I
Irene M.
Guide
GuideIron City Campground, Inc.
Great little campground.
Easy access and nice pool as well as little camp store.
Camping near Connelly Springs, NC
229 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping near Connelly Springs ranges from developed RV parks and cabin rentals to primitive dispersed sites along the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. South Mountains State Park Family Campground offers developed sites with both tent and RV accommodations, while nearby Old NC 105 features dispersed camping options for those seeking more primitive experiences. The region includes several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, including Thousand Trails Green Mountain in Lenoir and Spacious Skies Bear Den, which provide amenities ranging from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV spots and cabin rentals. Most camping areas sit between 1,500-3,500 feet elevation, creating varied microclimates throughout the camping season.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the region, with many developed campgrounds operating on limited schedules. Julian Price Park Campground along the Blue Ridge Parkway operates from April through late October, while South Mountains State Park maintains year-round access. Winter camping requires additional preparation as temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations. Road conditions vary considerably, with dispersed sites along Old NC 105 requiring higher clearance vehicles in some sections. Cell service remains spotty throughout much of the area, particularly in valley campgrounds and along forest roads. A visitor noted, "Old NC 105 is all dirt and gravel and can get a little rough. It's much easier with a 4WD vehicle, but we saw sedans and minivans driving it."
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, with several campgrounds offering sites along creeks and rivers. Steele Creek Park & Campground in Morganton provides electric hookups and water access, while dispersed sites along Old NC 105 offer more secluded experiences with mountain views. The Blue Ridge Parkway corridor contains several highly-rated campgrounds, including Julian Price Park which features lakeside camping and boat rentals. Campers frequently mention the region's proximity to hiking trails and waterfalls as major draws. Reviews indicate that campgrounds closer to the Blue Ridge Parkway tend to fill quickly during peak season, especially on weekends. One camper reported that "About 5 camping spots along the road have breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, hills and valleys. Those spots are obviously the first to go, so come early or on a weekday."
Best Campgrounds near Connelly Springs (229)
1. South Mountains State Park Family Campground
"The family campground is a short distance further inside the park on the left side(approx 2 miles) marked by a small brown sign...and is situated at 1400 ft elevation. "
"This campground is one way and exits into a trailhead parking area. There was one site that was in the parking area, would not be my first choice. Shaded sites with picnic tables and fire rings."
from $27 - $32 / night
Check Availability2. Thousand Trails Green Mountain
"We had a deck at our site which was a but problematic due to our steps folding out, it took some finagling and leveling to get it to where we could close our door."
"This is our first time ever camping and this place feels like home away from home and everyone here is very friendly."
3. Indian Springs Campground
"We were looking for someplace to stay near Hickory and we stumbled upon Indian Springs. "
"This place is tucked away near a river, plenty of indoor and outdoor activities, plus a nice laundromat. One of the quietest RV parks I've ever been to!"
4. Spacious Skies Bear Den
"Spacious Skies Bear Den in North Carolina offers an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure for families."
"Bear den was a perfect location for the Blue ridge parkway. We stayed at a two cabin lot that had a hot tub. Bear den has everything from RV camp sites to a game room."
from $24 - $999 / night
Check Availability5. Steele Creek Park & Campground
"The close proximity to Linville Falls, Blowing Rock and the Blue Ridge Parkway was perfect. We will definitely be back to explore the area more."
"Friends of my went and paddled the Wilson Gorge close by. Tubed down the river, just plenty to do for a weekend trip."
6. Julian Price Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
"Julian Price Park is a beautiful campground just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. We enjoy this campground on the weekends throughout the fall and spring as it is less occupied."
"This campground is on a beautiful lake. There is no swimming on the lake(its pretty shallow) but awesome for kayaking and paddleboarding."
from $30 / night
Check Availability7. Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping
"This was our first stop on our first trip to North Carolina and now we don’t want to leave!"
"The sites are pretty spread out but there are a few within shouting distance (which could be annoying if the site next to you decides to bring a battery powered Sawzall to cut firewood at 2am)."
8. Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
"Spent two nights here at a site right next to the creek, which was awesome listening to the running water as you fall asleep. Easy to get to, just a forest service road."
"Big space, right next to the creek. All I heard was the water and some faint crickets hanging on in November. Best part, No highway sound! A couple hunters drove by, no one else was there."
9. Brown Mountain Roadside Campsites
"We stayed here for 12 days in the very first spot on the right , it was the most secluded and we had a bar of service near/ at the picnic table. We enjoyed our stay."
"One caveat: there is a relatively narrow turn near the top of the lot, past the camping sites, that would be difficult for larger RVs."
10. Little River Backcountry Campground — South Mountains State Park
"Jacob Branch: Three sites arranged around a clearing. Two pit privies and a BEAR BOX! Woot!!"
"The hikes near the falls were quite busy on Memorial Day weekend, but the backcountry campsites were quiet and well-kept."
from $17 / night
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Drive Time
- 55 min from Asheville, NC
- 1 hr from Charlotte, NC
- 1 hr 28 min from Spartanburg, SC
Recent Camping Photos near Connelly Springs, NC
506 Photos of 229 Connelly Springs Campgrounds
Jenny S.
The River Camp
Shelly S.
South Mountains State Park Family Campground
Glacia C.
Little River Backcountry Campground — South Mountains State Park
fcsdavis@yahoo.com
Thousand Trails Green Mountain
Jaren E.
Brown Mountain Roadside Campsites
Thoams M.
Rose Creek Retreat
Rose C.
Rose Creek Family Campground
Julie L.
Upper Falls Campsite
Nicole L.
Steele Creek Park & Campground
Caroline G.
Boone Fork Campground
Robin B.
Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
Adam P.
Grand View Campground & RV Park
Recent Reviews near Connelly Springs, NC
1154 Reviews of 229 Connelly Springs Campgrounds
- kkathy U.
ScoutBuck Creek
Amazing
I’m thrilled to give this campground my highest recommendation! The owners and staff couldn’t have been more accommodating, helpful and kind! We called that morning because the campground we were booked at turned out to be awful. They fit us in and then we ended up extending our stay. We had to keep moving sites because they had other campers coming in, but it was worth it! Our favorite sites was 54 and 27. Some sites are close, but all are on the creek so you don’t notice it at all! Nothing better than waking up to the sound of water! The campground location is perfect, 20-30 minutes from things to do like hiking and wineries.
Mike F.ScoutDoe River Landing
Ahhh-mazing
We arrived and easily got to our spot. There’s a river just behind our spot and only a handful of RVs and cabins. Our GPS wanted us to pass the turn to the campground, we had to make a U turn to get in…. Of course, on the second approach we saw the entrance signs (my bad). It looks like it is best to approach from the west (Hampton?), it was a sharp turn entering from the east (Roan Mountain). We settled in and got to relaxing quickly.
- SSara M.Guide
Doe River Landing
What a fantastic find - small, family-owned campground in mountain heaven
Doe River Landing is a small, delightful RV and cabin camping park that sits on the banks of the Doe River in the Roan Mountain valley of TN. We enjoyed our stay enough that we extended a few extra days. Five shaded, landscaped RV sites offering water/electric are located about 20 yards from the river’s edge. An additional site offers a fully-outfitted rental RV. Sites are pea gravel and mostly level. Luxury rental cabins(5) are available along with a truly awesome rental pavilion outfitted for larger group gatherings. The friendly hosts live in a home nearby and were around daily during our stay.
For a small family campground the amenities are super nice. The top-notch children’s playground and toy shed obviously delighted guest’s children. Wi-Fi signal is strong enough for streaming. Nice, clean bathhouse. Public grills are available. Hiking trails meander along the river and up through their woods.
