The Ultimate List of Campgrounds in North Carolina
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If you’ve ever sat around a campfire and thought, “We should do this more often,” you’re in the right place.
There’s something uniquely special about camping in North Carolina.
Over the years, I’ve stayed at all different types of campgrounds in this beautiful state. It’s inspired me to create this list of some of my favorite campgrounds in North Carolina, plus a few that readers and friends have recommended over the years.
A few are just a tent and a trail. Others have hot tubs or mountain views. All of them are worth bookmarking.
Quick Guide
Most Unique: Cherokee Waterfall Campground
Best Views: Above The Fray Glamping
Most Secluded: Heartstone at Mountain Creek Rest
Most Affordable: Any of the state park campgrounds!
Best Splurge: Flowertown Charm
Best For Big Groups: Cabins at Sandy Mush Bald
Established State Park/Forest Campgrounds
Lake James State Park
$20-30 per night
I’ve camped here before and loved how easy everything felt. The sites are clean, well-shaded, and near the lake. The restrooms are also some of the nicest I’ve seen in a state park. Bonus.. It’s a great spot for paddling or swimming.
I especially enjoyed being so close to Linville Gorge and Fonta Flora Brewery!
Best Trails Nearby
Lake Sandy Cliff Overlook Trail (Easy)
0.8-mile loop with light elevation and a nice lake view.
Fonta Flora Trail (Moderate)
7.7 miles out-and-back. Mostly flat and beginner-friendly, with lake views throughout.
Joyce Kilmer National Forest
$15 per night
Joyce Kilmer has some of the tallest trees in the region and feels remote without being hard to reach. Horse Cove Campground sits just outside the forest.
The lower eight primitive sites stay open year-round with no running water, but there’s a creek nearby.
Best Trails Nearby
Joyce Kilmer Lower Loop Trail (Easy-Moderate)
1.9-mile loop with some stream crossings (pack hiking boots) and butterfly sightings in spring. This area also has loads of rhododendrons and mountain laurels that you can experience if you visit during May.
Yellow Creek Falls (20-minute drive)
A 0.7-mile trail to one of the smallest waterfalls in North Carolina. Be sure to pair it with lunch at Tapoco Lodge.
Linville Falls Campground
CLOSED FOR 2025 SEASON – check for updates here
This spot is right off the Blue Ridge Parkway and makes a perfect base if you’re planning to hike to the falls. It has both electric and primitive sites, plus picnic tables and vault toilets. Nothing fancy, but the location is hard to beat.
I camped here for the first time in 2021, and it checked all the boxes. My dog and I loved being minutes away from numerous trails, and there was plenty of shade for him to lounge in when we were at camp (so important if you’re camping with a dog).
Best Trails Nearby
Erwins View Trail (Easy–Moderate)
1.8 miles out and back with gentle climbs and several overlooks. Nice views of the falls from up top.
Linville Gorge and Plunge Basin Trails (Strenuous)
Two short but steep trails that start near the visitor center. One takes you to the base of the falls, the other to an overlook with views of the lower falls and the Chimneys.
Anywhere in Linville Gorge! You’ll be incredibly close to some of the best hiking in North Carolina.
Gorges State Park
$24-42 per night
Sites are grouped by type (cabins in one area, tents in another, and RVs separate), which helps it feel less crowded.
There are clean bathrooms, showers, and water spigots throughout. It’s also one of the better parks for stargazing if you’re staying overnight.
You could easily spend a full weekend here and check out more hikes near Cashiers while you’re at it.
Best Trail Nearby
Rainbow Falls Trail (Moderate)
This is easily one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve done. It gets its name because it typically has a rainbow if the sun is out.
It’s 1.7 miles from the Grassy Ridge trailhead in Gorges State Park to Rainbow Falls, with options to also visit Turtleback and Hidden Falls. So worth the visit.
High Falls (Nantahala National Forest)
High Falls is near Gorges State Park, but it doesn’t get nearly as much love as Rainbow Falls. The parking is on a gravel road, and the hike is relatively moderate.
The only difficult part is the steep section to the bottom and the river crossing. I recommend downloading the trail as a lot of people miss the turn to the falls!
Deep Creek Campground
$30 per night
This campground sits right by one of the prettiest creeks in the Great Smoky Mountains. There are no hookups or showers, but you’ll have flush toilets, drinking water, and plenty to do. I’ve seen reviews to say it’s one of the best campgrounds in North Carolina.
If you have time, Tubing here is a must. It’s one of the best things I’ve done during one of my many trips to Bryson City.
