Best Campgrounds near Winston-Salem, NC
Camping near Winston-Salem, North Carolina encompasses a mix of state parks, private campgrounds, and RV resorts within an hour's drive of the city. Hanging Rock State Park, located about 30 miles north of Winston-Salem, provides tent and RV camping with access to multiple waterfalls, hiking trails, and a swimming lake. Pilot Mountain State Park, situated northwest of the city, features distinctive rock formations and offers camping from March through November. Tanglewood Park in Clemmons and Salem Breeze RV Park in Winston-Salem provide options closer to urban amenities. According to campers, Hanging Rock State Park is particularly suitable for families, with one visitor noting it was "the perfect first tent camping experience" with "beautiful trails, waterfalls, and a great beach."
Most campgrounds in the Winston-Salem area require reservations, especially during peak seasons from spring through fall. Weekends at popular state parks like Hanging Rock and Pilot Mountain fill quickly, with many campers reporting these areas become crowded, particularly on summer weekends. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with limited connectivity in state parks and better coverage at campgrounds closer to the city. Summer temperatures can reach the high 90s with significant humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions. Winter camping is available at select locations including Hanging Rock State Park and Oak Hollow City Campground in High Point, though some facilities may be limited.
The camping options around Winston-Salem accommodate various preferences and equipment needs. State parks typically offer more primitive camping experiences with basic amenities and natural attractions. Visitors report that Pilot Mountain provides excellent hiking and rock climbing opportunities with trails leading directly from the campground. Private RV parks like Thousand Trails Forest Lake in Advance offer full hookups and additional amenities such as laundry facilities and WiFi. For those seeking a unique experience, Ivory Clay Farm provides a quiet farm stay setting just outside the Winston-Salem area. Most campgrounds are pet-friendly, though specific rules regarding leashes and pet areas vary by location.