Camping opportunities around High Point, North Carolina range from city parks to wilderness settings with varied terrain at elevations between 800-900 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with mild winters and humid summers, making spring and fall particularly comfortable for outdoor recreation. Local campgrounds tend to have more level terrain compared to western North Carolina, with many sites situated around lakes or within mixed hardwood forests.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing on lakes: Oak Hollow City Campground offers lake access for fishing and boating. "This view came at a price though - the sites were just off the road - meaning 4 or 5 feet from the road. We parked strategically so the kids would always be between our van and our site," notes a visitor describing the tent sites with lake views at Oak Hollow City Campground.
Hiking on varied trails: Hanging Rock State Park, located 45 minutes north of High Point, provides hiking experiences for different ability levels. "The hiking trails at Hanging Rock are absolutely top-notch! We explored several of them, including the trail up to Hanging Rock itself, and were blown away by the panoramic views from the summit," explains a visitor to Hanging Rock State Park Campground.
Disc golf course: Lake Reidsville Recreation Park, about 35 minutes northeast of High Point, offers activities beyond typical camping. A camper mentions, "Campground is on a peaceful lake, popular with boaters. Kayak rental, disc golf course, playground, picnic area and nature trail."
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: For those seeking less crowded experiences, timing matters at many campgrounds. At Hagan-Stone Park, a camper noted, "For a mid-May Monday night, we shared the campground with five other campers...but weekends and holidays are ordinarily full so secure your reservations online well in advance."
Swimming options: Thousand Trails Forest Lake in Advance offers multiple swimming areas. "This campground has so many sites and they are well laid out and spacious. They have 30 amp and 50 amp sites to suit your needs. There is a nice restaurant to eat at, a small convenience store, arcade games, 3 pools and a ton of activities."
Wildlife encounters: Many campsites in the region provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Tanglewood Park, a visitor shared, "Deer roam throughout the park and campground. Clean bath/shower. Easy check in with multiple host on site. All sites paved."
What you should know
Unlevel sites: Several campgrounds in the region have challenging terrain for setting up. "Our site (B20) was reaaally uneven but we made it work for 2 tents!" reported a camper at Hagan-Stone Park.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds close to interstates experience traffic noise. At Greensboro KOA, a visitor mentioned, "As previously mentioned, serves its purpose for an overnight. Right off the highway, and by that I mean you see, and HEAR the traffic. The billboard in front of the trailer is an interesting touch. Nothing ear plugs and a long day can't fix."
Seasonal availability: Campground operations vary throughout the year. While many stay open year-round, some facilities close during winter months. Pilot Mountain State Park Campground operates from "March 15 to November 30," according to their official information.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lake Reidsville Recreation Park offers family-friendly water recreation without swimming. "You can rent paddle boats or kayak's or paddle boards. You may fish or ride boats. The only down fall is the bath house needs updating and you can't swim," explains a visitor who camped there on Mother's Day.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Thousand Trails Forest Lake, families appreciate the recreational facilities: "Part of the Thousand Trails System. 2 swimming pools, camp store, snack bar, fishing pond (I caught 2 sunfishes in 30 min & I'm no fisherman) basketball court, mini golf, & playground equipment."
Kid-friendly hiking: When camping with children, choose trails appropriate for their abilities. At Hanging Rock State Park, a family noted, "Our kids (ranging from early elementary to preteen) managed the trails with some effort but plenty of enthusiasm. The waterfall hikes were especially fun, and the swimming area near the lake looked like a great spot to cool off in the summer months."
Tips from RVers
Electrical connection challenges: At Greensboro KOA, practical issues sometimes arise with hookups. "I was excited to have a lake view spot with electric but my 25 foot cord was not long enough so make sure you have at least 50 feet," advises an RVer who stayed at Oak Hollow City Campground.
Leveling requirements: Many RV sites in the region require significant leveling equipment. At Tanglewood Park, a visitor cautioned, "At $35 a night, there is a lot to enjoy. The only thing you need to be aware of is that some of the sights are very slanted. Very tall levelers are needed."
Water connection sharing: Some campgrounds have shared water hookups between sites. A visitor to Hagan-Stone Park mentioned, "Loop B is heavily wooded with 30amp and water every-other site. You may need as much as 50' water hose. If you're longer than 30' you may find Loop B tough to navigate."
