Camping options near Gastonia, North Carolina range from rustic tent sites to full-service RV parks within a 35-mile radius. The region sits at the southwestern edge of the North Carolina Piedmont, with elevations ranging from 700-800 feet and a moderate climate that allows for year-round camping. Summer temperatures typically reach the high 80s with humidity while winter overnight temperatures can drop to the 30s, making spring and fall particularly popular camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking at McDowell Nature Preserve: Located approximately 25 miles from Gastonia, this preserve offers several hiking trails with lake access. "My wife and I stayed here for a few days at the beginning of October. It's very quiet and peaceful. What I didn't like was they had no activities like most other camp sites. They do have hiking trials and fishing until 8pm," notes one McDowell Nature Preserve visitor.
Rock climbing at Crowders Mountain: The park offers designated climbing areas for various skill levels. "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 a Crowders Mountain State Park Campground camper.
Fishing at Lake Norman: Anglers can catch bass and crappie in the 50-square-mile lake. "This campground has a lot to offer. Hiking, swimming, fishing at it's Carolina best. Outdoorsies will not be sorry if they visit Lake Norman State Park. It is located at the northern end of the lake, where it is quieter (motor boat wise) than farther south," reports a Lake Norman visitor.
What campers like
Privacy at tent sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded tent camping areas away from RVs. "This was a pretty good place to camp. There is a hike to the campsite from the parking lot so we definitely got our workout in bringing our gear in. The hikes here are really awesome and the facilities are nice and clean!" notes a Crowders Mountain camper.
Clean bathhouse facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept shower and restroom facilities. "The bathhouse is in good shape and clean. I will come back when I'm in this area," says a Cane Creek Park visitor who stayed for nine days.
Accessible lake activities: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for boating, fishing, and swimming. "Small park, but very quiet and relaxing!" shares an Andrew Jackson State Park Campground reviewer who enjoyed the lakeside setting.
What you should know
Hike-in camping at Crowders: Campsites require a one-mile hike from the parking area. "It isnt a rugged hike, but you must be prepared to pack everything in. 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," explains a reviewer.
Weather considerations: Summer storms can affect camping conditions. "Had it not been for the monsoon rain storms we would've loved our trip but that is in the hands of Mother Nature no one else's. The reason I didn't give it all fives is because of the stone pad and you could hear traffic and air planes flying over," shares a McDowell Nature Preserve camper.
Glamping options in Gastonia area: For those seeking upscale outdoor accommodations, several locations offer glamping experiences. "We have camped all across the US and this was the nicest and cleanest campground I have ever been in. Fantastic experience. I highly highly recommend!" states a Lake Norman State Park Campground visitor who enjoyed the park's glamping amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer kid-friendly play areas. "The campground is nice to roam with a wonderful playground. Events are held at an amphitheater by the day use area. Almost all campsites are heavily shaded but navigation with a larger RV would be difficult," notes an Andrew Jackson State Park visitor.
Swimming areas: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming beaches. "Cane Creek has a lake, hiking trails and nice wooded campsites with fire rings and close proximity to bath houses. Playground for kids, little store, friendly staff. Beach swimming area closed due to Covid but looks nice," shares a Cane Creek Park camper.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programs and historical exhibits. "We really enjoyed all of the different hikes and the lake as well as the hike to the top of the mountain. The hike to the top was a little strenuous for smaller kids. The trails were also pretty crowded. Overall is was a great experience!" reports a Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites that require additional equipment. "The sites have full hook up. We where at site 50 and it was completely shaded. They where still under major construction redoing the beach and boat docks. But we still really enjoyed this park. Super close to town to get supplies and dinner," notes an Ebenezer Park visitor.
Campground accessibility: Access roads vary in quality between parks. "The sites are very well taken care of. We chose to camp on one of the hotter days of the year so the tree shade came in handy to help keep us cool. It stormed the second night we were there and we tried to make the best of the situation without having to pack up and just go home," shares a McDowell camper.
Utility hookups: Availability varies across campgrounds. "This campground is owned by Union County, NC with a good rate for residents. As such, it can be difficult to get in at times and usually requires a reservation well in advance. The facilities are very well maintained with a good access road sitting on a lake," explains a Cane Creek Park reviewer.
