Uwharrie National Forest provides the main camping opportunities near Mount Gilead, North Carolina, with elevations ranging from 350 to 1,000 feet. The forest contains a mix of hardwoods and pines covering approximately 50,000 acres, creating a moderate forest canopy for most campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with temperatures between 50-75°F.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Badin Lake Campground offers direct water access for kayakers and anglers. "We have stayed at Badin Lake campground a couple times and would recommend it to anyone that likes to kayak and fish. Being able to camp on the water and just slide the kayaks in and out is great," notes a camper at Badin Lake Campground.
Hiking trails: Multiple difficulty levels exist across the forest with trails ranging from 1-20 miles. "The trails were clearly marked and easy to follow. Lots of routes varying in views and difficulty were available and the staff were incredibly helpful," reports a visitor at Deep Water Trail Camp.
Swimming options: Some campgrounds offer swimming facilities during warmer months. "They offer canoe and row boat rentals, they have a swimming pool that is open after Memorial Day. They also have a museum you can check out during the day," mentions a camper at Morrow Mountain State Park Campground.
What campers like
Peaceful lakeside settings: Many campers appreciate the tranquility of waterfront sites. "These lakeshore sites within the forest were simply stunning. We spent three nights enjoying our campground on Badin Lake. The sites were large and could accommodate most sizes of trailers in addition to tents," shares a visitor about Badin Lake Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently mention clean bathhouses and grounds. "The campground and bathhouse was very clean. There is room for a couple tents at each site," notes a camper from Arrowhead Campground.
Affordable camping options: Several primitive sites offer low-cost or free camping. "FREE. large size nobody else here in March but I'm sure as summer rolls around it fills up more," reports a visitor about Uwharrie Hunt Camp.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campsites provide opportunities to observe local fauna. "I spent a night at the primitive campsite and hiked a few trails. The park is gorgeous and full of life. I saw plenty of frogs and tadpoles in the creeks, listened to a symphony of birds, and I'm pretty sure heard a few coyotes throughout the night," mentions another Uwharrie Hunt Camp visitor.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds require higher clearance vehicles. "The road in is a little rough but not too crazy. There is not an office or anything once you arrive (so no last minute supplies) but there is a paystation if you show up and want to camp," explains a camper about Badin Lake Campground.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is inconsistent throughout the area. "Cell signal is pretty spotty but passable. Would need a booster or satellite internet in order to work or attend school, though," notes a recent visitor to Arrowhead Campground.
Supply sources: Several small stores provide essentials. "Nearby El Dorado Outpost has everything you might need (gas, ice, hot food, small groceries, outdoor supplies, GREAT biscuits!!, etc) and locals sell firewood bundles for $4-5/each," shares another Arrowhead Campground visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall typically offer the most pleasant camping weather with fewer crowds. "We hit this campground right at the perfect time of year, BEFORE the opening day of off-road vehicle season in April... during the season this is a popular place," explains a camper at Yates Place.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Great playground, pool and relaxing time!" shares a visitor about Norwood Campground.
Family-friendly trails: Multiple short hiking options exist for children. "There is a lot for a family to do at Morrow Mountain including fishing and a swimming pool. My main thing is usually hiking. I stayed at the family campground once to get an early start on hiking. Saw several deer while I was there," explains a Morrow Mountain visitor.
Wildlife education opportunities: Kids can observe various animals and ecosystems. "I also saw an abundance of different species of spiders, dragonflies, moths, and other interesting critters," mentions a visitor about their experience camping in the forest.
Camp host support: Many campgrounds feature hosts who check on campers. "The camp host was very helpful and checked on everybody, every day," notes a Morrow Mountain State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Electric and water connections aren't available at all campgrounds. "No hookups, so BYOS (bring your own solar). Water spigots are scattered throughout the campground," advises a Badin Lake camper.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared to level your RV at many sites. "Great sites but hardly any are level so be prepared to manage that. Nice fire pits and grills - love having both," suggests an Arrowhead Campground visitor.
Larger RV considerations: Some areas can accommodate bigger rigs while others cannot. "This campground is used for the OHV groups it is an open field with ramps to unload your four wheelers. There are no amenities just and open field," explains a visitor to Art Lilley Campground about the open parking setup.
Dump station access: Only certain campgrounds offer dump stations. "Dump station was open, but did not have water to flush tanks or fill water tanks as water was shut off for the winter. There were water spigots throughout the campground that we could use," notes a winter visitor to Arrowhead Campground.
