Camping options near Stem, North Carolina provide a mix of state recreation areas and private RV parks within a 30-mile radius. The area sits at approximately 500 feet elevation with mild seasons allowing year-round camping at most private facilities. Winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing for extended periods, making this region accessible for three-season tent camping and year-round RV stays.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers multiple fishing spots with bank access for anglers. "Sites are right on the lake, perfect for kayaking. The sites are close together but still semi private. Lots of short hikes and a swimming area," explains one camper at Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area.
Swimming at lake beaches: Lake Gaston features designated swimming areas with sand beaches for families. According to a visitor at Thousand Trails Lake Gaston, "Great spot right on Lake Gaston. The little marina is awesome. Everyone is super helpful. There is a great snack bar & store."
Putt-putt golf: Some campgrounds include mini-golf courses as amenities. "This is probably our favorite thus far. We like the lake and it's easily accessible. It contains putt putt, pool, store, 2 beaches, dock, fishing areas, playground, and tons of shade," reports a Thousand Trails Lake Gaston camper.
Hiking local trails: Several campgrounds connect to walking paths through wooded areas. A visitor to Cane Creek notes, "Located close to nothing else, this campground was so peaceful at night. During the day, it's beautiful. It's got showers with hot water and accessible facilities."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many RV sites near Stem, North Carolina offer generous spacing between neighbors. At Spring Hill RV Park, campers appreciate that "The spaces are far enough apart that they aren't on top of each other. The Wifi is excellent and, I believe, cell service is good for pretty much everyone since it's so close to the Triangle."
Lakefront views: Several parks feature premium sites with water views. According to a Holly Point camper, "I stayed on the cove of Holly point. These are very nice and quiet sites. Good options if you would like some privacy while camping. They also have good spots for fishing and small boat launches (canoe's, and kayaks)."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses stand out in visitor feedback. One Holly Point camper noted, "I have been at this camp ground for nearly two weeks. Every Ranger and employee I've interacted with has been amazingly professional and nice. The facilities are kept in pristine shape regarding cleanliness and upkeep."
Shade coverage: Mature trees provide natural cooling at several campgrounds. A Spring Hill visitor mentioned, "Very nice campground. Lots of trees for shade and the park is very quiet. I would recommend staying here. The spots are big and not right up on each other."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain that requires preparation. At Cane Creek Campground and RV Park, visitors note specific sites are better than others: "Our site (17) was on the opposite side of the real lake access and right across from the annual spots so we never really had too much privacy but most of the neighbors were very curteous and friendly. The 40s sites seem to be the best spots to get for a view or access to Lake activities."
Limited cell service: Mobile reception varies significantly by location. Spring Hill RV Park receives positive reviews for connectivity: "The Wifi is excellent and, I believe, cell service is good for pretty much everyone since it's so close to the Triangle."
Seasonal closures: State parks often limit operations during winter months. Falls Lake typically operates from "March 15 to October 31" while Lake Gaston's season runs "March 31 to October 22."
Reservation requirements: Booking ahead is essential for weekend camping, especially for waterfront sites. A Lake Gaston visitor advised, "First come first serve and we got a beautiful site overlooking the lake. The staff and manager are the friendliest ever."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Cane Creek provides several play areas for different age groups. A visitor commented, "Plenty of places to tent camp or RV camp! Places to fish things for kids to play on and of course places to shower after! One of my family's favorite places to camp!"
Beach and pool combo: Lake Gaston offers both swimming options at one location. "This is probably our favorite thus far. We like the lake and it's easily accessible. We're weren't right on the water but can see the lake from the camper. It contains putt putt, pool, store, 2 beaches, dock, fishing areas, playground, and tons of shade," noted one family.
Biking-friendly roads: Camp loops provide safe cycling for children. A Jordan Dam RV Park visitor observed, "The campground is a great, quiet place. There are not a lot of recreational amenities, but there is pond for fishing."
Large group sites: Some campgrounds accommodate multiple tents on one site. At Holly Point, a visitor noted, "Sites are large to accommodate two tents and two vehicles nicely. Bathrooms are what you would expect but clean. Some sites further back (not water side) have trees for hammocking."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Several RV campgrounds near Stem offer easy-access sites. At 70 East RV Park, "70 East RV Park is a nice park with spacious lots. It's in a great location, nearby anything you need."
On-site propane filling: Jordan Dam RV Park provides convenient propane service. "The RV Park has on-site propane filling, and if you leave your tank on your picnic table, Earl will come and fill it. This was extremely convenient during the winter months, when we were filling one of our tanks every few days."
Winter accessibility: Many private parks remain open year-round for extended stays. A long-term Jordan Dam RV Park guest shared, "We stayed at Jordan Dam RV Park for a year while waiting for our house to be built. The campground is a great, quiet place."
Site positioning assistance: Staff help with parking at challenging sites. "The site maintenance man, Earl, will direct you into your site, which was a bit tricky in the site we were in," noted a Jordan Dam visitor.
