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Camping near Matthews, NC

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    The Charlotte metropolitan area, including Matthews, North Carolina, offers campgrounds ranging from RV parks with full hookups to tent sites and cabin rentals rather than dispersed camping opportunities. McDowell Nature Preserve and Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort are two notable campgrounds located within 15 miles of Matthews, offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Most camping areas in this region are developed facilities with amenities rather than primitive camping, with several parks featuring full hookups for recreational vehicles alongside tent camping areas.

    Access to campgrounds near Matthews remains consistent year-round with most facilities operating in all seasons. The region experiences mild winters and hot, humid summers, making spring and fall particularly popular for camping. "We stayed here on our way North to head home. It's in a decent location, the sites are level with full hook ups," notes one camper about Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort. Reservations are typically required at most campgrounds, especially during weekends and summer months. Travelers should be aware that some campgrounds like Elmore RV Park focus primarily on long-term stays with limited amenities for short-term campers, while others offer more traditional camping experiences.

    Campers consistently mention the convenience of staying at facilities like Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort due to proximity to attractions and urban amenities. The campground provides shuttle service to the adjacent amusement park and sits within easy reach of Charlotte. Crown Cove RV Park receives mixed reviews, with some noting it "seems to cater to long term residents" while others appreciate its location as "that middle base between city and nature." Many campgrounds in this area serve as convenient basecamps for exploring the greater Charlotte region rather than wilderness experiences. Sites with shade trees and level parking pads are particularly valued by visitors, as are clean bathroom facilities and reliable utilities in the predominantly developed camping areas surrounding Matthews.

    Best Campgrounds near Matthews (84)

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      1. Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort

      4.2(17)13mi from MatthewsRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "The adjacent amusement park is closed due to Covid but i bet it is a blast to stay here when it is open. Wooded perimeter so you feel you are away from the city."

      "The hookups were standard location and heights no issues. Our steps come out to a large level dirt pad, not grass. Lots of trees providing shade which is nice."

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      2. Cane Creek Park

      4.3(29)20mi from MatthewsRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Campground has trails and fishing in walking distance.  It is always packed.  No alcohol permitted."

      "Just be mindful when booking sites near the Lakeside Lodge, they book parties, so it’s a little busier & noisier than our preference."

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      3. Charlotte-Fort Mill KOA

      3.1(13)15mi from MatthewsRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "We came here to do some trailer maintenance and because it is very close to home. We were not expecting it to be a great camping experience, but we’re pleasantly surprised!"

      "Site was large enough for 36' fifth wheel, truck, and our car fit behind rig. We could have fit a couple more vehicles if we had them. In addition there is a fuel station out front."

      from $62 / night

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      4. Andrew Jackson State Park Campground

      4.0(21)21mi from Matthews24 sitesRVs, Glamping

      "This is a cool little spot not far from Charlotte NC which doesn't seem as busy as other nearby campgrounds. Staff are friendly."

      "Nice, small, respectable campground close to Charlotte NC. Sites are paved, but dont expect completely level."

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      5. Ebenezer Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

      3.9(20)21mi from MatthewsRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "We live nearby so this is a nice little place to camp at. Nice sites, close to places to eat. Bathhouse was clean and well kept."

      "This park is tucked away and gorgeous. So quiet and well shaded. The beach was awesome and the kids loved swinging on the water. Will return"

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      6. Elmore RV Park

      4.5(2)10mi from MatthewsRVs, Tents, Cabins
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      7. Crown Cove RV Park

      3.0(4)12mi from MatthewsRVs, Tents

      "We were on a “hill” but since we were close to all the trees i didn’t mind it."

      from $68 - $98 / night

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      8. Camping World Charlotte Motor Speedway

      3.4(7)16mi from MatthewsRVs

      "While that may not sound appealing to some, race fans will love it because it is so close to all the racing action of the Charlotte Motor Speedway."

      "Campground is huge & within walking distance of the raceway. Camping world is across the street if you forgot anything! Win!"

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      9. Anne Springs Close Greenway Group Camp

      4.7(3)15mi from Matthews

      "The Primative Campsites circle the paths surrounding beautiful Lake Haigler. The equestrian friendly trails may be able walked or riden."

      "A few minute walk into all the sites, basic bathrooms by car park, peaceful lake views, some sites close to a walking trail, well spaced apart sites"

      from $66 - $108 / night

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      10. Yates Family Camping

      2.7(3)15mi from MatthewsRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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."

