Camping sites near Mount Airy range from 1,100 to 3,600 feet in elevation, creating diverse climate conditions throughout the year. Temperature variations between valley and mountain locations can differ by 5-15 degrees, with higher elevations typically 10 degrees cooler in summer months. Fall camping season extends longer than nearby mountain regions due to the area's protected valleys.
What to do
Hiking at Hanging Rock State Park: Trails range from easy 0.3-mile waterfall hikes to strenuous 4.3-mile loops with elevation gains of 1,000+ feet. "The trails were well-marked, maintained, and offered a good variety for all skill levels. Our kids (ranging from early elementary to preteen) managed the trails with some effort but plenty of enthusiasm," shares a visitor of Hanging Rock State Park Campground.
Rock climbing access: Several developed routes available at Pilot Mountain with top-rope anchors installed. "If you're not a climber, the views are still worth the drive. While here, be sure to visit nearby Mt. Airy for some old school Andy Griffith sightseeing," notes a reviewer at Pilot Mountain State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Multiple sites offer fishing and swimming options within 15 minutes of Mount Airy. "Great place to fish and swim with the family," reports a camper at Beechnut Family Campground. Homeplace Recreational Park features an actual water park within the campground grounds (seasonal availability).
What campers like
Unobstructed mountain views: Sites with direct sightlines to Pilot Mountain provide memorable camping backdrops. A visitor at Greystone RV Park notes, "The main feature is the view, and what a view it has! In the morning, getting up early to watch the sunrise light up the mountain like a candle really set the tone for a beautiful day."
Fishing opportunities: Stocked ponds and natural streams allow for catch-and-release fishing. "We were in site A3 right beside the stream. The pond dam was really close to our site and the rushing water will really lull you to sleep at night," shares a camper at Homeplace Recreational Park.
Stargazing conditions: Dark skies away from urban light pollution create optimal viewing. Stone Mountain State Park receives consistent praise for night sky visibility, with one camper noting it offers "the best stargazing you could ask for."
Well-spaced wooded sites: Mature forest cover provides natural separation between campsites. "The campgrounds were perfect for a few days and there were enough hiking trails around to keep us busy," mentions a visitor at Stone Mountain State Park.
What you should know
Tent pad sizes vary significantly: Some campgrounds have smaller pads unsuitable for larger family tents. "We brought a 10-person tent, and it was a tight fit. If you're camping with a large group or family and have a bigger tent, be aware that this site might not give you as much room as you'd like," cautions a camper at Hanging Rock State Park.
Road access challenges: Some pet-friendly campgrounds near Mount Airy have challenging entrance roads. A visitor at Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground reports, "My only negative was that they had us camp up on the top of the hill and it was difficult to navigate back down, with some very sharp turns for our fifth wheel."
Seasonal facility limitations: Bathroom and shower access varies by season at state parks. "Slightly wished the bathhouses had been open," notes a January visitor at Hanging Rock. Check directly with campgrounds for current off-season amenities.
Cell service inconsistency: Coverage varies dramatically between locations and carriers. "Good WiFi service. Very good Verizon coverage. Ok ATT coverage," reports a Beechnut Family Campground visitor, while many state park campsites have minimal to no service.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas within walking distance of sites. A visitor to Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA mentions, "There is a heated pool (closed), corn hole, playground, and multiple games."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and dusk provide best animal sighting times. "The grassy field full of deer beside it" is highlighted by a camper at Stone Mountain State Park, referencing site 40.
Stream exploration: Children can search for small aquatic wildlife in shallow campground creeks. "From spotting salamanders near the creek to pretending they were mountain explorers on the trails, they were thoroughly entertained the whole trip," shares a family visiting Hanging Rock.
Kid-friendly hiking distances: Numerous short trails under one mile suitable for younger children. Stone Mountain offers "great hikes and area for the family" with "some great swimming holes" according to a summer visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Gravel pad conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. "Very clean full hookup sites. Level, easy access," notes an RVer staying at Mayberry Campground, while others require more stabilization.
RV length restrictions: Several campgrounds have tight turns limiting larger rig access. "The campsites vary in size so check the map and talk to the staff to figure out your best option when making your reservation," advises a visitor to Mayberry.
Hookup placements: Connection locations may require extension hoses or cables at some sites. "Pull thru sites with concrete pads. No leveling needed. Couldn't be easier to pull in and set up," comments a camper at Greystone RV Park, one of the more RV-optimized facilities in the area.
Gate hour restrictions: Some campgrounds restrict after-hours vehicle access. "The park does require a two-night minimum stay if camping over a holiday weekend. Also be aware that the campground entrance closes at 10 pm. You will not be able to enter or exit until the gate opens the next morning," cautions a Pilot Mountain visitor.
