A
Amanda U.
Traveler
TravelerWest Morris Mtn.
Individual campsites
Several individual campsites. Has trash bins located throughout the loop. There are picnic tables and fire rings at each site. No electric and no water. All spots are full shade.
Best Tent Camping near Carthage, NC
State parks and national forests surrounding Carthage, North Carolina provide several options for tent camping in diverse natural settings. Uwharrie National Forest, located about 30 miles west of Carthage, offers primitive tent campsites at locations like Deep Water Trail Camp and East Morris Mountain Camp. Closer to Carthage, San-Lee Park in Sanford provides tent-only camping with approximately 20 sites in a wooded setting. For those seeking riverside camping, Chalk Banks in Lumber River State Park offers spacious tent sites set back in pine forests with good privacy between sites.
Most tent campgrounds in the region feature basic amenities with varying levels of accessibility. Deep Water Trail Camp requires vehicles with higher clearance to navigate the bumpy, narrow access roads. Campers report the last half-mile is particularly challenging with steep, rocky, and muddy conditions. Sites typically include fire rings, though many are primitive rock circles rather than metal structures. Sandhills Campground B in the Sandhills Gamelands represents truly primitive tent camping with no bathrooms, water spigots, or other facilities. Visitors must bring all supplies, including water. Park gates often close at specific times - Chalk Banks locks its entrance at 9 pm, providing access codes to registered campers.
The tent camping experience varies significantly across locations. At Chalk Banks, campers noted that "tent camping sites 9-10-11 sit way back in the woods, so it's almost like having your own campground" with "tons of forage wood" available. According to reviews, Deep Water Trail Camp offers exceptional seclusion, with one visitor reporting they "stayed 3 days and 2 nights and there was only 1 other vehicle down there with us the entire time." Walk-in tent sites at Cedarock Park provide flat terrain ideal for setting up tents, though some campers mention road noise as a drawback. Most backcountry tent camping areas remain uncrowded even during peak seasons, with rangers at Chalk Banks indicating "the place seldom gets too crowded, and you can almost always get a reservation."
Best Tent Sites Near Carthage, North Carolina (12)
1. San-Lee Park
3 ReviewsSanford, NC20 milesWebsite+1 (919) 776-6221$15 / night
"Contrary to what has been written, I would highly recommend San-Lee Park to anyone looking for a short and easy escape from the nearby Raleigh-Durham area."
"There are hiking and biking trails as well as kayaking and other water sports on the lake there."
2. Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park
10 ReviewsWagram, NC28 milesWebsite+1 (910) 628-4564$17 - $47 / night
"It was a little tricky finding the entrance to this campsite, but when we managed to Google map our way in into the park, we were very happy with our selection!"
"There was a path walkable to the river, and each campsite was clean, had plenty of space on level ground to set up camp, a fire pit, and very clean toilet. I would definitely go back!"
3. Sandhills Campground B
1 ReviewPinebluff, NC23 miles+1 (910) 281-3917"This is a campground located in the Sandhills Gamelands in NC. If you're looking for primitive, this is it. No bathrooms, no water spigots, no camp store, nothing like that."
4. Deep Water Trail Camp
9 ReviewsBadin, NC40 milesWebsite"I’ve got a 13 foot pull behind. Backed in mostly but a few could be pulled in an out. Road posted 25 mph but recommend 10 mph. Was also narrow in spots. Very bumpy. Last 1/2 mile don’t go."
"It is a amazing area to visit if you are into OHV(Off Highway Vehicle) trail riding, mountain biking or hiking."
5. Uwharrie Hunt Camp
6 ReviewsUwharrie National Forest, NC36 milesWebsite+1 (910) 576-6391"Horse trail riding is second on the list of activities within the park judging by the number of trails."
"My husband and I took our two dogs backpacking for a weekend at Uhwarrie Park. After a long drive trying to find my husbands original spot we found a new one. Beautiful scenery."
6. East Morris Mountain
3 ReviewsUwharrie National Forest, NC33 milesWebsite+1 (877) 444-6777"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."
"A nice campsite off of Tower Road with is also part of the TransAmerica Trail. It is a flat site with a with a great fire pit."
7. Deep Water Trailt Horse Camp
3 ReviewsBadin, NC40 milesWebsite+1 (910) 576-6391"This area is popular for the Off Highway Vehicle trail systems which are open April through December."
