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Best Campgrounds near Rutherfordton, NC

1,459 Reviews

The Rutherfordton area of North Carolina features a diverse range of camping experiences across multiple developed campgrounds. Four Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat stands out as a specialized dog-friendly destination with accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping options. Several miles east, Emberglow Outdoor Resort provides a family-oriented camping environment with 57 sites spanning traditional camping to unique lodging options like yurts and tiny homes. The region generally supports mixed-use campgrounds catering to different camping styles within proximity to natural attractions like Lake Lure and Chimney Rock.

Camping in the Rutherfordton vicinity typically remains accessible year-round, though some facilities operate seasonally. Most developed campgrounds maintain all-season availability with full hookups, while others like Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground operate on a seasonal schedule from April through October. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer and fall when the region experiences peak visitation. Most campgrounds feature level, gravel-based sites suitable for a range of RV sizes with varying amenities including electric hookups, water access, and dedicated pet areas. A visitor noted, "The region includes excellent hiking trails nearby, with Lake Lure and Chimney Rock only 20 minutes from many campgrounds."

Campers consistently highlight the resort-like amenities at several campgrounds in the area. The swimming pools at locations like Emberglow receive particular praise, with one reviewer describing it as "resort quality" and "the best I've been to at any hotel." Dog owners appreciate the specialized facilities at Four Paws Kingdom, where multiple dog parks, agility courses, and even a dog pond create what one camper called "18 acres of wonder open areas fenced in to keep your furry friends from running away." Family-friendly activities feature prominently in reviews, with amenities like jumping pads, playgrounds, and community fire pits mentioned frequently. Several visitors noted that despite planning to explore nearby attractions, they ended up spending their entire stay enjoying the campground facilities.

Map showing campgrounds near Rutherfordton, North CarolinaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Rutherfordton, North Carolina (285)

    1. Four Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat

    10 Reviews
    Rutherfordton, NC
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 287-7324

    "Over all, if you want the peace and quiet in the North Carolina foot hills with your furry friend and have a good time.  This is the place to be."

    "The gravel at our site was painful for our dog’s feet and they had a hard time walking on it. The dog parks made up for this! There are multiple large dog parks located at the campground."

    2. Emberglow Outdoor Resort

    13 Reviews
    Lake Lure, NC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 625-2205

    $40 - $350 / night

    "The tent sites are clustered together next to a stream in the woods, providing tons of shade on hot days.  "

    "The close proximity to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is an added bonus. The owners and staff were very friendly and helpful, but unobtrusive. I highly recommend Emberglow Campground."

    3. River Creek Campground

    6 Reviews
    Lake Lure, NC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 287-3915

    "pretty close to your neighbors. we did end up getting evacuated cause of rain which was a bummer."

    "The sites are near the River so you get to enjoy the running water sound as you sleep or relax. Can let your kids ride their bikes around with out worry and they are never out of site."

    4. Maple Ridge RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Rutherfordton, NC
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 577-3714

    $58 / night

    "Close to lake lure and chimney rock. Clean bathhouse and restrooms"

    5. Asheville East KOA

    52 Reviews
    Swannanoa, NC
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 686-3121

    $50 / night

    "As typical of a KOA, they shove you in there so you are very close to your neighbors. The stars of the park are the riverfront sites."

    "My only gripe (and I know it’s not a huge deal) is the trailer park situated right by the fence that separates from the KOA."

    6. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Golden Valley

    7 Reviews
    Bostic, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 417-0086

    "It was perfectly level and roomy with trees behind us. The bathrooms/showers are modern and spotless. We could only get a two night reservation, but that was enough."

    "Golf carts are a must to get around since the campground is so big! The kids enjoyed the water park, putt putt, gem mining, fishing, crafts and tie dying shirts."

    7. Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground

    11 Reviews
    Lake Lure, NC
    17 miles
    Website

    $26 - $62 / night

    "I loved camping at the edge of the river but know that it is loud and is a constant sound! The sites are right along the river and are a bit tight."

    "Nice place to visit and close to Chimney Rock"

    8. Foothills Family Campground

    5 Reviews
    Chesnee, SC
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 245-4064

    "Following highways signs looking for this campground I didn’t know what to expect. I was hoping for a tent site but wasn’t sure what I would find."

    9. Sovereign Fireside Glampground

    1 Review
    Rutherfordton, NC
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (513) 503-7479

    $25 - $150 / night

    "Sovereign Fireside Glampground has a great location near the national forests, but also easy access to some small town amenities.  Check them out and make sure to leave a review on the Dyrt!"

    10. Spacious Skies Hidden Creek

    15 Reviews
    Marion, NC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 652-7208

    $28 - $181 / night

    "Hidden Creek not only has a nice creek running through the campground within 20 feet of my site, but also the  nature trail is off the beaten path from the very active campground along a small river."

    "Gem mines, waterfalls, brewery and shopping in nearby Asheville. There is plenty to do year round, make sure to buy a family pass for games etc. they really cater to family oriented fun."