There are few places we enjoy more than the Roan Mountain area for camping. The location is fantastic and even peak summer temperatures are usually comfortable. Roan Mountain State Park is minutes away for hiking and a slew of activities, while the top of Roan Mountain houses the famous wild Rhododendron Gardens. The AT and multiple hiking trails run along the top of the mountain.
There were only a few considerations with this venue.
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The sites are mostly level although we needed two OxBlocks in each of the sites we stayed in. One needed leveling front-to-back, the other side-to-side. When Hurricane Helene scoured the area it likely left some dips in the parking pads.
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The bathhouse contains one toilet and shower, both housed in the same room which can tie them up for long periods.
3) There may be some day and night traffic noise as large trucks involved in repairs from Hurricane Helene are still active.
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The approach is rather challenging. New lighted signage helps identify where their single-lane entrance road takes a HARD fork off US-19E. Be sure to check the Directions tab on their website. If you are arriving from the north (through Elizabethton) you will be able to pull directly onto Bob Ray Rd.(entrance to the right of the little Bible church). Approaching from the south on US-19E is more difficult. Bob Ray Rd basically runs parallel to US-19E which requires essentially a U-turn across 2-3 lanes to accomplish. The host suggests turning through the closed fruit stand parking lot(on the left within sight of the entrance) but we weren’t sure about it given on-coming traffic. We elected to drive~ 2 miles further down 19E and U-turn across the left shoulder.
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Bob Ray Rd is a single-lane road. Based on timing for check-in/check-out you are unlikely to meet another RV coming at you(thankfully!)
Multiple choices for food in the area. The Whiteway Grill– less than 5 minutes away- offers fabulous breakfasts. Smoky Mountain Bakers is beyond awesome! Wood-fired pizza for dinner and breakfast plates from simple sandwiches to breakfast burritos, pancakes and French toast. We find excuses to eat here during the week. Every meal we’ve had at Puerto Escondido Mexican restaurant was huge(as in leftovers) and tasty.
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- SSherry S.
TravelerUpper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
Very nice!
I camped on Forest Road 982. There were quite a few people camping along this road, but I found a really good spot by the large creek. The campsites are pretty far from each other so the privacy is good. I stayed one night. Will definitely go back.
- KKatie M.Scout
Dark Ridge HideOut (Adults Only)
Awesome private campground!
The owner was super nice and gave us all the info we needed! Very close to the falls to swim at and hike to (wear hiking shoes to get to the falls) over all great quiet little campground!
- JJanet P.Scout
Roan Creek Campground
Constant harassment from owners
This campground is not 420 friendly! It’s Tn where MJ is illegal. We have RX but we were harassed non stop. One day the owner said to smoke by River, next day somewhere else! Owner also would snoop around my camper to upset my Belgian Mal. We spent a miserable summer here May-Nov. Never again! All was ok until we set up!
Gary G.
LegendCarolina Hemlocks Rec Area
Good choice to access Mount Mitchell hike
This small campground is low stress on the banks of a very nice river!
- RRoseann S.Scout
New River Redemption
Great get away- perfect for solo female travelers
Beautiful property right on the river. The host was amazing. Clean port o John- water- river, wonderful owner. Close to town yet quiet. This is my favorite
Guide to Connelly Springs
Dispersed camping near Connelly Springs, North Carolina takes place along forest service roads and undeveloped areas within Pisgah National Forest. Most primitive camping spots require a short drive on unpaved roads, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,800 feet creating distinct temperature differences between valley and ridge sites. Old NC 105 offers free dispersed camping with varying degrees of site development depending on previous camper maintenance.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 1-3 miles from camp: South Mountains State Park features an 80-foot waterfall accessible via hiking trails near the family campground. A visitor notes: "I searched 'best waterfalls in NC' and this park did not disappoint. We stayed for 3 nights- family campsite (sites 6-9 are best IMO) was used as basecamp. We also had a primitive site that we backpacked to for a night." (South Mountains State Park Family Campground)
Fishing in stocked waters: Julian Price Park Campground provides lake fishing with boat rentals available during summer months. The lake is hatchery supported, making it ideal for casual anglers. "Julian Price Park is a beautiful campground just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. We enjoy this campground on the weekends throughout the fall and spring as it is less occupied."
