Camping spots near North Wilkesboro, North Carolina range in elevation from 950 feet at W. Kerr Scott Reservoir to over 3,500 feet at nearby mountain parks. The region experiences moderate temperatures with summer highs typically in the 80s and winter lows averaging in the 30s. Several campgrounds remain closed seasonally from November through March due to freezing temperatures and potential snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Stone Mountain State Park Campground provides direct access to multiple waterfall trails, including the 4.5-mile Stone Mountain Loop Trail. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," notes camper Joe B. The park also features a historic homestead visitors can explore at the base of the mountain.
Mountain biking: Warrior Creek offers extensive mountain biking trails built and maintained by dedicated volunteers. "Super mt bike trails that have been built and maintained by volunteers who really care and ride the trails often," explains Kim L. The trail system connects directly to the campground and provides varied difficulty levels for different skill sets.
Winery visits: Campers at Byrd's Branch Campground can hike directly to nearby wineries. "Lots of trails nearby, even one that leads you to a winery!" says a reviewer. Another camper adds, "We were tired, so we drove. The winery was gorgeous and the proprietors were so kind. We went on Sunday when they had brick oven pizza - reservations are required."
What campers like
Two-level campsites: Many sites at COE W Kerr Scott Reservoir Bandits Roost Campground feature unique tiered designs. "The site had a fire pit, grill, picnic table and a food prep table next to the grill. The site was 98b and was on the side of a hill. Rather than having one large area, it was divided with an upper and lower section connected by steps," explains Jeff S. This design provides natural separation between parking and living areas.
Privacy between sites: Many campers praise Fort Hamby Park for its secluded campsites. "Not being able to see any of our neighbors made us feel so much more remote than we were! I liked being able to go into town if we needed something and come back to wilderness," says Kirsten J. The campground features well-spaced sites set back from roads.
Off-season tranquility: During fall and early spring, campgrounds like Doughton Park Campground offer peaceful experiences. "At the end of October there were only three other campers in the whole tent side of the campground," notes Kelsey M. Many campgrounds in the region operate at reduced capacity during shoulder seasons.
What you should know
Winter closures: Most Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds close completely during winter months. Bandits Roost Campground operates only from April to October, while Stone Mountain State Park remains open year-round. A reviewer at Warrior Creek noted: "Unfortunately we were unable to camp here. According to park ranger said this campground is closed for one year or longer."
Shower facilities vary: Bathroom quality differs significantly between campgrounds. Sandy Creek Family Campground received mixed reviews with one camper noting, "the shower house was the worst of any campground I have ever seen. Dirty, plumbing was a mess." Meanwhile, Stone Mountain State Park features "heated, clean" bathroom facilities with "two showers" in each men's restroom.
Some roads are challenging: Several campgrounds have narrow access roads that may present difficulties. Fort Hamby Park has "windy roads [that] are narrow in many places, with little or no shoulder," according to one visitor. Others note that the upper campground at Moravian Falls Campground presents a "challenge to say the least" for larger RVs.
Tips for camping with families
Easy water access: Fort Hamby Park offers a designated swimming area that's popular with families. "Our sites were creek side. The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground," reports Ann H. The campground also features "a playground, volleyball court, and disk golf" for additional recreation options.
Look for educational opportunities: New River State Park provides interactive learning experiences. "The nature center was very interactive and great for kids," says Lisa T. The park also offers junior ranger programs during summer months and maintains educational exhibits about the New River's history and ecosystem.
Seek out wildlife viewing: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers frequent wildlife sightings. "We have stayed here with a tent n now a camper. Clean sites n most sites r pretty level," notes Connie M. Another visitor mentioned, "Lots of nice spot, tons of wildlife and deer. Plenty of hiking and nice shower house."
Tips from RVers
Electrical reliability: Some campgrounds experience power issues. Sandy Creek campers reported "some problems with their power staying on" during peak season. Fort Hamby Park provides reliable service with "water and electric, but no sewer" hookups and "a dumpsite near the front office."
Site layout matters: At Warrior Creek, "Spaces are pretty close together and open, so you'll see your neighbor," according to one camper. Conversely, Fort Hamby Park sites are "well graveled and level, with picnic table, fire-ring, and lamp hanging posts."
Dump station access: The location and design of dump stations varies significantly between campgrounds. One visitor to Sandy Creek noted "the dump station was the worst," explaining, "It was on the hill so you had to back up to it and it wasn't easy location to do so." By contrast, Fort Hamby Park features "absolutely the easiest and cleanest dump station we have ever used! Well designed!"