Best Trails Nearby
Just 1,000 feet from the trailhead, you’ll see Tom Branch Falls, which is right along the Deep Creek trail and perfect for watching the tubers float past. You can just do Tom Branch, or add on the other two waterfalls for a lovely stroll through the Smokies.
Davidson River Campground
$35-46 per night
I haven’t stayed at this campground yet, but I’ve explored the area around it, and you’re in for a treat.
It’s right in the heart of Pisgah National Forest, with shady sites spread across eight loops (some next to the water).
There are hot showers, clean restrooms, and places to grab firewood, ice, or even rent a bike.
And with so many hikes near Brevard, you’ll never be short on adventures.
Best Trails Nearby
4.7-mile loop with incredible views at the top. This is one of my favorites, and you can skip some unnecessary mileage by sticking to the right and doing an out-and-back.
0.3 miles makes this one less of a hike and more of a stop off, but it’s iconic for a reason. There are a few spots along the road to pull off and appreciate this beauty. It’s a place I’ve visited numerous times, and I’m still not sick of it.
Mount Pisgah Campground
$30 per night
If you like big views and mountain air, this one may just be for you. After an incredible drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway (have your camera at the ready), the campground is right where you need to be for some stunning hikes.
It’s clean and has everything you need, including a small shop! Just be sure to pack warm layers, even in summer, as it gets chilly once the sun goes down.
Best Trails Nearby
This 1.6-mile climb gains 712 feet and gets steep and rocky near the top. The views over the French Broad River Valley and Shining Rock Wilderness are worth every step.
A gentle 1.1-mile walk that connects Mount Pisgah Inn and Buck Spring Gap. It passes the site where George Vanderbilt’s mountain lodge once stood and makes for a lovely leg-stretch.
Crabtree Falls Campground
CLOSED FOR 2025 SEASON – check for updates here
Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Crabtree Falls Campground is a great base if you’re hiking to the falls. It’s well-maintained, with flat pads for van setups and easy access to the trailhead. Just a heads-up: bears and coyotes are known to pass through, so make sure you’re using the food lockers.
Best Trail Nearby
Crabtree Falls Trail (Moderate)
One of the more popular waterfall hikes in the area, and for good reason. It’s a 3-mile loop with a bit of up and down, but nothing too tough. Come in summer for wildflowers or fall for the colors, and if you can, start early to beat the crowds.
Hammocks Beach State Park Campground
$12–27 per night
Instead of forest views, you’ve got sandy shores, calm marshes, and the option to camp right on Bear Island. You can either kayak or paddle-board over yourself, or hop on the seasonal ferry. There are also regular drive-up sites if you’re not feeling quite so adventurous.
Best Trails Nearby
Live Oak, Coastal Fringe, and Hickory Bluff Trail (Easy)
1.8-mile loop. A natural surface trail with a few bumps and roots, watch your step, but it’s a lovely route.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
$28-35 per night
The campgrounds here are simple, and you’re never far from a wide open stretch of sand.
There’s beach access, rinse-off showers, and usually a good sea breeze to keep things comfortable in summer. It’s a fun spot for swimming, shell-hunting, or just settling into that slower Outer Banks rhythm.
Best Trails Nearby
A shady, 0.75-mile loop through maritime forest with boardwalks and native plant life — a nice break from the sun.
This one runs about 4.4 miles one-way from Frisco to Buxton, winding through coastal forest and dunes. Great for birdwatching and a longer walk.
Carolina Beach Campground
$23-57 per night
The campground’s a little rustic, but perfect for early sunrises and easy trail access. You’re also just 20–25 minutes from downtown Wilmington if you fancy some seafood or shops.
Best Trails Nearby
A short and sweet loop where you can spot the park’s famous Venus flytraps in the wild — super kid-friendly and shady. Be sure to stay on the trail so you don’t disrupt the wildlife!
A 3-mile out-and-back that winds through forest, sand, and marshland, ending at a 50-foot sand dune with views of the Cape Fear River.
Hipcamps
If you’re wondering, “What is a hipcamp?” then I’m so glad you’re reading this post. Hipcamp is like Airbnb, but for camping!
A lot of land owners (often farmers) convert part of their land into campsites for you to use. This is one of my favorite ways to camp because you can often get a place all to yourself.
Heartstone at Mountain Creek Rest
If you’re craving real solitude, this off-grid site delivers. No crowds, no signal, just you and the trees.
There’s a cool stream running through camp so you can go for a swim, and it’s only a short drive to some of the most beautiful hikes in the state.
Just bring bug spray or a mosquito repeller, your own firewood, and follow the host’s directions (don’t trust Google Maps).
I shared more about it here on Instagram if you want a peek.
