Best Tent Camping in North Carolina

From the shores of Cape Hatteras to the ancient mountains of Great Smoky Mountain National Park, North Carolina is a state that is as beautiful as it is diverse in natural wonders. Whether you fancy a day of surfing in the waves of the Atlantic Ocean or a climb up Mount Mitchell, the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi, there’s an outdoor adventure waiting for you. So grab your bathing suit or your hiking poles (or both!) and find the best camping in North Carolina.

The pristine beauty of North Carolina’s Outer Banks have always drawn vacationers looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives. Fortunately for those that like sleeping under the stars, camping in North Carolina at one of the state’s many beaches is a great way to experience the sun and sand without the expense of a vacation rental. With over 300 miles of coastline, there are dozens of state and private campgrounds to choose from.

If pitching your tent in coastal sand dunes isn’t your cup of tea then pack your bag and head to the mountains of Western North Carolina—a region known throughout the southeast for its abundant opportunities to recreate outdoors. Whether you’re rafting down the Nantahala River that winds through the beautiful and remote Nantahala National Forest or hiking on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, a 1,175 mile footpath that spans the width of North Carolina, you won’t run out of reasons to be outside.

North Carolina has 40 mountains that rise above 6,000 feet (aforementioned Mount Mitchell is the tallest, clocking in at 6,684 feet) and 100 that stand more than 5,000 feet. Camping in the shadows of these peaks is just one thing that makes camping in North Carolina so special. And with 2.1 million acres of public land in the state, finding a campground is as easy as pulling out a map.

Whether it’s saltwater waves, pristine peaks or rushing rivers that excite you, let The Dyrt help you discover the best camping in North Carolina.

Best Tent Sites in North Carolina (150)

    1. Hot Springs Campground

    29 Reviews
    Hot Springs, NC
    Website
    +1 (828) 622-7676

    "Situated along the beautiful French Broad River."

    "Beautiful campground with great campstore right at the entrance that sells everything. Large campsites with great privacy foliage, picnic tables, & fire rings."

    2. Blue Bear Mountain Camp

    25 Reviews
    Todd, NC
    Website
    +1 (828) 406-4226

    $25 - $136 / night

    "It offers RV, drive in and hike in tent sites and also teepee camping."

    "We had a neighbor nice enough to give us his site because he was leaving early and I would have stayed another night there. It was C3 backed into the woods on level ground. It made for a cozy morning."

    3. Eno River State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Hillsborough, NC
    Website
    +1 (919) 383-1686

    $12 - $42 / night

    "My partner and I camped at Fanny’s Ford at one of the primitive sites. The sites are well spaced but not a lot of privacy. We didn’t mind and everyone was cordial."

    "Eno River State Park has amazing backpack in camping that is well worth the beautiful walk through the woods. The last trip here was so wonderful that we extended it by two nights! "

    4. William B. Umstead State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Morrisville, NC
    Website
    +1 (919) 571-4170

    $23 / night

    "Primitive camping has drive in, picnic table, fire ring, tent spot, and trails starting at your back door ⛺️"

    "My friend and I have been trying to learn the manly outdoors skills we never picked up as kids (because we're nerds), starting with hiking, climbing, and backpacking."

    5. Crowders Mountain State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Bessemer City, NC
    Website
    +1 (704) 853-5429

    $12 - $42 / night

    "This is a hike in campground so we were in a hurry. The campground had lockers with firewood and you could leave the money in the envelope at the trailhead."

    "I visited Crowders Mountain in December, and the weather only required a sweatshirt. My brother and I spent the day rock climbing."

    6. Onslow Beach Campsites

    15 Reviews
    Hubert, NC
    Website
    +1 (910) 440-7502

    "We set up, after about an hour a guy came by on a riding mower and mowed around the area. Leaving a lot of grass near our area."

    "Full hook ups, very clean, friendly staff, and many sites have a shelter area for the picnic table (all sites have a table). WiFi isn’t great but that doesn’t bother us; cell signal is decent."

    7. Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Barnardsville, NC

    "Definitely some disrespectful neighbors but sites aren't closely packed. Get there early as possible as people can post up for a week there. Great launch pad for hiking and mountain biking."

    "It wasn't officially designated but it was used as a campsite. You'll need four wheel drive to get in and out of it though."

    8. Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Kure Beach, NC
    Website
    +1 (910) 500-6465

    "No shade in this campground, but the location is everything! Basically a manicured field with cement pads and hookup poles."

    "Nice tent sites. Very close to the beach. Great view of the river. Has shop, rental center, and fishing pier within walking distance of the camping area."

    9. Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park

    10 Reviews
    Wagram, NC
    Website
    +1 (910) 628-4564

    $12 / night

    "It was a little tricky finding the entrance to this campsite, but when we managed to Google map our way in into the park, we were very happy with our selection!"

    "There was a path walkable to the river, and each campsite was clean, had plenty of space on level ground to set up camp, a fire pit, and very clean toilet. I would definitely go back!"

    10. Mortimer Campground — National Forests In North Carolina

    10 Reviews
    Collettsville, NC
    +1 (828) 652-2144

    $20 - $30 / night

    "The 5 upfront are walk in, and more private. The about to be 12 in the back are pull in and much closer together. Two shower houses, one on both ends, no hookups."

    "Had some friends stay next to us in a class b. A small trailer would fit, nothing big. No W/E/S but great place. Come early to reserve. You must set up camp immediately. No reservations."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 150 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews in North Carolina

4051 Reviews of 150 North Carolina Campgrounds



Guide to North Carolina

North Carolina offers a diverse range of tent camping experiences, from serene riverside spots to lush forest settings, perfect for nature lovers seeking adventure and tranquility.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Tent campers should check out the unique features

  • Freeman Park offers the unique experience of beach camping, allowing you to wake up to the sound of ocean waves and enjoy stunning sunrises.
  • The Uwharrie Hunt Camp is a hidden gem with rustic charm, providing access to off-road trails and a peaceful environment for nature enthusiasts.
  • At Black Bear Campground, you'll find a cozy atmosphere with clean facilities and a beautiful setting near Lake James, perfect for a relaxing retreat.