Lake Gaston provides extensive camping and glamping opportunities near Littleton, North Carolina. The 20,000-acre reservoir spans the North Carolina-Virginia border with 350 miles of shoreline. Seasonal water temperatures reach the upper 80s during summer months, making water activities popular from May through September when most camping facilities operate at full capacity.
What to do
Fishing access: At Kimball Point Campground — Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, the water clarity allows visibility 5-6 feet down, creating excellent fishing conditions. "We camped lake side at Kimball Point on Kerr Lake. Nice site and views, very quiet great for relaxing fishing and watching the stars at night," reports Andy K.
Boat rentals: The marina at Thousand Trails Lake Gaston offers boat rental services for day use. "The little marina is awesome. Everyone is super helpful. There is a great snack bar & store," notes Chris E. Many campers bring personal watercraft to access the lake's numerous coves.
Hiking opportunities: Multiple trails wind through Kerr Lake recreation areas, varying from shoreline paths to woodland routes. "We hiked the Plantation Trail, a large historical site that was once a homestead. Mellow, family-friendly walk with a cemetery, historical markers, and an old chimney," describes one visitor at Occoneechee State Park.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Bullocksville Campground offers prime lakefront positioning. "This park was beautiful and amazing. The views were phenomenal. We were water front. Bath houses super clean and staff very friendly," shares Terri L. Sites include level gravel pads with electricity.
Morning lake views: Campers frequently mention morning experiences on the water. "We really, really enjoyed our stay here. It is a small campground on a really nice point/peninsula. The water is very clear," notes a visitor to Kimball Point, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: The forested areas surrounding glamping sites near Littleton provide habitat for diverse wildlife. "While staying there I saw a skunk, a groundhog, several deer and a great variety of birds. We enjoyed gorgeous sunsets from a little beach area near the cabins," reports Elena B. from her stay at Staunton River State Park Campground.
What you should know
Campsite selection strategy: At some properties, site assignment works on a first-come basis rather than specific reservations. "First come first serve and we got a beautiful site overlooking the lake. The staff and manager are the friendliest ever," explains Amy B. about her experience at Thousand Trails Lake Gaston.
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites book quickly during peak season. "Very quite, extremely hard to get reservations, need to try 11 months out," advises Steven D. about Kimball Point Campground. For summer weekends, book as far in advance as reservation systems allow.
Variable site conditions: Not all sites offer equal amenities or terrain. "My only gripe is that not every site has its own water. I had run 60ft water hose to the next site over," notes Adam B. about his stay at Kimball Point Campground.
Limited amenities nearby: Some camping areas have minimal services in surrounding communities. "Take everything with you that you may need though. Not a lot of options for food and such to arrive and stock up," cautions Joe G. about the Thousand Trails property.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Family-friendly activities abound at Lake Gaston campsites. "This is probably our favorite thus far. We like the lake and it's easily accessible. It contains putt putt, pool, store, 2 beaches, dock, fishing areas, playground, and tons of shade," shares Samantha G. about the Thousand Trails property.
Beach access: B.W. Wells Campground provides developed swimming areas for families. "The lake is great, roped off area for swimming with a great little sandy beach area next to a playground and toilets," notes Shannon S.
Educational opportunities: Some sites offer learning experiences for children. "The park offers rentals of telescopes too. They also have a nature learning lab, some cool animals, and a fantastic gift shop," mentions Bridget H. about her family's visit to Staunton River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds feature variable terrain requiring preparation. "Sites are a bit confusing as some share the same car access but split into two lower. When on site to reserve if you check amenities, it gives you many details, level, length, width, tent pads, etc.," advises Beverly T. from Bullocksville Campground.
Hookup variations: Electric and water service differs between sites. "Limited sewer hook up. Some sites uneven. Pull through sites available," reports Robert M. about Thousand Trails Lake Gaston, suggesting RVers should confirm specific hookup requirements when reserving.
Space for larger rigs: Some areas accommodate bigger vehicles better than others. "Stayed here midweek in the summer. Very happy I drove around first before reserving a site. Not all sites are flat and some are very hard to drive into," explains Jeff K. about his experience at Bullocksville Campground.
