21 Best Campgrounds in North Carolina

From riversides to mountain tops to beaches and forests, North Carolina has a wide variety of campsites available in an array of settings. There are campgrounds in North Carolina catering to all campers – from backcountry campers to glampers.

We’ve compiled a list of the best campgrounds in North Carolina for the various camping styles – keep reading to find your ideal spot!

Best All-Round Campgrounds in North Carolina

The campgrounds listed below cater to a wide range of campers, hosting RV sites, yurts, tents, as well as primitive and group campsites.

Lake Powhatan Campground

Looking for a campsite that is close to the city? Then the campground at Lake Powhatan will be right up your alley. Situated a mere 20-minute drive from Asheville, NC, you’ll get to enjoy the outdoors while being close to everything Asheville has to offer like spectacular craft breweries and the Biltmore estate.

The Lake Powhatan Campground is open between March and December and offers tent pads and picnic tables, lantern posts, and grills on each campsite with large campfire rings, as well as hot showers and flush toilets within the campground. There are also a few glamping options available, and a few sites have full RV hookups.

READ MORE: Best Campgrounds Near Charlotte, North Carolina

Rose Creek Campground

Rose Creek Campground in North Carolina
Creidt: Rose Creek Campground / Facebook

Featured as one of our best campgrounds near Franklin and only 5 minutes from town, Rose Creek Campground is host to a number of RV sites that vary in size, as well as tent sites and cabins. The RV sites have full hookups. There is a recently renovated bathhouse, as well as a pool, fire pits, and a dog park. The campground also offers WiFi.

Davidson River Campground

Located in the Pisgah National Forest, Davidson River Campground has 144 campsites for most of the year, although this drops to 44 between November 15th and March 24th. At Davidson River Campground, you’ll be treated to hot showers and flush toilets, as well as fire rings, picnic tables, lantern poles, and tent pads at each site.

Running along the Davidson River, the Davidson River Campground is a wonderful place to visit should you want to engage in activities such as kayaking, swimming, and tubing. You’ll also be able to enjoy the many hiking trails and activities available in the Pisgah National Forest.

READ MORE: Best Campgrounds Near Cherokee, North Carolina

Best Beach Campgrounds in North Carolina

There are several fantastic places for beach camping in North Carolina that’re great for tent campers. Whether you want to rough it with primitive camping or enjoy a normal camping experience, you’ll find something you like!

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Cape Lookout Camping in North Carolina

If you’re looking for a stunning place where you can camp in a tent right on the beach, then the Cape Lookout National Seashore is a great place to visit. If camping among the grasslands and dunes is not for you, you can also stay in one of their rustic cabins. These cabins have hot water, private bathrooms, a stove, and a grill.

The island offers a variety of activities, such as fishing, swimming, and shelling. You can also visit the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, which is close to the dedicated beach camping area.

READ MORE: Best Campgrounds Near Emerald Isle, North Carolina

Carolina Beach State Park

This coastal paradise consists of 781 acres on Pleasure Island and is a great spot to pitch a tent if you want to enjoy some beach camping.

Carolina Beach State Park is host to 83 campsites (two of which are wheelchair accessible), as well as various trails among the towering forest and sandy beaches. You can even spot wild venus flytraps along the trail!

READ MORE: 8 Best Campgrounds Near Wilmington, North Carolina

Best RV Parks in North Carolina

From beachside campgrounds to campsites in a valley, we’ve selected the greatest RV campgrounds in North Carolina to make your road trip planning easy.

Water’s Edge RV Park

If the best RV campground in North Carolina is what you’re wanting, then Water’s Edge RV Park won’t disappoint. In close proximity to many of the best beaches, this RV park has 86 RV sites, most with full hookups.

It’s a great base for exploring the local towns, beaches, Bogue Sound Intracoastal Waterway, and Croatan National Forest. The stunning natural setting of the park makes it the ideal spot for a summer vacation.

