Tent camping in Hays, North Carolina sits at the western edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically stay below 85°F due to elevation, with nighttime temperatures dropping 15-20 degrees lower than daytime highs. The area receives approximately 50 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forest landscapes and active creeks through many camping areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Basin Cove Campground offers excellent fishing in nearby streams. One camper reported, "The site is surrounded by excellent hiking trails and is a great place to set as 'base camp' for day hikes."
River adventures: Dusty Trails Outfitters rents canoes, kayaks, tubes and luxury fishing kayaks along the New River. Visitors note the easy river access makes for great water recreation: "There is plenty of river access as well as canoe and kayak rentals which we didn't get to take advantage of due to cold weather but we will absolutely be back to try it."
Mountain biking: The W. Kerr Scott Visitor Assistance Center serves as the starting point for the Overmountain Victory Trail (OVT). A visitor mentioned, "Great trails for all levels of mt bikers. About 13 miles one way and return to visitors center."
Wildlife viewing: Camping near Hays provides chances to spot local wildlife including black bears, deer, and thousands of fireflies during summer months. During evening hours in June and July, fireflies create natural light displays along riverbanks and forest edges.
What campers like
Natural light shows: Riverside Canoe and Campground campers particularly enjoy the river tubing experiences. "You can rent a tube to place a cooler inside of so you can tube down the river with beverages and snacks in tow. The end of the rafting experience puts you right there back at the campsite."
Private camping spaces: Campsites at Basin Cove Campground provide excellent separation between sites. A reviewer noted, "The campsites are well spread out so there is enough room for privacy, but keep in mind that a lot of hikers pass through morning-midday."
Unique sleeping arrangements: Self Sufficient Holler offers suspended tree tents that create memorable experiences. One camper described it as "A floating castle among fireflies! What a magical experience floating in the trees surrounded by fire flies!"
Weather advantages: The higher elevations around Hays provide cooler temperatures compared to surrounding lowlands. This climate difference can be 10-15 degrees cooler during summer months, making it ideal for escaping heat waves.
What you should know
Road conditions: Blue Bear Mountain Camp requires careful navigation on gravel roads. One visitor advised, "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there."
Water supply planning: Many campgrounds near Hays require campers to bring their own water or filter from streams. Basin Cove has no clean water source on site, requiring filtration equipment for drinking water.
Cell service variations: Coverage varies widely between campgrounds. New River Alleghany Access provides surprisingly good connectivity with a camper noting, "The location also had four bars of Verizon LTE. Amazing!"
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping (March-May) often means dealing with stream crossings that may be difficult due to higher water levels from snowmelt and spring rains.
Tips for camping with families
Ease into wilderness camping: New River Alleghany Access offers primitive camping with helpful amenities for newer campers. A family noted, "There are a few buggies provided at primitive camp sites to help with loading in and out."
Kid-friendly activities: Pack water shoes and fishing gear for children, as many campgrounds feature shallow creek access ideal for exploration. Some sites have natural small pools where kids can splash safely.
Bathroom access planning: Campgrounds vary widely in their facilities. One parent appreciated that "The bathroom facilities are new and very clean," at New River Alleghany Access while other sites may only offer portable toilets or require wilderness bathroom practices.
Wildlife preparation: Store food properly in provided lockers or bear-resistant containers, as black bears are active in the area. Teach children proper food storage and waste disposal before arrival.
Tips from RVers
Water fill stations: Blue Bear Mountain Camp requires planning for water needs. A camper explained, "They do not have water hookups- you fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups."
Seasonal RV access: Growing Faith Farms & Retreat provides limited RV camping with seasonal considerations. Access can be more challenging after heavy rains, especially for larger rigs.
Dump station availability: Several campgrounds offer dump stations for departure, but not all have sewer hookups at individual sites. Blue Bear Mountain Camp provides a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out.
Electric hookups: When tent camping near Hays, North Carolina, some sites like Growing Faith Farms now offer electric access, with a camper noting, "Love the water at the site(and electric is going to be even better soon!)"
