Karen S.
Traveler
TravelerTanglewood Park
Friendliest staff
Geast campground, lots of shad. Some of the sites are very steep. Situated in a beautiful park with lots of activities. Dog park. Trails. Nearby lake, pool
Best Pet-Friendly Camping near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir
Bandits Roost Campground and Fort Hamby Park welcome pets at all sites with water and electric hookups along W. Kerr Scott Reservoir. Both Army Corps of Engineers facilities maintain clean grounds with spacious, wooded campsites offering privacy between neighboring sites. Many waterfront sites have direct lake access with short paths to semi-private beach areas. The spacious sites at Fort Hamby feature two-level layouts, with the upper section for parking and the lower for picnic tables and fire rings. Sites remain fairly unique with some providing shade throughout the day, eliminating the need for awnings even during summer months.
The paved roads throughout these pet-friendly campgrounds connect to multiple hiking trails ideal for dog walks with lake views. Campsites include fire pits, picnic tables, and grill stations, with level, well-graveled sites that accommodate both tents and RVs. Both locations feature swimming areas with white sand beaches where pets can cool off near shorelines. The campgrounds maintain multiple playgrounds and recreational facilities including volleyball courts and disc golf courses. While bathhouses are clean but dated, the dump stations are exceptionally well-designed and maintained. Nearby Wilkesboro provides convenient access to pet supplies and services when needed. During summer months, be prepared for insects, particularly at lakeside sites where shore birds and osprey provide natural entertainment for pets and owners alike. These dog-friendly campsites near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir are among the most consistently well-reviewed options in the North Carolina foothills for campers traveling with pets, offering reliable amenities and direct lake access that few other dog-friendly campgrounds in the region match.
Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir (192)
1. COE W Kerr Scott Reservoir Bandits Roost Campground
19 ReviewsWilkesboro, NC0 milesWebsite+1 (336) 921-3190$20 - $85 / night
"My wife and I biked/ ran the trails nearby. Our dogs loved walking around the campground. Some nice wooded tent sites that a very large areas. Our spot was a two level site."
"Swimming, kayaking, boat launch, small hiking trail. Sites have a fire pit, picnic table (it’s really heavy!) and a grill. I loved how each site is fairly unique."
2. Stone Mountain State Park Campground
56 ReviewsRoaring Gap, NC22 milesWebsite+1 (336) 957-8185$17 - $72 / night
"But, ya know North Carolina summers."
"The site also had a huge area for the picnic table and the fire ring is far away from your camper. There was a huge grassy area behind our site with a creek, lots of space for our dog."
3. Warrior Creek
11 ReviewsPurlear, NC3 milesWebsite+1 (336) 921-2177$22 - $85 / night
"Warrior Creek Campground is located on the Kerr Scott Reservoir. It's beautiful and peaceful, at least Monday through Friday."
"Super mt bike trails that have been built and maintained by volunteers who really care and ride the trails often."
4. Fort Hamby Park
9 ReviewsPurlear, NC2 milesWebsite+1 (336) 973-0104$30 - $125 / night
"Lake was gorgeous! Absolutely the easiest and cleanest dump station we have ever used! Well designed! Close to Willesboro!"
"There is a dumpsite near the front office. A short drive from campsite is a man-made beach with lake swimming area… very nice."
5. Moravian Falls Family Campground
7 ReviewsMoravian Falls, NC4 milesWebsite+1 (336) 667-61506. Thousand Trails Green Mountain
18 ReviewsLenoir, NC19 milesWebsite+1 (888) 707-1477"A very friendly place for people and pets. A storm was coming in and they called to check our ETA to let us know set up might be critical. Plenty of hiking trails."
"The campsites are at the base of a mountain with tons of great hiking trails within the park."
7. Julian Price Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
49 ReviewsBlowing Rock, NC27 milesWebsite+1 (828) 963-5911$30 / night
"Julian Price Park is a beautiful campground just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. We enjoy this campground on the weekends throughout the fall and spring as it is less occupied."
"Some RV sites are on the edge of the road. Clean restrooms and showers. Great hiking trails nearby beginning in the campground. Dog friendly. If you have a National park pass you get a discount."
8. Stoney Fork Campground
3 ReviewsPurlear, NC8 milesWebsite+1 (336) 973-5299"It's right on a creek and it was lovely to drink morning coffee next to the water."
9. Self Sufficient Holler
1 ReviewMoravian Falls, NC5 miles$40 - $200 / night
"What a magical experience floating in the trees surrounded by fire flies! Elizabeth and Mark were exceptional hosts. There is so much to do on property, and they are working on more!"
