A
Alice W.
Scout
ScoutFS 289 Pull Off
Tranquil but out there!
Great spots out by a creek but be prepared to lose cell service driving through the park
Best Campgrounds in North Carolina
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
North Carolina's mountain-to-coast geography offers exceptional cabin camping opportunities within its diverse landscapes. Eight state parks feature cabin rentals, including Carolina Beach State Park and Stone Mountain State Park, both rated over 4.5 stars by visitors. Cabins range from rustic forest shelters to modern accommodations with full amenities, providing year-round options for those seeking an outdoor experience with more comfort than tent camping. Hanging Rock State Park Campground maintains cabins in a wooded setting with hiking trails, while Bear Den Family Campground offers cabin options near the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Many cabins require reservations months in advance, particularly during peak summer and fall color seasons. Weather considerations vary dramatically across regions, with coastal cabins experiencing hurricane season concerns from June through November, while mountain cabins may have winter access challenges during snow events. Elevation differences create distinct seasonal experiences, with mountain cabins offering cooler summer temperatures than their coastal counterparts. "We stayed here for our girls getaway in Alice's Queen Cottage and Alice's White Bunny Cottage. It was the 'best weekend ever' according to the little girls and big girls alike! Every detail of our stay was truly magical," noted one visitor describing their cabin experience.
Cabin amenities typically include electricity, beds, and basic furnishings, though specifications vary significantly between locations. Most state park cabins provide heat and air conditioning, while private campgrounds often feature more luxurious appointments. Lake Powhatan near Asheville offers cabin rentals with convenient access to the city's attractions while maintaining a natural forest setting. Several campgrounds, including Davidson River in Pisgah National Forest, feature cabins with picnic tables, fire rings, and proximity to recreation areas. Many cabin sites incorporate accessibility features, though potential renters should verify specific accommodations before booking. Firewood availability varies by location, with some campgrounds providing bundled wood for purchase while others require visitors to bring their own heat source.
Campground Showdown in North Carolina
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Best Camping Sites in North Carolina (1,041)
1. Oregon Inlet Campground — Cape Hatteras National Seashore
87 ReviewsNags Head, NCWebsite+1 (252) 441-6246$28 - $70 / night
"Though we were caught camping in what seemed to be a very dramatic North Carolina storm we made the best of it. Good location all around, close to the ocean and cool towns nearby."
"Oregon Inlet Campground is located on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. It is the first campground found on the island, very close to Nags Head, on the beach side of route 12."
2. Davidson River Campground
82 ReviewsPisgah Forest, NCWebsite+1 (828) 785-5337$37 - $84 / night
"Once again, interested in checking out as many waterfalls and cascades we could locate, the water flow will be so much more dramatic amidst heavy rainfall."
"We had a quick nights stay in Davidson River Campground after picking up our new SylvanSport GO tent trailer in nearby Brevard, North Carolina."
3. Carolina Beach State Park Campground
75 ReviewsCarolina Beach, NCWebsite+1 (910) 458-7770$27 - $75 / night
"Carolina beach state park is one of my favorite places to go in North Carolina. Not only does it have an awesome campground, but it's right near one of the best beaches I've ever been to."
"Had a great time camping and hiking around with my dog jinx. It was his first camping trip he seems to like it here as much as I did. be aware of the raccoons!!"
4. Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina
67 ReviewsEnka, NC+1 (828) 552-8040$37 - $135 / night
"The sites are spacious and well spaced, offering more privacy than many locations. The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There are numerous hikes that are on the grounds or just outside."
"PROS Discounted camp fee with senior pass
Reserved 169 days prior to arriving
Friendly and helpful gate attendant
Nearly 100% shade at each site
Excellent dark sky viewing
Private sites with"
5. Ocracoke Campground — Cape Hatteras National Seashore
59 ReviewsOcracoke, NCWebsite+1 (252) 928-6671$28 / night
"Paved, level parking pad on sandy grass sites tucked between the dunes and vegetation in Cape Hatteras National Seashore in the outer banks by of North Carolina."
