South Mountains State Park stretches across 23,000 acres of forested terrain approximately 30 miles northeast of Forest City, North Carolina. The park features elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the property. The region experiences mild winters with occasional snow and warm summers with temperatures averaging in the mid-80s.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: Follow the High Shoals Falls Trail at South Mountains State Park Family Campground for a moderate 2.35-mile climb that leads to an 80-foot waterfall. "We searched 'best waterfalls in NC' and this park did not disappoint. We stayed for 3 nights - family campsite was used as basecamp. We also had a primitive site that we backpacked to for a night," shares Sarah W.
Primitive camping experiences: Backpack to Upper Falls Campsite for a more secluded overnight stay. "Get ready. You are about to hike up a LOT of sleep stairs. The sites are really well laid out. Site 3&4 are my favorites because they are close to water access (bring a good filter)," notes Julie L. from Upper Falls Campsite.
Mountain biking: Access approximately 16.5 miles of dedicated mountain biking trails that interconnect with hiking paths throughout South Mountains State Park. "The extensive trail network at South Mountains State Park connects riders to multiple horse-friendly paths throughout the 23,000-acre park," with trails constantly expanding as the park acquires more land.
Historical exploration: Visit Kings Mountain State Park, located about 40 minutes from Forest City, to combine camping with historical learning. "Tons to do, including hikes and history. Make sure to go across the street to the Kings Mountain Military site. Better yet, plan your stay when they are doing an event," recommends Don H. from Kings Mountain State Park.
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: The South Toe River runs through Black Mountain Campground, providing a natural water feature for campers. "There is a swimming hole on the South Toe River in the campground just beyond the end of the riverside sites. It has a small sandy 'beach' area and a neck deep refreshing hole," notes Dave V. from Black Mountain Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of bathrooms at South Mountains State Park Family Campground. "Cleanest bathrooms I have ever seen!!" exclaims Jessica L. "The bathrooms are very clean with AC. There a beautiful creek you can ride your horses in or just play if you want," adds Jackie S. from Equestrian Campground at South Mountains State Park.
Riverside camping: Many sites at North Mills River Campground sit alongside flowing water. "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 a camper about their South Mountains experience. Another camper at North Mills River notes, "We were the only campers there. It was very quiet. The stream ran right by the campsite so listening to the stream as we went to bed was wonderful."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Horse campgrounds near Forest City, North Carolina fill quickly during peak seasons. All equestrian sites require advance reservations. "The campground operates year-round and maintains a perfect 5-star rating from visitors," making early booking essential.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited or no cellular coverage. "South Mountains is a great campground. Bath facilities are new and kept clean. Very quiet with NO cell service which is a big draw for us. Far from a town, so don't forget anything," advises Stephen M.
Gate closure times: Some parks lock entrance gates at night for security. "No cell phone service, and gates to the park are locked up at 9pm so there's no getting in or out late at night," warns Jenni P. from South Mountains State Park Family Campground.
Alcohol policies: Park regulations regarding alcohol vary between locations. "The no-alcohol policy at the park is STRICTLY enforced, so be careful!" warns a camper about South Mountains State Park, while other nearby campgrounds permit alcohol consumption.
Tips for camping with families
Creekside sites for kids: Select riverside sites at campgrounds for natural water play areas. "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!" reports a family who stayed at South Mountains State Park.
Evening gate closures: Plan arrival times carefully at South Mountains and similar parks. "The gates to the park are locked up at 9pm so there's no getting in or out late at night," notes a camper, which affects late arrivals or families planning off-site evening activities.
Equestrian experiences for children: Horse campgrounds near Forest City provide unique opportunities for kids to observe and interact with horses. "There a beautiful creek you can ride your horses in or just play if you want," mentions Jackie S. about the Equestrian Campground at South Mountains State Park.
Off-grid camping options: For families seeking a more rustic experience, Paradise Ridge Permaculture offers an educational farm setting. "She showed us around the grounds which has horses, pigs, chickens, a natural spring, and fruits/vegetables/mushrooms growing around the property," shares Taylor, noting the property's cold showers and fire pit.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven sites. "Many camping sites are very much in need of leveling. Sites slope from left to right, front to back, and some slope in both ways," warns Richard E. about Kings Mountain State Park.
Size restrictions: Several parks have limited space for larger rigs. "Sites are listed as RV sites but are half as large as they need to be to accommodate a medium size RV," notes a camper at Kings Mountain State Park about site limitations.
Road access considerations: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. "The road into the campground is narrow, hilly and windy. We were able to do it in our 32 foot class A, but luckily no one was coming the other direction," explains Karen S. from Kings Mountain State Park.
Electric hookup locations: Hookup placement varies significantly between sites. "The electric and water are in odd spots on each site," warns an RVer, recommending longer cords and hoses for flexibility when setting up.
Guide