"Too much trash left by previous campers"
8. Owl Creek Horse Camp - Bankhead NF
Be the first to review!Mamers, NC27 milesWebsite+1 (334) 832-4470$5 / night
9. Cedarock Park
4 ReviewsGraham, NC47 milesWebsite$10 / night
"Cedarock Park, located in Burlington, North Carolina, is a hidden gem for all sorts of outdoor activities. The park offers hike-in camping with a handful of sites scattered along Rock Creek."
"The park is almost 500 acres in size and offers:
- 6 miles of hiking trails
- 6 miles of equestrian trails
- 2 disc golf courses with a total of 36 holes for play
- A historical farm restored"
10. Family Wilderness Camp — Raven Rock State Park
Be the first to review!Mamers, NC29 milesWebsite+1 (910) 893-4888$17 / night
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Carthage, NC
18 Photos of 12 Carthage Campgrounds
Tent Camping Reviews near Carthage, NC
374 Reviews of 12 Carthage Campgrounds
Dave V.
LegendBadin Lake Campground
A relaxing lakeside atmosphere
Uwharrie National Forest-Badin Lake Campground, New London, NC.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48934
https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE\_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5368418.pdf
Campground Overview: 34 sites, two loops...upper loop and lakeside loop. Relatively large sites with vegetation that blocks constant view of neighbors.
Each site has a gravel parking pad and separate gravel tent pad, a standing charcoal grill, firepit with adjustable grate, a picnic table and a metal pole for hanging lanterns, etc. I would advise securing online reservations, but they do have an Iron Ranger to drop your payment in should you find an empty site. Note: There are warnings that online reservations take precedence, so if you use the Iron Ranger payment drop chute and someone reserved the same campsite...you will be required to move to a different location when the online reservation campers arrive. Just so you know.
No electric.
Oddly, no firewood for sale...although scrounging produced plenty of things and fallen branches to keep a fire going.
I preferred the lower loop as nearly every outer site was on the lake with great views and lake access and sites are spread out. The inside sites of the lower loop are pretty spacious and deep. Water spigots were spaced out around the loop, so a short walk as we were equal distance between two.
Restroom/showerhouses were quad door buildings. Separate men’s and women’s restrooms and two separate shower rooms. Facilities were kept clean and stocked by resident hosts.
With Verizon, I never lost signal...a plus for a National Forest!
The upper loop appeared to offer a little more solitude than the lower lake loop...but no lake views.
The lake loop trail crosses the main campground roadway between the two loops. This trail is relatively flat and meanders around the lake and it’s many fingers...offering lovely lake views and some nice fishing locations.
During my midweek visit it was quiet day and night. The sunset across the lake was gorgeous and relaxing. Loud powerboat noise was minimal as only a couple bass boats thought it essential to travel at high speeds from location to location. Next visit my canoe and mountain one will accompany me.
What I enjoyed: as much as I dislike tree rats, I was entertained by two feuding squirrels that chased each other relentlessly and knocking each other out of tree tops. Woodpecker and Turkey wake up calls.
For a National Forest, I was surprised by the level of daytime industrial noise nearby.
Overall, a fantastic location relatively close to Raleigh/Durham and Fayetteville for a great camping getaway. I was only able to stay one night as the campground was booked, all reserved in advance. So plan ahead.
- JJoe L.Traveler
Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park
Pleasantly Surprised.
It was a little tricky finding the entrance to this campsite, but when we managed to Google map our way in into the park, we were very happy with our selection! These campsites are in a beautiful pine woods forest. Many sites have a pretty mossy pathway near the tent platform. The platform is elevated and and dirt framed in wooden railroad ties. The sites have great privacy and the campsite was virtually empty except for us and one other family. The campground ranger said they only fill up on the 4th of July. They set-up and trash can with a bag for you upon arrival. There is no general store nearby so bring wood and supplies in with you. There was a water pump/spigot near the restroom with great pressure (potable water). We brought our own pop-up shower and road toilet with us, so didn’t need the restroom. The ranger that greeted us was super nice and respectful. He gave us the gate code in case we needed to leave after they closed the gate at 9:00pm. Very quiet and peaceful.
