Tent camping near Cary, North Carolina offers numerous opportunities within a 30-mile radius of this central Triangle region community. The area sits at approximately 480 feet above sea level in the gently rolling Piedmont region, creating mostly flat to moderately sloping terrain for campers. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity, while winter camping sees temperatures between 30-50°F with occasional freezing nights.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: William B. Umstead State Park Campground provides excellent single-track trails for biking enthusiasts. "I've been to this park over a dozen times to run, and every time seems better than the previous one. Depending on where you park, you can access excellent 8-14 mile loops on the main gravel paths. The single track trails will keep you entertained for quite some time. Consider bringing your bike with you too!" notes Daniel P.
Swimming and paddling: Eno River State Park Campground offers multiple water recreation options. "The Eno River is more than safe to swim or paddle in. Dogs are welcome here! If you can camp close to the river, I recommend, it's great to fall asleep to the sounds of the river," says Samantha P. The park has several swimming spots along its hiking routes.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Michie Recreation Area provides fishing options just north of Durham. While camping options are limited, Jeff K. notes, "Other than the large group camping area, all of the sites are very small, not very level, and have low clearance. The camping area itself is quite secluded and quiet. Also very clean."
Disc golf courses: For tent campers seeking additional recreation, Cedarock Park offers two full disc golf courses. "There are two fantastic disc golf courses (I personally enjoy the Wellspring course) and even a historical farm that sheds light on what life was like as a farmer in 19th century North Carolina," according to Kelsey L.
What campers like
Historic structures: Sycamore Rustic Cabins at William B. Umstead State Park offers a unique camping alternative. "I have stayed in the group camping sites many times and loved it. There are historic cabins with cots to sleep on. There is electricity in the cabins," writes Erica F. These cabins provide a rustic camping experience with basic amenities.
Educational programming: Eno River State Park offers informative nature programs. "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean," reports Elizabeth V. The park rangers conduct regular educational sessions about local ecology and wildlife.
Privacy between sites: Tent campers appreciate the natural buffers at many campgrounds. "Campgrounds are close but separated by trees and forest to create privacy," Sydney S. notes about William B. Umstead State Park. Most tent sites include some natural screening from neighboring campers.
Trail access: Cedarock Park features immediate trail access from campsites. "The sites are only available via hiking in (though the 'hike' is a short quarter mile down a wooded forest path). Each site includes a fire pit and bench with ample space to set up tents. The sites are all super flat, which makes finding some place comfortable to set up a tent that much easier," explains Kelsey L.
What you should know
Gate closures: Some campgrounds lock gates at night. "The campsites are alright minus the hike but the downside is they lock the gate at night and no one else is there so if you have an emergency or just need to leave you can't, you're literally stuck," warns Summer C. about Cedarock Park. Always check gate policies before booking.
Reservation processes vary: Each campground has different booking requirements. For San-Lee Park, "Reservations are not taken, but rather, tent campers (no RV's welcomed here, just tents) can book a campsite on a first-come, first-served basis," according to Stuart K. This differs from other parks requiring advance booking.
Tent pads and ground conditions: MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping offers established tent pads. "This is a hidden gem for a MST hiker. The campground is located on a private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites," reports Katy S. Some campgrounds have gravel bases which can affect comfort.
Pack-in requirements: Primitive sites often require carrying all gear. "This camp ground requires a bit of a hike to get to (3.5 miles). Packing everything in and out was fun but there was no running drinking water at the site," notes Sydney S. about Eno River State Park primitive sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several camping areas feature dedicated play areas. "We hiked down with our stuff and set up at campsite 4. We were the only ones there for the weekend and there was ample space for setting up. We used the fire pit and the kids played in the creek. While staying at the park we went on hikes, fished, and played disc golf," shares Tara T. about her Cedarock Park experience.
Urban-adjacent options: For families wanting camping without long drives, William B. Umstead State Park offers convenience. "This is a great little campground right inside Raleigh. I've camped there several times with the kids and it's great because it's so close and there are a few good hikes in Umstead Park," writes Scott P.
Weather considerations: The Triangle area experiences high humidity in summer and occasional freezing in winter. San-Lee Park's camping season runs through October, making fall an ideal family camping time. "While I was there in late September, trust me, the place was somewhat busy, and apparently camping continues here till the end of October," notes Stuart K.
Trail difficulty ratings: Look for family-appropriate trails. "The trails I took before and also this time are easy to moderate. The Cole Mill and Bobbitt Hole trails are connected, and I took both. The Bobbitt Hole trail takes you to a bend in the Eno River where some people go in to cool off," explains Myron C. about Eno River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds near Cary focus on tent camping with minimal RV accommodations. Lake Michie Recreation Area technically allows RVs but Jeff K. warns, "all of the sites are very small, not very level, and have low clearance." RVers should carefully research site dimensions before booking.
Electric hookup availability: San-Lee Park offers limited electrical options for small rigs. "Not a bad campground. There are maybe 10 or so sites here. They are all contained in one open area. It's almost like one big group site. The sites have fire pits, grills, tables, and there are a couple of water spigots on the site," according to Marvin D.
Seasonal restrictions: Many campgrounds have limited seasons. William B. Umstead State Park closes from December through mid-March, requiring winter RVers to seek alternatives.
