Best Tent Camping near Holly Springs, NC

Tent campsites around Holly Springs, North Carolina are primarily concentrated in nearby state parks and public recreation areas. William B. Umstead State Park Campground, located about 15 miles northeast in Raleigh, offers designated tent camping areas with drive-in and walk-in access options. Other options include Eno River State Park Campground in Durham, which provides hike-in tent sites, and the closer San-Lee Park in Sanford with basic tent facilities.

Most tent camping areas feature unpaved sites situated on natural forest terrain with minimal site preparation. William B. Umstead State Park provides fire rings, picnic tables, and access to showers and toilets, though reviews note that some tent pads are limited in size. San-Lee Park offers drinking water, picnic tables, and toilet facilities, but lacks electric hookups for tent campers. According to reviews on The Dyrt, "Primitive camping has drive-in, picnic table, fire ring, tent spot, and trails starting at your back door." Many campgrounds in the region have seasonal operating periods, with William B. Umstead State Park open from March 15 to December 1.

Areas farther from town provide more secluded backcountry tent camping experiences. The MST Section 23 Falls Lake camping area offers free hike-in tent sites about a mile from roadside parking, providing a genuine backcountry experience. A camper noted that "This is a hidden gem for a MST hiker. The campground is located on private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites." For tent campers seeking more established facilities, Eno River State Park provides walk-in tent sites with year-round access. Tent campers should note that airplane noise can be noticeable at William B. Umstead State Park due to its proximity to RDU International Airport, while more remote backcountry tent sites offer greater quiet and seclusion.

Best Tent Sites Near Holly Springs, North Carolina (11)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Holly Springs, NC

325 Reviews of 11 Holly Springs Campgrounds


  • Katy S.
    Aug. 4, 2020

    MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping

    A great spot for MST hikers

    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. It's a hike in only campground, located approximately 1 mile from the roadside parking on Red Mill Road, Durham NC. 

    The information can be found here:

    There is an authorized camping area available on private property in this section of the Falls Lake Trail(between Red Mill Road and Old Oxford Road). Follow the blue-blazed trail off the MST approximately 1 mile west of Red Mill Road. NOTE: This campsite is on private property. It is a HUGE PRIVILEGE to be allowed to camp at this location. Vandalism, neglect or any trash left at this campsite could result in closing of this campsite by the landowner. No water or toilet facilities are provided. There are seven established campsite pads for 2-person tents. Campsite rules:(1) Practice Leave No Trace ethics.(2) Do NOT leave any trash. Pack it in= Pack it out.(3) There is a 2-night maximum stay.(4) Do NOT explore past a 75 yard radius of the Shelter.(5) NO FIRES except in the established fire pit.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    B.W. Wells — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Family Friendly Campground

    B.W. Wells Campground at Falls Lake felt like stepping into a quiet forest hideaway, where the kids could explore trails, spot eagles over the water, and watch butterflies while we enjoyed campfires under the trees. It’s strictly hike-in and tent-only, so we had to pack light and plan carefully, but the trade-off was true peace and space to connect without the noise of RVs or busy roads. With shaded group sites, fire pits, picnic tables, nearby restrooms, and lake access perfect for paddling or fishing, it offered a rustic yet rewarding experience that was still close enough to Wake Forest for a quick meal or supply run when we needed it.

  • Bran P.
    Jul. 13, 2016

    Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Great Stay at Holly Point!

    Great campground located just outside of Raleigh, NC (20 minutes). Plenty of large sites – for both tents and RVs. Sites have tent pads, fire rings, trash/lantern poles, etc. Gravel base on most of the sites with some natural dirt as well. Be sure to check out a site with a lake view. Huge pines and hardwoods decorate the sites as well. Sites are pretty well spread out but of course tree cover helps with privacy as well. Lots of families all around the campground. Conveniently located in the triangle area. Shower facilities are typical of what you would expect. This campground also has a nice swim area but use caution in swimming in Falls Lake. There are often high levels of bacteria (ie poo) and they often shut down the local swim holes. Also, lots of chemical contaminants drain into the lake. Overall a great campground…I would however not choose to swim or let kids swim in the lake.