Stuart K.LegendPoplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Outdoor Perfection @ Jordan Lake SRA Poplar Point Campground
Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina! Yes, I know, that’s quite a statement to make, considering all of the amazing places in the great state of North Carolina. So let me explain why I reached this conclusion:
• Some of the most outstanding hiking trails
• Heavily wooded forest paradise that delivers privacy and solitude
• Perfectly maintained amenities such as picnic tables, fold-up fire ring and grills
• Bathroom facilities are some of the best I’ve experienced with state-run facilities
• Direct access to a fantastic lakeside experience, complete with boat launches
• Designated swimming area complete with life vests
• On-site park staff were nothing short of amazing, helpful and incredibly friendly
• Close access to purchase anything that might be needed
Insider’s tip? Be sure to get down to the lake from wherever your campsite is just after sunset and bring a couple of folding chairs and a telescope (pre-planning here is needed!) to catch a glimpse of one of the most amazing star-studded night skies you’ve ever seen in your life!
Happy Camping!
Makenzie T.
ScoutChalk Banks — Lumber River State Park
Clean, beautiful and river-accessible!
This was a great campground for a great price. There was a path walkable to the river, and each campsite was clean, had plenty of space on level ground to set up camp, a fire pit, and very clean toilet. I would definitely go back!
- Stuart K.Legend
Jordan Lake Crosswinds
Big Water, Tall Pines & Gorgeous Lakefront Sunsets
Nestled along the shores of Jordan Lake, Crosswinds Campground is one of those places that makes one feel like they just scored a million-dollar lakefront spot for the cost of a campsite fee. First impressions? Towering pines everywhere, a breeze rolling off the water and the faint hum of boats out on the lake. It’s a large, well-loved campground that still manages to feel peaceful – provided you’re not parked next to that one guy who thinks 'quiet hours' are just a suggestion.
The facilities here strike a nice balance between rustic and comfortable. Out of the 182 sites, 134 offer water and electric hookups, making it RV-friendly while still keeping things woodsy. Every site has the basics: picnic table, fire ring, lantern / garbage holder and enough tree cover to keep you from baking like a biscuit in the North Carolina summer sun. Bathhouses are clean and scattered through the loops in just about the right proportion where the loos feel like an overcrowded line to see your favorite band with a dump station on site at each of the campground loops. Roads are well-paved –although you will find that errant pothole just waiting to take out one of your tires, so tread carefully – but a little snug for bigger rigs, so if you drive something the size of a tour bus, maybe don’t test your parallel parking skills here.
The lake is the true star. With 180 miles of shoreline surrounding a 12,000-acre reservoir, Jordan Lake sprawls wide enough to feel like a small ocean … and Crosswinds puts you right on the edge of it. Beyond the lake itself, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area covers a span of some 46,000 acres of public land, so there’s tons of nature to explore here. Boating, fishing and kayaking are all top-notch, and the eagle-spotting here is so good you’ll feel like you wandered onto a National Geographic special. If you want civilization, the quaint and full-service townships of Cary, Apex and Pittsboro are all close by for groceries, breweries or just a break from your campfire cooking experiments.
As for the campground itself, there are 3 distinct loops: A, B & C (yes, even your kindergartner can keep these 3 straight!). Here’s a breakdown of each loop, because each one offers up something different and unique – some things good, some things not so much – that may influence where you choose to camp. Here’s a snapshot:
Loop A (AKA 'Boats & Bobbers'): (1) the only loop that is entirely non-electric, so if powering up your campsite is important, then bring your own source or look to the other loops; (2) closest to the main entrance, so great for quick access, but the only loop if you take a left at the fork (the other 2 loops are right of the fork); (3) nearest the boat launch, so you will experience all of the boat-launching skippers driving westward past your loop from dusk to dawn, which is great if you are thumbing your way to the boat launch, not so great if you prize peace & quiet; (4) an ‘easter egg’ of a hidden trail exists near A21 that will lead you down to the lakeshore to a quiet spot perfect for uncorking that vintage Bordeaux you’ve been looking for the right location and moment to savor; and (5) IMHO the best sites are those that are lake-facing such as 19– 22 and 45– 47.
Loop B (AKA 'Sand & Swimming'): (1) if Loop A is defined by its proximity to the boat launch, then this loop can be dubbed the Beach Loop as it is the only circuit with an actual beachhead and proper swimming area; (2) while centrally located in between the other 2 loops, this area is definitely considered more tranquil and has a tighter feeling of community; (3) unlike the previous loop, this one has campsites with running electric and water, but there’s a bonus to some of these sites as they are considered duplex campsites, so while a bit more$ ($25 more for non-electric and $40 more for duplexes with electric), you’ll have more space, which is especially important if there’s 2 families looking to camp together; and (4) IMHO the best sites here are those westernmost, lake-facing spots such as 24, 26, 30, 32, 34, 36 and 40.