10. Wagoner — New River State Park
16 ReviewsJefferson, NC22 milesWebsite+1 (336) 982-2587$27 - $72 / night
"We camped at the Wagoner access with our dogs over the weekend. The campground is very beautiful. You have to walk in but the park provides little carts and wheelbarrows."
"Beautiful days hiking nearby, cold nights. Pet friendly. Pretty clean bath house. Visitors center nearby. Sites were mostly level, with gravel, fire pit, picnic table."
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir
209 Photos of 192 W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
COE W Kerr Scott Reservoir Bandits Roost Campground
Warrior CreekJ
Moravian Falls Family CampgroundD
Eden Oaks Vineyard and CampgroundD
Roaring River Vineyards RV Campground
Raccoon Holler Campground
Thousand Trails Green Mountain
New River Redemption
Wagoner — New River State Park
Doughton Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
Stone Mountain State Park CampgroundE
Byrd's Branch Campground
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir
1258 Reviews of 192 W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir Campgrounds
Kirsten J.
LegendMountain River Family Campground
Pristine, friendly, communal, peaceful campground on the river!
This campground was pristine - from the moment we turned the corner, until the moment we left!
We met Kimberly within seconds of pulling on the property. She was incredibly kind and made us feel at home immediately. As tent campers, she told us our best choices were a 30 amp site on the river ($50) or a 30-amp site off the river ($44). These prices are steep for tent camping, but include 2 adults, kids and pets. Additional adults come with a fee, but we were happy the kids were included. Not only were the pets included, but they have a dog park area that they can run free and stretch their legs!
We came into the cute little office where Kimberly gave us a campground map (which was painted by a resident camper glass blower) and told us about her property. Several items were on sale inside the store, including many shirts, sweatshirts, hats, etc. They also sell kids fishing poles, stickers and even a fresh coffee cup machine. They have recently renovated the bathhouse (wait until you see it!) they have a library with books and games, an outdoor sink to wash dishes etc. and even a laundry room that operates on the honor system. How great is that! I thought it was wonderful that we could wash a wet sleeping bag or a quick load of stinky hiking clothes if necessary! Kimberly explained that they have a pretty good mix of short and long term campers (primarily RV's) and even a cute little cabin that can be rented.
Kimberly said that they choose not to allow on-line bookings to maintain the atmosphere that they desire. You can call, or submit a request, but they want to have a conversation with you before booking. The campground was calm, friendly and so so clean. Campers were friendly, the campground host was as kind as could be, and so proud about her new bathrooms. (See below). This is the kind of campground we would feel good about our kids biking around in the evening as they chase fire flies and meet new friends!
The campground was located on the river, but the slope was challenging from several sites. With kiddos, I may prefer a site closer to the road because it was nearly a flat walk out to the river. We will surely be back!
Nomad Nurse Z
GuideTanglewood Park
Nice and new!
Great hosts, spacious spots, nearby dog park, loved staying here. The bath houses are a little dated but very clean. There is horse shoe, volleyball, soccer goals on the camp ground. I would stay here all the time if I could!
- Katrin M.Legend
Wagoner — New River State Park
Beautiful campground.
We camped at the Wagoner access with our dogs over the weekend. The campground is very beautiful. You have to walk in but the park provides little carts and wheelbarrows. The sites and the bathhouse are very well maintained. The park host, Tom Keller, was just fantastic. Really helpful and super nice. There are also 2 beautiful hiking trails starting at the campground. I would definitely camp here again even if I have to say there are much more scenic places in this part of North Carolina.
- TTiffany D.Guide
Tanglewood Park
New, Basic, but Nice
We only stayed for 1 night as we were passing through, but we plan to return one day.
Positives are it’s a newer campground, nice and shaded, full hookups (w,e,s), lots were wide, Easy to get in and out of, plenty to do within the park (hiking, fishing, kayak/canoe, etc), has a nice dog park, hosts were very welcoming and kind, VERY clean.
Negatives are unlevel lots (we had to lower ours by over 4” and still weren’t level, but couldn’t adjust anymore), sites aren’t exactly private - but there was a bit of space between sites.
- Riley R.Traveler
Down by the River Campground - 55+
Everything you need in a campground
I’m not even sure you can call this a campground! A majority of those staying here were in top of the line campers. It truly felt like a community. There are two bath houses, a dog park, an activity center, and a river flowing behind the sites. It was beautiful and had a cheery atmosphere. They even had WiFi! I was definitely spoiled here.
Jennifer J.GuideLinville Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
Loved it!