Cape Hatteras KOA Resort

Located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Cape Hatteras KOA Resort is right on the beach and has pull-thru RV sites with patios and full hookups. Tent camping and cabins are also available.

This resort is best known for its amazing list of activities, especially during the summer. Paddle boarding, kite surfing, a water slide, and a pool are all part of the resort.

READ MORE: 9 Best Outer Banks Campgrounds

Mountain Stream RV Park

Mountain Stream RV Park is nestled in a valley of the Pisgah National Forest, surrounded by the North Carolina mountains. Buck Creek runs through the valley.

There are many RV sites available, all with full hookups. The campground facilities include showers and flush toilets, and there is WiFi available for purchase. The park is pet friendly, and if you’re in need of firewood or ice, you can purchase some at reception.

Best NC Campgrounds for Tent Camping

Lake James State Park

Lake James State Park Camping in North Carolina

If you’re looking for lakeside camping, then a visit to Lake James State Park, found just outside Asheville off the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a must. The Paddy’s Creek campground is the most accessible and has 33 spacious tent camping sites.

The Catawba River Area is host to 20 shoreside, walk-in tent sites, requiring a 150-300 yard walk. Those wanting a paddle adventure can make use of the 30 paddle-in sites that can be reached only by boat. The park does have boar rentals available.

READ MORE: 5 Best RV Parks & Campgrounds Near Marion, NC

Mount Mitchell State Park

Mount Mitchell State Park Camping in North Carolina

Located in western North Carolina, along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mount Mitchell State Park is North Carolina’s original State Park. Don’t miss the stunning views of the Blue Ridge mountains from the observation deck at Mount Mitchell Peak. The small campground is perfect for tent camping, with only 9 campsites.

READ MORE: 7 Best Lake Lure Campgrounds and RV Parks

Smokemont Campground

You’ll find the Smokemont campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, on the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The 142 sites can accommodate both tent camping and RVs.

Reservations are recommended between mid-May and November. During the rest of the year, a first-come, first-served rule is in place. The campsite is popular among anglers thanks to its access to the Bradley Fork River.

READ MORE: Best Campgrounds Near Raleigh, North Carolina

Best Primitive Camping in North Carolina

Nantahala National Forest

Nantahala National Forest

There are a number of free camping spots available in the Nantahala National Forest. Panthertown is the favorite among primitive campers, as it is quiet, remote, and features a variety of wildlife- including black bears.

The Nantahala National Forest campgrounds are a good base for those wanting to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway and mountains, as well as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Fires Creek Recreation Area

There are two main camping areas at Fires Creek Recreation area, Bristol Campground, and Huskins Branch Hunters Camp. The former caters mainly to horse campers, but all are welcome. It has 10 sites and vault toilets. You can also enjoy some backcountry camping in this recreation area.

Trout fishing, horseback riding, backpacking, and hiking are just some of the activities you can take part in throughout the Fire Creek Recreation Area. You can also explore the beautiful Nantahala National Forest in which Fire Creek is located.

Uwharrie National Forest

When choosing a dispersed camping spot, you have to consider those available in the Uwharrie National Forest. There are many options, all providing a remote and quiet getaway in the North Carolina Mountains.

A favorite campground is the Art Lilley Campground. The sites aren’t marked, so you can camp freely here, and there is a pit toilet. You’ll find this site in the Badin Lakes OHV Trails Complex. Word of warning – the road in is very rough, so you’ll need a vehicle with high clearance and possibly 4×4 capabilities to get in.

READ MORE: 6 Unforgettable Waterfalls Near Charlotte, North Carolina

South Mountains State Park

South Mountains State Park

South Mountains State Park is a favorite spot amongst winter campers who enjoy remote camping. With a mix of tent and RV sites located within one drive-in campground, the camping area is primitive but does have hot showers and a modern bathroom. Only two of the sites have electric hookups.

If you prefer backcountry camping, the park has 24 sites available, as well as an equestrian camping area. If you’re looking for solitude, be sure to visit in the winter months, as there are fewer campers and the campground is much quieter.