Loop C ('Sunsets& Sundowners'): (1) just like the previous loop, here you’ll find all campsites have running water & electric, so no primitive shenanigans to deal with here; (2) of the 3 loops, this is the one located most northernly, most secluded, furthest from the entrance and has no amenities (like a beach or boat launch) that will draw non-camping traffic; (3) the biggest draw of this loop are the arresting views of Lake Jordan, especially at dusk, where you can place your fold-up camping chair in just the right direction, sit back and sip on those sunset-inspired Mai Tais; (4) There’s a small, hidden beach (shhh! don’t tell your fellow campers in Loop B, lest they become disenfranchised!) that you can access near site 32 that will allow for a private swim or late-night evening hang-out staring at the breathtaking moonlit starscape; and (5) IMHO the best sites are (you guessed it) the ones that have the best views of that incandescent sundowner view facing westward, so you’ll want to eye spots 19, 21, 23, 24 – with the absolute pinnacle sites being 24, 26, 30, 32, 34 – as well as those that have even a partial view, including 36, 40 and 42.
Insider Tips? Here's a smattering: (1) Plan a swim or paddle near the Ebenezer Church swimming beach, just a short drive from Crosswinds. It’s less crowded than the main day-use areas and offers sandy shoreline, gentle water entry, and shady picnic spots; (2) For paddling, launch in the morning from the camper-only ramp before the motorboats hit the water and turn it into Daytona-on-the-lake; (3) Eat at The Fearrington House Restaurant in Pittsboro if you’re feeling fancy – exotic meats and Oregon Pinot Noirs so smooth they’ll make you forget you slept on a foam mattress last night; (4) Bring bug spray – the mosquitoes here treat Off! like it’s a garnish; and (5) Don’t skip stargazing on a clear night, the Milky Way shows off, and it’s better than cable.
Happy Camping!
Katy S.
RangerCrosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Great access to the lake
This is a pretty nice campground, similar to other state parks in North Carolina. The sites are spacious, we stayed at a double site that allowed up to 4 cars. The site was level and stayed dry during the heavy rain, however we saw other sites that had big puddles, with tents in the water. The bathrooms were cleaned regularly, but they were not very nice. The shower didn't look good at all, we didn't use it.
A great things about the campground is that it has its own kayak/canoe ramp, just a few minutes drive from the site. We saw people fishing from the ramp as well. On our morning paddle we saw a couple of bald eagles, they were amazing. We stayed at the campsite after heavy rains, so the beach was closed. It must be nice when not flooded.
This is a state campground, so alcohol is not allowed.
Sarah G.
GuideMorrow Mountain State Park Campground
Lots of activities for family camping
We had 4 families with children on 1 RV and 3 non-electric tent sites over Memorial Day weekend. Even though the park was at max capacity, it didn’t feel crowded or swarming. The facilities and activities at Morrow Mountain are awesome - a huge, clean pool; canoe rental from a well-maintained boathouse; hikes of various lengths; slightly aged but clean and cared for bath houses; and (our favorite) a gorgeous mountain top picnic shelter (A), which we rented due to a rainy forecast. Great place for family camping. Sites are nicely spaced, but by no means are they private or secluded. Staff were very friendly, but the no alcohol rule is a bummer. If you want to be alone in the woods, Morrow Mountain is not for you. Its also worth noting the climate is much more like south central NC (hot and super humId) and nothIng like the cool mountain air in Western NC. But if your looking for a fun, interactive family or group camping weekend, it’s the perfect spot!
- Stuart K.Legend
Parkers Creek Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Stellar Campground @ Jordan Lake SRA - Parker's Creek
I could barely believe that we're only 20 or so minutes away from a large city like Raleigh and we are able to access such amazing natural beauty so easily. For most of my camping life, I'm used to spending hours on a road (often winding, bumpy and war-torn!) before making it to our ultimate camping destination - so Parker's Creek was a real treat.
Here, just like so many of the great state parks in North Carolina, I found an exceptional well-taken care of chunk of nature, where the campground has been perfectly carved INTO nature, and this particular area of well-appointed campsites are nothing short of spectacular, especially if you get as lucky as we did in booking this site. Perhaps because we were in shoulder season, we didn't experience the herds of other campers - in fact, for the most part, we felt like we had the place to ourselves.
All of the basic amenities are here - picnic table, fire ring, running water and hot showers, restroom facilities. And oh, like everything's just about new or recently refurbished. Add this to the excellent views, I don't know that it gets better than waking up after a great night underneath the stars (and a full moon) and going for a nice dip in Lake Jordan before all the boating and fishing crowds mob the lake's water. This and the hiking trails around, were simply fantastic. I can't wait to return soon!
