Tent camping near Matthews, North Carolina offers woodland experiences amid the Piedmont region's rolling hills, generally ranging between 500-700 feet in elevation. The area experiences mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures and humid summers that can reach 90°F. Most primitive camping options require moderate hikes to reach designated sites, with varying levels of amenities depending on the campground.
What to do
Hike forest trails: At Crowders Mountain State Park Campground, campers enjoy trails for all skill levels. "The hikes are pretty strenuous, but the views are well worth it. The people are friendly, and maps are easy to come by. The trails are easy to follow, but be sure to bring plenty of water," notes Matt G.
Fish at nearby lakes: Uwharrie Hunt Camp provides access to fishing spots. Scott P. mentions, "This is a beautiful campground with good facilities. There is a good trail around the lake that offers some beautiful views across the lake. Pretty good fishing too."
Rock climbing opportunities: Some tent camping areas near Matthews offer natural rock climbing options. "My brother and I spent the day rock climbing. It was his first time climbing, and we were able to set up some beginner-friendly routes," says Les R. about his experience at Crowders Mountain.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Deep Water Trail Horse Camp offers remote tent sites. "Rough road in," notes Jayson C., highlighting the trade-off between accessibility and seclusion.
Budget-friendly options: Many tent sites near Matthews are affordable. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, campers note the value: "$5 per night...What? What? The campground is quaint, and only $5 per night! With only 6 sites and what appears to be an over-sized parking lot right next to it," writes Shari G.
Nature immersion: Lake Tillery Family Campground and other tent sites around Matthews provide direct access to natural settings. At nearby campgrounds, reviewers mention wildlife sightings and creek-side camping as highlights of their tent camping experiences.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Several tent camping areas require careful driving. "I would highly recommend 4WD if you're going all the way to the water sites. I attempted in my van and made it down to a sweet spot, but was stuck in the mud," warns Stephanie W. at Deep Water Trail Horse Camp.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: East Morris Mountain offers truly primitive tent camping. Dean S. notes, "Only three sites on this little out of the way fire trail. We go to the end of the road for complete privacy. No amenities other than a fire pit."
Seasonal considerations: Some tent camping areas have limited seasonal availability. "This camp site is only open during hunting season," notes Billy B. about East Morris Mountain, making it important to check operating seasons before planning your tent camping trip near Matthews.
Bring your own water: At many primitive tent sites, potable water isn't available. For Deep Water Trail Camp, Vincent S. advises, "You have to haul all your supplies and trash in and out to include water."
Tips for camping with families
Choose appropriate hiking trails: When tent camping with children near Matthews, select suitable trails. At Crowders Mountain, Lisa L. shares, "We really enjoyed all of the different hikes and the lake as well as the hike to the top of the mountain. The hike to the top was a little strenuous for smaller kids."
Consider walk-in distance: Lake Curriher Wilderness offers varying tent site accessibility. Shannon S. notes, "The regular tent 'loop' is just one big open field with few trees around it, so there's absolutely no privacy," suggesting families consider site selection carefully.
Pack extra supplies: For tent camping with families near Matthews, bring additional supplies for comfort. As one camper at Lake Curriher Wilderness mentioned, "The water at our site is not working which is a bummer but we can use the water at the outside shower. It's non-potable but we have a filter and boil it before using it."
Tips from RVers
Check tent-only restrictions: Some camping areas near Matthews don't accommodate RVs. Many Matthews tent camping areas specify tent-only sites, particularly at Crowders Mountain where the one-mile hike to campsites prevents RV access.
Arrival timing matters: Gates at some campgrounds close early. At Lake Curriher Wilderness, Shannon S. warns, "The gates close at 5pm during the fall/winter. Slightly around that time, the retired police chief came around to introduce himself and give his cell number."
Limited hookups at primitive sites: Many tent camping areas around Matthews offer no RV hookups. "This is a beautiful campground with good facilities," notes a reviewer about primitive sites, where tent camping is the primary accommodation.
