Tent camping near Davidson, North Carolina offers options ranging from primitive sites to those with basic amenities within a 40-mile radius. The region sits at the transition between the Piedmont and foothill areas, with elevations ranging from 760 to 1,700 feet and humidity levels that peak during summer months. Most campgrounds in this area receive an average of 43 inches of rainfall annually, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for tent camping.
What to do
Fishing at local waters: Lake Curriher Wilderness provides fishing opportunities with rental equipment available at the small store. A camper noted, "Lots of fishermen and trash since the scum can't seem to pick up after themselves. I hike in to the remote campsite on the lake." This location offers both remote lake access points and more accessible shoreline areas.
Rock climbing opportunities: At Crowders Mountain State Park Campground, experienced climbers can find beginner-friendly routes. "I visited Crowders Mountain in December, and the weather only required a sweatshirt. My brother and I spent the day rock climbing. It was his first time climbing, and we were able to set up some beginner-friendly routes," reported one visitor who enjoyed the winter climbing conditions.
Creek exploration: Primitive Camping By the Creek offers water play and exploration opportunities. "The creek is right beside the camp. Nice and secluded. Firewood was provided," reports one camper. Creek depth varies seasonally but generally remains shallow enough for wading during summer months.
What campers like
Secluded tent locations: At Hippie Holler, campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere. "I found my happy place here at Hippie Holler! No kids or loud obnoxious other campers, felt at home, safe, understood and able to relax completely. Hidden Gem for the neurodivergants and chill seekers. Cool solar lights made it trippy ful lol," shared one visitor who valued the peaceful environment.
Private waterfront sites: Deep Water Trail Camp features riverfront camping with variable accessibility. "We stayed 3 days and 2 nights and there was only 1 other vehicle down there with us the entire time. Our site was off to the left of the major parking area right down by the river. Super private and had some nice trails near by for hiking/finding fire wood," noted a camper who enjoyed the isolation.
Convenient cabin options: Lake Curriher Wilderness provides cabins for those wanting more shelter. "Perfect Cabin! Just needed a couple days away and was as good as I could hope for. Staff are great and helpful," mentioned one reviewer. The cabins include basic furnishings with varying views of the surrounding wilderness.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some campgrounds require significant effort to reach. Deep Water Trail Camp requires appropriate vehicles as one camper warned, "The drive down/up is a little sketchy but if your vehicle doesn't sit super low you should be able to make it with only a couple minor bottom outs."
Bathroom facilities vary: Prepare for limited or rustic facilities at most tent camping locations near Davidson. One Uwharrie Hunt Camp visitor stated, "The campground had a couple spigots and the pit toilets were clean. We also found the campground itself very clean, but it was still early in the year and we were the only campers in the area in early March."
Reservation processes: Self Sufficient Holler and other smaller campgrounds require advance booking. Their unique accommodations fill quickly, particularly suspended tree tents which one camper described: "The suspended tree tent feels like a bouncy tree house. We came during some spats of rain, and the rain fly kept us dry without any problems."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly trails: Crowders Mountain offers hiking appropriate for various ages. "Overall it was a great experience! The hikes here are really awesome and the facilities are nice and clean! We really enjoyed all of the different hikes and the lake as well as the hike to the top of the mountain. The hike to the top was a little strenuous for smaller kids," shared a family visitor.
Prepare for gear hauling: When camping with children, consider the distance to carry supplies. "This was a pretty good place to camp. There is a hike to the campsite from the parking lot so we definitely got our workout in bringing our gear in," noted one family at Crowders Mountain State Park Campground.
Beginner-friendly sites: Uwharrie Hunt Camp offers accessible options for first-time family camping. "Good campground for beginners of families with kids or those that love to hike," mentioned one reviewer. Sites are generally flat with minimal hazards and proximity to bathroom facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing concerns: Yates Family Camping accommodates RVs but with basic amenities. "We've loved staying at Yates due to the flexibility and excellent communication of the owners. 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," noted one RV camper who appreciated the simplicity.
Electrical hookup availability: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Davidson offer limited or no RV hookups. "Well not much here, no office or bathrooms. Water and electric and a dump station," reported an RV camper at Yates Family Camping, highlighting the need to verify amenities before arrival.
Seasonal flooding issues: Be aware of local weather patterns when planning RV trips. One camper at Hiddenite Family Campground warned, "It's closed because of flooding," indicating the importance of checking current conditions before traveling to campgrounds in low-lying areas.
