McDowell Nature Preserve provides secluded camping options just minutes from Charlotte, with sites nestled in wooded areas along Lake Wylie. This 1,132-acre nature preserve sits at approximately 650 feet above sea level and maintains camping areas open year-round. The campground offers both RV sites with hookups and primitive tent camping areas with access to modern facilities.
What to do
Hiking trails: McDowell Nature Preserve features multiple hiking paths connecting directly to camping areas. "My first time back camping in 20 years and could not have picked a better spot! Close enough to not worry about gear failure, far enough to be surrounded by woods, access to Lake Wylie... I'll definitely be back," notes Ryan B. at McDowell Nature Preserve.
Fishing access: Lake Wylie offers excellent fishing opportunities with multiple access points near campgrounds. "The park is lovely, with lots of trails and nature. Beautiful wooded setting. So awesome to have hiking trails that lead right out of the campground," shares Kathy L. about McDowell Nature Preserve.
Disc golf: Chester State Park features a championship disc golf course with scenic lake views. "Small clean campground... Very nice trail along the lake perimeter and Championship Disc golf course," reports Keith K. at Chester State Park Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the area maintain excellent bathhouse facilities. "The bathhouse was new and well maintained. I would recommend this place to anyone," notes Robert D. about Lake Norman State Park Campground.
Lake access: Direct access to Lake Wylie or Lake Norman provides swimming and boating opportunities. "I have camped all across the US and this was the nicest and cleanest campground I have ever been in. Fantastic experience," writes Andrew G. about Lake Norman State Park.
Security measures: Several campgrounds implement security systems for camper safety. "The campground is small but secluded from the city noise. Nice open spaces with shade. Clean facilities and secured gate with easy access after hours for paid campers," explains Nora C. from McDowell Nature Preserve.
What you should know
Site variations: Some glamping sites near Lake Wylie have challenging terrain. "We stayed on site 16 right on the lake. Beautiful views. Our site was very steep, so took a lot to get level, but it was ok," notes Rachel R. from Andrew Jackson State Park Campground.
Seasonal operations: While most campsites operate year-round, swimming areas typically open only during summer months. "Enjoy a lot. No problem at all," reports Matheus R. about McDowell Nature Preserve.
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites require advance booking, particularly on weekends. "I think my only complaint would be is the pads for the tents. When I got home I was patching holes in the floor of my tent from where the stone pad had caused damage," shares Michelle L.
Tips for camping with families
Free activities: Some parks offer complementary recreation beyond standard camping. "The mini golf is free and a blast. The swim area is only open on Saturdays or you can drive to the day use side and be over there," explains Sarah B. about Cane Creek Park.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds include play areas for children. "We have stayed at Cane Creek 2x now and enjoy the park so much. Lake, hiking trails and nice wooded campsites with fire rings and close proximity to bath houses. Playground for kids, little store, friendly staff," reports Jeanette M.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers and historical sites provide learning experiences. "Holidays usually have some activities for kids. The mini golf is free and a blast," adds Sarah B. about Cane Creek Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection assistance: Contact rangers for help finding appropriate RV sites. "They are doing construction right now redoing the boat docks, beach and playgrounds area. Some sites are a little small and some are not very level but if you call the campground hosts and rangers are very helpful in helping you get on the right site," advises Ramona K. about Ebenezer Park Campground.
Limited big rig access: Some parks have restrictions on larger vehicles. "It is hard to believe that you are in the city limits of Charlotte in this campground. It is very rustic, with lots of trees and nature, and the campsites are nicely spaced out so you're not on top of other units. The campground is not terribly big rig friendly but still worth staying at when you are in the Charlotte Metro area," explains Rick B.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete utility connections. "Campground has a lot to offer. Hiking, swimming, fishing at its Carolina best. Outdoorsies will not be sorry if they visit Lake Norman State Park," states Wolf T.
