Camping in North Carolina

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Outer Banks, your adventure is waiting.

97% (25146 reviews)
97% (25146 reviews)

Popular camping styles for North Carolina

Community favorites in North Carolina

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in North Carolina

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12 top campgrounds in North Carolina

99%
(414)

TangleWood Creekside Campsites

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents170 acres · Marion, NC
A rocky creek winds through the woods at the base of several hikable peaks hidden just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Wildlife enthusiasts are encouraged to explore, on foot or mountain-bike, anywhere within our 170 acres (or the adjoining 250 acres owned by the US Forestry Service off our Western border) and are likely to catch glimpses of turkey, beaver, deer, fox, eastern box turtle and the many species of songbird and raptor. The location is convenient to tons of local attractions for sightseeing and outdoor activities as well as shopping, dining, even wine tasting. We would be happy to supply a comprehensive list of the various local attractions upon request but the following are a few of our favorite things to do within a short drive: visit Linville Falls, Caverns, Gorge and/or Winery; drive the Blue Ridge parkway; tube/kayak down the Catawba river; hike beautiful Crabtree Falls; cross Grandfather Mountains mile high bridge and explore the nearby towns of Spruce Pines or Little Switzerland. The scenic drives to Asheville, Blowing Rock or Banner Elk make them each wonderful day-trip destinations.
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$31.50
 / night
99%
(1062)

The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

15 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · Yadkinville, NC
Our new BATHHOUSE is now completely functional with toilet, sink and SHOWER!! 🛖 It is centrally located in front of the office at the pond. WE LOVE OUR CAMPERS! ❤ Please respect our land by not bringing firewood from off-site and burning it here. We are a working farm that allows camping, not a campground. Our native trees and crops could easily be devastated by outside diseases or pests that are carried in firewood. We offer firewood for sale from our farm (delivered to your site for no additional fee). You do NOT have to purchase it prior to your arrival, just let us know how much you will need so we will have it ready for you. Our new CAMP STORE offers firewood (delivered to your site!) , meats and eggs from our farm, Tallow & lard (both rendered right here!), drinks, Amish made ice cream and jams/jellies/preserves, hammocks, hammock chairs, smoked dog bones, soaps (made right here), rentals of: cast iron cookware, a tent, Coleman stove, fishing poles, ... and MUCH MORE! Please note that all our sites are reserved with a one vehicle limit. Some sites are large enough to accommodate additional vehicles but each additional vehicle will incur a $10 per night charge. Free parking for additional vehicles is located at the office/store. Check us out for your next camping experience. We promise we will do everything within our power to make it great! Two new nicely wooded sites with pond view are now available to provide easy access even during periods of heavy rain. One is already set up with a new shade tent so you don't even have to bring your own! 🏕 Looking for a camping experience with a little luxury to boot? Look no further than our Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms! You can drive right up to most sites, weather permitting. You will have access to a fire ring and picnic table (located at each site), firewood for sale on site (please do not bring firewood from off-site), clean well water (located near the pond), the creek to explore, our stocked pond to fish, and wooded trails to hike. Once roamed by Native Americans and now farmed by the same family for over 6 generations, Harmon Creek Farm is a working farm of over 150+ acres. Peace, quiet, tranquility and privacy are overflowing along the creek, and hiking throughout the hills on the backside of the farm (and on the other side of the creek) leads to interesting and abundant flora and fauna. The stocked, spring fed pond is 'brimming" with angler challenges🎣 Our cows, pigs, sheep, donkeys, chickens, ducks, quail, and geese are all eager to meet you, as are we! We currently have fresh eggs, pork and beef for sale on site as well. Like us on Facebook (Harmon Creek Farms of NC) for the latest on what's going on here at the farm. :)
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$23.20
 / night
99%
(747)

Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

13 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Robbinsville, NC
Private property bordering Nantahala National Forest on Little Snowbird Creek in Robbinsville, NC. 16mi from Lake Santeelah, about 10mi from the Cherohala Skyway. MUST HAVE 4X4 OR AWD VEHICLE TO ACCESS MOUTAINTOP CAMPSITES. Property damage fee of $100 for 2WD vehicles not adhering to rule. 2WD vehicles must camp creekside, sites 1-6. NO AXES, HATCHETS, MACHETES ALLOWED ON THE PROPERTY. NO NAILS IN THE TREES TO HANG THINGS. It damages the tree and causes them to die. Keep pets on a leash, especially if they like to roam or have any aggressive behavior. Spacious camping lots, and great trout fishing along little snowbird creek which is on private property. Fishing privileges are actually written into property owners' deed on the purchase of land. Views that can bring a tear to a glass eye and relaxing sounds of the creek can be heard from anywhere on the property. Hundreds of Hiking trails in the area, many just a short distance from the property. Please be respectful of others' property and no trespassing signs. It’s a kinda bumpy mountain road to get there but it’s also like driving through an enchanted forest. The secluded location, peaceful and breathtaking views make this place a must-see adventure.
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$32.30
 / night
98%
(2247)

Starlight Hills

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Bostic, NC
Our Spa and Geodesic Dome Planetarium is now available for booking! We are a constantly evolving location. Our goal is to provide a genuine secluded camping experience immersed in nature in a mountainous forest with privacy and well spaced out, secluded camp sites. We also have minimal light pollution, so our skies are beautiful for viewing the stars. We offer trails through natural wooded habitat with hidden gems of nature. Wildlife viewing throughout. There are feed locations to increase viewing opportunities. A creek on the property is lovely for walking. Centered between Charlotte and Asheville we are within your reach! We offer primitive tent camping, Glamping Tents and a Cabin. Glamping and cabin have a private Mountain View, fire pit area, Queen bed, Night Stand (built in phone charger), Desk area, interior and exterior lighting, heater and fan (powered by solar system). As a part of Starlight Hills Campground you have access to filtered drinking water, common overlook (w/ BBQ pits & picnic tables), trails, bathroom and showers. Welcome to bring all your furry family members ❤️. Please Note: 2 Wheel Dr. vehicles can access all of our sites. Gravel/ Dirt road up hill.
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$37.80
 / night
99%
(1346)

Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents95 acres · Waynesville, NC
Voted 2nd in NC!! We are a Mangalitsa farm in The Smoky Mountains of western NC. The entire property is oriented toward private farmland views, a half mile of river and surrounding mountains. It's really quite remarkable to be so accessible yet feel so remote! Come swim, fish, cook and play! Check out www.smokymtnriverranch.com for more information. We are in our winter season offering only one campsite until March 2025 “Site 2 Knoll”~ come enjoy the river ranch all to yourselves! PLEASE NOTE, our rate is based on the number of vehicles in your group. The first vehicle is included in the nightly rate and admits 4 campers. WE CHARGE FOR ADDITIONAL CARS. The charge will be added to your booking once you select the number of vehicles at checkout. Please note that each additional car admits four campers. For EXAMPLE, 2 cars = 8 campers total. If you only have two cars but more than eight people, YOU MUST select the "Extra Person" Extra for each night they are camping. Please select these extras at checkout. If you have questions about this PLEASE message me prior to booking. Our 95-acre farm was once owned by the Davis family who predominantly raised dairy cattle. We now raise the wooly Mangalitsa pig and sell to the best chefs and restaurants. We sell our pork at the farm too! All of our campsites are next to running water except the two hilltop sites. Two porta-potties are on the farm and private porta-potties are available for rent. Groups of eight or more are required to rent a porta potty should you not bring your own toilet system with you. We do not allow the use of our small wooded areas as toilets. Please review the Extras options as we offer river lifts, firewood and dog stays; thank you! Quiet hours are from 10pm to 9am. Checking in before 5 pm is requested. Later times may be available with prior arrangements. Our farm is very dark and navigating at night is difficult. Contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. LIMITED CHECK-INS AFTER DARK. We are 1 mile off of I 40, 17 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 15 min. to Maggie Valley, 10 min to the Elk at Cataloochee, 25 min to Cataloochee ski area, 10 min to Lake Junaluska and 15 min to downtown Waynesville. Asheville is 20 miles to our East.
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$51
 / night
97%
(431)

