Best Tent Camping near Raleigh, NC

State parks and public lands surrounding Raleigh, North Carolina offer diverse tent camping options ranging from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites. William B. Umstead State Park, located within Raleigh city limits at 8801 Glenwood Avenue, provides tent campsites with basic amenities in a forested setting. Just 20 miles north in Durham, Eno River State Park features primitive tent-only camping areas accessible via short hiking trails. Additional tent camping can be found at Cedarock Park in Burlington and San-Lee Park in Sanford, both within an hour's drive of Raleigh.

Most tent campgrounds in the Raleigh area feature gravel or dirt tent pads with fire rings and picnic tables. William B. Umstead State Park offers drive-in tent sites with access to showers and toilets, operating from March 15 to December 1. Eno River's primitive tent camping requires a 1-2 mile hike to reach designated sites, with no running water available at campsites. Campers should bring water filters or carry sufficient water supplies. The MST Section 23 Falls Lake camping area provides hike-in tent sites approximately one mile from roadside parking, but requires strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles as it's located on private property with a two-night maximum stay.

Tent campers frequently mention aircraft noise at William B. Umstead State Park due to its proximity to RDU International Airport. According to reviews, sites at Umstead are "10x10 designated for your tent, picnic table and fire ring" with some positioned very close together. At Eno River State Park, campers report that "the primitive sites are spaced far enough apart that it truly feels like solitude," with Piper Creek being a favorite location requiring a "flat and easy 1.2 mile hike in along the river." Walk-in tent sites at Cedarock Park are described as "super flat, which makes finding someplace comfortable to set up a tent much easier," with each site including a fire pit and ample space for tents.

Best Tent Sites Near Raleigh, North Carolina (11)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Raleigh, NC

371 Reviews of 11 Raleigh Campgrounds



Guide to Raleigh

Raleigh, North Carolina, offers a variety of tent camping options that allow you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the convenience of nearby amenities.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Tent campers should check out local attractions

Unique features of these campgrounds

  • The Lake Michie Recreation Area is known for its secluded and quiet environment, making it a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
  • Campers at San-Lee Park can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including hiking trails and a beautiful lake perfect for fishing and paddle boating.
  • The RTP Lakefront Campsite - Campground offers a unique lakefront experience, allowing campers to bring their kayaks or canoes for a day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Raleigh, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Raleigh, NC is William B. Umstead State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 18 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Raleigh, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.