1 campground with availability next weekend
Tent camping near Waxhaw, North Carolina includes backcountry and established sites within driving distance of town, ranging from hike-in tent campsites at state parks to secluded primitive sites across the South Carolina border. Crowders Mountain State Park Campground offers tent-specific campsites accessible via a one-mile hike along the Pinnacle Trail. Primitive Camping By the Creek provides two secluded tent sites across the border in South Carolina, while Hippie Holler features walk-in tent sites in a quiet, wooded setting.
Most tent campgrounds near Waxhaw require some preparation, with many sites accessible only by foot. Crowders Mountain's tent sites feature fire rings, picnic tables, and primitive pit toilets, but campers must pack in all water and supplies. A recent review noted, "The campground had lockers with firewood and you could leave the money in the envelope at the trailhead." Weather conditions vary seasonally, with summer humidity common and occasional winter freezes possible. Reservations are recommended for established sites, while some areas operate on a first-come basis.
Tent pads at most sites are generally level with minimal improvements. Several reviewers mention the quiet atmosphere at Hippie Holler, with one camper describing it as "a hidden gem for chill seekers." Sites at Crowders Mountain provide access to extensive hiking trails, including routes to mountain overlooks with panoramic views. The hike-in requirement at Crowders Mountain helps maintain solitude for tent campers, with reviewers noting the privacy of individual sites. Lake Curriher Wilderness offers more remote tent camping experiences with lakeside sites accessible via hiking trails. Many tent-focused areas restrict vehicle access, creating quieter camping environments away from RVs and larger setups, though ambient noise from nearby roads may still be audible at some locations. Campers searching for tent campsites near Waxhaw will find options spanning wooded walk-in sites to backcountry spots that require packing in all gear and water.
"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."
Available next weekend
from $17 - $47 / night
"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."
"I’ve got a 13 foot pull behind. Backed in mostly but a few could be pulled in an out. Road posted 25 mph but recommend 10 mph. Was also narrow in spots. Very bumpy. Last 1/2 mile don’t go."
"It is a amazing area to visit if you are into OHV(Off Highway Vehicle) trail riding, mountain biking or hiking."
from $40 - $60 / 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."
from $10 - $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."
from $30 / night
"Camping is not open to the general public at this wildlife preserve."
"This area is popular for the Off Highway Vehicle trail systems which are open April through December."
"Too much trash left by previous campers"
from $35 - $65 / night
RangerWhen I’m traveling through the area, I do my best to stay here. It is a peaceful and well kept campground. It is an adult and a kid friendly environment. It’s one of the few places you can feel safe. I highly recommend this place.
TravelerIt’s a small, clean campground but we are next to a busy road (site 28) and also the entrance to the public access of Moss Lake. It’s a tight squeeze for us as a 33’ fifth wheel.
GuideTight fit, we stayed here with our 20ft trailer and it is a little tight. The site was at a slight angle and I noticed a lot of sites are the same way. Plus side is there is a security gate with code entry. Easy access to lake. Good clean boathouse and nice full hookups.
TravelerThis is/was marked as dispersed camping but this is primarily an OHV area, with a shooting range nearby that can be heard from some campsites. Most, if not all, of the campsites are intended to be large group sites. The empty site we found was filled with trash, discarded tents, air mattresses, and trashed electronics from OHVs. There's so much trash we would not even be able to take it all out with us if we wanted to. This may be a national forest, but it is not peace and quiet as one would expect from "dispersed and primitive" camping.
GuideThere was other people camping and running their generators all night. Some low lifers on ATV blasted in and out of the parking area and blasting music at 2 am. Good luck getting any sleep here. But enjoyed the trail to it and the forest. Got at least 2 hours of sleep before I packed up.
GuideEasy access and nice pool as well as little camp store.
ScoutThe spots are alright but first night got ate up by ants so hadda move and the other spots are good but have no shade and no signal and not mutch to take pictures of so if you wanna have some survival type camping this is a great location.
ScoutWe stayed here because of the proximity to Charlotte. Big rig friendly and FHU. Only wish they had a swimming area!
TravelerI don’t have any complaints about this campground! Sites are nice and feel like you aren’t close to anyone else. Very pretty area, quiet. Newest bathhouse I have ever seen at a state park! Awesome showers.
Tent camping near Waxhaw, North Carolina places campers within the Carolina Piedmont region, characterized by rolling hills and moderate elevations ranging from 500-700 feet. Rainfall averages 43 inches annually, with summer temperatures frequently reaching above 90°F and high humidity levels from June through September. Several camping areas require advance preparation for primitive conditions, with limited cell service in certain locations.
Hiking to panoramic views: At Crowders Mountain State Park Campground, campers can access multiple trail options ranging from moderate to strenuous. "The trails are strenuous but views are amazing! Its definitely worth it and right outside town, not far out," notes reviewer Tricia B. The park offers both day hiking and overnight camping opportunities.
Fishing opportunities: Deep Water Trail Camp provides access to productive fishing spots along the Yadkin River. "Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground, and some damn good fishing. My friends both caught a couple of channel cats," reports Vincent S. The site requires campers to pack in all supplies including water.
Water activities: Lake Curriher Wilderness offers tent camping with lake access for swimming and paddling during warmer months. "I hike in to the remote campsite on the lake. Lots of fishermen... The cabins here are also great. Clean and nice location," writes Ben S. The lake area provides both established sites and more remote camping options.
Creek-side camping: Primitive Camping By the Creek offers two secluded tent sites with natural water features. "The creek is right beside the camp. Nice and secluded. Firewood was provided. The owner was super nice, even gave me a call when when I was there to see how it was going," shares Tim W. The sites include access to a shed with dry firewood.
Quiet environments: Hippie Holler provides walk-in tent sites in a peaceful setting. "No kids or loud obnoxious other campers, felt at home, safe, understood and able to relax completely. Hidden Gem for the neurodivergants and chill seekers. Cool solar lights made it trippy," explains Sherry M. The camp maintains a low-key atmosphere away from busier camping areas.
Easy access firewood: Multiple tent campgrounds near Waxhaw provide on-site firewood access. At Primitive Camping By the Creek, "The campsite has a pretty creek and forest. On the campsite there is a lot of firewood to use, in a shed to keep it dry," notes Reid. This eliminates the need to forage or purchase wood separately when planning overnight trips.
Road conditions: Many tent camping areas have challenging access roads. At Deep Water Trailt Horse Camp, campers note "Rough road in. Too much trash left by previous campers." Similarly, at Deep Water Trail Camp, a reviewer cautions: "I would highly recommend 4WD if you're going all the way to the water sites."
Facility limitations: Most tent sites near Waxhaw have minimal amenities. Lake Curriher Wilderness camper Shannon S. reports: "No showers, which we didn't know until after we got here, saw the one bathroom, and realized there was not a shower. There is an outdoor shower."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Waxhaw, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Waxhaw, 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 Waxhaw, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Waxhaw, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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