Primitive tent camping near Troy, North Carolina offers direct access to the 51,000-acre Uwharrie National Forest with elevations ranging from 300 to 1,000 feet. The area experiences moderate humidity with average summer temperatures reaching 88°F during July, creating warm conditions for overnight stays. Winter camping remains possible with January lows typically around 30°F, though frost can occur from October through April.
What to do
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Uwharrie Hunt Camp provides access to numerous mountain biking routes. "Beautiful and secluded campground with good facilities. There is a good trail around the lake that offers some beautiful views across the lake," reports a visitor to Uwharrie Hunt Camp.
Fishing for catfish: The waterways near Deep Water Trail Camp offer productive fishing spots. "Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground, and some damn good fishing. My friends both caught a couple of channel cats. One enormous female catfish we released because she had eggs on board," writes a camper at Deep Water Trail Camp.
Hiking remote trails: The area features extensive trail networks across varying terrain. "Me and my wife had such a blast the last few days camping here! We stayed 3 days and 2 nights and there was only 1 other vehicle down there with us the entire time... Super private and had some nice trails near by for hiking/finding fire wood."
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: East Morris Mountain Camp offers exceptional isolation. "Only three sites on this little out of the way fire trail. We go to the end of the road for complete privacy. No amenities other than a fire pit," notes a camper at East Morris Mountain.
Affordable camping options: Many locations offer free or low-cost camping. "FREE. large size nobody else here in March but I'm sure as summer rolls around it fills up more," reports a camper about Uwharrie Hunt Camp.
Quartz collecting opportunities: The mineral-rich soil contains interesting geological specimens. "We enjoyed our weekend at this fantastic spot! The big pieces of quartz we found were gorgeous, and so was the view at the water," shares a visitor to Deep Water Trail Horse Camp.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements are crucial: Many roads require high clearance vehicles. "PLEASE take something with a little ground clearance and better than 2 wheel drive to get here. My Honda Element was on two wheels at one point but the AWD handled it like a champ. My husband used his truck to pull a Jetta and a Camry back up the hill after they got stuck," warns a camper.
Seasonal considerations affect crowds: The area experiences distinct usage patterns. "We hit this campground right at the perfect time of year, BEFORE the opening day of off-road vehicle season in April. When National Forests post on their signs 'Land of Many Uses,' I get it; there's a lot of stuff people like to do in the woods," notes a visitor to Lumber River State Park.
Limited amenities require preparation: Most locations have minimal facilities. "I would highly recommend 4WD if you're going all the way to the water sites. I attempted in my van and made it down to a sweet spot, but was stuck in the mud. Thankfully some campers nearby helped me rearrange my direction and get me out of the mud," explains a visitor to Deep Water Trail Horse Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Lake access points: Several campgrounds offer water recreation for children. "It was a nice spot, big open camping spots that are first come first serve... We brought our two pups & they had a blast playing & laying in the water! We stayed at a campsite next to the river bend, not on the actual Deep Water Trail."
Playground-adjacent camping: San-Lee Park offers family-friendly amenities. "This park has lots of hiking trails, a fantastic park for the kiddos, Nature Center, a gorgeous lake perfect for a day of fishing, mountain bike trails, paddle boat rental and a pretty impressive campground!"
Wildlife observation opportunities: The diverse ecosystem supports nature education. "There is a Nature Center, a gorgeous lake perfect for a day of fishing, mountain bike trails, paddle boat rental and a pretty impressive campground!" reports a visitor to San-Lee Park.
Tips from RVers
Smaller trailers only: Tent camping near Troy works for small RVs but presents challenges. "I loved the place. Really remote and FREE. Lots of spots on both sides of the road. Not for bigger rigs. I've got a 13 foot pull behind. Backed in mostly but a few could be pulled in and out," advises a camper at Lake Curriher Wilderness.
Extra supplies required: Limited facilities mean RVers must be self-sufficient. "Extra large and private campsites. One of the campsites has a hammock stand. The group site is huge. The whole park is very clean and spacious," notes a visitor to Lumber River State Park.
Road condition awareness: Access roads may damage RVs without proper clearance. "Road posted 25 mph but recommend 10 mph. Was also narrow in spots. Very bumpy. Last 1/2 mile don't go. Steep rocky Muddy. Photos show. Fire rings were rocks. No water all primitive."
