Best Tent Camping near King, NC

Tent campsites near King, North Carolina include a mix of established campgrounds and primitive options scattered throughout the surrounding countryside. Homeplace Recreational Park offers tent sites with water access along a stream, while Basin Cove on the Blue Ridge Parkway provides more primitive tent camping experiences. Several campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, though tent-specific areas generally provide more natural settings and often feature proximity to water.

Most tent campgrounds in the area feature dirt pads rather than paved or heavily-developed sites. Water access varies significantly, with some locations like Homeplace offering drinking water and others requiring campers to bring their own or filter from nearby streams. Fire regulations are generally permissive, with most campgrounds allowing campfires in designated rings or pits, though seasonal restrictions may apply during dry periods. Bathroom facilities range from well-maintained shower houses at established campgrounds to primitive pit toilets or no facilities whatsoever at more remote sites like Basin Cove.

Tent camping in this region provides opportunities to enjoy natural settings away from more developed RV areas. Basin Cove offers particularly secluded tent camping with a mile-long hike required to reach the sites. The campground follows a river and provides excellent access to hiking trails, making it ideal for backpackers seeking a basecamp for day hikes. Sites are well-spaced for privacy, with fire pits and food storage lockers available. A review mentioned, "The hike in is excellent, as it follows the river along the way," though campers should note there is no vehicle access and water must be filtered from natural sources. Evening camping often features peaceful soundscapes, with one visitor noting, "Campsite is right next to the creek—fun to hear the water at night."

Best Tent Sites Near King, North Carolina (15)

    1. Homeplace Recreational Park Inc.

    5 Reviews
    Pilot Mountain, NC
    15 miles
    +1 (336) 374-5173

    "In this park, all the sites are dirt only, no paved pads, but do have rock fire rings. The WiFi was pretty good considering the number of people who were probably using it."

    "Large trail to go for a little walk. Very reasonably priced. Will go again."

    2. Beechnut Family Campground

    3 Reviews
    Mount Airy, NC
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (336) 320-3802

    $32 - $48 / night

    "The tent camping area is across a road from a stream, in a forest of tall trees, a very picturesque location. Each tent site had water, a picnic table, and a 30-amp electric outlet."

    3. Willville Motorcycle Camp

    7 Reviews
    Woolwine, VA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (469) 614-8620

    $150 - $200 / night

    "thwres a community fire ring where Will has a fire most nights. There are no reservations except for either the one cabin or the bunkhouse, and there're no designated spots."

    "It is motorcycle only, but he has limited space outside the campground proper for trailers should that be your thing."

    4. Squirrel Creek Farm

    Be the first to review!
    Claudville, VA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 975-6556

    $110 - $150 / night

    5. Possible Property

    1 Review
    Cana, VA
    34 miles
    +1 (910) 548-4267

    $30 - $45 / night

    6. Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway

    3 Reviews
    Blue Ridge Parkway, NC
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 348-3487

    "You have to make a reservation with the park office for your site and drop by the ranger station to pick up your permit."

    "Easy hike in, but far enough that you won’t find High-maintenance campers or crowds. Maybe some horseback people. Campground has tent pads, picnic tables, fire pits, pit toilets, water pump."

    7. New River Yacht Club

    1 Review
    Fries, VA
    47 miles
    +1 (276) 768-6235

    $50 / night

    "I'd like to welcome New River Yacht Club to the Dyrt, they offer waterfront tent sites so you can enjoy a weekend at the water.  Make sure to check out their rentals to make the most of your stay! "

    8. Self Sufficient Holler

    1 Review
    Moravian Falls, NC
    48 miles

    $40 - $200 / night

    "What a magical experience floating in the trees surrounded by fire flies! Elizabeth and Mark were exceptional hosts. There is so much to do on property, and they are working on more!"

    9. Dragon's Beard Farm & Camp LLC

    Be the first to review!
    Woolwine, VA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 625-7938

    $85 - $125 / night

    10. Hiddenite Family Campground

    2 Reviews
    Stony Point, NC
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 838-3579

    $25 - $50 / night

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Tent Camping Reviews near King, NC

562 Reviews of 15 King Campgrounds


  • Shannon M.
    Sep. 9, 2020

    Rocky Knob Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    Clean wooded caampground

    On BRP near Floyd, VA. A lot of amenities in town and hiking trails nearby. Clean and quiet: no generators allowed in tent camping area and quiet hours after 10pm. Tent sites $20 per night at time of my stay.

