The North Carolina State Fairgrounds camping area primarily serves equestrians participating in events at the adjacent Hunt Horse Complex. This specialized camping facility sits on gravel roadways with grass/gravel sites that can accommodate large rigs. While not designed for recreational camping, the fairgrounds offer a practical base for those attending equestrian competitions with full hookup capabilities including water, sewer, and electricity.
What to do
Attend equestrian events: The Hunt Horse Complex hosts competitions throughout the year. As J D. notes at North Carolina State Fairgrounds, "It's a pretty relaxing spot. Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance."
Explore nearby outdoor recreation: Several parks with trails are within driving distance. At William B. Umstead State Park Campground, visitors enjoy extensive trail systems. One camper shares, "There are a wide variety of single track to larger sand/dirt paths. My cross country team will come here for long day."
Visit historic farms: Cedarock Park offers a historical farm experience about an hour from Raleigh. A reviewer at Cedarock Park mentions it "sheds light on what life was like as a farmer in 19th century North Carolina."
What campers like
Shaded sites: Some fairgrounds camping areas include oak trees for shade. At Cane Creek Campground and RV Park, campers appreciate the natural setting: "Beautiful little park nestled into the woods! Our site (17) was on the opposite side of the real lake access and right across from the annual spots."
Easy access to downtown: The fairgrounds location provides quick access to Raleigh attractions. One camper notes, "Location is everything and you are smack dab in the middle of it. Good WiFi, great cellular."
Level parking: The fairgrounds offers flat, easily accessible sites. As Sheri K. explains, "This is a very large campground that can accommodate any size RV. All sites are gravel, but are quite level. I pulled in, and didn't have to adjust anything."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Unlike recreational campgrounds, the fairgrounds focus on practical necessities. A camper points out, "There are no amenities so you must be fully self-contained."
Shower access: Cold-water showers are available nearby. According to J D., "Public bathrooms and showers (cold water) are a 2 minute walk to Horse Complex H6, Barn B."
Security presence: Security staff patrol the grounds regularly. Joy B. notes, "Campground is quiet and security staff very friendly."
Dust issues: The gravel roads can create dust problems. One camper mentions, "Lots of fine dust converted from gravel roadway...it's insidious."
Long-term campers: The fairgrounds sometimes host extended-stay guests. According to Liz C., "The issue here is lack of oversight. There are security folks, but only if you call and request them."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Unlike recreational campgrounds, the fairgrounds has no dedicated play areas. Families visiting Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area appreciate its recreational options: "Nice area and nice facilities. Great hiking trails and very family friendly. Deer walked right behind our site."
Consider noise levels: Some fairgrounds areas can be noisy during events or construction. One camper notes, "Busy workdays around campground...construction. Noise could be issue for some. After 5pm...great camp."
Day trips to swimming areas: Since the fairgrounds lacks swimming options, families can plan day trips to nearby lakes. At B.W. Wells — Falls Lake State Recreation Area, campers enjoy "Swimming areas at certain places around the lake. Kayaking and boat access also."
Tips from RVers
First-come, first-served: No reservations are accepted at the fairgrounds. Joy B. explains, "Sites are first come first serve; no reservations."
GPS directions: Specific directions are important. One RVer advises, "If you put the address into your GPS, it will take you to the main fairgrounds. You need to put NC state fairgrounds CAMPGROUND. It is about a quarter mile from the main fairgrounds."
Affordable rates: The $30-35 nightly fee includes full hookups. Jenifer K. reports, "We needed to stop in Raleigh for the night and stayed here. It's quiet and huge and full hookups for $30/night."
Back-in only: All sites require backing in. S G. notes, "All spaces are back-in. Our site was level."