Tent camping options around Hickory, North Carolina extend beyond state parks into national forest lands at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet. The area's mixed hardwood forests create seasonal camping considerations, with oak and hickory trees providing dense shade in summer months while offering colorful backdrops during fall camping seasons. Water availability varies dramatically between developed and primitive sites, with backcountry campers often needing to carry all necessary water or rely on filtration systems.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 0.5-mile hike from Mortimer Campground leads to Thorps Creek Falls, perfect for summer swimming. "Beautiful, clean grounds with access to a 1/2 mile round trip hike to a waterfall on the property! Definitely plan ahead on provisioning bc it's about 45 mins drive into the national forrest," notes camper Tanner G. at Mortimer Campground.
Rock climbing: Beginner routes available at Crowders Mountain State Park. "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," shares Les R. at Crowders Mountain State Park Campground.
Gem mining: Day trip opportunities in Hiddenite, known for gemstones including emeralds and sapphires. "The campground is close to its namesake town of Hiddenite, which is a famous gem mining area known for gemstones such as hiddenite (spodumene), emeralds, sapphires, etc.," explains camper Myron C.
Creek hopping and swimming: Several campgrounds offer natural water features. "Lots of places to play on the river, rock hopping or swimming around the Jacob Fork Parking area," writes Danielle T. from Little River Backcountry Campground.
What campers like
Natural sound barriers: Creek-adjacent sites provide ambient noise for sleeping. "Many of the campsites are situated along Thorps Creek, so the sound of the creek can lull you to sleep," notes Chad K. at Mortimer Campground.
Wildlife preparation: Some campsites provide dedicated storage solutions. "The pit toilet had plenty of TP when we were there, and there was a central bear bin for use by all campers," reports Danielle T. about Little River campground.
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation sites offer relief from summer heat. "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," explains Kristen J. at Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Winter camping options: Some areas remain accessible during colder months. "Upper Falls Campground is amazing during winter," according to Austin W. who visited Upper Falls Backcountry Campground.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many campgrounds require significant travel on unpaved roads. "9 miles, minimum, of dirt roads getting in, so pack accordingly. Quick trips don't happen," warns Clementine K. about Mortimer Campground.
Varying hike-in distances: Walk-in sites range from 0.5 to 1.5 miles. "It isnt a rugged hike, but you must be prepared to pack everything in," explains Janet R. about Crowders Mountain State Park Campground.
Water source planning: Available water varies by location. "From the Little River campground, the closest water source is a creek 0.6 miles (1.2 miles round trip) away- filter it- the walk back to camp is a steep uphill," advises Danielle T.
Variable weather conditions: Mountain locations can experience rapid changes. "This is a wet area, but the rocket stove will give you a fire no matter what," notes LaRee S. at Self Sufficient Holler.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly terrain: Look for flatter trails with natural features. "The terrain is also flat and easy to hike through, making it a good long trail for beginners or children," suggests Jolie L. about Boone Fork Campground.
Swimming access considerations: Some water access points require steep descents. "We tried swimming at the base of Thorp's Creek Falls here, but the cray fish chased us out," cautions Tony E. at Mortimer Campground.
Site selection for privacy: Choose walk-in sites away from main traffic areas. "The 5 upfront are walk in, and more private. The about to be 12 in the back are pull in and much closer together," advises Clementine K.
Campground layout knowledge: Understanding site arrangements helps family planning. "There are actually two campgrounds, one with large group sites, and one with individual and family campsites," explains Janet R. about Crowders Mountain.
Tips from RVers
Water fill planning: Some sites lack direct hookups but provide central water stations. "They do not have water hookups- you fill your camper tank with water at the office area," explains Mandy R. at Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Size restrictions: Mountain roads limit RV size at many campgrounds. "The state maintained gravel road used to access campground was narrow and would be difficult to get a large camper up there, although there were lots of large ones there," notes Kristen J.
RV-appropriate site selection: Certain campgrounds offer better pull-in options. "A small trailer would fit, nothing big. No W/E/S but great place," advises Cody B. at Mortimer Campground.