"We spontaneously added two days onto our beach camping vacation at Bear Island and took the Cedar Island Ferry to Ocracoke after being away from the island for 7 years. Ocracoke in itself is a gem."
6. Stone Mountain State Park Campground
56 ReviewsRoaring Gap, NCWebsite+1 (336) 957-8185$17 - $72 / night
"But, ya know North Carolina summers."
"The site also had a huge area for the picnic table and the fire ring is far away from your camper. There was a huge grassy area behind our site with a creek, lots of space for our dog."
7. Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
53 ReviewsNew Hill, NCWebsite+1 (919) 362-0586$27 - $37 / night
"Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina!"
"Poplar Point is located on the banks of the lake in the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area."
8. Hanging Rock State Park Campground
53 ReviewsDanbury, NCWebsite+1 (336) 593-8480$27 - $110 / night
"Hanging Rock is one of the best state parks in North Carolina."
"Google Maps directions were inaccurate).At over 8,000 acres…offering trails of all length and difficultly level, multiple waterfalls, lake, scenic long views and picnic areas…it is no wonder it is claimed"
9. Smokemont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
54 ReviewsCherokee, NC+1 (828) 497-9270$30 / night
"Smokemont is a great campground in the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains. It is a perfect base camp to enjoy this amazing national park."
"We only stayed for 1 night but really enjoyed the campgrounds proximity to activities on the North Carolina side of the park."
10. Spacious Skies Bear Den
51 ReviewsSpruce Pine, NCWebsite+1 (828) 765-2888$24 - $999 / night
"Spacious Skies Bear Den in North Carolina offers an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure for families."
"Bear den was a perfect location for the Blue ridge parkway. We stayed at a two cabin lot that had a hot tub. Bear den has everything from RV camp sites to a game room."
Recent Camping Photos in North Carolina
2027 Photos of 1041 North Carolina Campgrounds
Recent Reviews in North Carolina
4949 Reviews of 1041 North Carolina Campgrounds
- CCarlos E.Scout
Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Crosswinds Campground July 2026
Decent campground in a beautiful location along Lake Jordan. Crosswinds Campground is one of several sites on the lake. We chose this location since the gates stay open all the time, while other sites have a curfew that can lock you out for the night.
The staff are super friendly and helpful. There’s apparently a camp host whom we never met and they’re on the site next to ours (not sure if they’re supposed to greet us or help us get acquainted with the site, but the staff member at check in was great and did all that when we arrived).
Loop C is quiet, very few children, and less road noise compared to the other loops, but doesn’t have the same access to the lake.
Site C50 is conveniently located close to the bath house, has a large fire pit with adjustable grill, picnic table, and hookups for water and electricity. We’re in a tent, so really just use the electricity. The picnic table here should be replaced, as the wood seems to be rotting, but still does the job. There are a few sites in loop C that do have direct access to the lake, but those tend to be booked all of the time. We explored one last night and couldn’t believe it was vacant and how much nicer it seemed.
Bathrooms are not as clean as I would like, but I bring disinfectant wipes to wipe the toilet before use. Showers are fine, but use an annoying motion sensor to turn the water on/off. Showering at night is annoying with the bugs because the bathhouse is lit like a beacon (probably for safety). Waiting for the daytime is a better experience. Also, there isn’t a washing station for dishes, and we do that at our site.
Firewood can be purchased by the staff at the campground entrance; however, the exact same firewood is almost $4 fewer at a Refuel station down the street. Definitely stop into that gas station store for things you might need.
Overall, really good experience staying here, some annoying things, but won’t ruin your stay.
