Best Tent Camping near Connelly Springs, NC

Tent camping near Connelly Springs, North Carolina centers around South Mountains State Park, which offers several backcountry tent campgrounds within its 20,000 acres of rugged terrain. Little River Backcountry Campground and Upper Falls Backcountry Campground provide tent-only sites nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Mortimer Campground in the nearby National Forests of North Carolina offers additional tent camping options approximately 25 miles northwest of Connelly Springs. These primitive tent camping areas provide access to numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and mountain streams.

Most backcountry tent sites in South Mountains State Park require a hike of 1-1.5 miles to reach the campgrounds. Little River Backcountry Campground features a 1.5-mile hike with approximately 600 feet of elevation gain from the Jacob Fork parking area. Bear boxes are provided at most sites for secure food storage, as black bears are present in the region. Pit toilets are available, but no running water exists at the campsites. Water sources are typically located 0.6 miles from the Little River sites and must be filtered. Fires are permitted in designated fire rings, though firewood is not provided at backcountry locations. Campers should bring a portable water filter and be prepared for variable mountain weather conditions.

The walk-in tent sites offer a more secluded camping experience compared to developed campgrounds. According to reviews, "The backcountry campsites were quiet and well-kept" even during busy holiday weekends when day-use areas see heavy traffic. The four sites at Little River are well-spaced for privacy, with the exception of site 1 which sits close to the entrance trail. Jacob Branch area features three tent sites arranged around a clearing with two pit privies and a bear box. Campers note that the tent pads can be challenging due to roots, hardpan earth, and slopes, but suitable spots can be found. For those seeking primitive tent camping with access to hiking, South Mountains State Park trails are described as "broad and very hilly in places," making trekking poles advisable for steep sections.

Best Tent Sites Near Connelly Springs, North Carolina (49)

    1. Little River Backcountry Campground — South Mountains State Park

    2 Reviews
    Casar, NC
    13 miles
    +1 (828) 433-4772

    $17 / night

    "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."

    2. Mortimer Campground — National Forests In North Carolina

    10 Reviews
    Collettsville, NC
    22 miles
    +1 (828) 652-2144

    $20 - $30 / night

    "The 5 upfront are walk in, and more private. The about to be 12 in the back are pull in and much closer together. Two shower houses, one on both ends, no hookups."

    "Had some friends stay next to us in a class b. A small trailer would fit, nothing big. No W/E/S but great place. Come early to reserve. You must set up camp immediately. No reservations."

    4. Boone Fork Campground

    4 Reviews
    Collettsville, NC
    19 miles
    Website

    "There is a 5 mile long trail that goes through the campground called Boone Fork Trail. This trail leads to Hebron falls where you can explore giant boulders and have a picnic."

    "The terrain is also flat and easy to hike through, making it a good long trail for beginners or children."

    5. Camp Attocoa

    1 Review
    Glen Alpine, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 413-4973

    6. Upper Falls Campsite

    1 Review
    Casar, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 433-4772

    $15 / night

    "Site 3&4 are my favorites because they are close to water access (bring a good filter). Plenty of trees to choose from for a hammock setup."

    7. Steele Creek

    4 Reviews
    Jonas Ridge, NC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 652-2144

    "I have stayed at all the free campsites around and left my review for each. This is by far the quietest, nicest, cleanest , site yet !"

    "There’s a nice big spot at the end of the trail where you could rooftop tent/car camp, but the actual site is about 100’ away."

    8. Paddy's Creek — Lake James State Park

    2 Reviews
    Linville, NC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 544-6800

    $27 / night

    "I needed some lake time and it didn't disappoint!

    The campground is a 2-minute drive (6-minute bike ride) down to the beach and there is a huge swimming area there."

    "We visited the Paddy Creek campground at Lake James last year. The campsite was impeccably maintained with the cleanest bath/shower house I have ever experienced camping."

    9. Black Bear Campground

    5 Reviews
    Marion, NC
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 803-5819

    $21 - $36 / night

    "Excellent campground there’s ice and firewood so you don’t have to make special trips to the nearest convenience store. They charge it directly to your card. The host was wonderful."

    "This is a brand new tent and cabin campground built by Duke Energy and run by McDowell county on Lake James."

    10. Blue Bear Mountain Camp

    25 Reviews
    Todd, NC
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 406-4226

    $25 - $136 / night

    "It offers RV, drive in and hike in tent sites and also teepee camping."

    "We had a neighbor nice enough to give us his site because he was leaving early and I would have stayed another night there. It was C3 backed into the woods on level ground. It made for a cozy morning."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 49 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Connelly Springs, NC

933 Reviews of 49 Connelly Springs Campgrounds



Guide to Connelly Springs

Discover the beauty of tent camping near Connelly Springs, North Carolina, where lush landscapes and serene waters create the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tent campers should check out Mortimer Campground

  • Enjoy a beautiful setting with access to a half-mile hike leading to a waterfall at Mortimer Campground.
  • This campground allows pets and features picnic tables, making it ideal for family outings.
  • With no electric hookups or showers, it offers a true back-to-nature experience.

Explore outdoor activities at Boone Fork Campground

  • Located near the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone Fork Campground provides access to a five-mile loop trail leading to Hebron Falls.
  • The flat terrain is perfect for beginners and families, making hiking and exploring easy and enjoyable.
  • Nearby Price Lake offers kayak and canoe rentals, adding to the fun-filled outdoor experience.

Discover the tranquility of Steele Creek

  • Steele Creek is known for its peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained sites along a creek, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
  • The campground is pet-friendly and allows fires, making it a cozy spot for evening gatherings.
  • With no amenities like toilets or showers, it’s a great choice for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Connelly Springs, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Connelly Springs, NC is Little River Backcountry Campground — South Mountains State Park with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 49 tent camping locations near Connelly Springs, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.