Stone Mountain State Park offers developed and primitive camping options within a 14,351-acre natural area near Roaring Gap, North Carolina. At an elevation of 2,305 feet, the park experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows near freezing. Camping facilities include both front-country sites with amenities and more remote backpacking options with limited facilities.
What to do
Hike to panoramic views: At Pilot Mountain State Park Campground, trails connect directly from the campground to mountain summit views. "I hiked to the top on the Grindstone Trail (about 2 miles) to the top and enjoyed an early morning view of the surrounding communities," shares one visitor. The park features hiking options rated from easy to strenuous.
Explore historic sites: Visit the homestead area at Grayson Highlands State Park where you can see a preserved cabin from early settlers. A camper notes, "If you like to cool off in the streams that you hike to this trail has many options to sit and enjoy. Very cool waterfall and aside from some modern day trash there is still the old wood stove and pantry in the cabin."
Float the river: Book a river trip at New River Canoe and Campground for a day of paddling. "Best canoeing and kayaking on new river, class 2 & 3 rapids on the 10 mile float, worth the $20 shuttle to take you up river to float right back to camp ground," says a camper who enjoyed the experience.
Spot wildlife: The region is home to wild ponies, deer, and various bird species. A visitor to Grayson Highlands mentioned, "We saw ponies, but more then that it's like you are on top of the mountain range, 'Lord Of The Rings' or something like that!" Many campgrounds have designated viewing areas or hiking trails that increase chances of wildlife sightings.
What campers like
Scenic water features: New River State Park campers appreciate the riverside sites. "Every spot here is close to the river! The gentle sound of the New river is the most peaceful sound!" says one camper. The river provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and paddling directly from camp.
Privacy between sites: Many campers value secluded spots. At Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, a visitor noted, "Like many KOAs, this has a combination of tent sites and well-equipped RV sites, ranging from back-in to pull-through as well as cabins. In addition to a pet play area, there are a few sites with pet backyards, fenced in areas for your pet to roam and play."
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities receive consistently positive reviews. A camper at Mayberry Campground shared, "Clean full hookup sites. Level, easy access. Close to Mount Airy. Only one bathroom but it's clean and has clean showers." Well-maintained restrooms with hot water are considered a significant plus by most reviewers.
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds in the area offer recreational options beyond hiking. "Great campground! It is about a 15 minute drive to 3 great wineries and walkable to the trail head for the Stone Mountain loop. Great amenities, and everything was very clean," reported one visitor to the region.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the area operate on limited schedules. Grayson Highlands State Park notes: "There are 23 sites here with water and electric hook-ups May-October, and this loop is available as primitive camping March, April, and November. During this time bathrooms are pit toilets only." Always check operating dates before planning a trip.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season and weekends. "I was there the first day the campground opened and it filled quickly. You'll definitely want reservations for a weekend stay," advises one Grayson Highlands camper. Most campgrounds accept reservations online or by phone.
Site variations: Terrain and amenities vary significantly between sites at the same campground. A visitor to Beechnut Family Campground observed, "The tent camping area is across a road from a stream, in a forest of tall trees, a very picturesque location. Each tent site had water, a picnic table, and a 30-amp electric outlet." Research specific site numbers before booking.
Weather preparation: Mountain weather can change rapidly. "We were very much hoping to take photos of the night sky, but there was a storm with wild winds and cold, so that didn't happen!" shared a camper. Pack layers and rain gear even during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Homeplace Recreational Park features a water park within the campground. "We camped here June 26-28 and had a great time. This place has an actual water park within the campground (although closed for COVID). We had FHU and were in site A3 right beside the stream," notes one family. The water features provide entertainment for children of all ages.
Kid-friendly hiking: Look for shorter trails with interesting features. "Great hikes and area for the family. Beautiful scenery and some great swimming holes," shared a visitor to the region. Many parks offer junior ranger programs or educational activities for children.
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "There's a nice area for a picnic with swings and other things for kids," mentioned a Grayson Highlands camper. These amenities provide entertainment options when families need a break from hiking or other activities.
Safety considerations: Campgrounds near water require extra vigilance. Homeplace Recreational Park has "a pond dam really close to our site and the rushing water will really lull you to sleep at night," which means families should be especially careful with young children near water features.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have sloped sites. A visitor to Pilot Mountain noted, "This campground is sloped, with rolling hills, which makes for a nice loop to walk dogs etc. Our tent pad was perfectly flat, and dry." RVers should bring leveling blocks and check site details before booking.
Access road considerations: Narrow mountain roads can present challenges. One camper at Fancy Gap KOA mentioned, "My only negative was that they had us camp up on the top of the hill and it was difficult to navigate back down, with some very sharp turns for our fifth wheel." Large rigs may want to research access routes before arrival.
Hook-up availability: Full-service sites are limited in some parks. "Small campground with a handful of FHU sites. Some sites have patio area on 'wrong' (street) side instead of curb side, so take a look at Google satellite map when booking. Sites 3, 7, 10 are among the best," advised an RVer staying near the area. Satellite views can help determine the best site for your specific RV configuration.
Dump station logistics: Some campers note limited dump facilities. "Didn't stay but did use the dump station for $17, so wanted to update info," shared a visitor to New River State Park, indicating that even non-campers can access these facilities for a fee.