Best Trails Nearby
Huckleberry Knob Trail (Moderate)
1.7 miles out-and-back with a 331-foot climb to one of the highest peaks in the area. Wide-open views at the top. If you’re lucky, there may even be some wild berries along the trail.
Lake Santeetlah Trail North Loop (Easy)
3.3-mile loop with 288 ft. of elevation gain. A peaceful route through the forest with glimpses of the lake and plenty of spots to stop and take it all in.
Smoky Mtn Mangalista
This one was a dream. I stayed here while exploring Waynesville and loved every second.
The riverside sites are spaced out nicely, there’s a super clean porta-potty (a campsite win), and you can buy farm-fresh eggs and sausage while you’re there.
Keep an eye out for Stetson (you can see him on my Instagram), the sweetest farm dog around!
Best Trails Nearby
A scenic 1.4-mile loop that’s ideal for sunrise or sunset views. Wide-open summit and wildflowers in spring.
Midnight Hole via Big Creek Trail (Moderate)
About 3 miles round trip. Shady forest walk with a natural swimming hole and a small waterfall at the end.
My Swimming Hole Essentials
The best lightweight towel
Post-swim shorts
My go-to water shoes
Dupont Bike Retreat
I loved staying here—it’s dog-friendly, super private (check out my Instagram reel to see the setup), and just a great little base if you’re exploring Brevard or Hendersonville. There’s even a bike wash and an outdoor shower, which came in handy after a sweaty hike.
Best Trails Nearby
Triple Falls & High Falls Trail (Easy)
These two share a trail and make for a scenic 2.7-mile round trip. Triple Falls is especially amazing after heavy rain. It’s not safe for swimming, but there are still a few spots to stop.
You are able to swim at High Falls, and it’s an amazing swimming hole in the summer.
I did this 4.7-mile trail in the fall, and it was such a good call. It’s technically a loop, but I’d go out-and-back, taking the right fork to the lookout for a gentler climb and the best views.
Trout Creek Campground
If you’re after tall trees, cool breezes, and easy access to some of the best trails around Cashiers, this one’s an obvious choice. You’ll even find a couple of swimming holes close by if it’s warm enough for a dip.
Best Trails Nearby
This is a gorgeous 1.3-mile trail near Lake Glenville that is best done on a weekend when they’re releasing the dam. It’s stunning at all times, but especially impressive with the extra flow of water. Plus, if you go on a dam release day, you can typically watch kayakers go over the waterfall!
Although I love this trail, I don’t share it often for a very good reason. Since it’s only 0.4 miles and doable by most people, it gets trashed super easily.
If you visit, please remember to follow Leave No Trace. I recommend visiting in the late morning/early afternoon to avoid being down in the riverbed during any dam releases. Unlike High Falls, the water rises swiftly in this area and is unsafe to be at during the early morning and late evening.
Above the Fray Glamping
This spot is so magical. The setup is simple but cozy, and the mountain view in the morning is? Unreal. You can see what I mean in this reel. Easily one of those campgrounds in North Carolina you have to try at least once.
It’s dog-friendly too, which meant Ollie was living his best life. There are some super dog-friendly trails nearby if you’re up for a little adventure—but I was just as happy hanging out at camp with a coffee and that view.
Best Trail Nearby
This is a 3-mile out-and-back trail with two gorgeous waterfalls and a brand new staircase to the upper falls. It’s a fun one, but take it slow on the climb…and definitely no diving (the water’s not deep enough!).
Mountain Paradise
This site gives you serious sunset views and space to spread out. It’s slightly more bare bones than some, making it crucial that you have all the right camping gear!
It’s near Marshall, so you’re close to Hot Springs, Mars Hill, and Asheville, but it still feels nicely out of the way at the end of a quiet road.
Best Trails Nearby
An easy 3.6-mile riverside walk one way, great for a laid-back afternoon.
1.8 miles with a short climb and some sweet views over Hot Springs.
Greenheart Forest Campground
You’ll be camping near Max Patch with direct access to the Appalachian Trail, making it perfect for sunrise hikes. There are also meditation gardens and a chance to gather fresh ingredients, which is always a bonus!
Best Trail Nearby
A 1.4-mile family-friendly loop with 360° mountain views at the top. This is one of the best places in all of North Carolina to see both sunrise and sunset. Pack a jacket since it’s higher up in elevation and can be pretty chilly, even in the summer!
OnTop.Camp
Near Jefferson, this spot’s got long-range views, wildflowers, and Highland cows roaming around. I haven’t stayed yet, but it looks peaceful and pretty low-key if you’re after some quiet time in the mountains.
Best Trail Nearby
Local hike (Moderate)
A short climb through Christmas trees with almost 360° Blue Ridge views.
