Glamping near Shelby, North Carolina offers unique outdoor lodging experiences across the region's rolling Piedmont terrain. Most locations sit between 800-1,000 feet elevation, creating mild camping conditions ideal for year-round visits. Rustic yurt accommodations provide a luxury camping alternative with structured walls and comfortable furnishings for visitors seeking wilderness comfort without traditional tent camping.
What to do
Hike Crowders Mountain: The trails at Crowders Mountain State Park range from easy to strenuous with backcountry camping available. "The hikes are pretty strenuous, but the views are well worth it. The people are friendly, and maps are easy to come by. The trails are easy to follow, but be sure to bring plenty of water," notes Matt G.
Explore Lake Activities: Water recreation options abound at several locations within 30 minutes of Shelby. "We spent the day rock climbing. It was his first time climbing, and we were able to set up some beginner-friendly routes," says Les R. about Crowders Mountain, which also offers fishing opportunities.
Visit Local Attractions: Day trips to nearby destinations complement luxury camping experiences. At Spacious Skies Bear Den, "We visited the apple orchard, which is so cool to visit (they're dog friendly) and not too far of a drive from the Linville Falls," shares Emily B.
Enjoy On-site Recreation: Most glamping sites provide activities without leaving the property. "The gravel road is not open for the general public to drive on, but staff can, and those with permission to access the handicapped accessible campsites at the group camp can also get permission to drive to the top," explains Janet R. about accessing certain areas at Crowders Mountain State Park.
What campers like
Clean Facilities: Guests consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and common areas as highlights. At McDowell Nature Preserve, Ryan B. appreciated "CLEAN RESTROOMS and showers with hot water, power even at the Tent sites, super nice staff, and priced right."
Natural Settings: Wooded sites with privacy rank high for glamping enthusiasts. "It is hard to believe that you are in the city limits of Charlotte in this campground. It is very rustic, with lots of trees and nature, and the campsites are nicely spaced out so you're not on top of other units," notes Rick B. about McDowell Nature Preserve.
Quiet Atmosphere: Peaceful surroundings enhance the luxury camping experience near Shelby. "No kids or loud obnoxious other campers, felt at home, safe, understood and able to relax completely," says Sherry M. about Hippie Holler, highlighting its tranquil environment.
Year-round Access: Many glamping sites operate through all seasons with varying amenities. At Foothills Family Campground, "I arrived just before the end of the summer season so everything was up and running and it was perfect!" reports Crystal C.
What you should know
Reservation Requirements: Booking ahead is essential for glamping accommodations, especially during peak seasons. "We could only get a two night reservation, but that was enough. The kids played so hard they were exhausted," mentions Pam R. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Golden Valley.
Campsite Access: Some locations require hiking to reach camping areas. At Crowders Mountain State Park, "There is a hike to the campsite from the parking lot so we definitely got our workout in bringing our gear in," notes Lisa L., providing important context for visitors planning a stay.
Seasonal Amenities: Water features and certain activities operate on seasonal schedules. "We went memorial day and the few days after most of the amenities were closed except pool and the lake," reports a camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Site Preparation: Some locations have specific terrain challenges. "When I got home I was patching holes in the floor of my tent from where the stone pad had caused damage. A seasoned camper would've put down a tarp," advises Michelle L. about McDowell Nature Preserve.
Tips for camping with families
Water Features: Pools and water activities provide entertainment for children during warmer months. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Golden Valley, "The kids enjoyed the water park, putt putt, gem mining, fishing, crafts and tie dying shirts. There were several activities we didn't get a chance to do this trip (kayak, laser tag and the playground)," reports Kimberly H.
Transportation Considerations: Larger glamping resorts often require additional planning. "Golf carts are a must to get around since the campground is so big!" recommends Kimberly H. about Jellystone Park, where rentals help navigate extensive grounds.
Activity Planning: Schedule structured activities for children throughout your stay. "The kids (10 and 11) played so hard they were exhausted. It's a huge park with a system of golf cart trails that connect everything. The kids thought that was as exciting as the water park and the swimming pond," shares Pam R.
Trail Selection: Choose appropriate hiking paths based on children's ages and abilities. "If you go you need to hike up to the top it has absolutely breathtaking views and is a perfect hike for the family," suggests Jennifer B. about trails at Crowders Mountain State Park, though she notes "the hike to the top was a little strenuous for smaller kids."
Tips from RVers
Site Leveling: Prepare for varied terrain at campgrounds around Shelby. At Foothills Family Campground, "The roads in the campground are dirt, rutted, and steep. I am glad we unhooked our Jeep before navigating our RV to the site. The RV rocked and rolled quite a bit. The site was level, clean with full hook-ups," advises Kevin A.
Size Restrictions: Not all glamping locations accommodate larger recreational vehicles. "The campground is not terribly big rig friendly but still worth staying at when you are in the Charlotte Metro area," notes Rick B. about McDowell Nature Preserve.
Hookup Variations: Check specific site amenities before booking. "We had our own power and shared water with the next campers," explains Lee J. about the setup at McDowell Nature Preserve, information valuable for planning utility usage.
