Best Campgrounds near Sanford, NC

The Sanford area of North Carolina features several developed campgrounds, with Jordan Lake State Recreation Area serving as a primary destination within 30 minutes of the city. The region includes established campgrounds like San-Lee Park directly in Sanford, and several options around Jordan Lake including Poplar Point, Crosswinds, and Parkers Creek campgrounds. These public lands accommodate various camping styles from tent sites to RV hookups, with some areas offering cabins and glamping opportunities. Mixed-use campgrounds predominate, with most facilities supporting both tent and RV camping, though amenities vary significantly between locations.

Seasonal considerations affect the camping experience throughout the year, with some campgrounds like Crosswinds operating on limited schedules (January to October). Most developed campgrounds in the area maintain clean facilities with electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities, particularly at the Jordan Lake properties. Road access is generally good with paved entrances to most established sites, though some primitive areas may require more careful navigation. Campers should be aware that alcohol is prohibited at most state-run facilities, despite this rule being commonly overlooked. Cell reception varies by carrier but remains surprisingly strong at many locations. As noted in one review, "We watched squirrels build nests and dig for nuts. The site was clean. The water and power worked. The campground was quiet but I imagine that's because it's early in the camping season."

Waterfront campsites receive consistently high ratings, particularly those with views of Jordan Lake. The majority of highly-rated campgrounds feature lake access, swimming areas, and boat launches. Sites with lake views tend to fill quickly during warm months, especially at Poplar Point and Crosswinds campgrounds. Many campers highlight the wooded nature of sites that provide privacy despite being in developed campgrounds. A review mentioned that "Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina" citing "heavily wooded forest paradise that delivers privacy and solitude" as a key benefit. Bathroom facilities vary in quality, with some campgrounds receiving praise for cleanliness while others draw criticism for infrequent maintenance of shower areas. Most campground loops provide different experiences, with some prioritizing lake views while others offer more seclusion among the pine forests.

Best Camping Sites Near Sanford, North Carolina (89)

    1. Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    51 Reviews
    New Hill, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 362-0586

    $27 - $37 / night

    "Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina!"

    "Poplar Point is located on the banks of the lake in the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area."

    2. Moccasin Branch Campground — Raven Rock State Park

    21 Reviews
    Mamers, NC
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 893-4888

    $27 - $75 / night

    "The campground is walking distance to Raven Rock trails and you get a free walk up pass to get in. We had a very good time and will definitely go back."

    "It is a place of beauty and next to cape fear river ,Has plenty of places to hike to and to camp."

    3. Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    New Hill, NC
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 362-0586

    $27 - $77 / night

    "This area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote. Like many state parks, this one excels in the services department. "

    "Located just 30 miles west of Raleigh, Jordan Lake provides 7 different access points throughout this amazing natural preserve. "

    4. San-Lee Park

    3 Reviews
    Sanford, NC
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 776-6221

    $15 / night

    "There are hiking and biking trails as well as kayaking and other water sports on the lake there."

    "Contrary to what has been written, I would highly recommend San-Lee Park to anyone looking for a short and easy escape from the nearby Raleigh-Durham area."

    5. Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park

    8 Reviews
    Mamers, NC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 893-4888

    $17 / night

    "The river is a short walk away from all the sites if you want to get a great picture with the sunrise. Overall, I definitely recommend."

    "There are a few sites and a pit toilet nearby but you can not see each other. I highly recommend!"

    6. Moonshine Creek Campground

    5 Reviews
    Balsam, NC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 586-6666

    $54 - $1250 / night

    "We weren’t sure before if it was a walk in area. The bathhouse for this area has two toilets and two showers.Each is completely private. There are outlets and sinks in all four."

    "The campground is conveniently located between Sylva and Waynesville and very close to the Blue Ridge Parkway."

    7. Jordan Dam RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Moncure, NC
    10 miles
    +1 (919) 770-6890

    "If you are looking for someplace close to Jordan Dam boat launch, or are looking for a long term site, this is for you."

    8. Cotton's Camp Ground

    1 Review
    Moncure, NC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 548-2644

    9. Goodwins RV Campground

    1 Review
    Moncure, NC
    11 miles
    +1 (919) 868-0973

    $50 / night

    10. Dickens RV Park

    1 Review
    Moncure, NC
    10 miles
    +1 (919) 776-1220
Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 89 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Sanford, NC

487 Reviews of 89 Sanford Campgrounds



Guide to Sanford

Camping near Sanford, North Carolina, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent or an RV.

What to do:

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • No alcohol allowed: Some campgrounds, like Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area, have strict rules against alcohol. A camper pointed out, "NO alcohol allowed."
  • Limited amenities: Campgrounds like Badin Lake Campground may lack certain facilities, such as showers. One reviewer said, "The bathrooms can be a bit rough, but they do the job."
  • Noise from nearby airports: If you're camping at William B. Umstead State Park Campground, be prepared for some noise. A visitor mentioned, "You will hear planes all day and most all night landing and taking off."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Morrow Mountain State Park Campground, where families can spread out. One camper said, "The sites are huge, level, and clean."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities, such as fishing or hiking, to keep kids entertained. A family at Poplar Point Campground enjoyed fishing and kayaking, saying, "We fished for hours, kayaked on the lake."
  • Check for playgrounds: Some campgrounds, like Hagan-Stone Park, have playgrounds for kids. A visitor mentioned, "Very nice playgrounds."

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for big rig-friendly sites: Campgrounds like Rolling View — Falls Lake State Recreation Area are accommodating for larger RVs. One RVer noted, "It easily accommodated our 39ft. Class A."
  • Check for dump stations: Make sure the campground has a dump station nearby, as mentioned by a camper at Moccasin Branch Campground, who said, "There is a water tank filling station and a dump station on site."
  • Be prepared for uneven sites: Some RVers have found that certain campgrounds have uneven sites. A visitor at Morrow Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, "We even had to just leave once because we couldn’t even begin to get our camper level."

Camping around Sanford, NC, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Sanford, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, Sanford, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 89 campgrounds and RV parks near Sanford, NC and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Sanford, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sanford, NC is Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 51 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Sanford, NC.

What parks are near Sanford, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Sanford, NC that allow camping, notably B. Everett Jordan Lake and Uwharrie National Forest.