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    Recent Camping Photos near Matthews, NC

    206 Photos of 84 Matthews Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers

    Recent Reviews near Matthews, NC

    521 Reviews of 84 Matthews Campgrounds

    • Justyne D.
      Sep. 26, 2026

      Dispersed Camping off Falls Dam Trail

      Large group sites surrounded by OHV activities

      This 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.

    • Jeff B.The Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 18, 2026

      Art Lilley Campground

      Loved the trail to it. Not the quietest place though.

      There 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.

    • IThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 31, 2026

      Iron City Campground, Inc.

      Great little campground.

      Easy access and nice pool as well as little camp store.

    • Luis L.
      Jul. 15, 2026

      Dispersed Camping off Falls Dam Trail

      Decent location

      The 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.

    • Nancy W.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 1, 2026

      Camping World Charlotte Motor Speedway

      Gravel parking lot, close to racing events.

      This campground is essentially an expansive gravel parking lot made for RVs. While that may not sound appealing to some, race fans will love it because it is so close to all the racing action of the Charlotte Motor Speedway. We camped in the M section which is near the main road. There is a bit of road noise but it didn’t bother us because our RV has good sound protection and the road was quiet at night. We don’t like being right on top of other campers and since most people don’t want to be near the road, this worked in our favor.  If you have Good Sam, there is a discount which is a pretty good deal for 50 amps, full hook-up site. Despite our site being close to the office, the wifi never worked well and we gave up opting for our Verizon hotspot. There is no cable but our over-the-air antenna worked well (35+ channels) and you would not have any trouble getting satellite reception. There are no trees for shade and we were glad the highs were only in the 70’s when we were there. The large sized gravel is nice to keep the dust down and not make this nasty when it rains but don’t even think about going barefoot on it. Even our dog was apprehensive and tender footed when she walked across it. There is not much for kids to do here– just a small playground. The laundry is located at the office but the only bathhouse is far away from the front of the campground. If you need the bathhouse you are going to want to be in the P, Q, or R sections of else you will have to walk pretty far. Garbage is picked up at your site but when we were there, it often sat for a day or two. The campground was probably only at ¼ capacity and the one dumpster was overflowing. Can’t imagine what they do during busy racing weekends. There is a free food pantry so if you have any canned goods or other items you want to share. For race fans, this is a great campground because you are within walking distance of the Carolina Motor Speedway and the associated dirt track and drag racing track. For $30 you can take a tour of all the race facilities and I highly recommend it.

    • S
      Jun. 12, 2026

      Allison Creek Park

      Nice Campground

      We stayed here because of the proximity to Charlotte. Big rig friendly and FHU. Only wish they had a swimming area!

    • E
      May. 25, 2026

      Morrow Mountain State Park Campground

      Great scenery and bathhouse

      I 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.

    • j
      May. 6, 2026

      Badin Lake Campground

      Badlin lake capm

      Very nice Good flat spots Quiet Showers Beautiful views Lots of squirrels Love it

    • Camp With Me The Dyrt Pro User
      Feb. 11, 2026

      East Morris Mountain

      A nice campsite right off of Tower Road

      A nice campsite off of Tower Road with is also part of the TransAmerica Trail. It is a flat site with a with a great fire pit. There is are more sites in the field but we ended up not staying because it was hunting season and this area was open to hunting. It would be a nice place to stay if you are hunting in the area or if it is out of season.

      Check it out in our video

      https://youtu.be/Fv-DYCm_qXY

    Guide to Matthews

    Matthews area camping offers established facilities rather than dispersed sites, with options ranging from urban-adjacent parks to more nature-oriented campgrounds within 30 miles. The region sits at approximately 700 feet elevation in the Carolina Piedmont, characterized by rolling hills and deciduous forests. Water-based activities are prevalent at several campgrounds due to their proximity to Lake Wylie and Lake Haigler.

    What to do

    Hiking trails access: At McDowell Nature Preserve, campers appreciate the convenience of trails connecting directly to camping areas. "So awesome to have hiking trails that lead right out of the campground," notes Kathy L., who enjoyed the wooded setting despite some challenging RV sites.

    Lake recreation: Fishing opportunities abound at Cane Creek Park, which features a lake with swimming areas. "Nice lake and hiking trails. Free putt-putt. Clean bathrooms and hot showers," reports David E., highlighting the recreational amenities beyond just water access.

    Historical sites: Andrew Jackson State Park offers unique historical attractions alongside camping. "The park is located approximately 20 miles from Rock Hill and 30 miles from Charlotte so there is plenty to see and do on the days you want to do some sightseeing," explains Laura A., noting the balance between camping and educational opportunities.

