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Best Campgrounds near Gastonia, NC

460 Reviews

The Gastonia area of North Carolina provides a strategic base for camping with several established options within a 30-mile radius. Kings Mountain State Park in neighboring South Carolina offers tent and RV camping with basic amenities, while Crowders Mountain State Park features hiking trails and limited camping opportunities. McDowell Nature Preserve, situated on Lake Wylie, provides year-round camping with both primitive sites and those with hookups. B&D Campground near Moss Lake receives positive reviews for its spacious sites, with one visitor noting it's "great campground near Moss Lake, Shelby and Gastonia/Charlotte."

Most campgrounds in the region require advance reservations, particularly during summer and fall weekends. Cell service varies significantly between locations, with some sites offering reliable connectivity while others have limited or no service. Weather conditions remain mild enough for year-round camping, though summer humidity can be challenging. Many campgrounds feature water access, with fishing opportunities at lakes like Wylie and Norman. Hiking trails at Crowders Mountain can be strenuous, as one visitor noted: "I spent the afternoon hiking on a trail which was marked moderate but I'd honestly say was more strenuous." Road access to most established campgrounds is generally good, with paved roads leading to most facilities.

Lakeside camping represents a significant draw in the region, with several campgrounds offering water access. McDowell Nature Preserve stands out for its proximity to Charlotte while maintaining a natural setting. A visitor observed: "It feels so remote but is literally minutes from the full metropolis of Charlotte." Bathroom facilities vary widely between locations, with McDowell receiving praise for "the cleanest and most well designed bathrooms I've ever seen in a campground." Noise levels differ between sites, with some campgrounds like Iron City experiencing occasional disruption from a nearby racetrack. Campers seeking quiet might prefer state park options or sites farther from major highways, as roadway noise affects some campgrounds closer to interstates.

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Best Camping Sites Near Gastonia, North Carolina (90)

    1. Kings Mountain — Kings Mountain State Park

    46 Reviews
    Kings Mountain, SC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 222-3209

    $13 - $31 / night

    "When not in the side, a short walk takes you to the Trading Post, a small store selling firewood ($7), ice, souvenirs, and sundries. Next to that is a large playground connected to a pavilion."

    "There are lots of trails close to the campground with one around a lake and a stream off of it. Facilities were very well maintained."

    2. Crowders Mountain State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Bessemer City, NC
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 853-5429

    $17 - $47 / night

    "The part of the park that is best to go to is the Sparrow Springs access, some folks may not be aware that there are actually several entrances to the park, and the main entrance with trails to the Crowder"

    "The trails are strenuous but views are amazing! Its definitely worth it and right outside town, not far out."

    3. McDowell Nature Preserve

    31 Reviews
    Lake Wylie, NC
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (980) 314-2267

    $15 - $33 / night

    "We loved the education center, the small walking trails and lakeside area. Staff were polite and helpful. Washrooms are incredible! Newly renovated at the time, and clean!"

    "The park is located southwest of Charlotte off of hwy 49 near Lake Wylie, SC."

    4. Ebenezer Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    20 Reviews
    Rock Hill, SC
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 366-6620

    "We live nearby so this is a nice little place to camp at. Nice sites, close to places to eat. Bathhouse was clean and well kept."

    "This park is tucked away and gorgeous. So quiet and well shaded. The beach was awesome and the kids loved swinging on the water. Will return"

    5. Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort

    17 Reviews
    Pineville, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 588-2600

    "The adjacent amusement park is closed due to Covid but i bet it is a blast to stay here when it is open. Wooded perimeter so you feel you are away from the city."

    "The hookups were standard location and heights no issues. Our steps come out to a large level dirt pad, not grass. Lots of trees providing shade which is nice."

    6. Iron City Campground, Inc.

    25 Reviews
    Blacksburg, SC
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 491-2874

    $40 - $45 / night

    "ICC is a nice place just over the NC border on I85 in SC. Very close to Charlotte and Greenville areas. Lots of southern pines provided shade."

    "Our site was very level and tucked back in the corner of the campground. If we are ever in the area again we would definitely stay here again."

    7. Hippie Holler

    1 Review
    Bessemer City, NC
    5 miles

    $40 - $60 / night

    8. John H. Moss Lake Campground

    4 Reviews
    Shelby, NC
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 482-7926

    $35 / night

    "The lake has great fishing."

    9. Charlotte-Fort Mill KOA

    11 Reviews
    Fort Mill, SC
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (803) 548-1148

    $62 / night

    "We came here to do some trailer maintenance and because it is very close to home. We were not expecting it to be a great camping experience, but we’re pleasantly surprised!"

