Best Tent Camping near Mount Pleasant, NC

Tent campsites around Mount Pleasant, North Carolina range from established campgrounds to remote wilderness areas in the surrounding region. Lake Curriher Wilderness offers tent camping with walk-in sites and basic amenities, while Deep Water Trail Camp provides more primitive tent camping experiences about 30 miles east in the Uwharrie National Forest area. Established tent campgrounds like Uwharrie Hunt Camp provide access to trail networks and lake views within reasonable driving distance from Mount Pleasant.

Primitive tent setups are common at sites like Deep Water Trail Camp, where campers need to bring all supplies including water. The access road can be challenging, with multiple reviews noting high-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching the waterfront tent sites. Vault toilets are available at some locations like Uwharrie Hunt Camp, but many primitive tent areas lack facilities entirely. According to one visitor, "If you want to get away, this is where you go. Secluded but still able to get into town for supplies." Fire rings at most sites are simple stone circles, and campers must pack out all trash, as several reviews mentioned concerns about litter left by previous tent campers.

Sites farther from developed areas provide deeper wilderness immersion for tent campers seeking solitude. The terrain varies from open fields with limited privacy at Lake Curriher to secluded forested sites at Deep Water Trail Camp with good tree cover for hammock camping. A camper noted that "there's some open areas to camp before you get to the water" at Deep Water Trail Camp, making it versatile for different tent camping preferences. Many primitive tent campgrounds in the Uwharrie Forest area offer proximity to hiking trails and fishing opportunities. Fall and spring typically provide the most comfortable tent camping conditions, with fewer bugs and moderate temperatures. Summer campers should prepare for humidity and occasional afternoon thunderstorms, typical of North Carolina's Piedmont region.

Best Tent Sites Near Mount Pleasant, North Carolina (11)

    1. Lake Curriher Wilderness

    4 Reviews
    China Grove, NC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 857-4114

    $10 - $30 / night

    "It’s the quietest stay we’ve had yet, and we go camping nearly every weekend. I will say, having the ADA tent site makes a huge difference."

    "Very close to my home. I hike in to the remote campsite on the lake. Lots of fishermen and trash since the scum can’t seem to pick up after themselves. The cabins here are also great."

    2. Yates Family Camping

    3 Reviews
    Harrisburg, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 773-9349

    "There aren’t really any extras here but if you’re just looking for reliable water/electrical/sewer and wifi near Charlotte this is a fantastic option."

    3. Deep Water Trail Camp

    8 Reviews
    Badin, NC
    21 miles
    Website

    "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. Very bumpy. Last 1/2 mile don’t go."

    "First of all.. this place is FREE to camp at and surrounded by beautiful water, beautiful trees and the ancient rock of Uwharrie. A lovely place that we are so lucky to have access to... BUT. People."

    4. Uwharrie Hunt Camp

    6 Reviews
    Uwharrie National Forest, NC
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 576-6391

    "Horse trail riding is second on the list of activities within the park judging by the number of trails."

    "My husband and I took our two dogs backpacking for a weekend at Uhwarrie Park. After a long drive trying to find my husbands original spot we found a new one. Beautiful scenery."

    5. Deep Water Trailt Horse Camp

    2 Reviews
    Badin, NC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 576-6391

    "Too much trash left by previous campers"

    "Thankfully some campers nearby helped me rearrange my direction and get me out of the mud, but I still don’t know how I’m going to make it back out of here 😬. This might be my forever home?!"

    6. East Morris Mountain

    2 Reviews
    Uwharrie National Forest, NC
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    "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."

    7. Crowders Mountain State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Bessemer City, NC
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 853-5429

    $17 - $47 / night

    "This is a hike in campground so we were in a hurry. The campground had lockers with firewood and you could leave the money in the envelope at the trailhead."

    "I visited Crowders Mountain in December, and the weather only required a sweatshirt. My brother and I spent the day rock climbing."

    8. Lake Tillery Family Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Uwharrie National Forest, NC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (704) 985-3700

    $35 - $65 / night

    9. Woodrun

    Be the first to review!
    Uwharrie National Forest, NC
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 576-6391

    10. Hippie Holler

    1 Review
    Bessemer City, NC
    47 miles

    $40 - $60 / night

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Tent Camping Reviews near Mount Pleasant, NC

465 Reviews of 11 Mount Pleasant Campgrounds


  • A
    Oct. 27, 2021

    West Morris Mtn.

