Best Campgrounds near Smithfield, NC

Smithfield, North Carolina provides convenient camping access for travelers along the I-95 corridor, with several established RV resorts and campgrounds concentrated within a 20-mile radius. The area features predominantly private campgrounds like Raleigh Oaks RV Resort & Cottages, RVacation Campground, and North Pointe RV Resort, most offering full hookup sites with amenities designed for RV campers. While cabin accommodations exist at select locations such as Raleigh Oaks, tent camping opportunities are more limited, with only a portion of local campgrounds supporting primitive camping alongside their RV facilities.

Road access to campgrounds near Smithfield is generally excellent, with most sites located just minutes from major highways I-95 and US-301. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through August, and mild winters that occasionally see freezing temperatures. Year-round camping is available at several facilities including Raleigh Oaks RV Resort and Coopers RV Park, though swimming pools and certain amenities typically operate seasonally between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Cell coverage is generally strong throughout the area due to proximity to highways and towns. "The good news about this RV park is that it is conveniently located next to Interstate 95. The bad news about this RV park is that it is conveniently located next to Interstate 95," noted one reviewer about RVacation Campground, highlighting the trade-off between accessibility and traffic noise.

Water features represent significant attractions for campers in the greater region, with Falls Lake State Recreation Area and Jordan Lake State Recreation Area located within an hour's drive northwest of Smithfield. These state-managed recreation areas provide more natural settings with lakefront camping, swimming beaches, and boat launches not found at the private campgrounds closer to town. Travelers seeking more spacious sites often prefer these state park options despite the longer drive. Highway noise impacts several of the private campgrounds near Smithfield, with multiple reviews mentioning traffic and train sounds, particularly at sites closest to I-95. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "There was also the sound of trains—at least seven or eight times during the night" at one interstate-adjacent campground. Most local campgrounds feature level sites with electrical hookups, water connections, and sewer facilities, making them particularly suitable for overnight stays while traveling the East Coast corridor.

Best Camping Sites Near Smithfield, North Carolina (59)

    1. Raleigh Oaks RV Resort & Cottages

    9 Reviews
    Four Oaks, NC
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 934-3181

    $25 - $55 / night

    "If you’ve got one of those incredibly large mobile homes on wheels, then this particular RV ‘oasis’ location just off of I-95 north of Four Oaks may just be the perfect spot for you."

    2. RVacation Campground

    10 Reviews
    Smithfield, NC
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 965-5923

    "The good news about this RV park is that it is conveniently located next to Interstate 95. The bad news about this RV park is that it is conveniently located next to Interstate 95."

    "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."

    3. North Pointe RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Smithfield, NC
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 965-5923

    "VERY NICE CAMPGROUND IN SELMA NORTH CAROLINA. WELL MAINTAINED LEVEL SITES. THE MAJORITY OF THE SPOTS ARE PULL THRUS. ALL THE AMENITIES."

    "One downside is the campground is close to the road, so there is a lot of road noise. The upside is it’s a great stop off the main road, with easy off and on access."

    4. Happy Trails RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Four Oaks, NC
    4 miles
    +1 (919) 427-7068

    "We stayed here visiting Raleigh, about a 30 Mind drive away. This campground is far enough away from interstate there is no road noise, yet close to outlets and city for dinning. A+!"

    "What i loved about Happy Trails No kids, No pool, No mini golf, No game room, etc."

    5. Four Oaks Lodging & RV Resort

    4 Reviews
    Four Oaks, NC
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 963-3596

    $30 - $55 / night

    6. Hidden Haven RV Park

    1 Review
    Smithfield, NC
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 965-3131

    $50 / night

    "I chose site B33 so I could be along the tree line and close to the latrines. Very minimal leveling needed and only because I’m a little OCD lol."

    7. Coopers RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Clayton, NC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 359-8060

    8. Four Oaks RV Resort

    1 Review
    Four Oaks, NC
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 963-3596

    9. North Carolina State Fairgrounds

    19 Reviews
    Raleigh, NC
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 612-6767

    $35 / night

    "Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance. Public bathrooms and showers (cold water) are a 2 minute walk to Horse Complex H6, Barn B Very little tree cover."

    "The actual address is 801 Youth Center Drive. One camping location is up in the woods behind the horse complex. The other is on the actual fairgrounds property along Youth Center Drive."

    10. 70 East RV Park

    1 Review
    Garner, NC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 772-6568

    $825 / night

    "It's in a great location, nearby anything you need. It's family and pet friendly. Neighbors are friendly."