Mountain biking on designated trails: The region offers approximately 16.5 miles of mountain bike trails that intermix with hiking routes. At Bear Den, "The campground is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains...so beautiful! Quiet campground with hiking trails, small fishing lake, playgrounds, an arcade room, and camp store. One of the hiking trails leads to a waterfall."
What campers like
Creek access from campsites: Several campgrounds feature streamside sites that provide natural water features and ambient sounds. At Steele Creek Park, "A lot of the sites have water beside them. Bathrooms were clean. There is a store on property that has things you may have forgotten and a grill." (Steele Creek Park & Campground)
Remote camping with mountain views: Along Old NC 105, dispersed sites offer views of Table Rock Mountain and the surrounding valleys. One camper explains: "About 5 camping spots along the road have breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, hills and valleys. We headed up the road from Lake James to find this stunning view down into the gorge from our site." (Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping)
Proximity to Blue Ridge Parkway: Several campgrounds provide easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway's scenic drives and overlooks. "Being right on the Parkway was awesome and provided some great driving and hiking close by. The staff were very helpful. We camped at C13 which was right across from the large playground in November."
What you should know
Water access varies by site type: Developed campgrounds provide potable water, while dispersed sites require you to bring your own. At Indian Springs Campground, "The closest water source is a creek 0.6 miles (1.2 miles round trip) away- filter it- the walk back to camp is a steep uphill."
Seasonal road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites can deteriorate after rain. For Old NC 105, a camper reports: "The dirt road goes for about 13 miles. Would recommend a 4x4, but I've seen all kinds of vehicles travel the entire road from minivans to Honda accords."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically based on elevation and terrain. South Mountains State Park has "NO cell service which is a big draw for us. Far from a town, so don't forget anything. Rangers are helpful and will bring firewood (charge for the wood)." (Linville Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway)
Tips for camping with families
Sites near playgrounds: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Bear Den, "We camped at C13 which was right across from the large playground in November. No noise issues, but it was dark by 6:30pm. May be different in the Summer. My daughter had a blast and we could keep an eye on her while we worked/played at the site."
Bathroom access considerations: Developed campgrounds have varying bathroom facilities. One camper at South Mountains notes: "Bath facilities are new and kept clean. Very quiet with NO cell service which is a big draw for us."
Weekend vs. weekday crowds: Peak season weekends can be difficult to secure spots, especially at popular locations. "We camped from mid-September and had a great time. These are the cleanest bathrooms we've ever seen. The on-site store is a life saver and the hosts are very helpful."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: RV sites with electrical connections are limited in the immediate area, so reservations are essential. At Thousand Trails Green Mountain, "We spent 14 nights here Oct 2020. Not one day where we disappointed. Beautiful park with full hook ups. People here where super friends and there are people working on the park keeping it clean everyday." (Thousand Trails Green Mountain)
Campsite terrain assessment: Many sites require careful positioning due to uneven terrain. A visitor to Indian Springs explains: "The site was fairly level, and the electric, water & sewer were well maintained and easy to access. Verizon cell service was excellent because there is a tower close-by."
Access road considerations: Roads to some camping spots near Connelly Springs require careful navigation. "If you can handle driving up and down the gravel road, you will love this campground. It is definitely a hidden gem, and one of the best experiences we have had."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Connelly Springs, NC?
What camping is available near Connelly Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, Connelly Springs, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 229 campgrounds and RV parks near Connelly Springs, NC and 12 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Connelly Springs, NC?
Which is the most popular campground near Connelly Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Connelly Springs, NC is South Mountains State Park Family Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 26 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Connelly Springs, NC?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Connelly Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Connelly Springs, NC.
What parks are near Connelly Springs, NC?
What parks are near Connelly Springs, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 26 parks near Connelly Springs, NC that allow camping, notably W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir and Pisgah National Forest.
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