Within Uwharrie National Forest, Badin Lake Campground spreads across two distinct loops that cater to different camping preferences. The upper loop provides more solitude among the trees, while the lakeside loop places campers steps from the water's edge. Each of the 34 sites includes a gravel parking pad, separate tent area, fire ring with adjustable grate, and picnic table, with vegetation screening most sites from neighbors.
The lakeside loop draws most visitors for obvious reasons. Sites along the outer edge offer direct lake access and water views, while inner sites remain spacious despite being set back from the shore. Dave V. notes the campground has "relatively large sites with vegetation that blocks constant view of neighbors." A trail system connects both loops and meanders around the lake's many fingers, providing additional fishing spots and scenic overlooks beyond individual campsites.
The campground operates without electrical hookups, accommodating RVs up to 40 feet alongside tent campers. Water spigots are distributed throughout both loops, and the bathhouse facilities feature individual shower and restroom stalls. Campers consistently mention the resident hosts who maintain the facilities, though some reviews note the shower buildings can accumulate spiders and may have inconsistent hot water during busy periods. Cell service remains reliable for most carriers.
Access requires navigating several miles of forest roads that can become rough during wet conditions. The campground accepts reservations year-round, which reviewers strongly recommend since walk-in availability is limited. No firewood is sold on-site, but dead and downed wood collection is permitted throughout the surrounding forest. For those seeking pet-friendly camping near Uwharrie National Forest, this campground welcomes dogs and provides ample space for exercise along the shoreline and trail system.
Badin Lake Campground works best for campers who prioritize lake access and don't mind basic amenities in exchange for a forested setting with water recreation opportunities.
Description
Overview
Badin Lake Campground borders the lakeshore and sits within a shaded forest, offering a year-round retreat for swimmers, boaters and anglers in central North Carolina's Uwharrie National Forest. Badin Lake Recreation Area is a hub for the area's outdoor activities, and the campground offers spacious, waterfront sites for both RV and tent campers.
Recreation
Badin Lake Recreation Area offers many ways for campers to enjoy the lake. Popular activities include picnicking on the shore or swimming, boating or fishing for bass, bream, crappie and catfish on the water. Anglers and boaters have the convenience of a boat ramp 2 miles from the campground. About 40 miles of non-motorized trails are available for horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking, as well as 17 miles of motorized trails for off-road vehicle riding. The surrounding land offers both big and small game hunting.
Facilities
The campground has two loops of non-electric sites, some of which lie on the shore. Each site is near drinking water and is equipped with a table, grill, lantern post, campfire ring and tent pad. Flush toilets and showers are located in both loops. No dump station is available. The upper loop sites #23-35 are unavailable from January 1 to March 12, 2020.
Natural Features
The campground lies in a dense forest of pines and hardwoods near the shore of 5,000-acre Badin Lake. Winter temperatures range from the low 30s to upper 50s, while summer brings temperatures in the upper 80s and 90s and high humidity. The weather is pleasant in spring and fall, with high temperatures in the 60s and 70s.
Nearby Attractions
A theme park with a petting zoo, nature center and mini golf course lies just under an hour away and makes a fun day trip for families.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBadin Lake Campground is located in North Carolina near Badin
Directions
From Troy, North Carolina, take State Highway 109 north for approximately 10 miles. Turn left onto Mullinix Road (County Highway 1154), and travel approximately 1.5 miles to a stop sign and \"T\" intersection. Turn right, and go approximately 2 miles to another stop sign and \"T\" intersection. Turn right, then make a quick left and travel about 1 mile to the campground.
Address
429 BADIN LAKE REC AREA ROAD
Troy, NC 27371
Coordinates
35.4484722 N
80.0786611 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/12/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 5/12/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/12/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/12/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 5/12/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/12/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 8 min from Greensboro, NC
- 1 hr 11 min from Winston-Salem, NC
- 1 hr 21 min from Burlington, NC
- 1 hr 24 min from Charlotte, NC





























