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Recent Reviews near Smithfield, NC

370 Reviews of 59 Smithfield Campgrounds


  • Bailey R.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    Lake front view

    This is such a pretty camp site. Even if you aren’t on the water you still have a beautiful view of the lake. The spots are well spread out so you don’t feel like you are on top of each other and it’s very kid friendly

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Jordan Lake Crosswinds

    Big Water, Tall Pines & Gorgeous Lakefront Sunsets

    Nestled along the shores of Jordan Lake, Crosswinds Campground is one of those places that makes one feel like they just scored a million-dollar lakefront spot for the cost of a campsite fee. First impressions? Towering pines everywhere, a breeze rolling off the water and the faint hum of boats out on the lake. It’s a large, well-loved campground that still manages to feel peaceful – provided you’re not parked next to that one guy who thinks 'quiet hours' are just a suggestion.

    The facilities here strike a nice balance between rustic and comfortable. Out of the 182 sites, 134 offer water and electric hookups, making it RV-friendly while still keeping things woodsy. Every site has the basics: picnic table, fire ring, lantern / garbage holder and enough tree cover to keep you from baking like a biscuit in the North Carolina summer sun. Bathhouses are clean and scattered through the loops in just about the right proportion where the loos feel like an overcrowded line to see your favorite band with a dump station on site at each of the campground loops. Roads are well-paved –although you will find that errant pothole just waiting to take out one of your tires, so tread carefully – but a little snug for bigger rigs, so if you drive something the size of a tour bus, maybe don’t test your parallel parking skills here.

    The lake is the true star. With 180 miles of shoreline surrounding a 12,000-acre reservoir, Jordan Lake sprawls wide enough to feel like a small ocean … and Crosswinds puts you right on the edge of it. Beyond the lake itself, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area covers a span of some 46,000 acres of public land, so there’s tons of nature to explore here. Boating, fishing and kayaking are all top-notch, and the eagle-spotting here is so good you’ll feel like you wandered onto a National Geographic special. If you want civilization, the quaint and full-service townships of Cary, Apex and Pittsboro are all close by for groceries, breweries or just a break from your campfire cooking experiments.

    As for the campground itself, there are 3 distinct loops: A, B & C (yes, even your kindergartner can keep these 3 straight!). Here’s a breakdown of each loop, because each one offers up something different and unique – some things good, some things not so much – that may influence where you choose to camp. Here’s a snapshot:

    Loop A (AKA 'Boats & Bobbers'): (1) the only loop that is entirely non-electric, so if powering up your campsite is important, then bring your own source or look to the other loops; (2) closest to the main entrance, so great for quick access, but the only loop if you take a left at the fork (the other 2 loops are right of the fork); (3) nearest the boat launch, so you will experience all of the boat-launching skippers driving westward past your loop from dusk to dawn, which is great if you are thumbing your way to the boat launch, not so great if you prize peace & quiet; (4) an ‘easter egg’ of a hidden trail exists near A21 that will lead you down to the lakeshore to a quiet spot perfect for uncorking that vintage Bordeaux you’ve been looking for the right location and moment to savor; and (5) IMHO the best sites are those that are lake-facing such as 19– 22 and 45– 47.

    Loop B (AKA 'Sand & Swimming'): (1) if Loop A is defined by its proximity to the boat launch, then this loop can be dubbed the Beach Loop as it is the only circuit with an actual beachhead and proper swimming area; (2) while centrally located in between the other 2 loops, this area is definitely considered more tranquil and has a tighter feeling of community; (3) unlike the previous loop, this one has campsites with running electric and water, but there’s a bonus to some of these sites as they are considered duplex campsites, so while a bit more$ ($25 more for non-electric and $40 more for duplexes with electric), you’ll have more space, which is especially important if there’s 2 families looking to camp together; and (4) IMHO the best sites here are those westernmost, lake-facing spots such as 24, 26, 30, 32, 34, 36 and 40.

    Loop C ('Sunsets& Sundowners'): (1) just like the previous loop, here you’ll find all campsites have running water & electric, so no primitive shenanigans to deal with here; (2) of the 3 loops, this is the one located most northernly, most secluded, furthest from the entrance and has no amenities (like a beach or boat launch) that will draw non-camping traffic; (3) the biggest draw of this loop are the arresting views of Lake Jordan, especially at dusk, where you can place your fold-up camping chair in just the right direction, sit back and sip on those sunset-inspired Mai Tais; (4) There’s a small, hidden beach (shhh! don’t tell your fellow campers in Loop B, lest they become disenfranchised!) that you can access near site 32 that will allow for a private swim or late-night evening hang-out staring at the breathtaking moonlit starscape; and (5) IMHO the best sites are (you guessed it) the ones that have the best views of that incandescent sundowner view facing westward, so you’ll want to eye spots 19, 21, 23, 24 – with the absolute pinnacle sites being 24, 26, 30, 32, 34 – as well as those that have even a partial view, including 36, 40 and 42.

