Best Tent Camping near Louisburg, NC

Tent campsites near Louisburg, North Carolina provide several options within a 30-mile radius, primarily centered around state parks with established facilities. William B. Umstead State Park Campground in Raleigh and Eno River State Park Campground in Durham offer accessible tent camping experiences with varying amenities and natural settings. These established tent campgrounds provide both drive-in and walk-in options, with Eno River featuring more primitive hike-in sites along the Mountain to Sea Trail.

Most tent sites in the area include basic amenities such as designated tent pads, fire rings, and picnic tables. William B. Umstead State Park provides showers, toilets, and drinking water, making it suitable for campers seeking more facilities. In contrast, Eno River State Park features more primitive tent camping with fewer amenities, particularly at the backcountry sites. According to one visitor, "The primitive sites are always clean. The sites are spaced far enough apart that it truly feels like solitude." Most sites require reservations and have seasonal availability, with William B. Umstead operating from March 15 to December 1.

The terrain at these tent campgrounds varies from level, graded sites to more natural settings. At Eno River, tent campers access sites via hiking trails, with distances ranging from 1 to 3.5 miles from parking areas. One camper noted, "It's a hike-in only campground, located approximately 1 mile from the roadside parking." Tent campers at Umstead should be prepared for some noise from the nearby airport, while Eno River offers a quieter experience with riverside camping options. Many of the tent sites at Eno River provide proximity to water features, with opportunities for swimming and paddling during warmer months. The surrounding trail networks make these tent campgrounds excellent basecamps for day hiking adventures, with Eno River State Park particularly popular for its riverside trails and swimming holes.

Best Tent Sites Near Louisburg, North Carolina (7)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Louisburg, NC

495 Reviews of 7 Louisburg Campgrounds


  • Katy S.
    Aug. 4, 2020

    MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping

    A great spot for MST hikers

    This is a hidden gem for a MST hiker. The campground is located on a private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites. It's a hike in only campground, located approximately 1 mile from the roadside parking on Red Mill Road, Durham NC. 

    The information can be found here:

    There is an authorized camping area available on private property in this section of the Falls Lake Trail(between Red Mill Road and Old Oxford Road). Follow the blue-blazed trail off the MST approximately 1 mile west of Red Mill Road. NOTE: This campsite is on private property. It is a HUGE PRIVILEGE to be allowed to camp at this location. Vandalism, neglect or any trash left at this campsite could result in closing of this campsite by the landowner. No water or toilet facilities are provided. There are seven established campsite pads for 2-person tents. Campsite rules:(1) Practice Leave No Trace ethics.(2) Do NOT leave any trash. Pack it in= Pack it out.(3) There is a 2-night maximum stay.(4) Do NOT explore past a 75 yard radius of the Shelter.(5) NO FIRES except in the established fire pit.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 30, 2019

    Medoc Mountain State Park Campground

    State Park with Biking, Hiking, and Fishing Opportunities

    The name of the park is deceiving because it is not in the mountains, but it has beauty in its meandering streams and trails.  The campsites have gravel tent pads, and tents must be set up on them.  The gravel on the site where I stayed was deeper than my tent stakes were long, and I could not get a good hold.  I was trying out a newly required tent, which was not freestanding, so it was frustrating.  My advice is to make sure you take a tent that IS freestanding.  Deep gravel tent pads and non-freestanding tents do not go together.  The tent site was large, had a fire ring, and a lantern pole, but the pad itself was NOT level.  I had to move the picnic table so I could set up my tent on the only level spot I could find.  Something you have to be careful about is poison ivy.  There was poison ivy all around the perimeter of my campsite.  The bathroom facilities were surprisingly modern and had spacious showers with hot water.  As far as I know, there are no electrical, sewer, or water hookups, but there is a dump station.  There is a mixture of pull-through sites and back in sites for RVs.  There are plenty of trails to explore, and plenty of fishing holes.  The Bluff Loop Trail leads from the campground and along Fishing Creek.  To see Medoc “mountain,” you have to hike quite a distance, or you can drive to the park office down the road and hike from there.  Cross the road to the Bear Swamp Trail, get on the Saponi Loop (which is also a bicycle trail), and then head to the Summit Loop Trail.  There are several miles of bicycle trails as well as hiking trails, and some of them are one way only, meaning that hikers are required to hike in one direction and bicycles go in another direction.  Even though this is in the Coastal Plain, the Bluff Loop Trail will take you by a couple of sections of whitewater.  They are small, but if you like a (mostly) easy hike through the forest, this trail is a good one.  There are no swimming pools or playgrounds, but if you want to just enjoy nature, there are hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities.