  • Rachael H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 11, 2020

    Stone Mountain State Park Campground

    Loved it

    Primitive tent camp site. Water but no electric. Nice grassy area around the gravel tent pad. We had one tree for shade. Fire ring and table. Clean showers and bathrooms. We stayed here specifically for the sliding rock at widow creek falls. But we did hike Stone Mountain falls trail. There are 432 steps going up to the parking area from the bottom of the falls. Beautiful shaded trail. Mountain to sea trail runs through for a little bit. Dogs welcome leashes. Fairly busy trail.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2019

    Hanging Rock State Park Campground

    This is a great state park for hiking, seeing waterfalls, and for views!

    There are a lot of reasons to love Hanging Rock State Park. That’s why it is probably my favorite state park in North Carolina.  However, I am torn between giving it two stars and giving it five stars.  In general, I would give the park five stars, but for the camping facilities, I would rate it two stars.  There is so much to do without having to leave the state park.  First, let’s look at the park itself, and close to the end I will discuss the campground.

    To get to the park, you drive through beautiful rolling hills. The park has a modern visitor center with a nature center and friendly rangers.  There are lots of trails to explore, but they are not just trails to nowhere.  There are five waterfalls to see, a climbing access area, Cook’s Wall, and much more.  Moore’s Wall Loop Trail is a 4.3 mile strenuous hike, and it begins by walking by the lake.  There is a platform about halfway through the hike in which you can see the skylines of Greensboro and Winston-Salem.  My favorite trail is the Hanging Rock Trail, which is listed as moderate.  Parts of it are moderate, very short stretches are easy, and much of it is strenuous.  The last part of the Hanging Rock Trail is the most difficult, but the view at the end is worth the hike because it is spectacular.  From the hanging rock (I should say rocks since there are more than one), you can see for many miles across several counties.  The shortest hike to see a waterfall is relatively easy and is only three-tenths of a mile one way.  The lake has a swimming beach with mountains in the background, and there are also rowboats and canoes for rent.  According to what I understand from their website, canoe rentals and concession stands at the lake are open weekends only in the spring and fall (10am - 5:30pm).   I was hoping to take my kayaks next time, but unfortunately, private boats are not allowed.  Two large picnic shelters are also close to the lake. 

    Here is why I would give it two stars.  The camping sites are shaded and spacious with picnic tables, lantern poles, and fire rings, but the bathroom facility is outdated (built in the 1960s).  Even though it has hot water, it is NOT handicap accessible, and the shower doors are narrow.  If you are not a skinny person, you might have trouble squeezing through the shower doors.  There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups; however, there is access to water by way of frostproof hydrants. The campground hosts were very helpful and answered my questions.  You can also purchase bundles of firewood since taking your own firewood into the park is frowned upon.  If you are like me, however, and camp to experience the outdoors, you will not want to stay at your campsite very long.  There are just too many things to explore at this state park.  If you are going and want to truly experience the park, plan to camp at least three nights.  One day you can explore Upper Cascades falls and the hanging rock.  On another day, you can hike the Moore’s Wall trail and cool off in the lake.  On another day, see a couple more waterfalls or hike the Reuben Mountain Trail.

    There is also a group camping area.  I took the Boy Scouts there once, so I decided to visit this time to see if it was still the same.  They have added bathrooms and more well-defined tent sites—quite an improvement since the last time.

  • Kevin M.
    Mar. 18, 2017

    Rocky Knob Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    Great overnight camping stay!

    Rocky Knob Campground is right outside of Floyd, VA off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Southwest region of the state.

    Why stay here? It's right outside of Floyd. They host Floyd Fest each year as well as a Yoga Jam. It's right off the Blue Ridge Parkway if you are traveling. Did I mention it's to Chateau Morrisette Winery?!

    Our family stays here multiple times a year, it's a nice little getaway, yet still close to home. This Campground offers toilets and running water, but no showers so remember to bring your dry shampoo and bug spray depending on the time of year.

    Sites are pretty close together, but we didn't mind. We pitched an 8 person tent, a hammock, and were quite cozy in front of the fire ring. Can't wait to visit again.

    Good for families (kids ride their bikes through Campground), couples, singles.