    Individual campsites

    Several individual campsites. Has trash bins located throughout the loop. There are picnic tables and fire rings at each site. No electric and no water. All spots are full shade.

  • Dave V.
    Oct. 31, 2019

    Badin Lake Campground

    A relaxing lakeside atmosphere

    Uwharrie National Forest-Badin Lake Campground, New London, NC.

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48934 

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE\_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5368418.pdf

    Campground Overview: 34 sites, two loops...upper loop and lakeside loop. Relatively large sites with vegetation that blocks constant view of neighbors. 

    Each site has a gravel parking pad and separate gravel tent pad, a standing charcoal grill, firepit with adjustable grate, a picnic table and a metal pole for hanging lanterns, etc. I would advise securing online reservations, but they do have an Iron Ranger to drop your payment in should you find an empty site. Note: There are warnings that online reservations take precedence, so if you use the Iron Ranger payment drop chute and someone reserved the same campsite...you will be required to move to a different location when the online reservation campers arrive. Just so you know.

    No electric. 

    Oddly, no firewood for sale...although scrounging produced plenty of things and fallen branches to keep a fire going.

    I preferred the lower loop as nearly every outer site was on the lake with great views and lake access and sites are spread out. The inside sites of the lower loop are pretty spacious and deep. Water spigots were spaced out around the loop, so a short walk as we were equal distance between two. 

    Restroom/showerhouses were quad door buildings. Separate men’s and women’s restrooms and two separate shower rooms. Facilities were kept clean and stocked by resident hosts. 

    With Verizon, I never lost signal...a plus for a National Forest!

    The upper loop appeared to offer a little more solitude than the lower lake loop...but no lake views. 

    The lake loop trail crosses the main campground roadway between the two loops. This trail is relatively flat and meanders around the lake and it’s many fingers...offering lovely lake views and some nice fishing locations. 

    During my midweek visit it was quiet day and night. The sunset across the lake was gorgeous and relaxing. Loud powerboat noise was minimal as only a couple bass boats thought it essential to travel at high speeds from location to location. Next visit my canoe and mountain one will accompany me. 

    What I enjoyed: as much as I dislike tree rats, I was entertained by two feuding squirrels that chased each other relentlessly and knocking each other out of tree tops. Woodpecker and Turkey wake up calls. 

    For a National Forest, I was surprised by the level of daytime industrial noise nearby. 

    Overall, a fantastic location relatively close to Raleigh/Durham and Fayetteville for a great camping getaway. I was only able to stay one night as the campground was booked, all reserved in advance. So plan ahead.

  • Todd S.
    Jun. 26, 2021

    Crowders Mountain State Park Campground

    Great place to stay

    We enjoyed our stay. The park office had everything well taken care of. We arrived late almost at sundown but they had an envelope waiting with instructions, a parking tag and a map. This is a hike in campground so we were in a hurry. The campground had lockers with firewood and you could leave the money in the envelope at the trailhead. The site was very private with a fire ring and picnic table and two pads for tents. The only complaint (and this isn’t the parks fault) is you aren’t far off the beaten path so car exhaust and jet noise was prevalent throughout the night. All in all happy with the stay and it served us perfectly as we were just passing through the area!

  • Sarah G.
    May. 30, 2018

    Morrow Mountain State Park Campground

    Lots of activities for family camping

    We had 4 families with children on 1 RV and 3 non-electric tent sites over Memorial Day weekend. Even though the park was at max capacity, it didn’t feel crowded or swarming. The facilities and activities at Morrow Mountain are awesome - a huge, clean pool; canoe rental from a well-maintained boathouse; hikes of various lengths; slightly aged but clean and cared for bath houses; and (our favorite) a gorgeous mountain top picnic shelter (A), which we rented due to a rainy forecast. Great place for family camping. Sites are nicely spaced, but by no means are they private or secluded. Staff were very friendly, but the no alcohol rule is a bummer. If you want to be alone in the woods, Morrow Mountain is not for you. Its also worth noting the climate is much more like south central NC (hot and super humId) and nothIng like the cool mountain air in Western NC. But if your looking for a fun, interactive family or group camping weekend, it’s the perfect spot!

