Best Campgrounds near Shelby, NC

Camping near Shelby, North Carolina, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From family-friendly activities to serene nature spots, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do

• Explore the outdoors: Check out the hiking trails at Julian Price Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway. One visitor mentioned, "Spent a weekend car camping at Julian Price which served as a great Basecamp for exploring the Blue Ridge and surrounding area."
• Enjoy water activities: At Lake Norman State Park Campground, you can swim, kayak, or fish. A camper shared, "The campground is in a forest on the shores of Lake Norman. Well maintained hiking trails branch out from the campground."
• Visit local attractions: The Asheville East KOA is close to downtown Asheville, making it easy to explore local shops and restaurants. One reviewer noted, "It’s a good location to explore downtown Asheville (20-25 minutes)."

What campers like

• Family-friendly amenities: Campers appreciate the activities for kids at Asheville East KOA. A parent mentioned, "There is a pool, playground, gaga ball pit, golf car rentals, fishing and splashing in the Swannanoa River."
• Spacious sites: Many enjoy the large, private sites at Spacious Skies Bear Den. One visitor said, "Great campground. Big private sites, lots of activities for teens."
• Clean facilities: Campers often highlight the cleanliness of bathrooms and showers. A reviewer at Paris Mountain State Park Campground stated, "The bathrooms were clean and showers were nice."

What you should know

• Close quarters: Some campgrounds, like Asheville East KOA, can feel crowded. A camper noted, "The main issue with this campground is how close the sites are... literally no privacy."
• Limited amenities: At Julian Price Park Campground, there are no electric hookups or showers. A visitor mentioned, "There are spots right on the lake but we didn’t book far enough in advance."
• Wildlife encounters: Campers at South Mountains State Park Campground have spotted deer and other wildlife. One camper shared, "We enjoyed our stay, and even had deer wander near our site a few times."

Tips for camping with families

• Plan for activities: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly features, like Asheville East KOA, which offers crafts and movie nights. A parent said, "On weekends they have themes and activities."
• Choose spacious sites: Opt for campgrounds like Spacious Skies Bear Den that provide ample space for kids to play. A visitor noted, "Kids loved the playground and there were a lot of other kids to make friends with."
• Pack for comfort: Bring along games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. One camper at Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground mentioned, "The view at tier three is amazing," making it a great spot for family bonding.

Tips from RVers

• Check site dimensions: Make sure your RV fits comfortably at your chosen campground. A reviewer at Kings Mountain — Kings Mountain State Park said, "The campsites themselves are very unlevel and laid out very awkwardly."
• Look for amenities: Choose campgrounds with good facilities, like Lake Norman State Park Campground, where one camper praised, "The bath house was an unexpected luxury and was immaculately maintained."
• Be prepared for noise: Some campgrounds, such as Asheville East KOA, are near train tracks. A camper noted, "Trains come through near the park at all hours of the day and night."

Camping around Shelby, NC, offers a mix of fun, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you're with family or exploring solo, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors!