Top Free Dispersed Camping near Winston-Salem, NC

Camping near Winston-Salem, North Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking: There are amazing trails at Stone Mountain State Park Campground. One visitor said, "The hiking is excellent. Make sure you hike to the top. The views are great."
• Fishing and Swimming: At Badin Lake Campground, you can swim and fish. A camper mentioned, "The lake is swimmable from any point and you have use of the entire campgrounds area."
• Exploring Waterfalls: Hanging Rock State Park Campground is known for its waterfalls. One review noted, "The park has 5 waterfalls... we got our workout in seeing all the sites."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Morrow Mountain State Park Campground. A visitor said, "Bathrooms are clean. Water spigot close by."
• Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Pilot Mountain State Park Campground. One camper shared, "The elevated fire pits are level and easy to use for cooking or just a campfire."
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Lake Norman State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The campground host was courteous and friendly."

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: If you need to stay connected, be aware that cell service can be spotty at Stone Mountain State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "We had limited cell service for AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile."
• No Alcohol Allowed: Many campgrounds, like Hanging Rock State Park Campground, have a no-alcohol policy. A visitor pointed out, "There is no alcohol allowed and I did not notice anyone breaking this rule."
• Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds, such as Pilot Mountain State Park Campground, are only open from March 15 to November 30. Make sure to check the season before planning your trip.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Mayberry Campground. A camper said, "There is a playground, RV store, and shelter houses."
• Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. One visitor at Morrow Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, "The campsites tend to be spacious and wooded—perfect for privacy and hammocks."
• Plan for Bugs: If you're camping in the summer, be prepared for bugs. A reviewer at COE W Kerr Scott Reservoir Bandits Roost Campground noted, "It was SUPER buggy."

Tips from RVers:

• Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites, like Pilot Mountain State Park Campground. A camper shared, "Tent pad was level and large."
• Electric Hookups: Many RVers appreciate campgrounds that offer electric hookups, such as Lake Norman State Park Campground. One visitor said, "The sites are paved, with a picnic table and fire ring."
• Dump Stations: Check for dump stations nearby, especially at places like Morrow Mountain State Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "There is a water tank filling station and a dump station on site."

Camping around Winston-Salem, NC, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort.