Lake Norman State Park offers family-oriented camping facilities in North Carolina's Piedmont region at approximately 760 feet elevation. The area features hardwood forests surrounding a 32,510-acre reservoir with 520 miles of shoreline. Camping options range from traditional sites to cabin accommodations with varying levels of amenities throughout the year, with summer highs averaging 87°F and winter lows around 30°F.
What to do
Hiking trails for all skill levels: At Stone Mountain State Park Campground, over 18 miles of trails provide access to waterfalls and mountain views. "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," notes David B. The park's homestead area at the base of the mountain adds historical interest.
Fishing in Lake Norman: Fish for bass, crappie, and catfish year-round at Lake Norman State Park Campground. "My wife and our four kids have had a great time. Plenty of shade and plenty to do. We fished, rode bikes, hiked and saw plenty of wildlife," shares Caleb S. The park has dedicated fishing areas with bank access points.
Kayak rentals on multiple lakes: Several parks including Julian Price Park offer boat rentals for exploring the water. "There is a spot within the park to rent kayaks which was great. There is a hiking trail that goes around the lake," says Danielle L. Many campgrounds provide easy water access for personal watercraft as well.
What campers like
Clean and well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently praise Lake Myers RV Resort for its amenities. "A+ campground... fun activities... kid friendly... love playing BINGO here!!" shares Kristy W. The resort features multiple pools and organized social events throughout the camping season.
Privacy between campsites: At some locations, wooded sites provide natural barriers. "I stayed at this location for 10 days. The campground is well kept and clean. The staff and the camp host were very courteous. It was a very quiet stay," notes Robert D. about Lake Norman State Park. Site selection can significantly impact privacy levels.
Unique glamping options close to Stony Point: Self Sufficient Holler offers distinctive accommodations including suspended tree tents. "What a magical experience floating in the trees surrounded by fire flies! The suspended tree tent feels like a bouncy tree house... You climb up to the top level through the middle of the tent- we felt like kids again," explains LaRee S. The property includes a fully equipped camp kitchen and fire pit.
What you should know
Seasonal availability varies: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "The campground is right on a gorgeous lake. There is a spot within the park to rent kayaks which was great," notes Danielle L. about Julian Price Park, which typically operates April through October.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. At Warrior Creek, "We stayed for 4 nights, our site was incredible, the others not so much," reports luke. Reservations are recommended 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Site characteristics can vary significantly: Research specific sites before booking. "The worst part I discovered about sites in the A loop is that you can hear traffic from the Blue Ridge Parkway all day long except for two to three hours in the middle of the night," warns Myron C. about Julian Price Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Midway Campground Resort offers multiple family-friendly amenities. "This is a small, family-friendly campground. There is a pond for fishing, a nice pool, a jump pad, playground, arcade, and mini-golf. Plenty for kids to do," shares Joy B. The campground also features seasonal events.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local fauna in natural settings. "Very clean and quite and very close to Charlotte. Nice, moderate hiking trails. Swimming and kayaking. You'll probably see deer but have never seen a bear," notes Fletcher S. about Lake Norman State Park.
Swimming options: Several parks maintain swimming areas during summer months. "This campground has a lot to do at a reasonable price. Definitely bring the kids," recommends bob at Midway Campground Resort, which maintains a pool and water features from late May through early September.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Stayed here overnight. Site was not even close to level. Recent blacktop not properly compressed. Had to use Anderson leveling buckets only on front of motorhome to level," reports Gary R. about Statesville RV Park I-77. Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended.
Electric hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer 50-amp service for larger rigs. "Based on the previous reviews, this campground has come a long way. The road are freshly paved and the pull through sites are level," notes Ralph C. about Statesville RV Park, indicating recent improvements.
Road conditions within campgrounds: Interior roads can present challenges for larger vehicles. "The campground is very large and does have fishing ponds, hiking trails, and a playground. The roads around the campground need repaved, and are very busy," warns Kasey M. about Thousand Trails Green Mountain.