McDowell Nature Preserve, located 12 miles southwest of Pineville, offers tent and RV camping on Lake Wylie's shores with sites featuring electrical hookups even at tent areas. The 1,132-acre woodland preserve provides a natural camping experience despite proximity to Charlotte, with campsites situated in a gated area patrolled regularly for security. Trails through the woods connect directly to camping areas, allowing immediate access to nature exploration.
What to do
Lake activities at McDowell Nature Preserve: Access to Lake Wylie provides fishing and paddling opportunities within walking distance of campsites. "We loved the education center, the small walking trails and lakeside area. Staff were polite and helpful," notes a reviewer about McDowell Nature Preserve.
Free mini-golf at Cane Creek Park: Located 15 miles southeast of Pineville, this park offers free putt-putt golf as part of the camping experience. "The mini golf is free and a blast. The swim area is only open on Saturdays or you can drive to the day use side and be over there," reports a camper.
Hiking trails at Crowders Mountain State Park: Located about 24 miles west of Pineville, the park offers varied terrain for day hikes from campgrounds. "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," explains one visitor.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Campground washrooms near Pineville feature modern amenities. "Washrooms are incredible! Newly renovated at the time, and clean!" mentions a McDowell Nature Preserve visitor, while a Lake Norman camper notes, "The bathhouse is new and well maintained."
Shaded campsites at Lake Norman State Park: Located 40 miles north of Pineville, sites feature ample tree cover for summer comfort. "The trees here offer a great span for my hammock also. This campsite is located right on Lake Norman, which can be seen from some of the sites on the far side of the park," explains one visitor.
Diverse glamping options: The region offers various upgraded camping experiences beyond traditional tents. "Friendly host, close to lake and well shaded, clean bathrooms, large enough tent sites, great for families," mentions a Lake Norman visitor, describing accommodations suitable for luxury camping preferences.
What you should know
Campsite size considerations: Some parks have limitations for larger equipment. "There aren't many sites for RVs and some are not level - hard to get trailer level even with max leveling blocks," notes a visitor to McDowell Nature Preserve.
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect camping experience. "Had it not been for the monsoon rain storms we would've loved our trip but that is in the hands of Mother Nature no one else's," shares a McDowell camper about spring conditions.
Wildlife encounters: Local campgrounds host various wildlife. "Abundant wildlife including copperheads. Decent fishing for crappie and bass," mentions a visitor to Andrew Jackson State Park, located 20 miles south of Pineville.
Tips for camping with families
Holiday activities: Some parks offer special programming during peak times. "Holidays usually have some activities for kids. The mini golf is free and a blast," notes a Cane Creek Park visitor about organized events.
Swimming options: Water recreation varies by park and season. "They offer swimming in the lake starting after Memorial Day," explains a visitor to Morrow Mountain State Park about their facilities, while Cane Creek Park offers "Lake, hiking trails and nice wooded campsites with fire rings and close proximity to bath houses."
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "The campground is nice to roam with a wonderful playground," shares an Andrew Jackson State Park visitor about their family amenities.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection at Morrow Mountain State Park: Located 45 miles east of Pineville, site topography varies. "So, if you end up in a crap site you might drop those 4 stars to 3. Its going to be impossible to determine a great site from a bad without going there," warns one camper about selecting appropriate spots for larger rigs.
Full-hookup availability: Services vary between parks. "We spent the last few days at the Carowinds Camp Wilderness campground in Site 70 with full hook-ups. Sites were clean, level, and reasonably spaced," notes a visitor about the practicalities of RV camping near Pineville.
Reservation tips: Book early for popular glamping options near Pineville. "Very busy during the summer months. Lots of hiking trails, with lots of people using the grills etc.," mentions a Lake Norman visitor about peak season occupancy.
