Full hookups at $45 per night, first-come first-served, no reservations required. That's the basic arrangement at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds campground, a utilitarian RV-focused stop set on the western edge of Raleigh's fairgrounds complex. Tents are not permitted. Sites are gravel and grass, mostly back-in, and reviewers consistently describe them as level enough to require minimal adjustment, though a few campers have needed leveling blocks on one side.
The site environment is open. Tree cover is sparse, with a handful of oak trees providing limited shade in certain sections. Gravel roadways generate fine dust that can settle across rigs, and grassy areas can get soft after rain. Weekday mornings bring construction noise from adjacent work, though evenings tend to be considerably quieter. Trains pass nearby with some regularity, which is worth factoring in for light sleepers. "Campground is quiet and security staff very friendly," notes Joy B., who also observed a number of long-term campers in residence during her stay.
Amenities are minimal but functional. Water, electric, and sewer hookups are available at all sites, and WiFi is provided, though speeds can be inconsistent. Showers with cold water are accessible at the Horse Complex nearby. A dump station is on site. Security staff patrol the grounds and are generally described as approachable. Enforcement of the 14-day stay limit has been uneven, and at least one reviewer reported extended squatting incidents that required law enforcement to resolve.
The location is a practical asset for RV travelers using Raleigh as a base. Downtown restaurants and attractions are within a short drive, and the fairgrounds themselves host horse shows most weekends. William B. Umstead State Park Campground is a nearby alternative for those wanting a more natural setting, and campers exploring campgrounds around Raleigh will find a range of other options in the metro area. This campground makes the most sense for self-contained RV travelers who need a no-frills urban stopover with full hookups and easy highway access.
Description
Please note: Campground closes for the N.C. State Fair in October.
Limited camping access is available during the month of October and certain event weekends. Call immediately prior to trip departure to inquire about availability. (919) 612-6767.
Avoid the commute, relax and enjoy the North Carolina State Fairgrounds' campgrounds. With 100 full-service sites and an additional 200 sites on the grounds, we are equipped for all your RV camping needs. Rental cost for a 24-hour period is $30. The campground is closed to the public for the month of October for the N.C. State Fair. Spaces are first come, first served with no advance reservations taken. Check in upon arrival by calling 919-612-6767.
Reservation Info
Sites are first come, first serve.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsNorth Carolina State Fairgrounds is located in North Carolina near Raleigh
Directions
From I-40/Wade Avenue, if you miss Edwards Mill Road, you can take the next exit, Blue Ridge Road. Take a right at top of ramp. The fairgrounds is located at the intersection of Blue Ridge and Trinity Road (second light from exit ramp). Hunt Horse Complex and Gate 9 are located off Trinity Road, Gates 10 and 11 from Blue Ridge Road, Gates 12, 1, and 2 are from Hillsborough Street, Gates 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are from Youth Center (connector road between Trinity and Hillsborough).
Address
1025 Blue Ridge Road
Raleigh, NC 27606
Coordinates
35.79503602215139 N
78.72201305474798 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/26/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 14 usersLast on 8/7/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 8/7/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/26/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 14 usersLast on 8/7/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 8/7/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Phone Service
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 7 min from Raleigh, NC
- 17 min from Durham, NC
- 43 min from Burlington, NC
- 55 min from Goldsboro, NC