Riverside Camping on the Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Mills River, NC
Sleep under the stars while listening to the river run while staying on a working farm! During the summer months watch our vegetables grow and the pickers pick! The winter months you'll enjoy a sea of green as our cover crop takes over the field. You can cool off in the river or check out the surrounding Pisgah National Forest. Dogs on leashes are welcome and owner is responsible for cleaning up after pet. The farm provides a portable toilet but no other amenities. Campfires may be restricted, so check local regulations. This is a working farm, so please be respectful of the crops and workers and keep dogs on leashes. Fishing is NOT allowed on the river unless you have booked a trip with one of our guides. Please note, if it’s rainy the roads will be muddy and 4-wheel-drive vehicles are the best option. Head 4 miles east to the town of Mills River for restaurants, stores, and services. You can find hiking, biking, and horseback-riding trails within a short bike or car ride in Pisgah National Forest. Chimney Rock State Park is 25 miles east and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountain scenery. Or perhaps go for a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our guests love staying here: "This was our first time using Hipcamp and we couldn’t have been happier! Candace was great at communicating and quick to respond to our questions. Site 1 was perfect. We had so much room for just the two of us and the water access was great for our dogs to swim. Plus it was so quiet, we’ll probably never go back at state park camping! Thanks for everything and look forward to visiting again!"
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$43
 / night
98%
(24)

Crockett Landing

9 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Beaufort, NC
15 beautiful acres on the North River in Beaufort, NC. Just off Highway 70 which is an Outer Banks Scenic Byway. Trails and private campsites throughout the property as well as a large communal deck (The Landing) by the river for gatherings and multiple observations areas to observe and enjoy the wildlife throughout the property. Bathhouses for guests and well water throughout property. Fishing, hiking, boating, kayaking, etc on the property. Atlantic Beach and Morehead City only 20 minutes away. Close to several stores and gas stations as well as countless fishing spots and about 7 miles to the end of Hawkers Island Rd where you can catch the ferry to Cape Lookout. Crockett Landing is a haven and sanctuary for wildlife and those who want to connect with nature and have a good time. There is a tote at the Cafe Blue full of games like badminton, volleyball, frisbees, wiffle ball, corn hole, paddle ball etc. The Cafe is an outdoor kitchen for guests to use as they like. Propane grill and stove available including dishware and pots and pans.
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$30
 / night
97%
(392)

Conleys Creek Campground

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents9 acres · Whittier, NC
Welcome to our little slice of creekside heaven! Four years ago, we took a run-down manufactured home park and started turning it into something special — a peaceful, down-to-earth spot for campers to relax, explore, and feel right at home. It's been a total labor of love, and now we’re excited to share it with folks who appreciate the beauty of nature, good company, and a few chickens wandering by. At night, things slow down — our campground is quiet, peaceful, and perfect for stargazing. We’ve got: 3 creekside RV sites with water + electric hookups 1 creekside RV site with full hookups (water, electric, and septic) 4 first-come, first-served creekside tent spots A 38' luxury RV available to rent for a comfy glamping stay All sites are right along Conleys Creek, which is stocked with trout and perfect for fishing or cooling off in the summer. Every spot includes a picnic table and fire pit — and tent sites come with a fire pit that includes a cooking grate for easy campfire meals. Our land is totally pesticide-free and full of life — from colorful flower gardens to veggies, herbs, fruit trees, and our famous 14 free-range chickens (a.k.a. The Dixie Chicks). Guests love feeding them, petting them, and collecting fresh eggs. You’ll also find: A clean, private bathhouse A game room with ping pong + darts Outdoor yard games Fast, reliable Wi-Fi Firewood, eggs, and ice for sale A dump station for RVs We’re in a super convenient spot — nestled between Bryson City and Cherokee, just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dillsboro, Sylva, and tons of hiking, biking, kayaking, tubing, and whitewater adventures. We’re open year-round, but if you come during leaf peeping season, you’re in for a real treat — the colors are absolutely magical. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome too — we get it, they’re family! This is our home, our lifestyle, and our dream. We’d love to have you come enjoy it with us.
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$35
 / night
99%
(1356)

