Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers year-round camping options within 30 miles of North Wilkesboro. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 1,300 and 2,300 feet, the area experiences moderate temperatures with cold winters and mild summers. The region's diverse terrain includes granite domes, waterfalls, and numerous creeks that flow through most established campgrounds.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Stone Mountain State Park features multiple waterfalls accessible by hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy these natural features year-round. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," reports Joe B. about Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
Sliding rock adventures: Sandy Creek Family Campground provides access to Stone Mountain State Park's sliding rock through an easy one-mile hike. "Access to a sliding rock and waterfall in Stone Mountain State Park with an approximate 1 mile easy hike," notes Jimmy M. about Sandy Creek Family Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The parks near North Wilkesboro host diverse wildlife including deer and black bears. "We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," says Charli R. about their experience at Stone Mountain State Park.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many campsites in the region feature creeks that provide both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. "We camped at the family camping area, it was great, we had site 6 and it was on the river and the kids loved it!" shares Jessica L. about South Mountains State Park Family Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The area's relatively remote location creates excellent conditions for night sky viewing. "Beautiful campground, amazing hikes & waterfalls and the best stargazing you could ask for," mentions Emily D. about Stone Mountain State Park.
Shade and privacy: Most campgrounds offer wooded sites that provide natural shade during summer months. "Shaded and clean. No permanent sites so it's clean with no clutter, host greeted upon arrival, lots of access to hike/bike trails," writes Wesley L. about Tanglewood Park.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell phone service can be limited or non-existent in many camping areas. "Internet and phone service available in some parts of the park," notes Annell N. about Stone Mountain State Park, while South Mountains State Park has "NO cell service which is a big draw for us," according to Stephen M.
Weather considerations: The elevation creates variable weather conditions, especially in spring and fall. "This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind! It was blowing up all over the trails at some points!" warns Scott B. about Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground at Grayson Highlands State Park.
Equestrian accommodations: Horse campgrounds near North Wilkesboro, North Carolina provide specialized facilities. "These were clean and in good repair. Although the official season runs May - October, it is open for primitive camping March, April, and November," explains Jean C. about Chestnut Hollow's stall options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include playgrounds for children. "Our sites were creek side. The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground," shares Ann H. about Sandy Creek Family Campground.
Wildlife education opportunities: The region's wildlife provides natural learning experiences. "Lots of wildlife! We camped at an equestrian campgrounds... Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!" reports Kelly C. about Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground.
Primitive camping with kids: For adventurous families, backpacking sites offer more remote experiences. "We camped here and didn't even leave. It has so much to do and see... We checked out the backpack hike camp spots (5) they're a good hike (1.5 mile uphill) but so beautiful, on the creek, 2 are near a small waterfall," describes Charli R. about Stone Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require additional equipment for proper RV leveling. "Negatives are unlevel lots (we had to lower ours by over 4" and still weren't level, but couldn't adjust anymore)," cautions Tiffany D. about Tanglewood Park.
Hookup availability: Fox Creek Horse Camp near Marion, Virginia, provides basic amenities for horse-focused RVers. "Sites have a gravel/grass pads, picnic table, and fire ring. Portable toilets available. Bring your own water. No hookups provided. Hitching posts at sites," explains Jean C.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds have limited services during shoulder seasons. "Campers are frequently referred to Grindstone campground for potable water and showers, but as of 2021, the dump station and bath houses/water are off," reports Jean C. about Fox Creek Horse Camp.
