Glamping options near Hillsborough, North Carolina exist within a Piedmont region known for its moderate climate with average summer highs of 87°F and winter lows around 30°F. The area sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level, characterized by rolling hills and waterways including the Eno River, which maintains year-round flow even during drier months. Most glamping sites remain accessible from March through October, with some offering extended winter availability.
What to do
Hiking terrain options: Eno River State Park offers varying trail difficulties for different skill levels. According to visitor Sarah W., "We hike and swim Eno nearly weekly... The primitive sites are spaces far enough apart that it truly feels like solitude. Piper Creek is our favorite. Flat and easy 1.2 mile hike in along the river."
Fishing opportunities: Hyco Lake State Park provides multiple fishing spots with piers for easy lake access. "GORGEOUS location, many sites with water views and directly on the water. Beautifully maintained park. Water and Electric, dump station," notes reviewer Kathy G., who also mentions the "ample trailer storage" and "beautiful hiking trail."
Stargazing experiences: Staunton River State Park has been designated an International Dark Sky site with telescopes available to borrow. A visitor explains, "If you love stargazing this is the park for you. It is an International Dark Sky Park... The park offers rentals of telescopes too. They also have a nature learning lab, some cool animals, and a fantastic gift shop."
Water recreation access: For those seeking luxury camping near water features, many sites offer direct lake access. "We loved having a double site with my parents. Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy," shares Angela M. about her experience at Crosswinds Campground.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many glampers appreciate privacy between accommodations. At Eno River State Park, Sydney S. notes that while "This camp ground requires a bit of a hike to get to (3.5 miles)," the journey is worth it: "The hike to the grounds was by far the best part. A beautiful walk along Eno River with lots of animals along the way (including deer)."
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms as a highlight. Sharon M. says about Rolling View: "Park rangers are friendly, campsites aren't on top of each other and the restrooms and showers are clean. We love seeing the wildlife."
Lakefront settings: Waterfront accommodations get high marks from guests. At Lake Reidsville Recreation Park, Timothy W. explains: "We've stayed at Reidsville Lake Campground twice this year so far. There are eight lakefront sites. The sites closer to the water are provided with power and water."
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings enhance the glamping experience. Elena B. shares her experience at Staunton River: "While staying there I saw a skunk, a groundhog, several deer and a great variety of birds. We enjoyed gorgeous sunsets from a little beach area near the cabins."
What you should know
Site specifics: Some sites have particular layouts or requirements to be aware of. At Lake Reidsville Recreation Park, Glenn F. explains: "The park is nice and clean. The bathhouse was well kept. The staff had decorations throughout the park for Halloween which is something I don't remember them doing in the past."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts comfort levels, especially for non-RV options. Katie M. shares about Staunton River: "We got a non-electric site and in November is was in the 30's at night - pretty cold for tent camping! But we bundled up and made lots of fires! Fire wood is available at the visitors center for a fee."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites require advance booking. J D. notes about B.W. Wells Campground: "Starting at $30/night for a camping lot... I reserved it through their website. They offer a small discount for senior citizens and military."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds' proximity to highways affects the experience. Greg H. warns about Greensboro KOA: "As previously mentioned, serves it's 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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: B.W. Wells Campground offers dedicated play areas near campsites. Amanda L. shares: "Loved that there was a playground near the site. The site itself was gravelly and not super private but it was great- the hikes around were stunning."
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer structured learning activities. Bridget H. says about Staunton River: "My gkids and I stayed here one night because they wanted to earn a winter camping badge... The park offers rentals of telescopes too. They also have a nature learning lab, some cool animals, and a fantastic gift shop."
Swimming areas: Several sites feature designated water recreation spaces. Dana M. notes that Rolling View at Falls Lake offers "Nice, big sites and plenty of good areas for swimming, hiking, and fishing. We always catch a ton of fish!! Bath houses are always clean and the park is in a convenient location."
Biking-friendly paths: Kids enjoy exploring on bikes at several glamping locations. A reviewer at Staunton River shares: "The gkids brought their bikes and loved riding around the park. It was rather empty since it was still technically winter."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Hyco Lake State Park has some terrain issues for larger vehicles. Danielle W. points out: "Nice swim area, nice roads but the sites could use some updating. A lot of them are sloped. Very hard to level out a RV."
Hookup accessibility: Consider the positioning of utilities when booking. Barb T. notes at Hyco Lake: "We also noted that our water and electricity was on the passenger side of our vehicle so it was a good thing we had an extra hose to reach the water as well as a long enough cord to reach the electric box."
Campground navigation: Some parks lack clear directional signage. One Hyco Lake visitor explains: "We arrive at campground and entered without issues, however, there was no signs directing us to site numbers. We did find our reserved site but unlike many places we have been there wasn't any receipt or tags attached to pole."
Dump station access: Most glamping locations with RV accommodation provide waste disposal facilities. Paul H. shares about Crosswinds Campground: "Each site has water and electric hook-up. Sewer however is a dump station. The sites are big with a picnic table, fire pit and lantern hook."