5 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Lake Norman State Park Campground houses upscale glamping cabins with modern amenities just north of Cramerton. The park's glamping accommodations feature comfortable beds with linens, air conditioning, and private porches for relaxing in nature. One guest shared, "We stayed in the new glamping cabin #2. Very clean, comfortable bed, nice AC, lovely porch to relax on." Crowders Mountain State Park also offers glamping options with electric hookups and picnic tables in a serene woodland setting. These boutique camping experiences provide a perfect balance between outdoor immersion and comfort, with pathways that light up at night for easy navigation to clean bathroom facilities. Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort rounds out the local glamping scene with accommodations that include full hookups, picnic tables, and access to clean shower facilities.
Visitors at these glamping campsites can explore numerous hiking trails, with Lake Norman State Park offering a particularly scenic Lakeshore Trail with swimming opportunities along the route. The parks provide water recreation options including boat rentals, with Lake Norman offering canoes, kayaks, paddleboats and standup paddleboards for $7 per hour. A visitor noted, "The designated swimming area was like a piece of heaven. Small not to overly packed, very clean beach." Mountain biking enthusiasts will appreciate Lake Norman's miles of trails for all skill levels located just two miles from the glamping sites. For those seeking unique glamping experiences, Hippie Holler provides a more secluded option with yurts set in natural surroundings. Most glamping locations in the area remain open year-round, making them accessible for both summer water activities and cooler season hiking adventures.
"Staff at counter was very friendly and provided all the information needed. Site was level side to side and paved with asphalt only wide enough for the camper."
"The sites are tight but there's shade and since we have to be close to the Charlotte airport it was perfect. Far enough not to have super loud plane noise but a very easy drive."
"See the camping info here: https://www.ncparks.gov/crowders-mountain-state-park/camping](https://www.ncparks.gov/crowders-mountain-state-park/camping)
It isnt a rugged hike, but you must be prepapred"
"We arrived late almost at sundown but they had an envelope waiting with instructions, a parking tag and a map. This is a hike in campground so we were in a hurry."
Available next weekend
from $17 - $47 / night
"We live nearby so this is a nice little place to camp at. Nice sites, close to places to eat. Bathhouse was clean and well kept."
"The bath house was clean. The men's side gave every appearance of being well maintained."
"We came here to do some trailer maintenance and because it is very close to home. We were not expecting it to be a great camping experience, but we’re pleasantly surprised!"
"I reserved a back in space and when we arrived were told they had upgraded us to a pull through site at no extra charge. Site was large enough for 36' fifth wheel, truck, and our car fit behind rig."
from $62 / night
from $40 - $60 / night
"We stayed in the new glamping cabin #2. Very clean, comfortable bed, nice AC, lovely porch to relax on. All cabins are in walking distance to the bathrooms and showers."
"It was very shaded and surrounded by woods. The tent pad was super spacious and made of gravel. There was also a picnic bench, fire pit, and a lantern pole."
Available next weekend
from $27 - $75 / night
"Lake, hiking trails and nice wooded campsites with fire rings and close proximity to bath houses. Playground for kids, little store, friendly staff."
"Campground has trails and fishing in walking distance. It is always packed. No alcohol permitted."
"We stayed on site 16 right on the lake. Beautiful views. Our site was very steep, so took a lot to get level, but it was ok. The rangers we're very nice and helpful."
"Campsite rates are very reasonable and all sites have electric and water and 3 sites also have sewer! Bathrooms and showers are clean and staff are friendly and helpful! We will be returning soon!"
Available next weekend
"There aren’t really any extras here but if you’re just looking for reliable water/electrical/sewer and wifi near Charlotte this is a fantastic option."
GuideDriving 14 1/2 hrs I was cooked called and had the most easiest booking. There was a sites available so I booked it. Needless to say I got there in the dark and a kind person helped me to my site and got me backed in. Soo exhausted I hooked up electric only hit the bed passed out
RangerWhen I’m traveling through the area, I do my best to stay here. It is a peaceful and well kept campground. It is an adult and a kid friendly environment. It’s one of the few places you can feel safe. I highly recommend this place.
LegendWe pulled into Lake Norman State Park around 6 PM on New Year’s Eve, mainly because we didn’t want to drive a couple more hours to our original destination. We only planned to stay one night, but the campground surprised us—in the best way—and we ended up staying three nights instead.
There were plenty of available campsites, and every site we saw was at least decently spaced, with several feeling nicely secluded. The campground was quiet and well laid out. The bathhouse was clean and modern, and having water spigots available in the no-hookups loop was a big plus.
One of the highlights was riding our e-bikes on the Hawk, Hicks, Norwood Creek, and Monbo loops. These are the easier sections of the Itusi Trail system and were a lot of fun—though still a bit too unpaved for my wife’s taste😄. Even so, the hiking trail access from the campground made it easy to get out and explore.
This stop wasn’t planned at all, but it turned into one of those stays that makes you glad plans changed. We’ll definitely be coming back to Lake Norman State Park.
Check out all the sites in 360° in our video:
https://youtu.be/UzYublJ-BZg
ScoutClean, safe, road noise all night, showers are clean, water is kinda warm. Site was level
ScoutI came in early and they didn't mind so I could get some rest before my long ride. Staff super friendly and sites are nice. All accommodations available. 5 star from this guy.
ScoutThis is ok is your passing though but it’s rundown.
Older. Clean! But really needs to be updated!
RangerThis campground is one of my regular stops. It is well kept.
