Best Campgrounds near Garner, NC

State parks and recreation areas within a 30-minute drive of Garner, North Carolina feature a range of camping experiences from lakeside sites to wooded retreats. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, located southwest of Garner, offers multiple campgrounds including Poplar Point and Crosswinds, with both tent and RV accommodations. Falls Lake State Recreation Area to the north provides similar options at Holly Point and Rolling View campgrounds. Closer to town, Coopers RV Park in Clayton offers year-round camping with full hookups, while the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh provides limited camping primarily during October and special events. Most campgrounds in the region maintain pine-shaded sites with standard amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to water.

Reservations are strongly recommended for state park campgrounds, especially during summer weekends and holidays when lakeside sites fill quickly. The camping season for most state parks runs from March through October or November, though some areas like Rolling View at Falls Lake remain open year-round. Summer humidity and sudden thunderstorms are common in the Piedmont region, with campers noting the need for bug spray and rain gear. As one visitor to Jordan Lake observed, "Even during the busiest time, Labor Day weekend, it was surprisingly quiet because campsites are generously separated among the pine forest." Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with visitors reporting good connectivity for remote work at several campgrounds.

Lakeside camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with water access being the primary draw. Boat ramps, swimming areas, and fishing opportunities enhance the experience at both Jordan and Falls Lakes. According to one camper at Poplar Point, "Direct access to a fantastic lakeside experience, complete with boat launches and designated swimming areas with life vests" makes these locations standout destinations. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, various bird species, and even bald eagles spotted by paddlers. While state park facilities receive praise for cleanliness, some visitors note shower facilities can be inconsistent. Sites vary in privacy, with campers recommending mid-week visits to avoid crowds and secure more secluded spots. Drainage can be an issue during heavy rains, with some tent sites prone to puddles.

Best Camping Sites Near Garner, North Carolina (63)

    1. North Carolina State Fairgrounds

    18 Reviews
    Raleigh, NC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 612-6767

    $35 / night

    "Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance. Public bathrooms and showers (cold water) are a 2 minute walk to Horse Complex H6, Barn B Very little tree cover."

    "The actual address is 801 Youth Center Drive. One camping location is up in the woods behind the horse complex. The other is on the actual fairgrounds property along Youth Center Drive."

    2. William B. Umstead State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Morrisville, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 571-4170

    $27 / night

    "We've hiked umstead and other local trails almost every week for the past 5 months."

    "Lots of great paths to walk."

    3. Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    50 Reviews
    New Hill, NC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 362-0586

    $27 - $37 / night

    "Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina!"

    "Poplar Point is located on the banks of the lake in the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area."

    4. Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    35 Reviews
    Creedmoor, NC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (984) 867-8000

    $27 - $77 / night

    "If you find yourself in the hustle and bustle of nearby Raleigh and looking to get away from the crowds and pavement in exchange for some nice shaded nature, hiking trails and calm peace & quiet that"

    "Like the title, great water access to Falls Lake from both the campsites and a separate boat launch."

    5. Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    New Hill, NC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 362-0586

    $27 - $77 / night

    "This area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote. Like many state parks, this one excels in the services department. "

    "Located just 30 miles west of Raleigh, Jordan Lake provides 7 different access points throughout this amazing natural preserve. "

    6. Rolling View — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    31 Reviews
    Creedmoor, NC
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (984) 867-8000

    $27 - $77 / night

    "Tucked away and nestled off of 98 highway, Rolling View campground is a great, secluded spot."

    "I spent a night in Shinleaf walk in campground in April as part of a backpacking trip along the Falls Lake MST trail, sections 8-12."

    7. Coopers RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Clayton, NC
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 359-8060

    "Coopers is a clean well maintained park between Clayton and Garner. Just minutes from downtown Raleigh. All of their sites have both 30 and 50 amp service. They all also have both water and sewer."

    8. Moccasin Branch Campground — Raven Rock State Park

    21 Reviews
    Mamers, NC
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 893-4888

    $27 - $75 / night

    "The campground is walking distance to Raven Rock trails and you get a free walk up pass to get in. We had a very good time and will definitely go back."

    "It is a place of beauty and next to cape fear river ,Has plenty of places to hike to and to camp."

    9. 70 East RV Park

    1 Review
    Garner, NC
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 772-6568

    $825 / night

    "It's in a great location, nearby anything you need. It's family and pet friendly. Neighbors are friendly."

    10. Raleigh Oaks RV Resort & Cottages

    9 Reviews
    Four Oaks, NC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 934-3181

    $25 - $55 / night

    "If you’ve got one of those incredibly large mobile homes on wheels, then this particular RV ‘oasis’ location just off of I-95 north of Four Oaks may just be the perfect spot for you."

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Recent Reviews near Garner, NC

360 Reviews of 63 Garner Campgrounds



Guide to Garner

Camping near Garner, North Carolina, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent or an RV.

What to do:

What campers like:

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

Tips from RVers:

Camping around Garner, North Carolina, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a family adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Garner, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, Garner, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 63 campgrounds and RV parks near Garner, NC and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Garner, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Garner, NC is North Carolina State Fairgrounds with a 4-star rating from 18 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Garner, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Garner, NC.

What parks are near Garner, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Garner, NC that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.