  • Marlene L.
    Oct. 19, 2020

    Badin Lake Campground

    Peaceful and quiet

    Great spot, really calm and quiet and right on the lake. Perfect for non-partying types (no alcohol allowed). Showers, bathrooms, trash, fire pit, and grill all available. The host was professional and kind to us, even brought us some extra fire wood.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2016

    Crowders Mountain State Park Campground

    Hike, Climb, Fish by Day or Backcountry Camp by Night

    I visited Crowders Mountain in December, and the weather only required a sweatshirt. 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.

    As for the camping, your only option is a walk-in campground, about a mile-long hike. Drinking water and outhouses are available though.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 10, 2017

    Cane Creek Park

    Cane Creek county Park

    This review is probably not representative of what will be many people’s experience or opportunity, as I visited in November in the off season, albeit an unusually warm weekday! Cane Creek Park is a county park that is of state park caliber. It is located south and east of the town of waxhaw, and an easy drive from Charlotte. It is a large park on both sid s of a large lake, beautifully maintained, clearly with a variety of family recreational activities that are surely heavily used in the high season. The park offers everything from day use, to car and rv camping, to hike in tent sites and wilderness group areas, to cabins. This review is for the hike in tent sites, which are large, well spaced, heavily wooded and private, with lake access for good fishing and paddling. There are restroom and shower facilities in walking distance, though not at the campsites themselves. This is a simpler and quieter camping opportunity than the drive in sites. In fact, no one else was in this section of the campground on this fine autumn day, yet the weather was beautiful and the setting so peaceful. I would recommend this campsite location for fall camping

  • phillip L.
    Jul. 30, 2016

    Canebrake Horse Camp

    No horses here

    Site is so good. This site i stayed at was site 18 and it was so clean and had everything i needed such as the restroom showers, picnic table and fire ring. the site here do fill up fast so you should make reservations. It costed me 25 dollars and I called ahead 2 weeks. At the visitor center they said the weather here is unpredictable and sometimes it starts raining out of nowhere. There is electric hookups here and there is a lot of RVs which is pretty noisy from the t.v and radio. I came in the summer and the temperature was around the 80's. During the night it is around 60 which is pleasant. They do sell for 6 dollars for a bunch of firewood

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Morrow Mountain State Park Campground

    One of the Best State Parks in North Carolina

    I guess my GPS needs updating since it took me down the wrong road to get to this state park, so if you haven’t updated your GPS, do it before you attempt to come here. Other than that, it’s not that difficult to find. 

    There are quite a few things to do at this state park. Hiking, horseback riding, and boating/kayaking are just some of the activities. The trails range from easy to strenuous, and there are lots of them. In addition to the typical outdoor activities, there is also an outdoor museum devoted to Dr. Francis Joseph Kron, one of the first doctors in the Piedmont.   There is also a history and geological museum located within the park.

    The campground has three loops, some with no hookups and some with electric hookups. Water access is a few steps away. I didn’t do my research and I got the campsite farthest from the bath house. However, it wasn’t so bad since the road was paved and there was a moon out. I think the tent pad at my campsite was one of the largest, even though part of it was used for the picnic table, the lantern pole, and the fire pit. It was fairly level, but it was fine gravel. Driving tent stakes in was a little difficult but not impossible. One of the best things about this campground is that there is plenty of space between the campsites(at least where I was), so you don’t feel as if you are on top of the other campers. I also liked that there were plenty of trees for shade. The only drawback is that this state park is close to the Fort Bragg Army Reservation, so you will hear an occasional jet or helicopter(s) flying overhead. 

    Even though the bath house has everything you need, including hot showers, it does need updating. Paint was peeling off the walls, but if that doesn’t bother you, it will be fine. Most campers are in their RVs, so I guess it doesn’t really matter. One thing I did not like was that the bath house is cleaned from 9:30– 10:30 am. Knowing that, however, I was able to work around it. If you decide to go exploring, you will want to go to the Morrow Mountain overlook. There are some pretty spectacular views from there. Overall, I enjoyed my stay here, and I wish I could have stayed longer.


Guide to Mount Pleasant

Camping opportunities near Mount Pleasant, North Carolina center around the Uwharrie National Forest region, located in the central Piedmont. The area sits at elevations ranging from 350-1,000 feet, creating varied terrain for different camping experiences. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F, while summer months can reach 85-95°F with high humidity levels that affect camping comfort.