Happy Camping
Guide to Carthage
The region surrounding Carthage, North Carolina sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level, nestled within the Sandhills region that features rolling terrain and sandy soil derived from ancient beaches. Tent camping options span from primitive forest sites to established campgrounds with varied amenities. Most campsites in national forests around Carthage aren't reservable online and operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, making weekday visits advisable during peak seasons.
What to do
Disc golf outings: Cedarock Park offers two complete disc golf courses with a total of 36 holes. According to a visitor, "There are two fantastic disc golf courses (I personally enjoy the Wellspring course) and even a historical farm that sheds light on what life was like as a farmer in 19th century North Carolina."
Kayaking and canoeing: Lumber River State Park provides river access for paddlers with easy boat launch areas. One camper noted, "Easy parking nice boat ramp for the kayaks," making it convenient for weekend paddling trips.
Hiking and exploration: San-Lee Park features numerous trails for day hikes. A reviewer mentioned, "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!"
Fishing opportunities: Deep Water Trail Camp has gained a reputation for productive fishing spots. A camper reported, "Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground, and some damn good fishing. I didn't take enough pictures when I was there."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Chalk Banks offers well-spaced camping areas. A visitor observed, "These campsites are in a beautiful pine woods forest. Many sites have a pretty mossy pathway near the tent platform. The platform is elevated and and dirt framed in wooden railroad ties. The sites have great privacy."
Uncrowded conditions: Most campgrounds around Carthage remain relatively empty even during typical peak seasons. At Deep Water Trail Camp, one camper shared, "We stayed 3 days and 2 nights and there was only 1 other vehicle down there with us the entire time."
Large campsite spacing: The distance between sites at several campgrounds provides ample room. At Chalk Banks, a camper mentioned, "Probably the biggest spots to camp I've ever seen gives you the feel of basically being way off the beaten path."
Flat terrain for setting up: Cedarock Park provides ideal tent sites. A reviewer stated, "The sites are all super flat, which makes finding some place comfortable to set up a tent that much easier."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Deep Water Trail Camp requires vehicles with adequate clearance. A camper warned, "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."
Gate closing times: Parks in the area enforce strict gate closing policies. At Cedarock Park, a camper cautioned, "The downside is they lock the gate at night and no one else is there so if you have an emergency or just need to leave you can't, you're literally stuck."
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds have moved to reservation-only systems despite website information suggesting otherwise. A San-Lee Park visitor shared their experience: "We picked this spot because it was a last minute trip and on their website it advertised they had first come first serve spots open. We drive over there see a completely empty campground... we were told you have to call and make a reservation but we shouldn't have a problem getting a spot since it's empty."
Truly primitive options: Sandhills Campground B represents the most basic camping near Carthage. A visitor explains, "If you're looking for primitive, this is it. No bathrooms, no water spigots, no camp store, nothing like that. Bring all your own EVERYTHING."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: The best tent camping near Carthage, North Carolina includes parks with multiple activities. At San-Lee Park, "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."
Consider road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. At Cedarock Park, a family noted, "The only downside is the road noise at night - it was very loud. Next time we will bring something to help quiet the noise."
Water activities with kids: Lumber River provides safe areas for families. One camper shared, "We brought our two pups & they had a blast playing & laying in the water! We stayed at a campsite next to the river bend."
Know facility limitations: Campground bathroom facilities vary widely in the Carthage area. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, a camper noted, "The campground had a couple spigots and the pit toilets were clean. We also found the campground itself very clean."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most campgrounds near Carthage have limited space for larger rigs. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, a visitor observed, "With only 6 sites and what appears to be an over-sized parking lot right next to it, the lot accommodates the OHV trailers."
Cost considerations: Budget-conscious RVers appreciate the affordability. One camper at Uwharrie Hunt Camp mentioned, "The campground is a quaint, and only $5 per night! With only 6 sites and what appears to be an over-sized parking lot right next to it, the lot accommodates the OHV trailers."
Road condition awareness: Access roads to the best camping spots require careful navigation. A Deep Water Trail Camp visitor advised, "The drive down the trail can be a bit much if you're in a smaller car like we were, we had to drive slowly down because of all of the rocks."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Carthage, NC?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Carthage, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Carthage, NC is San-Lee Park with a 3-star rating from 3 reviews.
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tent camping near
Carthage, NC?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Carthage, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 tent camping locations near Carthage, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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