Best Tent Camping near Old Fort, NC

Pisgah National Forest surrounding Old Fort, North Carolina offers diverse tent camping options ranging from established campgrounds to remote backcountry sites. Tent campers can choose between the walk-in sites at Catawba River in Lake James State Park, just 15 miles east of Old Fort, or the more primitive dispersed camping areas throughout Pisgah National Forest. Black Bear Campground provides tent-only sites with basic amenities, while Maple Camp Bald offers backcountry tent camping for those seeking more seclusion and stunning mountain views.

Tent sites in this region typically feature natural, ungraded surfaces that may include forest duff, dirt, or occasional gravel pads. Most primitive tent campgrounds require campers to bring their own water or have reliable filtration systems for nearby streams. Fire rings are common at established sites, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply during dry periods. Bear activity is prevalent throughout the area, making proper food storage essential for tent campers. The Pisgah National Forest dispersed camping areas follow standard 14-day stay limits and require campers to set up at least 100 feet from water sources and 1,000 feet from developed recreation areas.

Walk-in tent sites at Catawba River campground provide a balance of accessibility and privacy. According to one camper, "The sites were all so unique and cozy in a little circle path that takes you down by the water. So many nice little places to hang a hammock and relax." For those seeking backcountry tent camping experiences, Maple Camp Bald requires a 6-mile hike but rewards with exceptional views. One visitor noted, "There are 3-4 areas to set up camp, two of them could accommodate multiple tents. An amazing spot to admire sunrises if the weather cooperates." Most primitive tent camping areas lack facilities, so campers should be prepared to practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and properly disposing of human waste.

Best Tent Sites Near Old Fort, North Carolina (78)

    1. Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Barnardsville, NC
    14 miles

    "Definitely some disrespectful neighbors but sites aren't closely packed. Get there early as possible as people can post up for a week there. Great launch pad for hiking and mountain biking."

    "It wasn't officially designated but it was used as a campsite. You'll need four wheel drive to get in and out of it though."

    2. Black Bear Campground

    5 Reviews
    Marion, NC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 803-5819

    $21 - $36 / night

    "Excellent campground there’s ice and firewood so you don’t have to make special trips to the nearest convenience store. They charge it directly to your card. The host was wonderful."

    "This is a brand new tent and cabin campground built by Duke Energy and run by McDowell county on Lake James."

    3. Briar Bottom Group Campground

    2 Reviews
    Montreat, NC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 675-5616

    $125 / night

    "Briar Bottom Campground is located in the heart of Pisgah National Forest, close to several hiking trails."

    "Bathrooms are shared with other group sites. Outdoor spicier at every site along with picnic tables under shelter and a campfire ring. Great spot to take the family. We went for 6 years straight."

    4. Maple Camp Bald

    3 Reviews
    Pisgah National Forest, NC
    11 miles
    Website

    "A little below where we set up camp, we found a natural spring for water and theres a decent amount of firewood around. We parked at the top of Mt."

    "It’s a 6 mile hike up Maple Camp Ridge on trail 191 (Buncombe Horse Range) starting from a small parking lot close to Carolina Hemlocks Campground."

    5. Paradise Ridge Permaculture

    3 Reviews
    Swannanoa, NC
    13 miles
    +1 (828) 707-7607

    $20 - $30 / night

    "I have cleaned out about an acre for tent or hammock camping, another acre for shared areas, and the pasture has about an acre wide open for dogs, horses or other well mannered animals."

    "She showed us around the grounds which has horses, pigs, chickens, a natural spring, and fruits/vegetables/mushrooms growing around the property."

    6. Sage Nesbitt Farm

    1 Review
    Gerton, NC
    12 miles
    +1 (252) 723-0099

    $120 - $35 / night

    "Happy to welcome this new listing to our platform. Check them out, and come back here to leave them some love!"

    7. Mila's Bunny Farm

    1 Review
    Burnsville, NC
    16 miles
    +1 (828) 284-6942

    $40 - $75 / night

    "Mila's Bunny Farm has a secluded tent site for those looking for a nice escape to this beautiful area.  Check them out and share some pics from your stay!"

    8. Catawba River — Lake James State Park

    1 Review
    Linville, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 544-6800

    $27 / night

    "We stayed at the Catawba River campground which you can park and walk-in to your campsite. The sites were all so unique and cozy in a little circle path that takes you down by the water."

    9. Paddy's Creek — Lake James State Park

    2 Reviews
    Linville, NC
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 544-6800

    $27 / night

    "I needed some lake time and it didn't disappoint!

    The campground is a 2-minute drive (6-minute bike ride) down to the beach and there is a huge swimming area there."

    "We visited the Paddy Creek campground at Lake James last year. The campsite was impeccably maintained with the cleanest bath/shower house I have ever experienced camping."

    10. Hot Springs Campground

    29 Reviews
    Hot Springs, NC
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 622-7676

    "Situated along the beautiful French Broad River."

    "Beautiful campground with great campstore right at the entrance that sells everything. Large campsites with great privacy foliage, picnic tables, & fire rings."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 78 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Old Fort, NC

1486 Reviews of 78 Old Fort Campgrounds



Guide to Old Fort

Nestled in the beautiful landscapes of North Carolina, Old Fort offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.

Tips for tent camping near Old Fort

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Features that enhance your camping experience

  • Black Bear Campground offers clean facilities, including showers and picnic tables, making it a comfortable choice for families.
  • At Catawba River — Lake James State Park, you’ll find unique, cozy sites nestled by the water, ideal for relaxing and fishing.
  • Experience the charm of Mila's Bunny Farm, where you can camp in a peaceful setting surrounded by friendly animals and nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Old Fort, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Old Fort, NC is Pisgah National Forest Dispersed with a 4.3-star rating from 13 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Old Fort, NC?

TheDyrt.com has all 78 tent camping locations near Old Fort, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.