Tent camping near Grover, North Carolina offers sites within the foothills of the South Mountains, where elevations range from 1,200 to 3,000 feet. The region experiences moderate year-round temperatures, with summer highs typically in the mid-80s and winter lows rarely dropping below 30 degrees. Many campsites require hikers to carry gear between a quarter-mile to 1.5 miles from parking areas, with elevation changes adding to the challenge.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Upper Falls Backcountry Campground at South Mountains State Park offers access to trails leading to the 80-foot High Shoals Falls. The campground is particularly pleasant during winter months when crowds thin out. "Upper Falls Campground is amazing during winter," notes camper Austin W.
Rock climbing opportunities: Crowders Mountain provides beginner-friendly climbing routes for day trips. "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," shares Les R.
Paddling on nearby lakes: Lake James State Park's Paddy's Creek campground provides kayak and SUP access points. "The campground is a 2-minute drive (6-minute bike ride) down to the beach... Also, a nice launch for kayaks and SUPs to the right of the beach (looking at the water). It is a long carry from the parking lot if you don't have a kayak cart though," explains Tucker B.
What campers like
Secluded creek-side sites: Primitive Camping By the Creek offers access to water while maintaining privacy. "The campsite has a pretty creek and forest. On the campsite there is a lot of firewood to use, in a shed to keep it dry. There are log seats around a nice campfire with a picnic table. Lots of room for multiple tents," writes Reid.
Well-maintained facilities: Black Bear Campground features exceptionally clean bathrooms and showers. "This is a brand new campground. Either they keep the sites extremely clean after each guest, or we were the first to stay at our site. This is perfect for someone new to camping as the utilities are very clean and you don't feel extremely isolated," reports Brandon G.
Bear-proof storage options: Many backcountry sites in the area provide communal bear boxes. At South Mountains State Park, "There is a central bear bin for use by all campers," and at Jacob Branch, one camper noted the sites have a "BEAR BOX! Woot!!" which provides peace of mind while camping in bear country.
What you should know
Water access considerations: Many campgrounds require filtering creek water or carrying in your own supply. At Little River Backcountry 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," reports Danielle T.
Trail difficulty factors: Several campgrounds require steep hikes with significant elevation gain. At Little River Backcountry Campground, campers face a "pretty steep hike from the Jacob Fork parking area (600ft elevation gain)," making gear transport challenging.
Firewood availability: Some campgrounds provide firewood storage to ensure dry supplies. At Primitive Camping By the Creek, one camper appreciated that "David was very accommodating and flexible about check in and even started a fire for us before we got there! It was very helpful and greatly appreciated after the 11hr drive. The campsite was spacious for us to set up camp and keep the jeep nearby. He provided dry firewood in a shed to keep the fire going."
Tips for camping with families
Shorter hike-in options: Shinny Creek offers easier access for families with children. "Perfect trip if you have kids... It's only a bit over a mile to these four sites nestled by a stream. Clear, flat sites. Bear box. Critter-proof trash bin. Pit privy. Water access from every site within ten paces," recommends Glacia C.
Swimming areas for hot days: Lake James offers supervised swimming areas during summer months. "The swimming area on the lake is a short drive away (costs a small fee when the lifeguards are on duty in the summer)," notes Andra S. from Paddy's Creek.
Campgrounds with playspace: Black Bear Campground provides open areas for children to play. "There is a spacious grassy area in the middle of the campsites for whatever activities you want to engage in," explains one camper, making it ideal for families who need space for children to run around.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near Grover requires hiking into backcountry areas, but Sedalia Campground offers some sites for smaller RVs. "Overall, it is a great area for primitive camping and for dry camping if you are in a small RV," shares Myron C.
No-frills facilities: RV campers should prepare for minimal amenities. "It's been quiet the times that we've been there. If you're a road cyclist this is heaven, and some decent trail riding down to the lakes. Just be aware that there are no picnic tables," reports richardhoerz about Sedalia Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Hunting seasons affect campground availability and atmosphere. "Quite calm. Hunters use it alot. Fall deer hunters spring thurkey hunting. Often gets packed," warns Wolf R. N. about Sedalia Campground, suggesting RVers check local hunting calendars before planning trips.