Dark Ridge Hide Out (Adults Only)

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Elk Park, NC
"Adults only" doesn't mean anything other than just "no children", so as to preserve the natural peace and quiet, and assurance that there won't be loud and unruly children on the property. Inquiries and booking requests received after 9: pm may not be answered until the next morning. Dark Ridge Hide Out, is a 20 acre parcel in the Blue Ridge Mountain's on the back side of the Beech Mt Ski Resort in a secluded quiet and safe community with less than a dozen homes in a one mile radius. Away from light and sound pollution. Except for an occasional passing vehicle "and often none at all from 10pm to 6am" all you will hear is the sound of the creek which runs through the lower section by the RV sites, cricket's and frogs at the nearby fish pond and only the light from the moon and star's in the clear mountain sky and fire flies. It is my home place with a tobacco barn and a big combination cattle/tobacco barn built almost entirely just by my Mom and Dad in early 1940"s. My parents and grand parents lived off of the land here and raised cash crops like cabbage, corn and tobacco, we also raised sugar cane and made molasses, we had free range chickens, as many as 50 honey bee hives and over 50 head of cattle, two or three hog's and of course a horse. There was four main fields; two for cow pasture, one meadow to grow hay "now Christmas trees" and the main one on my part where all crops were grown is where the camp sites are. I grew up helping with the crops and other farm chores, one was to go to the pasture and bring the milk cows in and do the milking every day before and after school, feed the hogs and chickens, gather the egg's, let the chickens out in the morning and close the chicken house in the evening to protect them from critters like opossums, raccoons and wildcats. This is where I grew up, my dad grew up and, near where my mother and both of my grandparents grew up. My house was built in 1905 the same year my dad was born. The campsites are on my 20 acre section section of the original 82 acres with the house and barns, the remainder went to my brother but now is out of the family. The section of Elk River with the Compression Falls "45 ft high" and Twisting Falls which is part of Pisgah National Forest is less than two miles from here, and an old logging road going around the mountain above the river for about three miles to another Falls "Elk River Falls, 65 ft high" is a great place to hike or mountain bike. You will be free to explore and hike any part of my property except the house and out building's. The pond's are full of Trout and Blue Gill fish that are like pet's they love little pieces of bread. You can feed the fish but no fishing.
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$20
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
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Camping in North Carolina guide

Overview

Crank up the fiddle-and-banjo tunes while driving through the High Country, where campsites and high-altitude views along the Blue Ridge Parkway are marked by mists and mountains. The parkway rolls up to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, not far from the gorgeous homelands of the Cherokee tribe. Just east in Asheville, the Ale Trail rivals the Biltmore as the top draw, though live music and a fantastic culinary scene are close behind. Drive east to the windswept barrier islands of the Outer Banks for coastal camping, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures that tear across sea and sky. Charlotte, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh anchor the booming Central Piedmont.

Where to go

High Country & the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway passes overlooks, waterfalls, and campgrounds in the rugged High Country of western North Carolina as it swoops south from Virginia. Mount Mitchell State Park, Linville Gorge, and Grandfather Mountain are Instagram-pretty while hiking and mountain biking trails beg to be explored.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park & Cherokee

Stories about Cherokee leaders and 19th-century mountain families add historic context to the mountain-and-forest views in the deep-green Smokies. Feeling social? Hit the welcoming Nantahala Outdoor Center for all-sorts of wild adventures, from rafting to ziplining. The Appalachian Trail runs along the North Carolina and Tennessee border in the national park then veers south through Nantahala National Forest.

