Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers reliable accommodations near Hays, North Carolina, at an elevation providing moderate temperatures. The park maintains established campsites with tent pads, fire rings, and 15 miles of hiking trails connecting to area attractions. Seasonal temperatures range from 30-85°F depending on the time of year, with autumn providing peak foliage viewing.
What to do
Outdoor activities at Stone Mountain: Besides hiking the park's granite dome, visitors can fish in trout streams throughout the 14,000-acre park. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," notes Joe B. about Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
Visit local wineries: Several vineyards operate within a short drive of the area. "It is about a 15 minute drive to 3 great wineries and walkable to the trail head for the Stone Mountain loop," shares Kristin F. The wineries typically offer tastings for $10-15 per person.
Kayaking and fishing on Kerr Scott Reservoir: The reservoir provides multiple access points for water recreation. "Warrior Creek Campground is located on the Kerr Scott Reservoir. It's beautiful and peaceful, at least Monday through Friday," explains Roberta K. at Warrior Creek.
What campers like
Cooler mountain temperatures: The high elevation provides relief from summer heat at several campgrounds. "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," reports Kristen J. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp. July temperatures typically stay in the 70-80°F range.
Clean facilities: Many campers mention the well-maintained bathhouses and common areas. "The bathhouse was nice and clean. Great hiking trails. Friendly staff," notes Gary F.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer well-spaced accommodations. "The campsites are very spaced out. The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," Kristen J. adds. Some sites provide 30+ feet between camping areas.
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require travel on steep, narrow roads. "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," according to Kristen J.
Seasonal availability: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Warrior Creek operates from April 15 to October 15, and at least one visitor discovered it unexpectedly closed: "Unfortunately we were unable to camp here. According to park ranger said this campground is closed for one year or longer."
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be spotty at higher elevations. "For cell phone coverage (Verizon), I had success at the viewpoint on the way up from the entrance," shares Jean C. about camping at Grayson Highlands State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds provide specific family-friendly amenities. "Plenty to keep kids and adults alike entertained, whether it's exploring the homestead area, looking for ponies, taking short hikes, geocaching, or playing games on the open field area," recommends Jean C. about Hickory Ridge Campground.
Consider site location: Choose campsites that balance privacy with supervision. "Sites 31 and 32 are on a meadow the campsite loops around; they have no privacy and little shade, but ample room for kids to run around, and there is a set of swings near these sites," Stephanie J. notes.
Prepare for weather changes: Mountain elevations mean rapidly changing conditions. "There was a storm with wild winds and cold, so that didn't happen! I did catch a glimpse of them, though, shortly before dawn," Jean C. shares. Pack extra layers even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Fill tanks at entrance: Some glamping sites near Hays lack full hookups. "They do not have water hookups - you fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups. They have a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out," explains Mandy R. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have significant variation between sites. "Sites here can be a bit close with no trees to screen your neighbor," notes a camper at New River State Park. The park offers multiple access points with different amenities.
Consider the approach: RVers should research road access before booking. "We stayed at site 60 with water and electric, a pull-through site parallel to the road, with a slight incline on the way in and out," reports Jean C.
