Tent campsites near Monroe, North Carolina range from developed facilities with basic amenities to rugged backcountry sites. Located in the Piedmont region with rolling hills and waterways, most campgrounds sit between 500-1,000 feet elevation with hot summers and mild winters. The area features multiple lakes and reservoirs with shoreline camping options that frequently require careful vehicle selection for access.
What to do
Fishing at Badin Lake: Anglers can fish for channel catfish at Deep Water Trail Camp where campers report good success. "Great spot, great fishing. If you want to get away, this is where you go. Secluded but still able to get into town for supplies. Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground, and some damn good fishing," notes one visitor.
Hiking at Crowders Mountain: The trails at Crowders Mountain State Park offer varying difficulty levels with summit views. "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," reports a camper.
Wildlife observation: Unique educational opportunities exist at Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge for organized groups. "For the purpose of environmental education programs and research activity, school groups and youth groups are welcome to visit the preserve for ranger led programs and can stay overnight at special rustic group campsites," explains one visitor.
What campers like
Affordability: Budget-conscious tent campers appreciate the free camping at some locations. "FREE. Large size nobody else here in March but I'm sure as summer rolls around it fills up more," notes a camper about Uwharrie Hunt Camp.
Solitude and privacy: Many tent campers seek out the more remote sites. "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," shares a visitor to East Morris Mountain.
Sensory-friendly options: Some tent camping areas cater to those seeking quiet environments. "I found my happy place here at Hippie Holler! 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," reports a camper.
What you should know
Gate closing times: Some camping areas have strict access schedules. "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. He is just up the street and was kind to offer this for extra safety," notes a camper at Lake Curriher Wilderness.
Seasonal availability: Not all tent campsites are open year-round. "This camp site is only open during hunting season," cautions a visitor about East Morris Mountain Camp.
Trash management challenges: Several tent camping areas struggle with visitor-created waste. "People. Why? Why are there piles of trash being left at campsites? I bagged up 4 large bags of garbage that some college aged kids just left," laments a camper at Deep Water Trail Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty assessment: Evaluate hike-in campsites carefully with children. "This was a pretty good place to camp. There is a hike to the campsite from the parking lot so we definitely got our workout in bringing our gear in. The hikes here are really awesome and the facilities are nice and clean! The hike to the top was a little strenuous for smaller kids," advises a family at Crowders Mountain State Park.
Pet-friendly options: Many tent sites near Monroe welcome dogs. "We brought our two pups & they had a blast playing & laying in the water! We stayed at a campsite next to the river bend, not on the actual Deep Water Trail, because it got super bumpy & didn't want to damage our car," shares a visitor.
Water safety planning: Lakes and rivers require extra vigilance with children. "The upper landing is relatively small, my Dodge Ram fit with nothing being exposed on the road, but there was still plenty of camp able space beings my truck. Short but steep walk down to the river. I would be careful when the river is swollen," cautions a camper.
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: Many primitive tent sites have challenging approach roads. "Worth the rough ride in! We enjoyed our weekend at this fantastic spot! PLEASE take something with a little ground clearance and better than 2 wheel drive to get here. My Honda Element was on two wheels at one point but the AWD handled it like a champ," warns an RVer.
Site selection strategy: Choose camping spots based on vehicle capabilities. "Road posted 25 mph but recommend 10 mph. Was also narrow in spots. Very bumpy. Last 1/2 mile don't go. Steep rocky Muddy. Fire rings were rocks. No water all primitive," notes a camper at Deep Water Trail Camp.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely throughout camping areas. "Cell service is about 1 bar for Verizon and ATT, so I will need to attempt to head out in the AM for work purposes," reports a camper who got stuck in mud at Deep Water Trail Horse Camp.