    What this Campground offers: -Friendly Park Ranger -$16 bucks per night if you drive up, $20 online, can't beat that! -Rest and relaxation -Picnic table -Fire ring -Bathhouse (no showers or paper towels) -trash collection near front entrance -camping for tents or campers -dog friendly -short distance from Rocky Knob -right off the Blue Ridge Parkway -close to Chateau Morrisette Winery -right outside of Floyd, VA (Dogtown Roadhouse, Floyd County Store, Oddfellas, etc)

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2022

    Beechnut Family Campground

    Nice Camping for Tents or RVs

    We camped in our tent at Beechnut for two nights. The owners are very friendly and helpful. The tent camping area is across a road from a stream, in a forest of tall trees, a very picturesque location. Each tent site had water, a picnic table, and a 30-amp electric outlet. It rained heavily both nights we stayed there, but we stayed dry. Unfortunately the rain had been going on for several days before we arrived, and wherever vehicles were parked on the ground, they left muddy ruts. The owner helped some guests who arrived at night at a tent site in small travel trailers, when they were stuck. He really is very helpful and kind. Bathhouses are clean and well-kept.

  • Julie L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2021

    Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway

    VERY Primative

    This site should not be confused with any other sites in area by similar name. You have to make a reservation with the park office for your site and drop by the ranger station to pick up your permit. The sites have NO vehicle access at all, you have to hike a mile into the campsite. The hike in is excellent, as it follows the river along the way.

    There is NO clean water source, you have to bring a filter system with you. There are no picnic tables but each site does have wood logs as seats. There are fire pits and food storage lockers on site. 

    The site is surrounded by excellent hiking trails and is a great place to set as "base camp" for day hikes.

  • Dave V.
    Jun. 1, 2018

    Hanging Rock State Park Campground

    Let’s just hang out!

    RANGER REVIEW: Mountain House New Homestyle Turkey Dinner Casserole at Hanging Rock State Park, Danbury, NC

    CAMPGROUND REVIEW: HANGING ROCK STATE PARK

    Locating Hanging Rock State Park was not a simple task as it is well off the beaten path… most great parks are…but once there, you’ve found a gem! (Google Maps directions were inaccurate).At over 8,000 acres…offering trails of all length and difficultly level, multiple waterfalls, lake, scenic long views and picnic areas…it is no wonder it is claimed to be the most beautiful park in North Carolina. https://www.ncparks.gov/hanging-rock-state-park

    Rich in history, the mid 1930’s through 1942 saw the CCC construct most of what you still see and use here at Hanging Rock. Their stonework and creativity has stood the test of time. During an earlier war many elevated locations were were used as hideaways for British by sympathizers

    Park roadway signage directs you to your desired destination within the park.

    https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=CHLjG8FrpRg

    There are 73 campsites, separated into two loops…sites 1-42 in the main loop and 43-73 in the second more linear “loop”. Campground loop roads are one way to eliminate confusion.

    Individual camp sites are rather spacious, and offer 40-50’ between sites. Gravel parking pads are different lengths and shapes (most appear long enough for a pop-up or medium length RV/Camper) and are outlined by 12”x12” timber pylons jutting from the ground about a foot high. These short massive posts no doubt keep vehicle and trailer from wandering beyond the parking pad…but are a fantastic tripping hazard day or night. There is some “breakup” between sites from mature trees but your neighbors are still visible.

    The tent pads are elevated 3-4 inches, outlined by horizontal timbers and backfilled with fine pea gravel and sand. Easy on the knees, tent floor and when inserting tent stakes. Site 35’s tent pad was 13’x 19’ And fairly level. However, it appeared each site had a different sized pad based on terrain and available space. Some outer loop sites have some steeper drop-aways, so split-rail fences outline the tent pad, picnic area or both for safety.

    The park is heavily forested, so shade is abundant. During mid-May, it was warm, dry and enjoyed a constant refreshing breeze.

    Water spigots dot the campground loop roadway every few sites, so it is a short walk to fill up. Secure trash receptacles are spread out further but still plentiful. No electric and sketchy cell service (at best)…of which the payphone at the information board reminds you. Make the hike up to Moore’s Knob and you’ll find decent cell phone reception, if need be.

    Reservations are recommended and online is suggested. Arriving during business hours, available sites can be reserved and paid at the Visitor’s Center. After hours, payment of cash or check only can be made with the campground host as you enter the campground area. Each numbered site marker has a unique flag that flips up and over it’s site number denoting the site is reserved. Site cost per night were $18, which is a great price considering what this park offers.

