Uwharrie National Forest tent camping near Mount Gilead, North Carolina offers backcountry camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 350 to 1,000 feet. The forest's 51,000 acres contain diverse ecosystems with mixed hardwood forests, pine stands, and river access points. Average summer temperatures reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions and fewer insects.
What to do
Fishing access points: Deep Water Trail Camp provides direct river access for catching catfish. According to Vincent S., "Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground, and some damn good fishing. My friends both caught a couple of channel cats. One enormous female catfish we released because she had eggs on board."
Trail exploration: Lake Curriher Wilderness features a trail system around the lake with fishing opportunities. Scott P. notes, "There is a good trail around the lake that offers some beautiful views across the lake. Pretty good fishing too."
Kayaking and canoeing: The Lumber River near Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park provides excellent paddling opportunities. As Joe S. mentions, "The lumber river access is ideal to kayak and fish. The park rangers and maintenance people were chill and friendly."
What campers like
Large, private campsites: Tent campers appreciate the spacious sites at Chalk Banks. Tammie S. states, "Extra large and private campsites. One of the campsites has a hammock stand. The group site is huge. The whole park is very clean and spacious."
Riverside camping spots: Deep Water Trail Camp offers camping along the Yadkin River. Dan explains, "Our site was off to the left of the major parking area right down by the river. Super private and had some nice trails near by for hiking/finding fire wood. 10/10. Cant wait to go back."
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Mount Gilead provide habitat for diverse wildlife. Will B. from Uwharrie Hunt Camp notes, "Love the trails that hug the lake in the area. Lots of camping off the beaten path and outside the normal camp grounds. Been camping here for about a year, still haven't seen big foot yet... but I'm still hopeful."
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many tent camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. According to tiffany A., "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."
Gate closure times: Several campgrounds have strict gate closure hours. Jay B. warns about Lumber River State Park, "Word to the wise, when the website says the park closes at 'posted times', they mean 9pm. We know this because we got there at 9:05 and the gate was locked tight."
Limited facilities: Most primitive tent camping locations lack amenities. Marvin D. explains about Sandhills Campground B, "If you're looking for primitive, this is it. No bathrooms, no water spigots, no camp store, nothing like that. Bring all your own EVERYTHING."
Tips for camping with families
Bring trash bags: Several campers note trash issues at popular sites. Julie L. from Deep Water Trail Camp states, "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."
Plan for accessibility: Consider tent camping sites with easier access for young children. Gabby A. recommends, "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. But it gave us a nice path downward to get to the Yadkin River."
Book early for holiday weekends: Popular camping areas fill quickly during peak times. According to Marvin D., when discussing East Morris Mountain, "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."
Tips from RVers
Check site restrictions: Many tent camping areas near Mount Gilead have limitations for larger vehicles. Michael W. notes about Deep Water Trail Camp, "Not for bigger rigs. I've got a 13 foot pull behind. Backed in mostly but a few could be pulled in an out. Road posted 25 mph but recommend 10 mph. Was also narrow in spots."
Prepare for seasonal access changes: Road conditions vary by season. Kyle comments on Uwharrie Hunt Camp, "FREE. large size nobody else here in March but I'm sure as summer rolls around it fills up more."
Manage expectations for amenities: RV sites with hookups are limited in the area. Shari G. explains, "The campground is a quaint, and only $5 per night! With only 6 sites and what appears to be an over-sized parking lot right next to it, the lot accommodates the OHV trailers."