ScoutChecked in around 6:00. The guy checking us in told us that the golf carts haven’t been working on hills(the whole place is hills) and to let it cool down for 10 minutes at a time if it overheats. We go to the cabin, which is littered outside with used baby wipes, get settled in, and by 8:10 realize the kitchen is infested with ants. Dozens of ants covering the appliances, counters, and kitchen sink. We asked for help and were told that maintenance would come to our cabin. They never showed up. We called the emergency line and it didn’t work, just put us in an endless loop and then hung up on us. Over and over again. We stayed that night because what other choice did we have? No one was available to help us with literally anything. Following morning, we pack up our stuff and tell the staff we’re leaving and all of our issues and ask for a refund on the room we spent 15 reluctant, ant-filled hours in. They escalate to a manager, and then tell us that another manager will call us“shortly”. The call never came. You don’t get what you pay for here. What’s advertised is a complete lie. You pay for a full kitchen? Too bad—you can’t cook or even store food here because there’s ants everywhere. Paid several hundred dollars for a golf cart to get around? It only works when it wants to. Call the emergency line for assistance? Yeah right! We spent$2k and they’re trying to dodge us for a refund. Disgusting place, disgusting behavior.
GuideWe have been here 3 times all for a week at a time and love it. Holidays usually have some activities for kids. The mini golf is free and a blast. The swim area is only open on Saturdays or you can drive to the day use side and be over there.
McDowell Nature Preserve sits on the shores of Lake Wylie, 25 miles southwest of Cramerton, North Carolina. Campsites range in elevation from 670 to 720 feet, offering protection from high winds. Winter temperatures typically stay above freezing, making the area suitable for year-round camping with occasional light snow in January and February.
Hiking trails with day access: McDowell Nature Preserve features several short trails leading directly from the campground. "So awesome to have hiking trails that lead right out of the campground," notes Kathy L. The preserve offers secluded hiking despite being minutes from Charlotte.
Fishing spots for crappie and bass: The region's lakes provide good fishing opportunities, especially at Andrew Jackson State Park. "Decent fishing for crappie and bass," mentions Nate G. The park's lake contains numerous stumps, so boaters should navigate carefully.
Free mini golf for campers: Cane Creek Park includes complimentary putt-putt golf with camping fees. "The mini golf is free and a blast," reports Sarah B. The park also features frisbee golf on the day-use side of the lake, available once COVID restrictions lift.
Year-round availability: Many campgrounds in the area remain open throughout winter. "We spent the last few days at the Carowinds Camp Wilderness campground in Site 70 with full hook-ups," Kevin A. notes. The sites stay level and clean regardless of season.
Family-friendly camp hosts: Lake Norman State Park provides attentive service from resident hosts. "Plenty of shade and plenty to do. We fished, rode bikes, hiked and saw plenty of wildlife. Not too close to the neighbors, and the camp hosts were nice," reports Caleb S.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The wooded campsites attract various wildlife. "Abundant wildlife including copperheads," warns a reviewer at Andrew Jackson State Park. Most campgrounds feature heavily wooded sites where deer sightings are common, especially at dawn and dusk.
Tent pad surfaces can damage equipment: At McDowell Nature Preserve, the stone tent pads might require extra protection. "When I got home I was patching holes in the floor of my tent from where the stone pad had caused damage. I know a seasoned camper would've put down a tarp," cautions Michelle L.
Limited yurt camping options near Cramerton: For those seeking yurt camping near Cramerton, North Carolina, Hippie Holler offers one of the few options. "Hidden Gem for the neurodivergants and chill seekers. Cool solar lights made it trippy," mentions Sherry M. The quiet setting appeals particularly to campers seeking solitude.
Reservations required well in advance: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer. "As such, it can be difficult to get in at times and usually requires a reservation well in advance," explains Rick B. about Cane Creek Park. Holiday weekends often book up 3-6 months ahead.
Playground proximity matters: Choose campsites near play areas for convenience with children. "The campground has a playground and not much more," notes Lee J. about McDowell Preserve. Consider site location relative to bathrooms and play areas when booking.
Educational opportunities at historical sites: Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort provides cultural experiences alongside camping. "Providing shuttle service to the front gate for park entry, this is an excellent choice for overnight stays and Carowinds outings," says Chris K. Several parks include historical exhibits suitable for school-age children.
Holiday programming for kids: Some campgrounds offer special activities during holidays. "We went around Halloween and they had trick-or-treating around the park as well as prizes for the best decorated," shares Ashley W. about Ebenezer Park. Check park calendars when planning holiday trips.
Leveling challenges on lakeside sites: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain at water-adjacent sites. "Our site was very steep, so took a lot to get level, but it was ok," reports Rachel R. about Andrew Jackson State Park. Bring extra leveling blocks for lakefront camping.
Limited big rig access at some parks: Crowders Mountain State Park and similar natural areas have size restrictions. "It is hard to believe that you are in the city limits of Charlotte in this campground. It is very rustic, with lots of trees and nature, and the campsites are nicely spaced out so you're not on top of other units. The campground is not terribly big rig friendly," warns Rick B. Check vehicle length restrictions before booking.
Proximity to urban amenities: Many campgrounds offer surprising seclusion despite being near cities. "This campground is just minutes from Charlotte, but secluded from the city noise," explains Nora C. Most campsites provide good cell service for those needing to stay connected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Cramerton, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Cramerton, NC is Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort with a 4.2-star rating from 17 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Cramerton, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 21 glamping camping locations near Cramerton, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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