    The centrally located showerhouse is clean and functional. The ladies called it ‘dated’ …but I liked the authentic retro look. The lights remain illuminated throughout, so it draws local insects…some monstrous! Huge beetles and stink bugs clung to the screen door desiring entrance. A hornet the size of a hummingbird circled the yellow porch light, with its buzzing eclipsing all other night sounds.

    The second loop is more linear, has a newer showerhouse (with electrical outlets). Sites to the left have the campground roadway behind them, so they may experience traffic noise…but with gates locking at 10 p.m. traffic is halted…and those sites appeared to be closer together. The outer sites are more private and enjoy spacious forest behind them.

    Shower houses are not open year-round, even though the park is. So there are still “outhouse style” singular pit latrines present.

    Whitetail deer mosey past your site and linger during the evening…ample squirrel and robins, woodpeckers and cardinals compete for air time. Skinks, newts and salamanders populate these wooded lands and scurry about. There are snakes, some venomous, but unfortunately, none were observed on our visit.

    The miles of trails are wonderful and well-traveled. Being known as “the mountains away from the mountains,” we did not hike any flat trails. Trails either go up or down…but each offer spectacular destinations and views. I highly recommend every trail and every waterfall. And yes, both Moore’s Knob and Hanging Rock are the highest elevations…offering fabulous views.

    The visitor’s center is the hub where many trails originate…and is a tremendous little facility full of local information. Staff personnel and Park Rangers are extremely helpful. Restrooms and water are located inside and outside the facility. The parking lot is expansive and the large number of day-use picnic tables, grills and shelters let you know this park gets a tremendous amount of use during peak times.

    Another, often overlooked feature is 7.2 miles of the Mountain To Sea Trail travels through this splendid park.

    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.

    Hanging Rock State Park made my list for future visits!

    PRODUCT REVIEW: MOUNTAIN HOUSE NEW HOMESTYLE TURKEY DINNER CASSEROLE

    Having enjoyed Mountain House dinners on numerous camping and backpacking occasions, I welcomed the opportunity to try Mountain House's new Turkey Dinner Casserole.

    Mountain House's heritage is a rich Red, White and Blue one. Many don't realize that Oregon Freeze Dry began making nutritious meals, named LRP "Long Range Patrol" rations for our U.S. Military Special Operations units. MCW, "Meals Cold Weather" were designed to meet the needs of Special Forces operating in every adverse climate and condition on the planet. As opportunities arose and civilian demand increased, Mountain House began labeling and producing wonderful meals for both the front and backcountry. https://www.mountainhouse.com/

    The convenience of preparing a delicious meal by merely boiling water and adding it to the pouch is quick and easy. In fact, you can even eat it directly from the pouch without having to use a separate pot or bowl. Just open the pouch, remove the silica packet, pour in the boiling water, stir for a minute or so…seal the pouch with it's "ziplock" style closure…wait five minutes, open and stir again…Presto! Your meals awaits!

    Mountain House's new Turkey Dinner Casserole is the real deal. I found it delicious and very much like a Thanksgiving meal. Let it be known, I do not prefer stuffing and don't eat it at Thanksgiving or any other time…but..I found it to be very tasty and satisfying in this meal. https://www.mountainhouse.com/M/product/homestyle-turkey-dinner-casserole.html?variant_id=235

    My wife and I enjoyed this as our anniversary meal while camping…I spare no expense (free meal at an inexpensive campground…think frugal:) This particular meal provides two (2) servings, and if we had not been hiking most the day, it would have sufficed. I found myself desiring a bit more. Real chunks of turkey, stuffing, veggies, smothered in a thin gravy.

    Mountain House offers various size pouches, some 1 serving, as well as, 2 serving, 2.5 serving pouches, Pro-paks, #10 cans, and multi-packs. They offer delicious breakfasts and delectable desserts.

  • Amy F.
    Oct. 5, 2020

    Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground

    Great spot right on the Blue Ridge Pkwy!