Hanging Rock State Park

Hanging Rock State Park Camping in NC

Hanging Rock State Park is known for its majestic waterfalls, rocky peaks, and stunning views. You’ll get to choose between 73 campsites at the campground in this State Park, which are all suitable for tents and RVs but don’t have RV hookups. They also have cabins available.

When traversing the various hiking trails, be sure to keep an eye out for the peregrine falcons that can often be spotted in the area.

Best Glamping Campgrounds in North Carolina

From extra comfortable, all-inclusive glamping to more primitive, off-grid glamping, there are many fantastic glamping campgrounds in North Carolina.

Boone Cocoon

Boone Cocoon Glamping in North Carolina
Credit: Boone Cocoon

Nestled in the forest just outside of Boone, the Boone Cocoon makes for a unique glamping experience. With a private balcony, Solostove, a camping cooler, and comfortable beds, you’ll have a rustic but restful stay.

Note: The Cocoon is off-grid, so be sure to bring a power bank with you to charge your devices.

READ MORE: Best Campgrounds in Boone, North Carolina

Sky Ridge Yurts

Sky Ridge Yurts Glamping in North Carolina
Credit: Sky Ridge Yurts

Mongolian Yurts have become increasingly popular, especially as an option for glamping. Sky Ridge Yurts offer a number of different-sized yurts, all with a full or half kitchen and a private bathroom featuring a walk-in shower.

Located close to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Sky Ridge Yurts is a great base camp for many fun adventures, including hiking and kayaking.

Asheville Glamping

If you’re looking for the ultimate glamping experience, a stay at one of the safari tents, bell tents, or domes at Asheville Glamping is it. Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, this campground is a great base for exploring the nearby State Parks and National Parks.

Fully kitted out with aircon, running water, full-size beds, and amazing views, you’ll live the life of luxury when staying here. Some of the accommodations have private bathrooms, and some even have hot tubs!

READ MORE: Best Camping in Highlands, North Carolina

Best Paddle-In Campsites in North Carolina

If you love spending time on the water and are looking for a unique camping experience, trying a river trail is a great idea! You’ll have stunning, secluded campsites in the evenings and get to spend the day on the water, experiencing nature in a way that few can.

French Broad Paddle Trail

The French Broad River is unique in two ways – it is one of the few rivers that flows north instead of south and is also estimated to be 260-325 million years old, making it one of the world’s oldest rivers. Paddle one of the oldest rivers in the world on the French Broad Paddle Trail and camp in a different riverside spot every night.

Enjoy paddling between campsites along the 140-mile river stretch starting in Rosman. The maximum distance between sites is 15miles, and the sites are strategically placed so that there is not more than a day’s travel in between each spot.

Roanoke River Platform Sites

Travel the Roanoake river by canoe or kayak, and enjoy the 15+ unique riverside camping platforms. The trail is over 140 miles long and runs from the North Carolina Coastal Plain to the Atlantic Ocean. Each campsite has different amenities, but they all boast wonderful scenery.

You’ll have the chance to spot over 200 different bird species while traveling down the river, as well as otters, black bears, bobcats, and beavers, amongst other interesting fauna and flora.

North Carolina Camping FAQs

What is the most popular North Carolina campground?

Mount Pisgah Campground, situated in the Pisgah National Forest, is one of the favorite campgrounds in North Carolina. Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Pisgah National Forest offers access to many State Parks. The Mount Pisgah Campground has 128 campsites, each with a lantern post, a fire ring with a grill gate, and a picnic table.

Which beaches can you camp on in NC?

You can camp at the dedicated camping areas in Carolina Beach State Park, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and Cape Lookout National Seashore. There are also a few private North Carolina campgrounds that offer beach camping.

Is North Carolina good for camping?

There are plenty of amazing RV parks and tent camping sites in North Carolina, as well as many other types of campgrounds.