways which is exactly what a KOA Journey describes!! Just perfect for us," explains Wendy S.
Reservation tips: Many campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially during summer and holidays. "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," advises Shannon C.
Site selection matters: The terrain can be uneven at some campgrounds. "Only two drawbacks (1) noise from highway (2) many sites are not level so plan ahead and bring extra levelers," warns Lisa A. about Oak Hollow. Research specific site details before booking.
Weather considerations: The Piedmont region can experience sudden thunderstorms during summer months. Temporary yurt camping structures near Colfax sometimes offer better weather protection than tents, with sturdy walls and raised floors.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: Children enjoy the swimming and boating options available at area lakes. "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," shares a camper from Oak Hollow City Campground.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Quant small cozy little no frills campground. Small outdoor pool and dated playground. Pretty views and peaceful," notes Elise H. about Oak Hollow City Campground.
Zoo proximity: When camping with kids, consider the NC Zoo in Asheboro. "We were 15 mins from the zoo which was amazing," reports Tucker M. who tent camped at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. The 500-acre zoo is home to over 1,800 animals and makes an excellent day trip.
Luxury yurt options: Families seeking a more comfortable camping experience might consider the growing yurt camping options in the Colfax, North Carolina area. These structures typically offer real beds, electricity, and protection from insects and weather—perfect for families with young children or those new to camping.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Most area campgrounds offer complete services for RVs. "The rv sites are all pull thru nearly level, big gravel sites. We had plenty of room for ort 45' plus toad. There is a nice large K9 park," reports David M. about Greensboro KOA.
Site leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks for some campgrounds. "This campground is sloped, with rolling hills, which makes for a nice loop to walk dogs etc. Our tent pad was perfectly flat, and dry and we slept with no fly," mentions Kirsten J. about Pilot Mountain.
Urban access: Many RV parks in the area offer easy access to city amenities while providing natural surroundings. "Located minutes away from multiple trail heads," notes Steven N. about Deep River Campground And RV Park, who appreciated the balance of nature and convenience.
Proximity to attractions: RVers can enjoy both outdoor recreation and cultural sites. "Located not far from Winston Salem NC, Pilot Mountain has great hiking and beautiful views from the top," says DrDavid P. Most attractions are within a 30-minute drive of Colfax campgrounds.