  • k
    Aug. 2, 2022

    Lake Gaston Americamps

    Clean, friendly

    Went tent camping here. Employees are friendly and they have a small shop on site. Bathrooms were clean but had to drive to them from the tent sites. Luckily they have a set of porta potties closer to the sites for easy use. The tent only sites are on the water so the view is pretty, but not private. The picnic tables and fire rings are at the bottom of hill so when it rained, water ran down the hill and it became very muddy where we eat. My kids were able to play in the water and we could fish right from our site which was the best part. Another plus is they pick up trash right from your site.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    B.W. Wells — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Family Friendly Campground

    B.W. Wells Campground at Falls Lake felt like stepping into a quiet forest hideaway, where the kids could explore trails, spot eagles over the water, and watch butterflies while we enjoyed campfires under the trees. It’s strictly hike-in and tent-only, so we had to pack light and plan carefully, but the trade-off was true peace and space to connect without the noise of RVs or busy roads. With shaded group sites, fire pits, picnic tables, nearby restrooms, and lake access perfect for paddling or fishing, it offered a rustic yet rewarding experience that was still close enough to Wake Forest for a quick meal or supply run when we needed it.

  • Bran P.
    Jul. 13, 2016

    Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Great Stay at Holly Point!

    Great campground located just outside of Raleigh, NC (20 minutes). Plenty of large sites – for both tents and RVs. Sites have tent pads, fire rings, trash/lantern poles, etc. Gravel base on most of the sites with some natural dirt as well. Be sure to check out a site with a lake view. Huge pines and hardwoods decorate the sites as well. Sites are pretty well spread out but of course tree cover helps with privacy as well. Lots of families all around the campground. Conveniently located in the triangle area. Shower facilities are typical of what you would expect. This campground also has a nice swim area but use caution in swimming in Falls Lake. There are often high levels of bacteria (ie poo) and they often shut down the local swim holes. Also, lots of chemical contaminants drain into the lake. Overall a great campground…I would however not choose to swim or let kids swim in the lake.

  • Jay E.
    Sep. 8, 2021

    Medoc Mountain State Park Campground

    Great Campground - Reasonably Priced

    Labor Day weekend car camping at Medoc Mountain State Park campground!  Had a great time camping and hiking.  Spacious campsite with gravel parking space, gravel tent pad, picnic table, fire ring with grill and lantern pole.  We were fortunate that we had shade at our site most of the day.

    Hiking trails were in great shape - well maintained.  We hiked a few of the trails and ended up with about seven miles total, but there were more we could have done.  

    Firewood was readily available, the bathrooms and showers were clean.  We had a great time and plan to return when we are in the area.

  • Amelia P.
    Apr. 11, 2022

    William B. Umstead State Park Campground

    Very small

    Avoid site 6! There’s so many tree roots, it’s an awful tripping hazard around a fire pit with kids! There are only three spaces out sites, 18,19,21. These sites are 10x10 designate for your tent, and picnic table and fire ring. Some are very very close together. The trails are good, the bathrooms are clean and maintained. Firewood can be purchased for $6/bundle. Be aware this is right next to the airport, you will hear planes all day and most all night landing and taking off.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2022

    Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    Outdoor Perfection @ Jordan Lake SRA Poplar Point Campground

    Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina! Yes, I know, that’s quite a statement to make, considering all of the amazing places in the great state of North Carolina. So let me explain why I reached this conclusion:

    • Some of the most outstanding hiking trails

    • Heavily wooded forest paradise that delivers privacy and solitude

    • Perfectly maintained amenities such as picnic tables, fold-up fire ring and grills

    • Bathroom facilities are some of the best I’ve experienced with state-run facilities

    • Direct access to a fantastic lakeside experience, complete with boat launches

    • Designated swimming area complete with life vests

    • On-site park staff were nothing short of amazing, helpful and incredibly friendly

    • Close access to purchase anything that might be needed 

    Insider’s tip? Be sure to get down to the lake from wherever your campsite is just after sunset and bring a couple of folding chairs and a telescope (pre-planning here is needed!) to catch a glimpse of one of the most amazing star-studded night skies you’ve ever seen in your life! 

    Happy Camping!

  • M
    Sep. 20, 2020

    Medoc Mountain State Park Campground

    A decent place to stay

    I found this to be a decent campground . I stayed at tent site 12. The site was slightly uneven but it had a fire ring with grate, lantern pole and table. The tent pad was gravel. Water pump, trash and bathroom all in very close proximity. The bathroom was clean and hot showers. Lots of families with children. There are many hiking trails but many were unavailable due to flooding. Trail from campground to picnic area and large grassy field used for relaxing, frisbee and picnics. Phone service spotty at times but not totally unavailable. Overall a decent place to stay.