Summit Trail and Luther Rock via Mountain Ridge Trail
An amazing 5.3-mile trail through red oak woodland with rhododendrons and mountain laurels. There are a few spots with incredible views as well.
Cherokee Waterfall Campground
There’s so much to do in Cherokee, and this spot puts you right in the middle of it. Add a private on-site waterfall and easy trail access, and you’ve got yourself a solid base for exploring.
Best Trail Nearby
Oconaluftee River Trail (Easy)
A 3-mile round trip along the river with elk sightings if you’re lucky. It’s flat, shaded, and starts right from the visitor center. This is also the only dog-friendly trail in the Smokies, so take advantage of it if you have your pooch along.
Smokemont Loop Trail (Moderate)
About 6.5 miles with steady elevation and forest views. It’s usually quiet and a good pick if you want something longer without a huge climb.
Nero Coffee Camping Spot
This riverside site near Hendersonville comes with fire pits, a free DIY coffee shed, and (if you’re lucky!) a roaming corgi.
There are a few options to camp here, and you’re just 10 minutes from DuPont State Forest and close to some of my favorite Hendersonville hikes.
Best Trails Nearby
This 0.8-mile out-and-back trail is popular for swimming in summer—go early and help keep it clean by packing out your garbage.
Stone Mountain Summit (Moderate) – currently closed due to Hurricane Helene
A steep 1.4-mile climb with a killer sunrise payoff, and far fewer crowds than other Dupont trails.
Tangelwood Creekside Campsites
I stayed here on a Parkway trip and loved how quiet it was. It’s only about 20 minutes to the parkway and just a little bit further to Linville Gorge.
There’s a creek running through camp and a good chance of spotting deer, wild turkeys, or other wildlife.
It’s an ideal spot to unwind after a hike—and you’re close to wineries, caverns, amazing waterfalls, and even tubing on the Catawba River.
Best Trails Nearby
I visited Linville Falls back in fall 2021, and it’s a beautiful, family-friendly waterfall right off the Parkway.
Linville Gorge is one of the best places to hike in North Carolina, so you can’t visit the area without doing at least one of the harder hikes. Only 2.4 miles, this hard hike is a treat and one of the easiest ways to see the gorge!
Indian Creek Rental’s Mountain Camp
I stayed here years ago and still remember how good that hot tub felt after a long hike.
We pitched our tent under the covered RV spot to dodge the rain, and it worked like a charm.
It’s ideal if you’re heading toward Cashiers trails or just looking for a relaxing camping spot away from all the noise.
Best Trails Nearby
This is a 0.2-mile walk to a pretty waterfall and swimming spot, perfect if you’re short on time.
Whiteside Mountain Trail (Moderate)
A 2-mile loop with cliffside views and just enough incline to feel like you earned your snacks.
Many trails in Panthertown Valley are not far away at all! If you’ve never been, definitely take advantage of the proximity, as this is a fabulous place to hike in North Carolina.
Unique Camping
Roanoke River Platform Sites
These raised paddle-in platforms are such a fun way to camp. No facilities and only accessible by water, they feel remote in the best way.
It’s just you, your kayak, and the sounds of the river with wildlife all around.
Best Trails Nearby
Paddle Trails
If you’re new to paddling, routes like Royal Fern or Barred Owl are the best place to start. For more confident paddlers, Cypress Cathedral and Bear Run make for stunning overnight adventures.
Paddle in Camping at Fontana Lake
These boat-in campsites are super quiet and feel miles from anywhere—but you can also hike in via the Lakeshore Trail if paddling’s not your thing.
It’s rustic and remote in the best way, so pack smart and enjoy the stillness.
Best Trail Nearby
This 35-mile trail runs along the edge of Fontana Lake. You don’t have to do the whole thing—just pick a stretch that links up with your campsite.
Cape Lookout National Seashore
This place is about as coastal as camping gets.
You’ll be camping right on the sand with nothing but ocean views, starry skies, and zero crowds (or Wi-Fi) to worry about.
You’ll likely spot wild horses, unique shells, and maybe even snap a Milky Way photo if it’s clear.
Best Trail Nearby
A short, easy boardwalk hike to the lighthouse!
The Cabins at Sandy Mush Bald
After a 2.15-mile uphill hike, you’ll reach these off-grid cabins sitting way up at 5,000 ft. They’re simple, peaceful, and feel like a little reward after the climb. It’s exactly the spot that makes you want to sit on the porch and stay awhile.
Waynesville’s only a short drive away and makes a great spot to kick things off or wind down after your stay. The cabins also have an on-site host who makes sure that you have everything you need and cooks breakfast every morning!
