The Winston-Salem region offers a mix of mountain foothills and rolling Piedmont terrain with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,500 feet, creating diverse camping environments within an hour's drive. The area's moderate climate allows for comfortable camping most of the year, with spring and fall bringing the most stable weather conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Hanging Rock State Park Campground, trails lead to five different waterfalls within the park boundaries. "The shortest hike to see a waterfall is relatively easy and is only three-tenths of a mile one way," notes reviewer Myron C., making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Mountain biking: The trail system around many Winston-Salem campgrounds includes dedicated mountain bike paths. "Nearby trails surrounding Tanglewood Park provide excellent walking opportunities for dogs, with a 4-mile paved exercise path connecting to mountain bike trails," offering options for cyclists of varying abilities.
Rock climbing: Pilot Mountain State Park Campground features established climbing routes with top-rope access. "If you're not a climber, the views are still worth the drive. While here, be sure to visit nearby Mt. Airy for some old school Andy Griffith sightseeing," suggests reviewer DrDavid P.
Fishing: Several campgrounds maintain stocked ponds for casual fishing. At Forest Lake RV and Camping Resort, one visitor reported, "fishing pond (I caught 2 sunfishes in 30 min & I'm no fisherman)," making it a good option for beginners or families.
What campers like
Scenic views: Greystone RV Park offers unobstructed views of Pilot Mountain. "10 flat, paved spots on the top of hillside looking up at Pilot Mt. You're right next to your neighbors, but was a great spot for a stopover," notes Greg H., highlighting the panoramic setting.
Wildlife encounters: Deer sightings are common at many pet-friendly campgrounds. "Deer roam throughout the park and campground. Clean bath/shower. Easy check in with multiple host on site. All sites paved," reports Brandon about his stay at Tanglewood Park.
Clean facilities: Hagan-Stone Park maintains well-kept bathhouses. "Clean bathhouses with hot water," notes Morgan A., though she adds, "If you tent camp in the B lot, the bathhouse is a bit of a walk."
Quiet atmosphere: Smaller campgrounds often provide a more peaceful setting. At Jomeokee Campground, a reviewer observed, "This is a very quiet campground at night. The camp host leads you in and makes sure you are situated in your site."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Winston-Salem area have uneven terrain. "Some sites including mine very hard to level," notes Wesley L. about Tanglewood Park, a common issue mentioned across multiple campgrounds.
Reservation timing: Popular pet-friendly campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "For a mid-May Monday night, we shared the campground with five other campers…but weekends and holidays are ordinarily full so secure your reservations online well in advance," advises Dave V. about Hanging Rock.
Water hookup arrangements: At Hagan-Stone Park, "Water is shared between sites," according to Morgan A., who recommends bringing a splitter if staying in certain areas of the campground.
Gate closure times: Some campgrounds restrict after-hours access. "Be aware that the campground entrance closes at 10 pm. You will not be able to enter or exit until the gate opens the next morning," notes Shannon C. about Pilot Mountain State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Oak Hollow City Campground offers water recreation for kids during summer months. "There was a pool our kids could swim in until 7:00pm. They let us borrow a metal fire pit so we could make s'mores," shares Larisa C., highlighting family-friendly amenities.
Wildlife viewing for kids: Natural encounters create memorable experiences for children. "From spotting salamanders near the creek to pretending they were mountain explorers on the trails, they were thoroughly entertained the whole trip," recounts David N. about Hanging Rock State Park.
Playground access: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Winston-Salem feature play areas for children. At Forest Lake RV and Camping Resort, families appreciate the "2 swimming pools, camp store, snack bar, fishing pond, basketball court, mini golf, & playground equipment."
Seasonal activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events for families. One visitor to Forest Lake mentioned, "We were only there Fri-Sun but there were activities planned to include an outdoor movie (with free popcorn), arts & crafts for the kids, candy bar bingo, and a DJ."
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Jomeokee Campground requires careful navigation for larger rigs. "We arrived after dark and found it way too hard to navigate through the trees. We called the owner and he took us to a pull through site, which we greatly appreciated after traveling all day. Definitely book those spots if you have a big RV," advises Devin.
Electrical needs: Campgrounds offer varying levels of electrical service. "You're staying for the view and easy access to hiking, not much else," notes Greg H. about Greystone RV Park, which provides adequate power but minimal additional amenities.
RV pad composition: Surface types vary across campgrounds. At Jomeokee, "The sites are nice, if not perfectly level and a little close together," while at Greystone RV Park, "Each pad is concrete, with a picnic table, fire pit and full hook-ups."
Length restrictions: Some loops at dog-friendly campgrounds have size limitations. At Hagan Stone Park, "Loop B is heavily wooded with 30amp and water every-other site. You may need as much as 50' water hose. If you're longer than 30' you may find Loop B tough to navigate," explains Rick S.
