Cabin camping near Gastonia, North Carolina offers accommodations between Charlotte and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Located in North Carolina's Piedmont region at approximately 800 feet above sea level, this area experiences relatively mild winters with occasional snow and humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching the 90s. Most cabin facilities maintain operation year-round with seasonal amenities varying by location.
What to do
Shuttle to amusement parks: Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort provides free transportation to the adjacent theme park. "Free transit to the park from open until close. This is a perfect place to stay because after a long day of rides you can come right back to your camper to relax instead of driving all the way home," notes Creighton C.
Hiking trails: Multiple options for outdoor exploration exist near cabin accommodations. A short walk from Lake Norman State Park Campground, campers can access several moderate hiking trails. "Very clean and quite and very close to Charlotte. Nice, moderate hiking trails. Swimming and kayaking. You'll probably see deer but have never seen a bear," according to Fletcher S.
Fishing access: Several cabin locations offer fishing opportunities directly from their properties. At Cane Creek Park, the lake is within walking distance of accommodations. "Lake, hiking trails and nice wooded campsites with fire rings and close proximity to bath houses. Beach swimming area closed due to Covid but looks nice," writes Jeanette M.
What campers like
Private cabins with full amenities: While many campgrounds offer basic cabins, some provide more substantial accommodations with greater privacy. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Golden Valley, guests appreciate the cabin quality. "Great cabins for rent with great views. Can be a little pricey but well worth it," reports John B.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Cabin guests consistently mention cleanliness as a key factor in their satisfaction. "The campground is clean and well-maintained. The bathhouse is in good shape and clean. I will come back when I'm in this area," Robert D. commented about Cane Creek Park.
Activity options: Beyond basic accommodations, families appreciate locations with multiple recreation options. "We had a blast; even with younger kids. RV sites and cabins, friendly staff, free shuttle to the amusement park, great community center, and more," shares Joe G. about Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort.
What you should know
Level sites vary by location: Site quality can differ significantly between locations and even within the same campground. At Statesville RV Park I-77, "Sites are fine for a quick overnight, right off the highway," according to Kevin H.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin properties require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. For Jellystone Park, one visitor noted, "We could only get a two night reservation, but that was enough. The kids played so hard they were exhausted."
Highway noise impact: Several locations near interstates experience road noise that may disturb light sleepers. "The nighttime noise was bothersome, not sure where it was coming from, likely outside the campground," Molly F. mentioned about staying at Carowinds Camp Wilderness.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Several cabin locations include water features that appeal to families with children. "Beautiful place to camp, hike, and kayak! A few of the trails are right on the lake and the dogs love to hop in and cool off," Emily B. shared about Cane Creek Park experiences.
Entertainment options: Spartanburg NE/Gaffney KOA offers multiple family-friendly activities on-site. "This place is pretty cool it had lots of stuff to do tent sight has water and power a picnic tables and a rustic fire pit, it has a pool corn hole horse shoes a jump pad fishing lakes and more," according to Jessica B.
Playground access: Most family-oriented cabin facilities maintain dedicated play areas. Cane Creek Park offers "Playground for kids, little store, friendly staff. Beach swimming area closed due to Covid but looks nice."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility: Many cabin-focused campgrounds also accommodate RVs with varying site quality. Lake Norman State Park maintains sites suitable for larger vehicles. "The campground is well kept and clean. The staff and the camp host were very courteous. It was a very quiet stay," notes Robert D.
Supply availability: Local purchasing options exist near many cabin locations. "Cabelas, Walmart, and other shopping is nearby for supplies as well as a few restaurants," Nate G. mentioned about staying at Carowinds Camp Wilderness.
Site space considerations: Seasonal occupancy affects site availability and spacing. "We were passing through for a trade show and picked the spot as it was 15 min from our event. Great place. Clean, well designed and maintained. The adjacent amusement park is closed due to Covid but i bet it is a blast to stay here when it is open," according to Gus S. at Carowinds Camp Wilderness.
