Best Tent Camping near Jefferson, NC

Jefferson, NC is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Jefferson is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Jefferson, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Tent Sites Near Jefferson, North Carolina (52)

    1. Blue Bear Mountain Camp

    24 Reviews
    127 Photos
    55 Saves
    Todd, North Carolina

    Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers year round camping experiences for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Car accessible tent and RV sites in a natural setting. Hike in sites for those looking for a little more adventure and privacy. Stargazer Domes and Cabin rentals for guests wanting a rustic, mountain getaway while staying in comfort. Located just 8 miles north of Boone, NC on over 150 acres of pristine mountain land, miles of hiking trails, a trout pond and spacious low density sites allow the guest to get away from it all in a rustic, remote setting. In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At 4,000 feet elevation, come enjoy cool mountain breezes and mild temperatures. Blue Bear Mountain is a scenic location for large events such as weddings, corporate events and family reunions. Come Get away from it all at Blue Bear Mountain!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $136 / night

    2. New River Alleghany Access Primitive Paddle-in — New River State Park

    3 Reviews
    5 Photos
    1 Save
    Mouth of Wilson, Virginia

    Paddle in primitive camping - 8 sites available

    Located in Ashe and Alleghany counties 35 miles northeast of Boone, New River State Park covers seven accesses along this National Wild and Scenic River that flows north through three states. All accesses allow for launching kayaks and inner tubes to paddle or float along the shallow, gentle river. Paddle-in only campgrounds provide a remote experience. The hellbender — the largest salamander in the U.S. — and 14 species of rare and threatened plant species inhabit the New River valley.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table

    $12 / night

    3. Elk Knob State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    12 Photos
    89 Saves
    Zionville, North Carolina

    Elk Knob State Park has backcountry campsites. It is a pleasant hike down into a cove forest with beautiful streams. There are: 3 individual sites that can accommodate no more than six people and two tents each. 2 group sites that can accommodate up to 26 people and is for organized groups. A zone camping area that can accommodate three sites of no more than six people and two tents each. These are primitive sites with no facilities except one pit toilet to be shared by the two group sites. The sites are approximately a one- to two-mile hike from the trailhead. All supplies, including water, must be packed to the sites. To drink water from nearby creeks and streams, use a filtration device or boil the water for at least 5 minutes. Camp fires are not allowed. Cooking by camp stove is permitted. Reservations are required for the group sites while the other sites are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please contact the park office for more information.

    • Pets
    • Tents

    4. Dusty Trails Outfitters

    2 Reviews
    20 Photos
    46 Saves
    Scottville, North Carolina

    For your New River and Blue Ridge Mountain experience, give us a call and come visit. We will accommodate your canoeing, kayaking, tubing, camping, and fishing needs, as well as much more! Located in Ashe and Alleghany Counties, North Carolina. We are just a short drive from Jefferson, West Jefferson, Sparta, Boone and Wilkesboro. Open April through October. Reservations or call ahead are strongly recommended. For a exciting and unique experience, come to Dusty Trails Outfitters.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 / night

    6. Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway

    3 Reviews
    6 Photos
    52 Saves
    Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian

    7. Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    3 Reviews
    8 Photos
    23 Saves
    Troutdale, Virginia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets

    8. Mortimer Campground — National Forests In North Carolina

    10 Reviews
    24 Photos
    2 Saves
    Collettsville, North Carolina

    Overview

    Mortimer Campground is a small campground nestled within the Wilson Creek Wild and Scenic River Corridor south of Grandfather Mountain. Located at the site of an old Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp, the 17-site campground is surrounded by lush forests, gentle streams, and a large scenic river popular for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

    Recreation

    Visitors to the campground can enjoy a variety of activities including fishing, swimming, day hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, picnicking, and scenic driving. Swimming holes along Thorps Creek provide wading opportunities on hot summer days. Nearby Wilson Creek, designated as a National Wild and Scenic River in 2000, is well known for its excellent trout fishing, swimming, kayaking, and rugged features. History buffs will enjoy exploring the remnants of the once booming timber town of Mortimer as well as an old CCC work center. Two Forest Service trails depart from the campground. The Thorps Creek trail provides a short (approx. 1/4 mile) hike to Thorps Creek Falls. The more strenuous Schoolhouse Ridge Trail connects to the campground via the .2 mile Bill Vines trail and provides a 3 mile ridgeline excursion with beautiful views before connecting to the Wilson Ridge Trail. Many other Forest Service trails are within a short drive of the Campground, including Hunt Fish Falls, North Harper Creek Falls, and Little Lost Cove Cliffs. The area also boasts a network of scenic mountain biking trails.