    Insider Tips?  Here's a smattering: (1) Plan a swim or paddle near the Ebenezer Church swimming beach, just a short drive from Crosswinds. It’s less crowded than the main day-use areas and offers sandy shoreline, gentle water entry, and shady picnic spots; (2) For paddling, launch in the morning from the camper-only ramp before the motorboats hit the water and turn it into Daytona-on-the-lake; (3) Eat at The Fearrington House Restaurant in Pittsboro if you’re feeling fancy – exotic meats and Oregon Pinot Noirs so smooth they’ll make you forget you slept on a foam mattress last night; (4) Bring bug spray – the mosquitoes here treat Off! like it’s a garnish; and (5) Don’t skip stargazing on a clear night, the Milky Way shows off, and it’s better than cable.

    Happy Camping!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Great campground

    The North Carolina State Park campgrounds are typically very nice, and this one is no exception. My site is adjacent to a large, clean, working bathhouse and a 2 minute walk from a swim beach.

    My cell reception outside the camper is excellent, and of if I had a cell booster it would be adequate for streaming inside the camper. I don’t have one as I depend on Starlink for internet access when traveling. Unfortunately Starlink isn’t going to work in my specific site or in most of the others. This is a wooded campground and all the sites are completely shaded

    My site has water and electric. About half of the available RV sites have water and electric, it there is no sewer. There is a dump station in the campground. Unusual for NC State facilities, there are no trash bins placed around the campground, but there is a large dumpster station co-located with the dump station.

    It’s about a 15-20 minute drive to shopping, but there are several convenience stores a few minutes away.

    The campground is clean and well maintained. It meanders around a very large lake, with several beaches and boat launch areas.

  • Gregg P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Working in town

    I really enjoyed this site. While the approach was a bit steep the pad was level. Power and water at site dump station around the corner. Bathrooms and showers were impressively clean. Not full of spiders and cobwebs like most parks. High canopy and dense woods makes the park very quiet and dark at night bring plenty of light.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 13, 2025

    North Carolina State Fairgrounds

    Large & Level

    This is a very large campground that can accommodate any size RV. They do not allow tents. All sites are gravel, but are quite level. I pulled in, and didn't have to adjust anything. Pets are welcome, but as everywhere, dogs must be on a leash (not more than 6' long). If you put the address into your GPS, it will take you to the main fairgrounds. You need to put NC state fairgrounds CAMPGROUND. It is about a quarter mile from the main fairgrounds.

  • R C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 18, 2025

    Cabin Lake County Park

    Nice campground but …

    The campground is perfect for a family or if you’re older and in an RV. Lots to do. It’s a lake based CG so you can swim, kayak, hike around the lake, but especially fishing - that’s the main draw. Good shower/toilet facilities, water electric and all that RV stuff. If you’re an adventurous typically primitive camper (like me), it’s not for you. You’ll be near lots of other campers (mostly families from my brief experience) so not great on privacy. Location is good, 15 min fr Beulaville. Nice staff. I recommend if you want an easy camping experience. $25-40 night depending on how you camp.

  • Stuart O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 18, 2025

    Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    Spacious with rolling terrain

    Like the way the campsites take advantage of the rolling terrain.  Campsites are roomy.  Lots of shade.  We had a substantial deluge while there, and the water drained just fine.  Nice shower facilites.  We stayed at the F Loop.  Sites F36 and F40 are situated so the awning side of the camper has a direct, unobstructed view of the water.  Also liked the numerous trash cans near the sites.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2025

    Rolling View — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    April 2025

    Park is kinda full, but everyone pretty much keeps to themselves and is really quiet. Hardly anyone walks around. I’m in A15. Right across the bathrooms. Which are super nice and showers too. Walked to the lake and it was sooo nice.


Guide to Smithfield

Camping spots near Smithfield, North Carolina cluster primarily along the I-95 corridor with access points off major highways like US-301 and US-70. The region sits in the coastal plain at approximately 150 feet elevation with sandy, well-draining soil that reduces mud issues during the frequent summer thunderstorms. Cell service remains consistent throughout most campgrounds due to the flat terrain and proximity to transportation infrastructure.

What to do

Fishing at on-site ponds: At RVacation Campground, campers can fish in the small lake without a license. "Pretty view of a small lake that you can fish in. Great WiFi connection," notes Jesse C., highlighting the convenient fishing access.

Visit Tucker Lake beaches: Tucker Lake offers a refreshing swimming alternative to campground pools with white sand beaches just a short drive from Four Oaks. "Take advantage of the close proximity to 30 acre Tucker Lake (conveniently located where Interstate 40 intersects 95), where some decent fishing can be had – we caught (and released) several smallmouth bass, brook trout and black bullheads," writes Stuart K. about activities near Four Oaks camping areas.