  • Amelia P.
    Apr. 11, 2022

    William B. Umstead State Park Campground

    Very small

    Avoid site 6! There’s so many tree roots, it’s an awful tripping hazard around a fire pit with kids! There are only three spaces out sites, 18,19,21. These sites are 10x10 designate for your tent, and picnic table and fire ring. Some are very very close together. The trails are good, the bathrooms are clean and maintained. Firewood can be purchased for $6/bundle. Be aware this is right next to the airport, you will hear planes all day and most all night landing and taking off.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2022

    Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    Outdoor Perfection @ Jordan Lake SRA Poplar Point Campground

    Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina! Yes, I know, that’s quite a statement to make, considering all of the amazing places in the great state of North Carolina. So let me explain why I reached this conclusion:

    • Some of the most outstanding hiking trails

    • Heavily wooded forest paradise that delivers privacy and solitude

    • Perfectly maintained amenities such as picnic tables, fold-up fire ring and grills

    • Bathroom facilities are some of the best I’ve experienced with state-run facilities

    • Direct access to a fantastic lakeside experience, complete with boat launches

    • Designated swimming area complete with life vests

    • On-site park staff were nothing short of amazing, helpful and incredibly friendly

    • Close access to purchase anything that might be needed 

    Insider’s tip? Be sure to get down to the lake from wherever your campsite is just after sunset and bring a couple of folding chairs and a telescope (pre-planning here is needed!) to catch a glimpse of one of the most amazing star-studded night skies you’ve ever seen in your life! 

    Happy Camping!

  • KB H.
    Jun. 7, 2021

    Eno River State Park Campground

    Perfect weekend getaway!

    This was my first time ever visiting Eno River State Park. My partner and I camped at Fanny’s Ford at one of the primitive sites. The sites are well spaced but not a lot of privacy. We didn’t mind and everyone was cordial. On Friday there were a few logs left for campers at the entrance to the sites, which we appreciated given the recent rain. The proximity to the water is amazing and you can hear the nearby rapids at night. Recommendations: bring in your own water, or at least your own containers to fill up at the picnic area parking lot, bring a sleeping pad (the gravel on each site is unforgiving), don’t be afraid to contact the park rangers if you need something (folks were camping without permits in our reserved space and the rangers helped sort everything out)

    Big tip: instead of following the ~1 mile trail to the sites, park at the canoe access and walk down to Fews Ford, cross the river via the Ford and continue right until you see a fannys Ford camping sign on your left. It will make your trek SO MUCH easier!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Jordan Lake Crosswinds

    Big Water, Tall Pines & Gorgeous Lakefront Sunsets

    Nestled along the shores of Jordan Lake, Crosswinds Campground is one of those places that makes one feel like they just scored a million-dollar lakefront spot for the cost of a campsite fee. First impressions? Towering pines everywhere, a breeze rolling off the water and the faint hum of boats out on the lake. It’s a large, well-loved campground that still manages to feel peaceful – provided you’re not parked next to that one guy who thinks 'quiet hours' are just a suggestion.

    The facilities here strike a nice balance between rustic and comfortable. Out of the 182 sites, 134 offer water and electric hookups, making it RV-friendly while still keeping things woodsy. Every site has the basics: picnic table, fire ring, lantern / garbage holder and enough tree cover to keep you from baking like a biscuit in the North Carolina summer sun. Bathhouses are clean and scattered through the loops in just about the right proportion where the loos feel like an overcrowded line to see your favorite band with a dump station on site at each of the campground loops. Roads are well-paved –although you will find that errant pothole just waiting to take out one of your tires, so tread carefully – but a little snug for bigger rigs, so if you drive something the size of a tour bus, maybe don’t test your parallel parking skills here.

    The lake is the true star. With 180 miles of shoreline surrounding a 12,000-acre reservoir, Jordan Lake sprawls wide enough to feel like a small ocean … and Crosswinds puts you right on the edge of it. Beyond the lake itself, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area covers a span of some 46,000 acres of public land, so there’s tons of nature to explore here. Boating, fishing and kayaking are all top-notch, and the eagle-spotting here is so good you’ll feel like you wandered onto a National Geographic special. If you want civilization, the quaint and full-service townships of Cary, Apex and Pittsboro are all close by for groceries, breweries or just a break from your campfire cooking experiments.

    As for the campground itself, there are 3 distinct loops: A, B & C (yes, even your kindergartner can keep these 3 straight!). Here’s a breakdown of each loop, because each one offers up something different and unique – some things good, some things not so much – that may influence where you choose to camp. Here’s a snapshot:

    Loop A (AKA 'Boats & Bobbers'): (1) the only loop that is entirely non-electric, so if powering up your campsite is important, then bring your own source or look to the other loops; (2) closest to the main entrance, so great for quick access, but the only loop if you take a left at the fork (the other 2 loops are right of the fork); (3) nearest the boat launch, so you will experience all of the boat-launching skippers driving westward past your loop from dusk to dawn, which is great if you are thumbing your way to the boat launch, not so great if you prize peace & quiet; (4) an ‘easter egg’ of a hidden trail exists near A21 that will lead you down to the lakeshore to a quiet spot perfect for uncorking that vintage Bordeaux you’ve been looking for the right location and moment to savor; and (5) IMHO the best sites are those that are lake-facing such as 19– 22 and 45– 47.

