Westfield, North Carolina sits at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with elevations ranging from 1,000-1,200 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most tent camping sites in this region are built on gravel pads with variable drainage during the frequent summer thunderstorms common to this part of the Piedmont.
What to do
Hunting for fairy stones: Visit Fairy Stone State Park, about 45 miles from Westfield, where visitors can search for distinctive cross-shaped minerals. A visitor shared, "We learned about the mysterious Fairy Stones and went to the hunt site to see for ourselves. Sure enough - we found several fairy stones and the kids were very happy!"
Fishing and swimming: Homeplace Recreational Park in Ararat offers both activities with a water park on-site. "This campground is very clean and the staff is great. Water park is awesome. Large trail to go for a little walk. Very reasonably priced," notes one camper.
Rock climbing: For experienced climbers, Pilot Mountain State Park offers routes for top-rope climbing. A climber reports, "I've been here several times, and it's one of my favorite places for toprope climbing in the area. If you're not a climber, the views are still worth the drive."
What campers like
Level sites at Stone Mountain: The camping area at Stone Mountain State Park provides well-maintained sites. According to one visitor, "The camp sites are mostly level, well maintained and have tent pads, tables and fire rings. I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups."
Peaceful tent camping: Campers appreciate the tranquility at Pilot Mountain State Park. A camper notes, "We had a great time. Very quiet. Felt safe park rangers made trips around and just really enjoyed relaxing."
Facilities for extended stays: At Stone Mountain, facilities support longer camping trips. One camper shared, "You just can't beat it. We camped here and didn't even leave. It has so much to do and see. We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds in the area have limited operating seasons. Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA operates from March 15 to November 15, while Pilot Mountain State Park runs from March 15 to November 30.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely throughout the region. One camper at Fairy Stone State Park noted, "No Verizon service or WiFi. We go here to get away."
Weather preparation: Thunderstorms occur frequently in summer months. A camper at Fairy Stone explained, "It poured - for hours - but our site stayed dry for the most part. The tent pads at this campground are excellent and drain well."
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly options: Mayberry Campground in Mount Airy welcomes pets and offers family amenities. As one visitor mentioned, "Great family friendly, pet loving campground. Most sites are spacious, all RV sites have full hookups."
Educational activities: Parks often offer ranger-led programs. A parent shared about Fairy Stone State Park: "The programming was also amazing for our eight and four-year old boys. Ranger Lexie hunted legendary fairystones with our kids and they haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!"
Multiple playgrounds: Mayberry Campground provides play areas for children. A camper noted, "You got full hookups, nice level sites, and two playgrounds. This place is full on the weekends so reserve in advance."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Willville Motorcycle Camp near Meadows of Dan, there's flexibility in choosing sites. A camper explains, "There are no reservations except for either the one cabin or the bunkhouse, and there're no designated spots. However, there are great places with shade or in the open, ample grass, and picnic tables aplenty."
Specialized RV sites: Some campgrounds offer unique features for particular needs. At Fancy Gap KOA, "In addition to a pet play area, there are a few sites with pet backyards, fenced in areas for your pet to roam and play."
Off-season advantages: Visiting outside peak periods offers a different experience. A winter visitor to Pilot Mountain observed, "We went in December and there wasn't many people there at all, maybe 4 other campers all weekend."