Explore equestrian events: The North Carolina State Fairgrounds Campground provides unique access to horse events. "Equestrian facility is next door," mentions Joy B., making this an interesting option for those interested in shows or competitions during their stay.

What campers like

Multiple dog parks: Pet owners appreciate Raleigh Oaks RV Resort & Cottages for its dedicated pet areas. "Three dogs parks, two pools, and much more," states Never Sitting S., noting the resort's dog-friendly amenities that exceed typical campground offerings.

Free weekend waffles: Several campgrounds offer unique food perks for guests. "Saturday and Sunday this spot offers up complimentary waffles, coffee and juice," according to Stuart K., describing one of the unexpected benefits at certain camping locations in the area.

Clean bathroom facilities: Hidden Haven RV Park receives praise for its well-maintained facilities. "The latrines and showers are nice, large stalls and were clean," writes Thomas H., a detail important for tent campers or those in smaller RVs without full bathroom facilities.

What you should know

Train noise impacts sleep: Several campgrounds near railways experience frequent train disruptions. "All night long we were able to hear the highway (i-95) and trains passing by. My husband is an extremely light sleeper so it was much worse for him," explains Janelle G. about her stay at RVacation Campground.

Tent camping options limited: Many RV parks in the area don't accommodate tent campers. "Please note: THERE ARE NO TENT SITES HERE! We found that out the hard way while stopping for the night and had to move onwards to another nearby site instead," warns Stuart K. about one resort in the Four Oaks area.

Weekend entertainment options: North Pointe RV Resort offers seasonal events that enhance stays. "We visited during Halloween and joined in the campgrounds holiday fun. They have a haunted hey ride, a costume parade, site decorating, and trick or treating through the campground," shares Melissa B., highlighting activities beyond standard amenities.

Tips for camping with families

Free arcade games: Children enjoy free gaming options at certain campgrounds. "The clubhouse is nice and spacious. It has a large room for activities. Down the hall you'll find a great arcade room with fun free games. The kids and adults all loved it," notes Melissa B. about North Pointe RV Resort.

Mini golf and playground access: 70 East RV Park provides family-friendly amenities. "It's in a great location, nearby anything you need. It's family and pet friendly," says Kayleigh P., emphasizing its appeal for families with children.

Level sites reduce setup stress: Parents appreciate campsites requiring minimal adjustment. "Very well kept! Just stayed the night," mentions Jenny P., highlighting the ease of setting up at well-maintained campgrounds when traveling with children.

Tips from RVers

Long-term vs. overnight sections: Coopers RV Park has different areas for different stay durations. "This is a decent place but it is for sure mostly for more permanent people. A lot of people have complete build irons and have turned their trailers into non-movable stable units," explains M.B., noting the campground's layout considerations.

Concrete pad availability: Some campgrounds offer upgraded parking surfaces. "No pool or amenities, just a nice place to park with a concrete pad and full hook ups," Michele J. says about Coopers RV Park, highlighting a feature valued by many RV owners for stability and cleanliness.

Wide pull-through sites: RV drivers appreciate easy access at certain campgrounds. "Pull through spots that make overnight, or even a couple day, stays very easy. Full hook ups. Clean," Casey W. comments about RVacation Campground, emphasizing features that reduce driving stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there large campsites or campgrounds in the Smithfield area?

Yes, there are several spacious campgrounds near Smithfield. Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers some of the most generous campsites in the region, with many sites accommodating multiple vehicles and large camping setups. The campground is well-maintained with plenty of room between sites. Similarly, Parkers Creek Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area features double sites that can accommodate up to four vehicles, making it perfect for group camping or families with larger setups. Both campgrounds are within reasonable driving distance from Smithfield and provide excellent amenities while maintaining a spacious, natural setting.

Where are the campgrounds in Smithfield, NC?

While Smithfield itself has limited camping options within the town limits, several excellent campgrounds are located within a short drive. Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area is one of the closest quality campgrounds to Smithfield, offering a serene lakeside experience with clean facilities and swim beaches. For another option, Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area is about 30 miles west of Raleigh and provides spacious sites with good amenities despite feeling quite remote. Both locations offer an excellent balance of convenience to Smithfield while still providing a true outdoor camping experience.

What RV parks are available near Smithfield?

Several RV-friendly options exist near Smithfield. North Pointe RV Resort in Selma is very close to Smithfield and offers well-maintained, level sites with full hookups. The majority of spots are pull-throughs, making it convenient for larger rigs. All amenities are available at this resort. Other nearby options include Four Oaks RV Resort which provides water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly with both drive-in and walk-in access. For those willing to travel a bit farther, Raleigh Oaks RV Resort & Cottages offers additional amenities while still being within convenient driving distance of Smithfield.