Asheville & the Foothills

An easy detour from the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville is a mountain town that’s going places. The craft beer situation is out of control—more than 30 breweries!—while innovative chefs keep the foodie scene abuzz. Chimney Rock State Park, Lake Lure, and gorgeous waterfalls are outdoor highlights in the foothills. Mountain bikers, get your fix in Pisgah National Forest

North Carolina Coast

Wind, water, and sunny skies set a mood for fun along the North Carolina Coast. For the best all-around beach scene head to the Outer Banks, a 100-mile stretch of rugged barrier islands marked by dunes, fishing piers, and wild horses. Try hang-gliding at Jockey’s Ridge, windsurfing off Hatteras Island, and parasailing and paddling in Corolla and Duck. For close-to-the-beach tent camping, drive south to Cape Hatteras National Seashore or ferry over to Ocracoke Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are boondocking opportunities in North Carolina, particularly in national forests and on some private lands. The Pisgah National Forest and Nantahala National Forest offer dispersed camping options for boondockers. These sites are typically free of charge but have limited or no amenities. Additionally, you can find private landowners offering boondocking sites through platforms like Hipcamp. Some options include: - North Carolina Linville Boondockers RV Camp - North Carolina Tent or RV Camping - North Carolina Tent Camping and RV Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and always check the specific regulations and requirements for the area where you plan to boondock.

Yes, you can camp in national forests in North Carolina. The state has four National Forests: Pisgah, Nantahala, Uwharrie, and Croatan. These forests offer a variety of camping options, including developed campgrounds, group campgrounds, and dispersed camping areas. You can find more information about camping in North Carolina's National Forests on Hipcamp.

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere in North Carolina. Camping is allowed only in designated campgrounds, national forests, and some state parks. Dispersed camping, which is camping in undesignated areas, is permitted in some national forests like Pisgah National Forest and Nantahala National Forest, but you must follow specific rules and guidelines. For a more private camping experience, you can explore options on Hipcamp, where you can find a variety of unique camping spots on private land. Always make sure to obtain permission from the landowner and follow local regulations before camping in undesignated areas.

The best months to camp in North Carolina are April, May, September, and October. These months offer mild temperatures, lower humidity, and beautiful scenery. Spring (April and May) brings blooming wildflowers and comfortable weather, while fall (September and October) features spectacular foliage and cooler temperatures. Summer months (June, July, and August) can be hot and humid, especially in the lower elevations, while winter (December, January, and February) can be quite cold, especially in the mountains. For more information on camping in North Carolina, check out these resources on Hipcamp and North Carolina State Parks.

Boondocking, or dispersed camping, is legal in North Carolina on certain public lands, such as national forests. The Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests offer numerous locations for boondocking, where you can camp for free without facilities or designated campsites. However, it's important to follow the specific rules and regulations for each area, such as staying within the designated camping zones and practicing Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, some private landowners on Hipcamp offer boondocking opportunities on their properties.

The best time of year to camp in the North Carolina mountains is during the fall, from late September to early November. This period offers mild temperatures, low humidity, and stunning fall foliage. The vibrant colors of the leaves create a picturesque backdrop for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Spring, from April to May, is another great time to camp in the NC mountains, with blooming wildflowers and comfortable temperatures. Popular camping destinations in the North Carolina mountains include Black Mountain and Banner Elk.

While there are no campgrounds directly on Beech Mountain, there are nearby camping options in the surrounding areas. One option is Sugar Mountain, which offers camping near Beech Mountain. Additionally, you can explore camping options in the nearby Black Mountain and Black Mountain Forest areas.

Top parks in North Carolina

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