Best Trail Nearby
Local Trails
On-site, there are a handful of short trails (from ¼ to 1½ miles) for easy wanders or quick leg-stretchers. The site will give you all the information you need during your stay!
The Waldhaus Resort
Tucked next to Pisgah National Forest, this off-grid spot is all about slow mornings and cabin comfort.
Pick between the cozy Sawmill or the Summit Cabin, both with forest trails out the door and that quiet, back-to-nature feel we all need sometimes.
Best Trails Nearby
Trails Nearby
Hans proudly boasts about the trails around his property and will happily point you in the right direction. You’ll have easy access to quiet old forest service trails leading straight into Pisgah National Forest.
Little Green Yurt of Cedar Mountain
Each yurt here is totally private, with basic cooking gear and a glass dome overhead so you can fall asleep under the stars.
It’s about a 30-minute drive to Hendersonville and right near DuPont Forest — perfect for a hiking weekend. Just note there’s no shower anymore, but there is a water spigot for rinsing off.
Best Trail Nearby
Dupont State Forest and 276 in Brevard both have a plethora of trails to explore! Otherwise, if you’re looking to head up the Blue Ridge Parkway, I’d recommend:
This is a short 1.4-mile hike with some amazing views. It is also one of the quickest hikes in Brevard, but there are so many others to discover, too, with different levels of difficulty!
High-End Camping (Glamping)
Flowertown Charm
I stayed here a few years ago and loved how close it was to trails and the mountain views. It’s off-grid with solar lights, seasonal running water, and a real bathroom.
The patios have insane sunset views, so be sure to be back every night to soak this in! You can see exactly what I mean on my Instagram.
You’re close enough to Waynesville to pop in for breakfast (Orchard Coffee is a favorite) and still feel miles from everything else. If you like breweries, Frog Level Brewing is my go-to spot when I’m in town.
Best Trails Nearby
A steady 2.5-mile uphill climb through open meadows with wildflowers in the warmer months.
Devil’s Courthouse (currently closed due to Hurricane Helene Damage)
At just 0.8 miles, Devil’s Courthouse is a short but steep trail with stairs and rocky sections, ending in a big payoff with wide-open mountain views.
Tiny House in Happy Valley
This little spot sits right by a creek, with trails into the Ripshin Mountains just steps from the door. There’s a fire ring for evenings outside, a wood stove for chilly nights, and a private sauna you can reserve.
The hosts’s also connected to some brilliant local workshops on things like foraging and soap-making if that’s your thing.
Best Trail Nearby
A 5.2-mile half-day loop near Blowing Rock with everything from rivers to open fields.
The Cabin at Wild Ridge Trail
Just outside Asheville and Black Mountain, this off-grid cabin is perfect for getting away from it all. There’s no power or running water, but solar panels and a rainwater system keep the basics covered.
If you’ve got 4WD, you can drive up; otherwise, it’s a short but steep 300-foot hike to reach the cabin. Once you’re up there, it feels like you’ve earned your time in nature.
Dogs are welcome for a small fee, which is always a bonus!
Best Trails Nearby
A 1.5-mile hike with rock steps and switchbacks, it climbs to views above Montreat and Black Mountain.
Exclamation Point and Skyline Trail to Hickory Nut Falls
The recently reopened Chimney Rock State Park boasts numerous trails, but no trip to this area would be complete without checking out Exclamation Point and Hickory Nut Falls.
Dupont Yurts
Situated in the pines of DuPont State Forest, these yurts come with comfy beds, a fire pit, and easy access to waterfall trails. There are also full hook-ups for RVs.
Hendersonville is just down the road if you fancy a coffee or a warm meal after your hike.
Best Trails Nearby
There are 80 miles of trails around this campground, such as Triple Falls and Cedar Rock. You won’t be short of things to explore!
FAQ: Campgrounds in North Carolina
How much does it cost to camp in North Carolina?
Most state park campsites cost anything between $20 and $45 per night, depending on the location and amenities.
Glamping spots, camper cabins, and private campgrounds can go much higher in peak season.
Where can I park my RV for free in North Carolina?
You can park for free in some national forests and dispersed camping areas, but there won’t be hookups or facilities. Always check local rules first, and be prepared to pack in and out everything you need.
Do North Carolina state parks offer senior discounts?
Yes, North Carolina residents aged 62 and up usually get a discount on state park camping fees. You’ll need to bring ID, and it only applies when booking through the official parks system.
Wrap-Up: Campgrounds in North Carolina
Wherever you’re heading in North Carolina, there’s a campground that’ll fit the trip. I hope this list helps you find your next favorite spot.