    Natural Features

    Located in a rich mountain hardwood forest at an elevation of 1,400 ft., Mortimer Campground provides a secluded streamside setting shaded by large hemlocks and pine trees. Thorps Creek runs along the east side of the campground before feeding into the Wild and Scenic Wilson Creek, a popular destination for a variety of activities. Hardwood forests cover the mountain peaks on either side of the valley and multiple mountain feeder creeks can be found nearby. The Mortimer area provides beautiful scenery year-round, from stunning fall foliage displays to abundant spring and summer wildflowers.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (828) 652-2144.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Wilson Creek Visitor Center is 3.2 miles from the Mortimer Campground and provides information on the Wilson Creek area and has a photograph and artifact collection that tells the history of the area. The towns of Blowing Rock and Morganton are located within an hours drive of the campground, to the north and south respectively. Both towns offer a variety of restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, and medical facilities. The Julian Price Memorial Park and Campground is located 24 miles north of Mortimer Campground and is a well-known destination for hiking, canoeing, fishing, and camping. Mortimer Campground is 21 miles away from Linville Falls, and the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area. The Gorge offers breathtaking views and numerous hiking trails. The Campground is 17 miles from the popular Grandfather Mountain State Park, the highest peak on the eastern escarpment of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table

    $20 - $30 / night

    9. Riverside Canoe and Campground

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    21 Saves
    Crumpler, North Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    $25 - $55 / night

    10. River Livin'

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    4 Saves
    Todd, North Carolina

    This quiet and shaded float camp along the South Fork of the New River is a perfect destination to unplug and enjoy the simple pleasures of riverside camping. Nestled into the hillside, this one-of-a-kind campsite is accessible only by the river (contact our friends over at River Girl Fishing to arrange a boat rental and shuttle if needed 336.877.3099).

    On-site you will find a 10'x12' tent platform, a fire-pit, picnic table, and primitive toilet. Spend the days and nights fishing, wading, reading, or simply enjoying the gentle flow of the water.

    Plan to pack-in what you need, and pack-out any trash that you generate. Please note that you'll need to bring your own water or water treatment method.

    This simple campsite is sure to be the retreat you're looking for. And in addition to the enjoyment you'll have, you'll also be supporting a great local non-profit! River Livin' is owned and operated by Appalachian Mountain Leadership (amlnc.org)- a Boone-based nonprofit dedicated to fostering and inspiring servant leadership. Your rental dollars help to provide scholarships and trainings for our transformative programs!

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets

    $65 / night

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Recent Tent Reviews near Jefferson, NC

1037 Reviews of 52 Jefferson Campgrounds



Guide to Jefferson

Tent camping near Jefferson, North Carolina offers a blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Enjoy the convenience of drinking water and clean facilities at Blue Bear Mountain Camp, which is well-equipped for a comfortable stay.
  • Riverside Canoe and Campground provides a market for supplies, along with picnic tables and firewood for a cozy camping experience.
  • For a more primitive experience, Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway offers fire pits and food storage lockers, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Explore local attractions

Engage in exciting activities

  • Hike the scenic trails at Scales Trailhead Basecamp, where you can encounter wild ponies and breathtaking views.
  • For those seeking adventure, Dusty Trails Outfitters offers canoe and kayak rentals, allowing you to explore the river while enjoying the great outdoors.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at Mountaineer Campground, located near prime fishing spots in Ashe County.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Jefferson, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Jefferson, NC is Blue Bear Mountain Camp with a 4.8-star rating from 24 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Jefferson, NC?

    TheDyrt.com has all 52 tent camping locations near Jefferson, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.