    "Site was large enough for 36' fifth wheel, truck, and our car fit behind rig. We could have fit a couple more vehicles if we had them. In addition there is a fuel station out front."

    10. B&D Campground

    2 Reviews
    Kings Mountain, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 739-2958

    $400 - $500 / night

    "Great campground near Moss Lake, Shelby and Gastonia/Charlotte."

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460 Reviews of 90 Gastonia Campgrounds

Guide to Gastonia

Camping near Gastonia, North Carolina, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From family-friendly campgrounds to serene spots for solo adventurers, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained bathhouses at Lake Norman State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "The bath house was an unexpected luxury and was immaculately maintained."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors rave about the helpful staff at Iron City Campground, Inc.. One guest mentioned, "Lisa is the best host."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Bear Den Family Campground. A review stated, "Great campground. Big private sites, lots of activities for teens."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping, lack basic facilities. A camper noted, "Don’t expect much in the way of accommodations so come prepared."
  • Site Conditions: At Kings Mountain State Park, some sites can be unlevel. One visitor commented, "The campsites themselves are very unlevel and laid out very awkwardly."
  • Crowded Areas: Campers at McDowell Nature Preserve found the sites close together. A review mentioned, "It did feel like everyone was very close together."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Iron City Campground, Inc.. One parent said, "Fun for kids: pool with splash mushroom; playground."
  • Safety Measures: Choose campgrounds with security, such as Cane Creek Park. A visitor noted, "The campground is county run so the park ranger regularly patrols, making it feel safe."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Look for places with hiking trails and fishing spots, like South Mountains State Park Campground. One reviewer shared, "Great hiking right from the campground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Check for level sites at campgrounds like Lake Norman State Park Campground. A camper mentioned, "Site was paved and level."
  • Access to Amenities: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, such as Bear Den Family Campground. One review stated, "The campground host were courteous and friendly."
  • Road Conditions: Be prepared for narrow and hilly roads at places like Kings Mountain State Park. A visitor noted, "The road into the campground is narrow, hilly and windy."

Camping around Gastonia, NC, has its perks and quirks. Whether you're looking for a family getaway or a solo retreat, there are plenty of options to explore!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in and around Gastonia, NC?

The Gastonia area offers several excellent camping options. B&D Campground stands out as a great choice with proximity to Moss Lake, Shelby, and the Charlotte metro area. For outdoor enthusiasts, Crowders Mountain State Park provides amazing hiking trails with spectacular views. If you're willing to drive a bit further, McDowell Nature Preserve offers lakeside camping with educational programs and clean facilities. Lake Norman State Park is another solid option just 45 minutes from Charlotte, featuring spacious wooded sites and water recreation opportunities. Kings Mountain State Park is also worth considering for its variety of camping options and historical significance.

Are there tent camping options near Gastonia, NC?

Tent campers have several great options near Gastonia. South Mountains State Park Family Campground offers spacious tent sites in a scenic mountain setting with excellent hiking trails and a visitor center. McDowell Nature Preserve provides a more accessible tent camping experience with lakeside sites, walking trails, and newly renovated washrooms. For those looking for a unique experience, Anne Springs Close Greenway offers primitive tent sites circling the paths surrounding Lake Haigler, though availability should be verified as they've undergone renovations. Lake Norman State Park also welcomes tent campers with shaded sites that help keep summer heat in check.

What RV parks and campgrounds are available near Gastonia, NC?

RV enthusiasts have several options around Gastonia. Four Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat is perfect for those traveling with dogs, offering special amenities across 18 acres devoted to canine companions. Indian Springs Campground provides RV sites near Hickory, though experiences vary among campers. For those seeking more amenities, Charlotte-Fort Mill KOA offers full-service RV sites with easy access to Charlotte attractions. Croft State Park Campground can accommodate RVs up to 37 feet with access to hiking and biking trails. Lake Norman State Park also welcomes RVs with spacious sites surrounded by woods. Always verify size restrictions and available hookups before making reservations.

Where can I find affordable or low-cost camping near Gastonia?

Budget-conscious campers near Gastonia have several affordable options. For those with self-contained setups, overnight parking at Mooresville Sam's Club provides a free option with a spacious lot, good cell signal, and a peaceful setting away from busy highways. Similarly, The Home Depot — Cornelius offers free overnight parking with shade trees, good lighting, and security cameras. Public campgrounds like Kings Mountain State Park and Crowders Mountain State Park typically offer more affordable rates than private facilities. John H. Moss Lake Campground near Shelby provides reasonably priced camping with water access. Always call ahead to confirm current rates and availability.

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