Camping sites near Richfield, North Carolina center around the Uwharrie National Forest, an area with elevations ranging from 300 to 1,000 feet. The region consists of hardwood forests interspersed with streams and Badin Lake, providing a variety of camping environments across primitive and established sites. During spring and fall, nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even when days are warm, requiring campers to prepare for temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Several sites at Badin Lake Campground offer direct lake access for kayaking. "We have stayed at Badin Lake campground a couple times and would recommend it to anyone that likes to kayak and fish. Being able to camp on the water and just slide the kayaks in and out is great," explains Ruth O.
Fishing spots: Bass and catfish are common catches in the area waters. Vincent S. from Deep Water Trail Camp reports, "Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground, and some damn good fishing. My friends both caught a couple of channel cats. One enormous female catfish we released because she had eggs on board."
Trail exploration: The region offers hiking trails with varying terrain around lake edges. According to Michael W., "Very remote and FREE. Lots of spots on both sides of the road. Lots of trails and wildlife." These trails provide good opportunities for wildlife spotting in less-traveled areas of the forest.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer separation between campsites. Katrin M. notes about Badin Lake Campground, "We had campsite 002 which was nice and shady and very private. It's a short walk over to the lake where the dogs enjoyed their swimming."
Affordable camping options: Several areas offer free or low-cost camping. Michael W. commented about Deep Water Trail Camp, "Remote grandeur... Really remote and FREE. Lots of spots on both sides of the road," while another camper noted Uwharrie Hunt Camp costs only $5 per night.
Reliable amenities: Despite the remote setting, many established campgrounds maintain quality facilities. At Cross Winds Family Campground, Cat R. found, "Picnic table, fire ring, playground, horseshoes, shower and toilets, laundry room; all on well maintained and beautiful clean grounds."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to camping areas vary significantly in quality. Kyle from Uwharrie Hunt Camp notes their campground is "Hunt camp off main road. Large size nobody else here in March but I'm sure as summer rolls around it fills up more." For some areas, high-clearance vehicles are required.
Seasonal popularity: The camping areas experience different usage patterns throughout the year. According to Shari G., "We hit this campground right at the perfect time of year, BEFORE the opening day of off-road vehicle season in April... If it is your thing, then by all means come on down, cuz this place is made for it."
Limited supplies: Pack in necessities as nearby stores have limited stock. Dave V. notes, "There is a small convenience store in Uwharrie, offering sandwiches and made-to-order food, but not much in the way of groceries. Another 10 miles and you'll be in Troy which has a bigger grocery store, and restaurants."
Tips for camping with families
Park activities: Dan Nicholas Park offers numerous family-friendly amenities. Lisa M. explains, "The kids take their bikes, but even without them, they stay plenty busy. The lake offers fishing, paddle boating and feeding the ducks and it's only a short walk from any campsite."
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. Bob B. describes Dan Nicholas Park's extensive offerings: "They have a mini train ride, sprinkler playground, a big regular playground, carousel, panning for gems, paddle boats, nature center, and shelters and picnic areas."
Wildlife viewing: Schedule time for animal watching as part of your trip. James H. shared, "The park is gorgeous and full of life. I saw plenty of frogs and tadpoles in the creeks, listened to a symphony of birds, and I'm pretty sure heard a few coyotes throughout the night."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific RV needs. At Arrowhead Campground, Mambo M. advises, "Great sites but hardly any are level so be prepared to manage that. Nice fire pits and grills - love having both."
Hookup availability: Electric sites are available at select campgrounds. Sam F. notes about Arrowhead Campground, "We had a crowd of 12 and booked one of the 'double' sites, which was well worth it. Massive fire ring, two picnic tables, flat ground for 6 tents."
Off-road access: RVers interested in off-road activities should choose specific campgrounds. Dave V. explains, "It appeared during my visit that most users were off-roaders with either 4x4's or quads. The onsite host advised that it is very popular with the off-road enthusiasts. Enclosed and flatbed trailers filled most of the sites."