    Loop B (AKA 'Sand & Swimming'): (1) if Loop A is defined by its proximity to the boat launch, then this loop can be dubbed the Beach Loop as it is the only circuit with an actual beachhead and proper swimming area; (2) while centrally located in between the other 2 loops, this area is definitely considered more tranquil and has a tighter feeling of community; (3) unlike the previous loop, this one has campsites with running electric and water, but there’s a bonus to some of these sites as they are considered duplex campsites, so while a bit more$ ($25 more for non-electric and $40 more for duplexes with electric), you’ll have more space, which is especially important if there’s 2 families looking to camp together; and (4) IMHO the best sites here are those westernmost, lake-facing spots such as 24, 26, 30, 32, 34, 36 and 40.

    Loop C ('Sunsets& Sundowners'): (1) just like the previous loop, here you’ll find all campsites have running water & electric, so no primitive shenanigans to deal with here; (2) of the 3 loops, this is the one located most northernly, most secluded, furthest from the entrance and has no amenities (like a beach or boat launch) that will draw non-camping traffic; (3) the biggest draw of this loop are the arresting views of Lake Jordan, especially at dusk, where you can place your fold-up camping chair in just the right direction, sit back and sip on those sunset-inspired Mai Tais; (4) There’s a small, hidden beach (shhh! don’t tell your fellow campers in Loop B, lest they become disenfranchised!) that you can access near site 32 that will allow for a private swim or late-night evening hang-out staring at the breathtaking moonlit starscape; and (5) IMHO the best sites are (you guessed it) the ones that have the best views of that incandescent sundowner view facing westward, so you’ll want to eye spots 19, 21, 23, 24 – with the absolute pinnacle sites being 24, 26, 30, 32, 34 – as well as those that have even a partial view, including 36, 40 and 42.

    Insider Tips?  Here's a smattering: (1) Plan a swim or paddle near the Ebenezer Church swimming beach, just a short drive from Crosswinds. It’s less crowded than the main day-use areas and offers sandy shoreline, gentle water entry, and shady picnic spots; (2) For paddling, launch in the morning from the camper-only ramp before the motorboats hit the water and turn it into Daytona-on-the-lake; (3) Eat at The Fearrington House Restaurant in Pittsboro if you’re feeling fancy – exotic meats and Oregon Pinot Noirs so smooth they’ll make you forget you slept on a foam mattress last night; (4) Bring bug spray – the mosquitoes here treat Off! like it’s a garnish; and (5) Don’t skip stargazing on a clear night, the Milky Way shows off, and it’s better than cable.

    Happy Camping!

  • Katy S.
    Jul. 6, 2020

    Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    Great access to the lake

    This is a pretty nice campground, similar to other state parks in North Carolina. The sites are spacious, we stayed at a double site that allowed up to 4 cars. The site was level and stayed dry during the heavy rain, however we saw other sites that had big puddles, with tents in the water. The bathrooms were cleaned regularly, but they were not very nice. The shower didn't look good at all, we didn't use it.

    A great things about the campground is that it has its own kayak/canoe ramp, just a few minutes drive from the site. We saw people fishing from the ramp as well. On our morning paddle we saw a couple of bald eagles, they were amazing. We stayed at the campsite after heavy rains, so the beach was closed. It must be nice when not flooded.

    This is a state campground, so alcohol is not allowed.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Shinleaf — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Small Hidden Gem in Falls Lake SRA

    If you find yourself in the hustle and bustle of nearby Raleigh and are looking to get away from the crowds and pavement in exchange for some nice shaded nature, hiking trails and calm, peace& quiet that only nature can offer, then make your way here to Shinleaf@ Falls Lake SRA. You’ll discover all of the basics are provided– from picnic table, fold-up fire ring/ grill, bear-proof garbage hanger and a nice pebble-strewn patch of well-maintained flat pitch, perfect for striking camp for the night in your tent amongst the best of what nature has to offer along with pristine shade from an unrelenting bit of summer North Carolina sunshine.

    The only real down-side I could find to Shinleaf is that there’s not a whole lot of brush between the campsites so you will be exposed to neighboring sites, which wasn’t a problem when we visited as the place was fairly vacant, but during high season, I could see how this would be a bit of a turn-off. The on-site facilities(limited to just bathrooms& showers) are typically better than you’d expect from a state-run campground, and so this spot gets high marks versus some others– and there’s even a designated‘pot wash’ spigot that is near the campsites making for EZ clean up after any meal. There’s plenty of hiking trails to explore and the on-site rangers are incredibly helpful and positive folks that want to ensure you have a great time.