    Camped in one of 5 tent camping spaces. They also have cabins / RV spaces and a motel. Check in was quick and the people running the campground were so friendly and great to deal with! Each site has a water pump and power. And the bathhouses are immaculate - showers are nice and hot and have good pressure. Firewood and fire starter available for purchase. Laundry room on site. Would absolutely stay here again!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 30, 2024

    Doughton Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    Quiet Mountain Campground

    On the Blue Ridge Parkway, nestled in the trees and mountains of North Carolina, this campground has been well maintained. Sites are ample but the asphalt pads were designed for shorter travel trailers, but include an extra pad for the tow vehicle. Many of the sites have upgraded concrete pads for the picnic table and built-in fire pits. There are no showers in the trailer (RV) loop, but does include a couple comfort station with flush toilets. Campground hosts were helpful and friendly. Sites are split between first come first serve and reservations. Payment at kiosk by credit card only.


Guide to King

Tent camping options near King, North Carolina range from riverside locations to secluded mountain sites within a one-hour drive. The region's elevation varies from 1,000 to 3,500 feet, creating diverse microclimates and camping conditions throughout the year. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer humidity makes waterside camping particularly appealing.

What to do

Gem mining excursions: The Hiddenite area, about 45 minutes from King, offers gem mining opportunities for campers seeking unique souvenirs. One camper noted the town is "a famous gem mining area known for gemstones such as hiddenite (spodumene), emeralds, sapphires, etc."

Mountain biking on established trails: The W. Kerr Scott Visitor Assistance Center serves as the trailhead for extensive mountain biking routes. "Great trails for all levels of mt bikers. About 13 miles one way and return to visitors center," reports one visitor.

Water activities at campgrounds: Homeplace Recreational Park features a water park within the campground grounds (seasonal operations may vary). A camper mentioned, "This place has an actual water park within the campground" and another noted it has "one of the best pools in the area."

What campers like

Creek-side camping for natural soundscapes: Campers consistently mention the relaxing sound of running water as a highlight. At Homeplace Recreational Park, "The pond dam was really close to our site and the rushing water will really lull you to sleep at night."

Tree-suspended camping options: For a unique experience, Self Sufficient Holler offers suspended tree tents. "The suspended tree tent feels like a bouncy tree house... You climb up to the top level through the middle of the tent- we felt like kids again," shared one enthusiastic camper.

Privacy between sites: The best tent camping near King, North Carolina often features well-spaced sites. At primitive locations, this separation enhances the wilderness experience. "The campsites are well spread out so there is enough room for privacy," reported a visitor to a nearby primitive camping area.

What you should know

Weather preparedness essential: Many campgrounds in the region have limited facilities during rain. "The rocket stove will give you a fire no matter what," reports a camper at Self Sufficient Holler, highlighting the importance of alternative cooking methods during wet conditions.

Access challenges for sedans: Some tent camping sites require appropriate vehicles. Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway "has no paved roads so bring a truck or suv sedans will get stuck easily," warns one camper.

Water availability varies significantly: At Basin Cove, "There is NO clean water source, you have to bring a filter system with you." Other campgrounds like Homeplace Recreational Park offer full hookups with reliable water access.

Tips for camping with families

Look for campgrounds with play features: Family-friendly locations often include recreational amenities. One visitor to Homeplace Recreational Park mentioned it has a "Large trail to go for a little walk. Very reasonably priced."

Consider shorter hiking options: For beginner backcountry camping, Basin Cove offers "Easy hike in, but far enough that you won't find High-maintenance campers or crowds. Maybe some horseback people."

Seek out creative camping experiences: The New River Yacht Club offers "waterfront tent sites so you can enjoy a weekend at the water." This setting combines tent camping with water activities suitable for families.

Tips from RVers

Be cautious about ground conditions: Even at RV-friendly campgrounds, surface conditions can be challenging. At Homeplace Recreational Park, "all the sites are dirt only, no paved pads, but do have rock fire rings," notes one RV camper.

Specialized motorcycle camping available: For those traveling by motorcycle, Willville Motorcycle Camp offers purpose-built facilities just over the Virginia border. A visitor shared it's "Great motorcycle campground. Clean facilities, friendly host. Good spread of water spigots and electrical outlets if you need to charge your equipment."

Water hookup availability: While tent campers may find primitive options sufficient, RVers should note that full hookups are limited at many campgrounds in the region. One visitor to Willville Motorcycle Camp mentioned, "There are water spigots scattered throughout along with electrical stanchions...just not at every site."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near King, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near King, NC is Homeplace Recreational Park Inc. with a 5-star rating from 5 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near King, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.