Crowders Mountain State Park offers backcountry tent camping accessible via the Pinnacle Trail, approximately one mile from the Sparrow Springs entrance. Sites require reservations through the North Carolina State Parks system, with campers needing to carry all equipment and supplies. The terrain around Kings Mountain features elevations reaching 1,705 feet at Crowders Mountain and 1,625 feet at Kings Pinnacle, with moderate to strenuous hiking required to reach camping areas.
What to do
Tent camping with mountain views: Crowders Mountain State Park Campground offers rustic backcountry camping with specific access requirements. "Crowder Mountain State Park is indeed a perfect place for day use--but in contrary to what some previous reviewers mentioned, it is also a neat place to camp if you don't mind a one mile hike in to the campground," notes Janet R. The campground requires preparation for self-sufficient stays.
Lakeside recreation: Fishing and water activities are available at McDowell Nature Preserve, located 25 minutes from Kings Mountain. "Nice open spaces with shade. No views to speak of but several short trails and nice areas around Lake Wylie. Clean facilities and secured gate with easy access after hours for paid campers," explains Nora C. The preserve provides water access without long drives.
Farm experience: Triple J Farm and Campground offers four distinct yurts for glamping close to Kings Mountain, North Carolina. The property combines farm activities with glamping accommodation, providing a unique agricultural experience within a short drive of Kings Mountain. The yurts include picnic tables and fire rings with firewood available for purchase on-site.
What campers like
Accessibility to hiking: Tent campers appreciate the direct trail connections at Crowders Mountain. "It isnt a rugged hike, but you must be prepared to pack everything in," states Janet R., highlighting the moderate difficulty level. The backcountry camping area connects to multiple trail systems, including paths to mountain overlooks.
Privacy and quiet atmosphere: Hippie Holler specializes in secluded glamping near Kings Mountain. The property features glamping accommodations with distinctive solar lighting and a peaceful environment away from crowds, making it popular with those seeking tranquility during their stay.
Clean facilities: Lake Norman State Park Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "I have camped all across the US and this was the nicest and cleanest campground I have ever been in. Fantastic experience," shares Andrew G. The park provides well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities throughout the year.
What you should know
Pack-in requirements: For Crowders Mountain backcountry camping, visitors must be prepared to carry all supplies and equipment. "You must be prepared to pack everything in. The part of the park that is best to go to is the Sparrow Springs access," advises Janet R. The check-in process requires registration at the park office before hiking to sites.
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures near Kings Mountain typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing. "We stayed at Crowders Mountain in December, and the weather only required a sweatshirt," mentions Les R., noting the often mild winter conditions that can still vary significantly.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations near Kings Mountain require advance booking, with peak season (April-October) often filling months ahead. Some locations like Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort have seasonal operations. "Prices are rather expensive during the season, but reasonable off-season," notes Bob F.
Tips for camping with families
Moderate hiking options: When glamping close to Kings Mountain with children, select trails appropriate for younger hikers. "The hike to the top was a little strenuous for smaller kids. The trails were also pretty crowded," reports Lisa L. about Crowders Mountain, suggesting morning hiking to avoid crowds.
Swimming access: McDowell Nature Preserve offers lake access suitable for families, with designated swimming areas available seasonally. "We loved the education center, the small walking trails and lakeside area. Staff were polite and helpful," shares I R., though noting "It's a shame you can't swim in the lake from the beach."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Nature-focused families should pack binoculars for wildlife spotting. "We fished, rode bikes, hiked and saw plenty of wildlife," says Caleb S. about Lake Norman State Park, where deer sightings are common along trails near camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Many glamping sites near Kings Mountain have size restrictions for vehicles. "The roads in the campground are dirt, rutted, and steep. I am glad we unhooked our Jeep before navigating our RV to the site," warns Kevin A. about Foothills Family Campground, located about 40 minutes from Kings Mountain.
Leveling challenges: RVers should bring sufficient leveling blocks when staying in the area. "There aren't many sites for RVs and some are not level - hard to get trailer level even with max leveling blocks," cautions Kathy L. about McDowell Nature Preserve, where terrain can be uneven.
Full hookups availability: Select locations offer complete RV services within 30 minutes of Kings Mountain. "The site was level, clean with full hook-ups. The price was very reasonable," mentions Kevin A., noting that most full-service RV sites in the region are occupied by seasonal or long-term campers.