    Insider's tips? Here's a few: (1) If you like to fish, there's tons of different varieties here to catch, including: walleye, crappie, white bass, large- and small-mouth bass, blue gill, striped bass as well as catfish; (2) There is no need to go anywhere else to look for a boat launch as Shinleaf has its very own kayak/ canoe launch that is fantastic and located on the eastern side of the property; (3) If you are looking for some really cool outdoors adventures while in these parts, check out Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park that offers treetop rope trails and adventure courses - our kiddos loved it!; (4) When you grow tired of attempting to conjure up your next meal from the depths of your roto-molded Cordova cooler and want to try out some local fare, then I highly recommend nearby Carolina Ale House in Wake Forest or Buffalo Brothers Restaurant & Bar - both have fantastic local cuisine and nice iced area craft beers to pair with; and (5) IMHO, the best campsites here at Shinleaf are: #6, #14, #16-17; #30-33; #37-39; #40; #42-43; #45-47.

    Happy Camping!


Guide to Holly Springs

Tent camping near Holly Springs, North Carolina centers around established county parks and state recreation areas within a 30-mile radius. The region features rolling Piedmont terrain with elevations ranging from 350-500 feet and a humid subtropical climate that supports camping from March through November. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions in the 60-75°F range.

What to do

Hiking trails: William B. Umstead State Park provides extensive trail networks for day hiking while camping. "Love this place! Lots of great paths to walk," notes one visitor about the William B. Umstead State Park Campground. The park offers both paved and unpaved options suitable for different skill levels.

Mountain biking: Serious bikers can access single-track trails at several campgrounds near Holly Springs. A camper at Umstead mentions, "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."

Water activities: Eno River State Park Campground offers swimming and paddling opportunities during summer months. "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," shares a regular visitor.

Disc golf: Cedarock Park features two complete disc golf courses with 36 total holes. "There are two fantastic disc golf courses (I personally enjoy the Wellspring course)," notes a camper who frequents the Cedarock Park camping area.

What campers like

Solitude of backcountry sites: The MST Section 23 Falls Lake camping area provides a genuine backcountry experience with minimal facilities. "This is a hidden gem for a MST hiker. The campground is located on private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites," explains a hiker who stayed at the MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping area.

Proximity to water features: Campers consistently mention enjoying waterfront sites. One Eno River visitor reports, "We hike and swim Eno nearly weekly and are so thankful this resource is so close to us! We also backpack into the primitive sites frequently. The sites are always clean. The primitive sites are spaces far enough apart that it truly feels like solitude."

Family-friendly facilities: San-Lee Park gets high marks for its combination of camping and children's activities. "This park has lots of hiking trails, a fantastic park for the kiddos, Nature Center, a gorgeous lake perfect for a day of fishing, mountain bike trails, paddle boat rental and... a pretty impressive campground!" shares a reviewer who visited San-Lee Park.

Urban accessibility: Many campers appreciate how quickly they can get from city to wilderness. "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," notes a regular at William B. Umstead State Park.

What you should know

Reservations and check-in systems vary: Each park has different policies for securing tent sites. At San-Lee Park, one frustrated camper reported: "After calling and only getting voicemails, we found the man again who called his boss. His boss finally answered and said we can only camp there by making reservations 72 hours ahead of time."

Seasonal closures affect availability: William B. Umstead State Park operates from March 15 to December 1, while Eno River and San-Lee Park remain open year-round. Check park websites before planning tent camping trips near Holly Springs during winter months.

Noise factors: Despite natural settings, some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roadways or air traffic. Cedarock Park campers note: "The only downside is the road noise at night - it was very loud. Next time we will bring something to help quiet the noise."

Site spacing and privacy: Camp areas offer varying degrees of separation between sites. At San-Lee Park, a camper observed: "It's almost like one big group site. There are maybe 10 or so sites here. They are all contained in one open area."

Tips for camping with families

Convenient first-time options: Look for campgrounds with short hikes to sites and basic facilities. "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," shares a family who stayed at Cedarock Park.

Educational opportunities: Several parks offer interpretive programs that engage children. "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean," notes a visitor to Eno River State Park.

Multi-activity parks: Choose campgrounds with diverse recreation options to keep children engaged. "While staying at the park we went on hikes, fished, and played disc golf. It was a great time!" reports a family that visited Cedarock Park with their children.

Pack-in/pack-out considerations: Most primitive tent sites require carrying all gear and supplies. A camper at Eno River noted: "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."

Tips from RVers

Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Holly Springs don't accommodate RVs. San-Lee Park specifically notes that "tent campers (no RV's welcomed here, just tents) can book a campsite on a first-come, first-served basis."

Group facilities alternative: For RV campers wanting to meet tent-camping friends, William B. Umstead's group areas offer options. "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," shares one visitor who used the park's alternative accommodations.

Parking restrictions: Several parks have separate parking areas that may not accommodate larger vehicles. At MST Section 23 Falls Lake, campers note sites are "located approximately 1 mile from the roadside parking on Red Mill Road," requiring all campers to hike in regardless of arrival vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Holly Springs, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Holly Springs, NC is William B. Umstead State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 18 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Holly Springs, NC?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Holly Springs, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.