- kkathy U.Scout
Buck Creek
Amazing
I’m thrilled to give this campground my highest recommendation! The owners and staff couldn’t have been more accommodating, helpful and kind! We called that morning because the campground we were booked at turned out to be awful. They fit us in and then we ended up extending our stay. We had to keep moving sites because they had other campers coming in, but it was worth it! Our favorite sites was 54 and 27. Some sites are close, but all are on the creek so you don’t notice it at all! Nothing better than waking up to the sound of water! The campground location is perfect, 20-30 minutes from things to do like hiking and wineries.
Jim S.
GuideMount Pisgah Campground
Cool Change
Typical National Park Campground.Sites are small but spread apart.Not many that we could fit 28 foot Airstream .Clean restrooms and free showers. The rangers are very friendly. Very professional and helpful. The restaurant is great but you need to make a reservation.
- JJoel L.Scout
Nantahala National Forest Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area
Lovely
I haven’t finished my stay but so far so good… It has all the basics that are needed. Toilet, shower, drinking water… The noise is minimal and what should be expected at a campground. The staff are very attentive. A storm rolled through and they were through right as it was over to make sure everyone was alright.
Seth F.
TravelerConley's Creek Campground
A beautiful campground with wonderful hosts
The campground is in a great location and is beautifully maintained. The hosts, Anne and Chris, are very friendly and gave us great recommendations for local activities.
It is now one of my favorite campgrounds and I highly recommend it.
- PPaul R.Traveler
Rolling View — Falls Lake State Recreation Area
Great tent camping sites
First time to Loop C and we loved it. There are some great sites here, they are big and most are decently spaced. It rained heavily while there, some sites will hold water, but I didn’t see any fully submerged. There’s no electrical hook ups, there are a few potable water spickets throughout the loop. The bathroom was very clean.
Colin R.GuideBalsam Mountain Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Nice and cool in the summer
A very nice and clean campsite. The toilets are clean, and they have a dish washing station. No showers or hot water. If using the toilet after dark, take a flash light, there's no electricity here.
The best part is because of the high elevation, it's about 20 degrees cooler up here than the surrounding areas. Also, it's very quiet too.
However, because of the small winding roads, you won't get a RV or Travel Trailer up here over 20 ft in length. Mainly tent and teardrop campers. Only one 18ft long travel trailer here during my visit.
Melinda G.ScoutPeaceful Cove Campground
Great little campground!
We rented Andy’s RV and had a great time! Unfortunately the weather didn’t cooperate until the end of our trip, but the camper was superb. Fully stocked with everything we needed - even the makings for s’mores. If you’re looking for a campground with lots of amenities, this is not for you. If you want a great, peaceful place to stay on the river, it’s perfect. Nearby attractions in Franklin and Cherokee. 5+ stars!!
Guide to North Carolina
Camping in North Carolina offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, diverse campgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there's something for everyone.
What to do
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Morrow Mountain State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One camper mentioned, “Lots of hiking nearby. Beautiful area! Highly recommend.”
- Fishing and Boating: Campgrounds near lakes, such as Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area, offer fishing and boating opportunities. A visitor shared, “The lake is swimmable from any point and you have use of the entire campgrounds area.”
- Wildlife Watching: Campers at Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area enjoyed observing wildlife. One reviewer said, “Lots of wildlife to watch (turtles, fish, birds and more).”
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Rolling View — Falls Lake State Recreation Area are praised for their beautiful lake views. A camper noted, “Our site is fantastic, really large and overlooking the lake.”
- Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Moccasin Branch Campground — Raven Rock State Park, one visitor remarked, “The bathhouse is clean and modern.”
- Privacy: Campers enjoy spacious sites that offer a sense of seclusion. A review for Badin Lake Campground mentioned, “The sites are huge, level, and clean.”
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, have fewer amenities. A camper pointed out, “There’s no electric hookups, no fires allowed, and no showers.”
- Noise Levels: Campgrounds near airports, such as William B. Umstead State Park Campground, can be noisy. One visitor said, “You will hear planes all day and most all night landing and taking off.”