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Recent Camping Photos near Rutherfordton, NC

715 Photos of 285 Rutherfordton Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Rutherfordton, NC

1459 Reviews of 285 Rutherfordton Campgrounds

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC

    Great Sites on the Creek

    Some of the sites are pretty close but they’re separated enough to get some real quiet in the woods. Great time! Would love to come back in the summer and take average of being on the creek

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Mount Pisgah Campground

    October camping experience

    Well I checked when peak leaf season was supposed to occur and what to expect from temperatures. I also appreciate information from those that camped here. We were in site B26 interior of the loop. Unfortunately we weren’t able to get outside loop from the showers to the end. Interior from the showers to site 21 were okay. Ours on the other hand was one of the worst we’ve had. You had a steep 7 step down to picknick table and firepit. It was also in a low sumac shrub area that had a distinct smell. Campground was clean and facilities were well maintained. NPS staff were present despite the current shutdown in Washington! Limited cell service at the site. Best just up the parkway to the Mt. Pisgah picnic area parking lot.

    While we did hit peak color, I didn’t think that the cold front would be as intense. Temperature dropped below freezing and during the night it felt like gale force winds buffeting the GO. Definitely will pick a lower elevation for camping if it’s in October!

  • Katie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Upper Cove Creek - UCC2 Dispersed

    Okay spot

    Avery Road was closed so we ended up here. Not a whole lot of sites in the forest here. This site was fine, nothing special, but nothing bad. There’s a shallow creek that runs next to this spot.

  • L
    Oct. 18, 2025

    John H. Moss Lake Campground

    One of the best!

    This is a small, well kept, inexpensive campground on the bank of Moss Lake. The admins are great and give personal attention when needed but don’t bother you.

  • Sarah and Philip H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Spacious Skies Peach Haven

    Family Friendly Campground easy get to where you don't feel like you need to leave

    We have loved spacious skies. The campsites are well spaced and there are activities planned for the kids. The hiking trails were surprisingly nice and for a small campground. Everyone is friendly and family-oriented.

  • Tyler I.
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Orchard Lake Campground

    Always Welcoming

    Owners are great and very helpful, sites are always clean and welcoming!

  • Megan W.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5

    Great place

    We enjoyed the night/day with our kids! Sites are kind of small but absolutely beautiful surroundings. Zero signal, but can drive to the top of the road and you should get a bar to make a call.

  • C
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Steele Creek Park & Campground

    Extra fees

    Sooo...went to book online. Selected my site and started the payment process. I was greeted by a pop-up stating that if I want to lock in my site, I'd have to pay an additional $20 fee.

    Okay, let me get this straight: I reserve a specific site for specific reasons, then the campground tells me they have the right to move me to a site of their choosing unless I pay them an additional $20?

    No thanks. Just lost my business. I'm sure it's a nice place, but really?

Guide to Rutherfordton

Camping near Rutherfordton, North Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Davidson River Campground. One camper mentioned, "Hiked the North Slope nearly 4 miles wore out the dogs perfectly!" This area is great for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Lake Powhatan, offer fishing opportunities. A reviewer noted, "The best thing about Lake Powhatan is the nice hike around the lake and the fun little lake beach."
  • Swimming: If you're looking to cool off, check out the swimming hole at Davidson River Campground. One visitor said, "There is a nice swimming hole at camp."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Lake Powhatan stated, "The bathrooms were some of the cleanest we've seen."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peaceful environment. A camper at Davidson River Campground shared, "Every time I go, it’s always clean and quiet."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A review for Kings Mountain State Park said, "The park rangers are all nice and respectful."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell reception in many campgrounds. A visitor at Lake Powhatan noted, "We had very little cell service (Verizon)."
  • No Showers at Some Sites: Not all campgrounds have shower facilities. A camper at Mount Pisgah Campground mentioned, "The shower was almost painful."
  • Crowded Sites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A review for Paris Mountain State Park stated, "The sites are on top of each other."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. A parent at Asheville East KOA said, "There is a pool, playground, gaga ball pit, and fishing."
  • Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A review for Bear Den Family Campground mentioned, "Great campground. Big private sites."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring your own food or check if the campground has a store. A camper at Kings Mountain State Park noted, "The camp store has a small amount of camping equipment but very little grocery items."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to verify the size of the sites before booking. A review for Asheville East KOA mentioned, "Section A was extremely tight for navigating, parking, and camping."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds are near roads or train tracks. A visitor at Asheville East KOA said, "Trains come through near the park at all hours of the day and night."
  • Use Levelers: Many sites may not be perfectly level, so bring leveling blocks. A camper at Kings Mountain State Park advised, "Most sites were shady, but you must really check the site description or plan on bringing lots of levelers."

Camping near Rutherfordton, North Carolina, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in an RV or tent camping, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Rutherfordton, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, Rutherfordton, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 285 campgrounds and RV parks near Rutherfordton, NC and 22 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Rutherfordton, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rutherfordton, NC is Four Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat with a 4.9-star rating from 10 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Rutherfordton, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 free dispersed camping spots near Rutherfordton, NC.

What parks are near Rutherfordton, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Rutherfordton, NC that allow camping, notably Pisgah National Forest and National Forests in North Carolina.

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