Camping near Purlear, North Carolina offers varied terrain at elevations ranging from 1,200 to over 3,000 feet, creating notable temperature differences between valley and ridge campsites. The region's watershed includes the W. Kerr Scott Reservoir and stretches of the New River, North America's oldest river system. Summer temperatures typically remain 5-10 degrees cooler at higher elevation campgrounds compared to the surrounding Piedmont region.
What to do
Disc golf at Fort Hamby Park: The campground maintains an on-site disc golf course as part of its recreation offerings. A recent visitor noted, "Great place to launch a boat. Lake was gorgeous! Absolutely the easiest and cleanest dump station we have ever used! Well designed!"
Hiking at Stone Mountain State Park: The park features multiple trail systems ranging from moderate to strenuous difficulty levels. According to a camper, "Stone loop mountain trail is incredible! Long and strenuous but all ages were hiking it...homestead was so neat to walk around at the base of the mountain."
Mountain biking at Warrior Creek: The campground is known for extensive mountain biking trails built and maintained by volunteers. One visitor explained, "Super mt bike trails that have been built and maintained by volunteers who really care and ride the trails often. Solid facilities to camp. 10 to 15 minutes drive by car to the wilkesboro with plants of food and amenities."
Kayaking at Bandits Roost Campground: The reservoir provides multiple water recreation opportunities accessible from the campsite. A reviewer shared, "We camped here near end of July. This is a COE park and it was well kept, clean and easy to get to. Bike riding in the park is fun and there are plenty of areas to bike."
What campers like
Private sites at Stoney Fork Campground: This small 8-site campground offers a more secluded camping experience. As one camper reported, "Nice size campsites with privacy in between. We stayed here 4 nights and it was GREAT! Full hookup, and back in sites right on the creek."
Elevation benefits at Blue Bear Mountain Camp: Positioned at higher elevation, the campground offers relief from summer heat. A camper noted, "The people who own it are super friendly. The campsites are very spaced out. The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat."
Clean facilities at New River State Park: The park maintains well-kept bathhouses and common areas. According to a recent visitor, "The campgrounds were nice and spaced out, well maintained...we were right by a small stream that you could hear. The bathrooms and showers were well kept and clean."
Creek-side camping: Several campgrounds offer sites positioned along creeks and streams. A camper at Stoney Fork Campground shared, "It's right on a creek and it was lovely to drink morning coffee next to the water."
What you should know
Limited cellular coverage: Cell service is particularly spotty at higher elevations and in narrow valleys. A camper at Green Mountain Park noted, "Terrible cell service so be prepared to dish out $8 a day for internet."
Campground closures: Always verify operating status before planning a trip. One visitor to Warrior Creek reported, "Unfortunately we were unable to camp here. According to park ranger said this campground is closed for one year or longer. No explanation was given as to why."
Seasonal bathhouse limitations: Many campgrounds reduce services during colder months. At Green Mountain Park, a camper observed, "The bath house in the back had no hot water when we where there but the clubhouse definitely makes up for that."
Navigational challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. A visitor to Green Mountain Park cautioned, "You can't check in late because the road in is through a neighborhood and is windy, narrow and dark early because of the surrounding area."
Tips for camping with families
Wagon access at Stone Mountain: The park offers camping areas with varying accessibility options. A reviewer mentioned, "We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it."
Beach access at Fort Hamby Park: The swimming area provides family-friendly water recreation. According to a camper, "We spent some time at the nice lake beach that is part of the park. A good spot to cool off!"
Multiple recreation options: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds, swimming areas, and hiking opportunities. A visitor to Fort Hamby Park noted, "There is a swimming area, boat ramp, playground, volley ball court, and disk golf."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer wildlife sightings as part of the experience. One camper shared, "We checked out the backpack hike camp spots (5) they're a good hike (1.5 mile uphill) but so beautiful, on the creek, 2 are near a small waterfall."
Tips from RVers
Advance planning for Julian Price Park: The most desirable sites book quickly. A visitor noted, "The campsites are separated into several loops. One loop is closer to the lake, the other loop has more availability and quite a range of campsites."
Site selection at Stone Mountain State Park: The park offers varied RV site options with differing amenities. A camper reported, "I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups. The bathrooms were heated, clean and the men's bathroom had two showers."
Leveling considerations: Some campgrounds require additional preparation for RVs. One camper at Bandits Roost observed, "The actual campsites can be a bit tricky to park but overall great time."
Site size variations: Campgrounds offer different accommodations for larger rigs. A visitor to Fort Hamby Park explained, "Campsites are level and plenty long enough. Bathhouse was extremely clean. Hosts were very friendly and helpful."