    What campers like

    Peaceful wooded sites: Many camping spots near Matthews, North Carolina provide tree cover and natural settings. "Beautiful wooded setting. So awesome to have hiking trails that lead right out of the campground," writes Kathy L. about McDowell Nature Preserve, appreciating the nature immersion despite being close to urban areas.

    Clean facilities: Andrew Jackson State Park Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Bathrooms and showers are clean and staff are friendly and helpful," states Laura A., who found the overall experience worth returning for.

    Family activities: Organized events appeal to many visitors at certain camping areas. "Holidays usually have some activities for kids. The mini golf is free and a blast," says Sarah B. about her stays at Cane Creek Park, where she typically camps for a full week at a time.

    What you should know

    Site limitations: Many camping spots near Matthews have specific constraints. "There aren't many sites for RVs and some are not level - hard to get trailer level even with max leveling blocks," cautions Kathy L. about McDowell Nature Preserve.

    Reservation requirements: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "We stayed here for nine days. The campground is clean and well-maintained. The bathhouse is in good shape and clean," shares Robert D. about Cane Creek Park, suggesting longer stays are possible with advance planning.

    Urban noise factors: Despite natural settings, some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. "The only downside is that you could hear the traffic at the campsites," mentions Rachel R. about her stay at Andrew Jackson State Park, though she still rated it highly overall.

    Tips for camping with families

    Playground access: Multiple camping areas feature dedicated children's play spaces. At Anne Springs Close Greenway, visitors note amenities for families. "Organizers are top of the line friendly and enthusiastic, thousands of acres are clean and well maintained with access to ok restrooms, fishing spots and a very nice restaurant inside," explains Alex G.

    Recreation options: Family-oriented activities add value to camping experiences. "Little park, but very quiet and relaxing!" reports Kristin F. about Andrew Jackson State Park, indicating its suitability for families seeking low-key outdoor time.

    Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds combine recreation with learning. "We have been to this park before for fishing in different areas and have really enjoyed ourselves. The staff is very friendly and helpful," shares Michelle L. about McDowell Nature Preserve, highlighting the multiple activities available.

    Tips from RVers

    Leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain at several campgrounds. "There aren't many sites for RVs and some are not level - hard to get trailer level even with max leveling blocks," warns Kathy L. about McDowell Preserve.

    Full hookup availability: Charlotte-Fort Mill KOA offers complete utilities. "We are full timers and stayed here 2 nights. Although people complain about KOA prices, we use them because we know what to expect. As expected everything was well maintained," writes Paul about the consistent standards.

    Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at some camping spots. "It is hard to believe that you are in the city limits of Charlotte in this campground. It is very rustic, with lots of trees and nature, and the campsites are nicely spaced out so you're not on top of other units. The campground is not terribly big rig friendly," reports Rick B. about McDowell Nature Preserve.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are there wooded retreat camping options in Matthews?

    Uwharrie National Forest Yates Place offers an ideal wooded retreat experience with fee-free dispersed camping. This secluded spot is perfect for reconnecting with nature away from busy life, though you'll need a suitable vehicle for the forest roads. Anne Springs Close Greenway Group Camp provides another wooded option with primitive campsites circling the paths around Lake Haigler. The campground features equestrian-friendly trails that can be walked or ridden. For those seeking dense forest surroundings, Deep Water Trail Camp offers spacious first-come, first-served sites in a natural setting, though the access road can be challenging for smaller vehicles.

    What are the best campgrounds near Matthews, NC?

    The Matthews area offers several excellent camping options. Badin Lake Campground in the Uwharrie National Forest is highly rated for its huge sites, remote setting, and easy water access. The campground features two loops with relatively large campsites and excellent fishing opportunities. For families, McDowell Nature Preserve provides a natural escape with hiking trails and lakefront activities. Other notable options include Arrowhead Campground with electric hookups, Cane Creek Park with multiple access points, and Lake Norman State Park for water recreation enthusiasts. Most campgrounds in the region offer reservable sites with basic amenities like toilets and water access.

    Where can I rent camping equipment in Matthews?

    While specific rental shops in Matthews aren't mentioned in reviews, several options exist in the greater Charlotte area. REI's Charlotte location offers camping equipment rentals including tents, sleeping bags, and cooking gear for members at discounted rates. For RV enthusiasts, Charlotte-Fort Mill KOA partners with rental services that can deliver directly to your campsite. Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort occasionally offers camping packages with basic equipment included. Great Outdoor Provision Co. in Charlotte also provides rental services for various camping gear. For specialized equipment like kayaks or paddleboards, check with Mecklenburg County Parks which offers seasonal rentals at select parks including Cane Creek Park.

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