Best Tent Camping near Kings Mountain, NC

State parks and national forests near Kings Mountain, North Carolina support a variety of tent camping experiences, from walk-in sites to backcountry options. Crowders Mountain State Park offers tent-only camping accessible via a one-mile hike from the Sparrow Springs access point. The park features individual and group campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and tent pads. South Mountains State Park, located about an hour north, provides backcountry tent camping at Little River and Upper Falls campgrounds. Primitive Camping By the Creek, just across the South Carolina border, offers secluded tent sites with creek access and basic amenities.

Most tent campgrounds in the region require some preparation for primitive conditions. Crowders Mountain's walk-in tent sites necessitate carrying all gear approximately one mile uphill on the Pinnacle Trail. Sites typically include fire rings and designated tent pads, but limited facilities beyond pit toilets. Water sources vary by location, with some requiring filtering from nearby creeks. At South Mountains State Park, campers should note that the Little River backcountry campground requires a 1.5-mile hike with 600 feet of elevation gain. Bear boxes are available at some backcountry sites, particularly in South Mountains State Park, where proper food storage is essential.

The terrain at many tent campsites presents both challenges and rewards for campers. One visitor to Crowders Mountain noted, "The 1.5 mile hike to the campsite was very much an uphill climb. It was extremely seclusive." This effort typically results in greater privacy and natural immersion. At South Mountains State Park, a camper reported that "the backcountry campsites were quiet and well-kept" even during busy holiday weekends when day-use areas were crowded. Sites at Upper Falls are particularly praised for their proximity to water sources, though campers are advised to bring filters. The walk-in nature of these tent-only campgrounds means fewer neighbors and more opportunities to experience the natural environment without vehicle noise or crowded conditions.

Best Tent Sites Near Kings Mountain, North Carolina (25)

    1. Crowders Mountain State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Bessemer City, NC
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 853-5429

    $17 - $47 / night

    "This is a hike in campground so we were in a hurry. The campground had lockers with firewood and you could leave the money in the envelope at the trailhead."

    "I visited Crowders Mountain in December, and the weather only required a sweatshirt. My brother and I spent the day rock climbing."

    2. Primitive Camping By the Creek

    4 Reviews
    Grover, SC
    8 miles
    +1 (864) 761-6297

    $30 / night

    "On the campsite there is a lot of firewood to use, in a shed to keep it dry. There are log seats around a nice campfire with a picnic table. Lots of room for multiple tents."

    "It was very helpful and greatly appreciated after the 11hr drive. The campsite was spacious for us to set up camp and keep the jeep nearby."

    3. Hippie Holler

    1 Review
    Bessemer City, NC
    6 miles

    $40 - $60 / night

    4. Little River Backcountry Campground — South Mountains State Park

    2 Reviews
    Casar, NC
    30 miles
    +1 (828) 433-4772

    $17 / night

    "Jacob Branch: Three sites arranged around a clearing. Two pit privies and a BEAR BOX! Woot!!"

    "The hikes near the falls were quite busy on Memorial Day weekend, but the backcountry campsites were quiet and well-kept."

    6. Upper Falls Campsite

    1 Review
    Casar, NC
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 433-4772

    $15 / night

    "Site 3&4 are my favorites because they are close to water access (bring a good filter). Plenty of trees to choose from for a hammock setup."

    8. Black Bear Campground

    5 Reviews
    Marion, NC
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 803-5819

    $21 - $36 / night

    "Excellent campground there’s ice and firewood so you don’t have to make special trips to the nearest convenience store. They charge it directly to your card. The host was wonderful."

    "This is a brand new tent and cabin campground built by Duke Energy and run by McDowell county on Lake James."

    9. Yates Family Camping

    3 Reviews
    Harrisburg, NC
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 773-9349

    "There aren’t really any extras here but if you’re just looking for reliable water/electrical/sewer and wifi near Charlotte this is a fantastic option."

    10. Lake Curriher Wilderness

    4 Reviews
    China Grove, NC
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 857-4114

    $10 - $30 / night

    "It’s the quietest stay we’ve had yet, and we go camping nearly every weekend. I will say, having the ADA tent site makes a huge difference."

    "Very close to my home. I hike in to the remote campsite on the lake. Lots of fishermen and trash since the scum can’t seem to pick up after themselves. The cabins here are also great."

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Showing results 1-10 of 25 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Kings Mountain, NC

494 Reviews of 25 Kings Mountain Campgrounds



Guide to Kings Mountain

Tent camping near Kings Mountain, North Carolina, offers a variety of scenic spots and amenities for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Some prices for tent camping range from $5 to $30

  • At Crowders Mountain State Park Campground, you can enjoy a well-maintained site with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, making it a great value for your camping experience.
  • Primitive Camping By the Creek offers a secluded spot with plenty of firewood available, perfect for a peaceful getaway at a reasonable price.
  • For a unique experience, Hippie Holler provides a tranquil environment where you can camp in a tent or yurt, with prices reflecting its private and serene setting.

Tips for tent camping near Kings Mountain

  • When visiting Upper Falls Campsite, be prepared for a hike to your site, as it offers a rewarding experience with beautiful views and well-spaced tent pads.
  • At Paddy's Creek — Lake James State Park, ensure you have a good filter for water access, as the sites are close to the lake, providing a refreshing spot for swimming and kayaking.
  • If you’re looking for a more primitive experience, Catawba River — Lake James State Park offers cozy sites near the water, but remember to pack all necessary supplies since amenities are limited.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Kings Mountain, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Kings Mountain, NC is Crowders Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 15 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 25 tent camping locations near Kings Mountain, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.