Camping options near Mount Airy, North Carolina range from developed campgrounds to rustic tent sites within a 30-mile radius of town. The area sits at elevations between 1,000-3,000 feet, creating mild summer temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowland areas. Fall camping season extends through October with colorful foliage, while spring campers often encounter wildflower displays beginning in April.
What to do
Hiking at Stone Mountain State Park: The park features 18 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels. The 4.5-mile Stone Mountain Loop Trail takes hikers past a 200-foot waterfall and historic homestead. "Beautiful campground, amazing hikes & waterfalls and the best stargazing you could ask for. 10/10 would camp here again and again," notes a visitor to Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Several campgrounds maintain fishing ponds with catch-and-release policies. Homeplace Recreational Park provides streamside camping with easy access. "We camped in site A3 right beside the stream. The pond dam was really close to our site and the rushing water will really lull you to sleep at night," shares one camper at Homeplace Recreational Park Inc..
Motorcycle touring: The Blue Ridge Parkway and surrounding roads offer exceptional motorcycle routes. Willville Motorcycle Camp serves as a dedicated base for riders. According to a motorcyclist, "You won't feel crowded. Most evenings riders will gather on the porch to talk bikes and life. Coffee in the mornings, restaurants less than a mile away, a grocery store just down the road - this place is ideal."
What campers like
Mountain views from level sites: Many campgrounds feature terraced designs that maximize scenic views while providing flat camping areas. A visitor to Mayberry Campground notes, "Spent a month here. Had a nice end spot that allowed for a sneak peak of the mountains. Nicely laid out in levels that were nice. Great location for checking out the area too."
Proximity to Blue Ridge Parkway: Several campgrounds provide quick access to this scenic route. A Pilot Mountain visitor explains, "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."
Tent-specific amenities: Tent campers appreciate designated areas with added features. At Beechnut Family Campground, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal operating schedules: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Pilot Mountain State Park Campground runs from March 15 to November 30 annually. Stone Mountain remains open year-round but with reduced services in winter.
Varied shower facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between locations. A camper at Holly Ridge Family Campground shared, "The bathhouse was always super clean and I loved that they had pop-up sites only that were cheaper! Our campsite had a deck and I thought that was such a nice touch!"
Yurt camping Mount Airy options: For visitors seeking alternative accommodations, several campgrounds within 30 miles offer yurt structures. These canvas-walled units typically include beds, electricity, and climate control while maintaining a camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Family-friendly amenities vary widely between locations. A Mayberry Campground visitor notes, "You got full hookups, nice level sites, and two playgrounds. This place is full on the weekends so reserve in advance."
Pool access: Summer camping with children benefits from swimming options. "Great park with one of the best pools in the area," mentions a visitor to Homeplace Recreational Park about their water facilities.
Mini golf and activities: Some campgrounds offer additional recreation options. "Love the putt putt and kids playground area," writes a visitor about Holly Ridge Family Campground, which maintains an on-site course for families.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Access roads and site configurations can challenge larger rigs. At Meadows Of Dan Campground, "No trees for the pull throughs but still a nice place and right off of the Blue Ridge Parkway," notes one RVer about the compromise between shade and easy parking.
Satellite internet compatibility: RVers requiring connectivity should research specific sites. "We needed a clear sky to the NNE for Starlink, and found the perfect spot - technically an RV site, but it worked great for our tent for one night. It was right on the forest's edge with a nice open view to the north," shares a camper at Meadows Of Dan.
Year-round availability: Full-time RVers have limited winter camping options. Mayberry Campground operates year-round with full hookups, with one visitor noting, "Camp is open year round. We have been there summer, fall and winter. We love this campground."
