Campgrounds around Elm City, North Carolina benefit from the area's gentle topography with elevations averaging 90-120 feet above sea level. Located in the upper coastal plain, this region experiences humid subtropical weather with daytime temperatures averaging 89°F in summer and 51°F in winter. Weather patterns create high humidity levels in summer months, making spring and fall particularly favorable for tent campers seeking comfortable sleeping temperatures.
What to do
Hiking trails accessible year-round: At Medoc Mountain State Park Campground, visitors can explore over 10 miles of hiking trails through diverse terrain. "This campground appeared to be very clean and well kept. I am disappointed that we were only there for a night traveling south. If I'm in the area will definitely come back," notes one camper. The park features both easy trails suitable for beginners and more challenging routes.
Fishing without licenses: RVacation Campground provides a stocked fishing pond where camping guests can fish without requiring a state fishing license. According to a visitor, "Full hook ups. Level spots. Pretty lake to look over. Easy on and off the highway and easy access to shopping and RV store. No frills but worth the money." The pond is maintained year-round and offers a convenient fishing option.
Swimming during hot months: Several campgrounds provide swimming options to combat the summer heat. "We spent one night here in April. It was great! There are some pretty easy hiking trails, great for kids. Really beautiful wooded area. The campground was everything you could ask for! Large, level sites that are very secluded and far apart from each other," reports a visitor to Cliffs of the Neuse State Park Campground, which offers a designated swimming area from late May through early September.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Campers consistently appreciate the roominess at Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area, where sites provide ample separation. "Large park with a hodgepodge of level sites and not so much. Boat ramp, swim beach and a small amphitheater. No water sites with electric," notes one reviewer. Many campsites offer a combination of open spaces and natural screening.
Clean, modern bathhouses: Several campgrounds maintain high standards for their facilities. A guest at Medoc Mountain State Park commented, "No cell service! Clean restrooms, hot showers! Camp host and rangers are great!" These facilities typically include individual shower stalls with hooks for belongings and regular cleaning schedules.
Convenient overnight positioning: The strategic location near I-95 makes campgrounds like The RV Resort At Carolina Crossroads popular for travelers. "Conveniently right off of I-95. Off enough so there isn't any highway noise. Beautiful facilities. Including concrete slabs to park on. Don't expect any shade, there are no trees. With exception of around the parameter," shares one traveler, highlighting the practical appeal for through-travelers.
What you should know
Highway noise levels vary significantly: While some campgrounds shield guests from traffic sounds, others experience continuous noise. At North Pointe RV Resort, a camper observed, "The place itself is just fine. The tv spaces appear to largely be pull through which I liked but there is a constant drone from the nearby highway that never lets up. It was loud all night as well." Sites furthest from highways typically provide quieter experiences.
Water freezing prevention measures: Winter campers benefit from infrastructure designed for cold weather at some facilities. "We stayed for several months while waiting for a house to be built...in freeeezing cold weather! We were impressed that the water lines are heated, so we didn't have to disconnect our water for the unusually cold 2 degree weather," explains a long-term guest at RVacation Campground. This feature proves valuable during December through February.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have spotty or nonexistent connectivity. "No cell service!" reports a camper at Medoc Mountain State Park, which can be either a benefit for those seeking digital detox or challenging for those needing connectivity. Most commercial campgrounds offer WiFi as an alternative, though quality and reliability vary.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Family-friendly campgrounds typically offer recreational spaces for children. At Enfield-Rocky Mount KOA, "We just stayed 2 nights but wished we had planned for more. The kids loved the pool and playground. The staff were so kind and helpful. RV site was easy to maneuver and hook ups were easy to get to," shares a parent, highlighting amenities that keep children entertained.
Consider swimming access: During warmer months, swimming facilities become essential for family comfort. One visitor to Holly Point notes, "Very Family-friendly. It's best if you can get a site near the beach if you have kids. Otherwise you'll end up driving them back-and-forth." Sites closest to water access typically book quickly during summer months and holiday weekends.
Check for family programming: Some campgrounds offer scheduled activities. "This is a great spot to stop, I knew nothing about it ahead of time I picked it as a midway point between destinations. I stayed in one of the cabins on site and it was simple, but comfortable," reports a guest at Enfield - Rocky Mount KOA, which provides weekend programming during peak seasons.
Tips from RVers
Heated water connections: During winter months, RVers appreciate campgrounds with freeze prevention systems. A visitor to Enfield-Rocky Mount KOA observed, "Excellent place to camp overnight or for a couple days to rest while traveling the I-95 corridor. Full hookups to empty your tanks (heated water to avoid freezing in cold), level sites - mostly pull through so you can get in and out with ease."
Level site considerations: RVers consistently mention the importance of level parking pads. "Our site required minimal leveling. Interior roads were all paved and easy to navigate -- no low-hanging branches. The camp hosts were visible and attentive," notes a camper at Medoc Mountain State Park, highlighting features that simplify setup.
Propane availability: Several campgrounds offer on-site propane fills, saving RVers from having to locate services off-site. "Nice staff. Pool is usually clean. This place usually has the cheapest price on propane around," mentions a visitor to WNC Kampers Lodge Of America, identifying a practical benefit for propane-dependent travelers.