What to do

Fishing at riverside campsites: Near Deep Water Trail Camp, campers can fish directly from their sites. "Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground, and some damn good fishing," notes Vincent S. The Yadkin River and Badin Lake area provide opportunities for catfish and other freshwater species.

Rock collecting adventures: The quartz deposits in the Uwharrie region make for interesting geological exploration. "The big pieces of quartz we found were gorgeous, and so was the view at the water," reports Tiffany A. about her experience at Deep Water Trail Camp. This activity works well during cooler months when vegetation is less dense.

Hiking trail networks: Crowders Mountain State Park offers multiple hiking options within driving distance of Mount Pleasant. "The trails are pretty strenuous, but the views are well worth it," says Matt G. The park maintains well-marked trails with blazes that accommodate various difficulty levels and connect to camping areas.

What campers like

Secluded waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the remote options at East Morris Mountain where privacy is a premium feature. "Only three sites on this little out of the way fire trail. We go to the end of the road for complete privacy," shares Dean S. These sites provide natural buffers between camping parties.

Budget-friendly options: Several primitive camping areas in the region cost very little. "Only $5 per night!" remarks Shari G. about Uwharrie Hunt Camp. The campground features "rustic, grassy and comfortable" sites that work well for tent campers seeking affordable accommodations.

Proximity to Charlotte: For those wanting quick weekend getaways from urban areas, the tent camping locations provide accessibility. "We've loved staying at Yates due to the flexibility and excellent communication of the owners," notes Mariah S. about Yates Family Camping, mentioning its convenience to Charlotte.

What you should know

Vehicle considerations for rough roads: Many of the best tent camping near Mount Pleasant, North Carolina requires careful vehicle planning. "I would highly recommend 4WD if you're going all the way to the water sites," warns Stephanie W. about Deep Water Trail Horse Camp. Multiple campers report challenging access roads with mud, rocks, and steep sections.

Seasonal closures and limitations: Some campgrounds operate on restricted schedules. "This camp site is only open during hunting season," notes Billy B. about East Morris Mountain Camp. Check operating dates before planning trips, particularly during winter months.

Limited facilities at primitive sites: While some established campgrounds offer amenities, most primitive sites require self-sufficiency. "No water all primitive," reports Michael W., adding that "fire rings were rocks" at Deep Water Trail Camp. Pack accordingly with sufficient water and supplies for your stay.

Tips for camping with families

Choose established campgrounds with facilities: Families often prefer sites with basic amenities. "It's the quietest stay we've had yet, and we go camping nearly every weekend," says Shannon S. about Lake Curriher Wilderness, noting security features like the retired police chief who provides his number to campers.

Look for walk-in tent sites: Some locations offer dedicated tent areas with easier access. "There is a hike to the campsite from the parking lot so we definitely got our workout in bringing our gear in," mentions Lisa L. about Crowders Mountain State Park, adding that trails there work well for families despite being "a little strenuous for smaller kids."

Pack for temperature variations: The Piedmont region experiences significant day-to-night temperature swings, particularly in spring and fall. "I visited Crowders Mountain in December, and the weather only required a sweatshirt," reports Les R., indicating the often mild winter conditions that can still turn cold after sunset.

Tips from RVers

Size limitations for campers and trailers: Most camping areas near Mount Pleasant restrict larger RVs. "Not for bigger rigs. I've got a 13 foot pull behind. Backed in mostly but a few could be pulled in and out," explains Michael W. about Deep Water Trail Camp, where compact trailers work best.

Limited hookups available: RVers should expect primarily primitive camping with few services. "Well not much here, no office or bathrooms. Water and electric and a dump station," notes Stephen R. about Yates Family Camping, one of the few locations offering even minimal RV hookups in the area.

Advance planning essential: During popular seasons, securing spots becomes competitive. "We made a reservation well in advance but the owner decided to cancel our confirmed reservation to accommodate a previous renter who decided to stay longer," cautions Terry C., highlighting the importance of confirming reservations, especially at smaller campgrounds with limited spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Mount Pleasant, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Mount Pleasant, NC is Lake Curriher Wilderness with a 4.8-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Mount Pleasant, NC?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Mount Pleasant, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.