Stone Mountain State Park accommodates both rustic and upgraded camping options across several campground sections near Sparta, North Carolina. Most sites offer water and electric hookups year-round with facilities maintained throughout all seasons. The camping areas provide access to multiple trail networks ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes requiring technical navigation through rock formations and dense forest.
What to do
River activities with shuttle service: New River Canoe and Campground offers tubing experiences where you can rent tubes that hold coolers for snacks and drinks. "The end of the rafting experience puts you right there back at the campsite," notes Julie L. from Riverside Canoe and Campground.
Hiking through varied terrain: The 10-mile Stone Mountain Loop Trail connects to smaller trails for different experience levels. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," reports Joe B. at Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
Technical trail exploration: More advanced hikers can tackle rock formations and root-covered paths. "The Creekside Cabin hike is very technical as in tree roots and rocks, but so worth the exertion! Very cool waterfall and aside from some modern day trash there is still the old wood stove and pantry in the cabin," reports Shelly S. at Hickory Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Secluded creekside sites: Many campers prefer waterfront locations with natural sound barriers. "We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," shares Charli R. from Stone Mountain State Park.
Multiple access points: New River State Park offers different locations to enter the park and camp. "The 221 access had everything we needed. There were sites with full hookups and sites with just electric. Most sites were really private which is nice. The park is spread out over several different, disconnected properties throughout the county which offered a lot of different recreational opportunities," notes Chelsea B.
Off-grid experience: Some campgrounds provide true disconnection from technology. "There is no cell phone service. The campsite is wooded and the spaces are distanced well," explains Carissa D. from Grindstone.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping and premium sites near Sparta require advance planning. "Jump on The Dyrt and located this KOA just off the Blue Ridge Parkway that was ideally located for my exploration of the area AND I was able to make a late reservation on a weekday night. The campground was much busier when I departed on a Friday morning," notes Jean C. at Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA.
Site accessibility variations: Some campgrounds have walk-in only sites requiring extra effort. "The walk in wasn't a blast, but that was our fault, but the whole campground was kept up nice, bathroom was clean, sites were cleaned n trimmed," mentions Ken M. about New River Campground and Canoe.
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations create unpredictable conditions year-round. "We went in December and there wasn't many people there at all, maybe 4 other campers all weekend," notes Charli R. about winter camping at Stone Mountain.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and organized activities: Wytheville KOA offers structured entertainment for children. "Our kids loved the arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool and the fishing! The owners ran all the entertainment and were highly visible throughout our stay," recommends Lisa T.
Swimming options: Natural water features provide cooling alternatives to pools. "The hiking at Wagoner Access was easy, but 221 and Elk Shoals were more strenuous. Overall the park has miles and miles of blue way. And I highly recommend spending an afternoon on the beach at the Elk Shoals access. Beautiful spot with awesome swimming hole!" advises Chelsea B. about New River State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings create memorable experiences for children. "Lots of nice spot, tons of wildlife and deer. Plenary of hiking and mice shower house. A must do," shares Von B. about Stone Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Mayberry Campground offers varied site options requiring research. "The campsites vary in size so check the map and talk to the staff to figure out your best option when making your reservation," advises Shela F.
Seasonal considerations: Year-round camping is available but with varying amenities. "I stayed here for three nights in early November, 2022. The camp sites are mostly level, well maintained and have tent pads, tables and fire rings. I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups. The bathrooms were heated, clean and the men' bathroom had two showers," notes David B. about Stone Mountain State Park.
Utility hookup availability: Check which utilities are included at different campgrounds. "Great camp in a beautiful area. Didn't stay but did use the dump station for $17, so wanted to update info," shares Mike A. about New River State Park.