- Booking in Advance: Popular sites can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Jordan Lake State Recreation Area advised, “I would highly suggest booking in advance since waterfront sites book up quick.”
Tips for camping with families
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. One reviewer at Hagan-Stone Park mentioned, “Very nice playgrounds. Does cost and long waiting line at pool, but one of the best to just get away and relax.”
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A camper at Holly Point noted, “We were a short walk to the lake to fish and hang out near the water.”
- Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals and snacks. A family camping at Morrow Mountain State Park found it convenient, saying, “The sites are not too close together. Lots of hiking nearby.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Crosswinds Campground mentioned, “Each site has water and electric hook-up. Sewer however is a dump station.”
- Use Dump Stations Wisely: Plan your trips to the dump station to avoid long waits. A visitor at Moccasin Branch said, “The RV campground is well spaced and has full hookup.”
- Stay Connected: Some areas may have limited cell service. A reviewer at Rolling View noted, “Cell/Internet coverage is non-existent, unless you can get to a high Vista lookout.”
Camping in North Carolina has its quirks, but with the right preparation, you can have a fantastic time exploring the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best season for camping in North Carolina?
When is the best season for camping in North Carolina?
Fall (September-November) is widely considered the prime camping season in North Carolina, offering comfortable temperatures, stunning foliage, and fewer crowds. Smokemont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park showcases spectacular autumn colors while providing a perfect base to explore the less crowded North Carolina side of the park. Spring (April-May) brings beautiful wildflowers, though occasional rain showers occur. Summer camping at Bullocksville Campground — Kerr Lake State Recreation Area offers excellent water recreation opportunities, though humidity can be high. Winter camping is possible in many lower-elevation areas, particularly along the coast, but mountain campgrounds often close seasonally. Always check specific campground availability as schedules vary by location and elevation.
What are the most scenic mountain camping destinations in North Carolina?
What are the most scenic mountain camping destinations in North Carolina?
North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains host some of the most breathtaking camping destinations in the eastern United States. Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers a slice of nature paradise with scenic views and tranquil surroundings. Oregon Inlet Campground — Cape Hatteras National Seashore provides dramatic coastal mountain vistas where you can camp near both ocean and mountains. Stone Mountain State Park features impressive granite domes and cascading waterfalls surrounded by mountain vistas. Davidson River Campground in Pisgah National Forest offers stream-side camping amid lush forests with access to numerous scenic trails. Throughout the western part of the state, the Blue Ridge Parkway provides access to multiple scenic camping areas with spectacular mountain panoramas and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
What are the best camping spots in North Carolina for outdoor enthusiasts?
What are the best camping spots in North Carolina for outdoor enthusiasts?
North Carolina offers exceptional options for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure. Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area stands out with outstanding water access and recreational opportunities. For mountain biking and water sports enthusiasts, Jackrabbit Mountain provides direct access to biking trails and Lake Chatuge for paddleboarding right from lakeside sites. Other excellent options include Stone Mountain State Park for hiking and climbing, Davidson River Campground for fishing and forest exploration, and the Great Smoky Mountains campgrounds for immersive wilderness experiences. These destinations offer varied terrain from coastal settings to mountain vistas, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing throughout the state.
Where can I find private campgrounds in North Carolina with full amenities?
Where can I find private campgrounds in North Carolina with full amenities?
Indian Creek Campground offers some of the most relaxing creekside camping in North Carolina with full amenities. Each site is private, lush with greenery, and well-maintained. The campground features exceptionally clean bathhouses and a well-stocked camp store for necessities. Asheville East KOA provides comprehensive amenities with full hookups, clean facilities, and easy access to Asheville attractions. Other private options include Catawba Falls Campground (temporarily closed for 2025) near Asheville and various coastal KOAs. Many private campgrounds offer amenities such as full hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, swimming pools, game rooms, and organized activities, though rates are typically higher than public campgrounds.
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