Guide to Louisburg

Tent campsites near Louisburg, North Carolina are primarily concentrated within a 30-mile radius in state parks and recreation areas. The region offers a mix of primitive and developed camping options across the Falls Lake area and along the Mountain to Sea Trail. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F while summer months can reach 85-95°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.

What to do

Swimming in the quarry: At Eno River State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy the former quarry for swimming during warmer months. "Great quarry for easy cliff jumping and swimming in the summertime. Campsites around also very solid," notes Daniel P.

Trail running opportunities: William B. Umstead State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks for runners of all levels. According to Daniel P., "I've been to this park over a dozen times to run, and every time seems better than the previous one. Depending on where you park, you can access excellent 8-14 mile loops on the main gravel paths."

Paddling and fishing: The waterways near tent campsites provide excellent opportunities for paddling. Samantha P. shares about Eno River: "The Eno River is more than safe to swim or paddle in. Dogs are welcome here! If you can camp close to the river, I recommend, it's great to fall asleep to the sounds of the river."

What campers like

Private property camping spots: The MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping offers a unique experience for Mountain to Sea Trail hikers. Katy S. explains, "It's a hike in only campground, located approximately 1 mile from the roadside parking on Red Mill Road, Durham NC. This campsite is on private property. It is a HUGE PRIVILEGE to be allowed to camp at this location."

Secluded primitive sites: Tent campers appreciate the solitude at some backcountry sites. Sarah W. notes about Eno River, "We also backpack into the primitive sites frequently. We love the trails. The sites are always clean. The primitive sites are spaces far enough apart that it truly feels like solitude."

Historic cabin options: For campers seeking structure but still wanting the tent camping experience, historic cabins are available. Erica F. reports about William B. Umstead State Park, "There are historic cabins with cots to sleep on. There is electricity in the cabins."

What you should know

Pack-in, pack-out requirements: Many tent campsites in the area require carrying in all supplies and removing all waste. At MST Section 23, strict rules apply: "Practice Leave No Trace ethics. Do NOT leave any trash. Pack it in= Pack it out. There is a 2-night maximum stay."

Airport noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience occasional aircraft noise due to proximity to airports. As one camper states, "The only bummer is the occasional airplane you will inevitably hear above you as the park is located right next to RDU international airport."

Limited reservations process: Some camping areas have unusual reservation systems. Jeff K. reports about Lake Michie Recreation Area: "It's also quite difficult to reserve sites here as you have to call the county to get a permit."

Site terrain challenges: Not all tent sites are created equal in terms of comfort. Sydney S. notes about one camping area: "The campground had a gravel base and picnic table with fire pit. The gravel was very painful to sleep on. There were also few trees so we could see other campers at nearby sites."

Tips for camping with families

Educational programming: Some tent campsites offer learning opportunities for younger campers. Elizabeth V. shares about RTP Lakefront Campsite: "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean."

Convenient urban escapes: Families appreciate camping options close to home that still provide a wilderness feel. Scott P. describes one campground as "a great little campground right inside Raleigh. I've camped there several times with the kids and it's great because it's so close and there are a few good hikes."

Pet-friendly options: Many families camp with their dogs, and several tent campsites accommodate pets. Timothy A. mentions, "Love hiking here with the family and friends plenty of beautiful family and pet friendly trails."

Easy access water features: Camping near water features provides entertainment for children. Sydney S. explains, "This campground is right on a lake allowing for drive in campground with a body of water to swim, kayak, and enjoy only 100 yards away."

Tips from RVers

Site size limitations: RVers should note that many tent campsites near Louisburg have limited space. Jeff K. warns about Lake Michie Recreation Area: "All of the sites are very small, not very level, and have low clearance. The camping area itself is quite secluded and quiet."

Winter camping preparations: While most campgrounds remain open year-round, RVers should prepare for seasonal changes. Kat M. reports about winter camping: "Spent 2 nights out there last weekend. Had a great time. Nice moderate hike to the site. Chilly weekend so it was just me out there at night!"

Trail access value: Many campers appreciate sites with direct trail access. Cara G. notes, "Primitive camping has drive in, picnic table, fire ring, tent spot, and trails starting at your back door."

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Louisburg, NC is William B. Umstead State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 18 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 7 tent camping locations near Louisburg, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.