Great campground! We are tent campers and loved our time here! There are A LOT of spots in a small area. That would be my only complaint if you want to call it that. The campgrounds clean and the owners are super nice and helpful. We have a dog and love the dog park! The bathrooms are very clean and nice! I would definitely recommend this campground!
Marjorie W.GuideTanglewood Park
. Beautiful place
Beautiful place. At $35 a night, there is a lot to enjoy. The only thing you need to be aware of is that some of the sights are very slanted. Very tall levelers are needed. But they do have cable, wifi(that’s ok) a dog park and lots more. It’s worth it.
- MMatt B.Guide
Tanglewood Park
Excellent County Park with Plenty to Do
This is our local park so we're a bit spoiled. It was perfect for our first outing in our new 34' travel trailer. Plenty of shade in the campground which unfortunately makes backing a challenge in some sides dodging the trees. The park has great mountain biking, walking/hiking trails, horseback riding, gold, swimming, playgrounds and a great dog park. It's the place we go on the weekend as locals and a great place to visit for campers. Hosts were extremely friendly and do a fantastic job keeping the sides clean and cleared of even the smallest twigs and branches from the tree.
Guide to W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir
W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir sits at approximately 1,030 feet elevation in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Wilkes County, North Carolina. The 1,475-acre reservoir provides 56 miles of shoreline with multiple access points for water recreation. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions with daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The reservoir area features extensive trail systems popular with cyclists of all skill levels. At Warrior Creek, visitors access premier mountain biking routes. "Super mt bike trails that have been built and maintained by volunteers who really care and ride the trails often. 10 to 15 minutes drive by car to the wilkesboro with plants of food and amenities," notes Kim L.
Boating and water recreation: The reservoir offers multiple boat launches and rental options for exploring the water. Visitors at Stone Mountain State Park Campground often combine their stay with reservoir activities. "Great location. It is about a 15 minute drive to 3 great wineries and walkable to the trail head for the Stone Mountain loop," explains Kristin F.
Wildlife observation: The reservoir area hosts diverse wildlife including shore birds, osprey, and deer. "There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," reports Charli R. about her Stone Mountain State Park experience, similar to wildlife viewing opportunities at the reservoir.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds near the reservoir offer secluded camping spaces. At Stoney Fork Campground, "Nice size campsites with privacy in between. Full hookup, and back in sites right on the creek," according to Brian B.
Waterfront access: Campers appreciate sites with direct water views or access. "Sites are backed up to the creek. Will definitely be back," adds Brian B. about Stoney Fork Campground. This layout provides convenient water enjoyment without crowds.
Hiking trail connections: The campgrounds connect to extensive trail networks. At New River State Park, "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," reports Chelsea B.
What you should know
Variable bathhouse conditions: Facilities range from modern to basic depending on location. "The bathhouse was clean, and fellow campers were respectful and nice," notes Emily D. about Stone Mountain State Park, while other locations have more limited facilities.
Seasonal closure schedule: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Fort Hamby Park operates from "mid apr-late oct" according to its listing information. "Absolutely the easiest and cleanest dump station we have ever used! Well designed," notes Brenda F.
Weather considerations: The region experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms in summer months. "We were in site 2. Would never consider a return visit. CREEPY. Waterfall nice," warns Martha S. about visiting Moravian Falls Campground during July when storms can impact camping conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. "There is a small beach, playground, and quiet. We don't mountain bike but several of our friends do and they said they trails were great," shares J H. about Warrior Creek.
Swimming access points: Find campgrounds with designated swimming areas for safer water play. "The park is spread out over several different, disconnected properties throughout the county which offered a lot of different recreational opportunities. 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.
Educational opportunities: Look for parks with nature programs or historical sites. "[Stone Mountain State Park] has so much to do and see. We camped here and didn't even leave. The homestead was so neat to walk around at the base of the mountain," recommends Charli R.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on your specific RV needs. "We had a back in site with W/E, 94B. This is a good interior site. There are great sites down on the peninsula that have water views but we were not able to get one on this trip," advises Martha S. about COE W Kerr Scott Reservoir Bandits Roost Campground.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups or convenient dump stations. "ONE OF OUR FAVORITE SPOTS. THE ONLY THING WRONG IS NO SEWER HOOK UPS! ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT," notes Angela S. about Bandits Roost Campground.
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds have challenging roads for larger rigs. "The actual campsites can be a bit tricky to park but overall great time," reports Kelley G. about her experience at Bandits Roost Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly
campsite near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir?
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir is COE W Kerr Scott Reservoir Bandits Roost Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 19 reviews.
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dog-friendly camping near
W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir?
TheDyrt.com has all 192 dog-friendly camping locations near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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