Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers a varied backcountry camping experience with five dedicated hike-in sites located approximately 1.5 miles uphill from the main campground. These remote sites provide creek-side camping with two positioned near a small waterfall. This region receives significant rainfall during summer months, with temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August, making water access particularly valuable for campers during peak season.
What to do
Rock climbing opportunities: Pilot Mountain State Park attracts climbers with its distinctive knob formation. "I've been here several times, and it's one of my favorite places for toprope climbing in the area. If you're not a climber, the views are still worth the drive," notes DrDavid P. from Pilot Mountain State Park Campground.
Paddling adventures: Several waterways offer boating options near Pinnacle. "We kayaked along the Yadkin River and camped at one of the canoe campsites. There was very little anemities at these particular sites but that was the point of our visit," reports Isaac O., who enjoyed the primitive canoe sites at Pilot Mountain.
Historic exploration: Mt. Airy (of Andy Griffith fame) provides unique attractions just minutes from Mayberry Campground. "Visiting downtown 'mayberry' is a must if you remember the TV show. Book a ride in the police car," recommends L T., who notes the town also offers "a variety of fast food places as well as many varied restaurants and BBQ's."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide stocked ponds for anglers. "Great place to fish and swim with the family," says Dawn V. about Beechnut Family Campground. Mayberry Campground features "2 good-sized ponds for catch and release" according to Nancy C.
What campers like
Private outdoor spaces: Many glamping accommodations near Pinnacle provide dedicated personal areas. "Our tent pad was also much lower than our campfire, which meant we could lay IN our sleeping bags and look out at the fire - which was awesome!" shares Kirsten J. about her experience at Pilot Mountain State Park Campground.
Elevated platform sites: Several campgrounds offer raised tent platforms that keep campers dry. "We tent camped on Aug 28. This was our first time setting up on a platform and it was very easy. Our site had a great view of the beautiful lake," reports Larisa C. about Oak Hollow City Campground.
Diverse accommodation options: The region offers specialized glamping for specific interests. "This is a great place to motorcycle camp. Clean showers, big fire pit, free coffee in the morning. Several restaurants nearby," notes John W. about Willville Motorcycle Camp, which caters exclusively to motorcyclists exploring mountain roads.
Cleanliness standards: Campers frequently mention well-maintained facilities. "Spent a month here. Had a nice end spot that allowed for a sneak peak of the mountains. Nicely laid out in levels that were nice. Great location for checking out the area too," reports Samantha about Mayberry Campground.
What you should know
Gate closure restrictions: Some parks enforce strict entry/exit times. "Be aware that the campground entrance closes at 10 pm. You will not be able to enter or exit until the gate opens the next morning," warns Shannon C. about Pilot Mountain, an important consideration when planning day trips.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant rainfall. "The campground sits on a hillside with multiple gravel roads. Although the landscaping is nice, there's no trees near any campsites for shade," notes Nancy C. about Mayberry, highlighting the need for sun protection at certain sites.
Reservation requirements: Stone Mountain State Park Campground has specific booking policies. "The park does require a two-night minimum stay if camping over a holiday weekend," states one visitor, pointing out an important planning consideration for peak periods.
Seasonal variations: Weather patterns affect camping experiences year-round. "We went in December and there wasn't many people there at all, maybe 4 other campers all weekend," reports Charli R. about Stone Mountain State Park, suggesting winter can offer solitude for those prepared for cooler temperatures.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreation for children. "This campground has so much going on, you really don't have to leave camp. Just sit back and relax," notes L T. about Mayberry Campground, which features "2 kids playgrounds" according to Nancy C.
Swimming options: Family-oriented campgrounds often include water recreation. "There is a nice pond (catch & release unless you want to pay), ping pong, rock mining, etc.," explains Jean C. about Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, adding that "In peak season, there's a pool."
Multi-generational accommodations: Some sites provide specialized family configurations. "Our campsite backed up to a hill, but it was shady and extremely welcomed during the hot days!" shares Brooke S. about Forest Lake RV and Camping Resort, which offers "2 adults only pools" for parents wanting relaxation time.
Safety considerations: Families appreciate secure environments. "Gated and campers are given individual codes to get in after hours," reports Cindy C. about Forest Lake, providing peace of mind for parents concerned about campground security.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Not all RV sites are created equal. "We were in site A3 right beside the stream. In this park, all the sites are dirt only, no paved pads, but do have rock fire rings," shares Martha S. about Beechnut Family Campground, noting that after heavy rain "wherever vehicles were parked on the ground, they left muddy ruts."
Utility considerations: Water and electric setups vary significantly between campgrounds. "I was expecting it to be much lighter for what you get. There are two bars in each packet and the weight is 5.5 ounces," explains a reviewer about supplies needed for backcountry sites at Stone Mountain, which lack hookups.
Leveling challenges: Terrain impacts RV parking. "Many sites are not level so plan ahead and bring extra levelers," advises Lisa A. about Oak Hollow City Campground, a practical consideration for RVers concerned about comfort and appliance functionality.