Lakeside camping in North Carolina

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

97% (2214 reviews)
97% (2214 reviews)

Popular camping styles for North Carolina

Available this weekend

Under $50

12 top wheelchair-accessible lakeside campgrounds in North Carolina

100%
(420)

JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents86 acres · Chinquapin, NC
Rated Finalist for Top Hipcamp in 2023 and 2024! This is a Family Venue! No Parties and/or drunknesses allowed. We strive to create an environment for nature viewing, stargazing, fishing, and unwinding in nature as camping should be. Events: November 9th Toys for Tots Bass Boat Tournament and Christmas in the Cabins starts! Cabins are currently decorated for Christmas now through New Years! The historic pond was originally much smaller. We have records that date back to our 6th Great-Grandfather, Joab Fountain, who received a royal grant from the crown in 1773 for the property and then just a grist mill, blacksmith shop and old general store. The property was passed down through the Fountain family until the late 1910's. Originally a creek dammed up for the purpose of the mill it was later dug out in the late 1940's by Lee Baysden. In a long story (that can soon be found on our website/blog) the land was auctioned off in 2007. This landowner dug it out and made it the 22-acre lake that it is today. The property also features 2 smaller ponds and surrounded by woods, swamp, and farmed fields, a total of 84 acres. Divided by Duplin and Onslow County line making it very unique! Chinquapin, NC The store/office is the original detached kitchen from his homeplace, which is the white house just up the street. We still use this today and it has Mr. Lee Baysden's handwriting in the store that states opened June 1956. The pond was owned and fished until the late 1990's. A hurricane damaged the dam and land was sold sometime after. The next owner dug the pond into the lake it is today and fixed the dam. In 2020 My husband Tyler, and I decided to buy the Pond when we saw the signs up for sale in the height of the pandemic. We created JCO, Juniper Creek Outfitters and Guide Service, fall 2020 and began to restore the lake and land to better than ever! We introduced our first Glamping A-Frame cabin in 2021 and in 2024 the Floating Cabin. We host community events such as fishing tournaments, fireworks, music, movie nights, and food trucks. We also host special occasions in the cabins from engagements, honeymoons, birthdays anniversaries. Youth groups and scouts also welcome. Ask about special pricing. Our camp office/store is opened most weekends or by check-in requests and fishing passes available 7 days a week online from sunrise-dark. Our lake features fishing for Bass, Crappie, Bream, Catfish, Bowfin, varieties of Panfish, and more. Check out our Facebook page (JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond) for all the latest news and catches! We have tagged bass that have been released back into the lake. Let us know if you catch one so we can record it! We are continually trying to make JCO and Lee Baysden Pond a great place in our community for friends and families! Enjoy the great outdoors unplugging from all the daily devices of reality. Enjoy bird watching for ducks, geese, heron, osprey or occasional eagle, owls, turkey, deer, and more. We now have a lake Kitty that adopted us and is now part of the team. Her name is "Tail", named by our 4 year old, Beckham. You may see Tail roaming around by the office or patrolling the campground as lake security. Beckham and our new baby girl Atley will be with us most days in office or helping to check you in to your sites! Eight RV sites- # 2, 6, 7, 8 are 30/50 amp, water hookups, fire pit, and waterfront. Sites #3, 4, 5, 9 are 30 amp Only, water hookups, firepit and waterfront. Check out descriptions and pictures of each site at booking. Pump out dump station at check out that we handle for you. One Free Pump out for weekenders. $25 fee for additional pumps or 1x free every 4days. 13 Tent sites - Sites #1-4 are Sunset Cove primitive Sites and #5 and 6 are Group bigger sites side by side. Little Pond site all by itself on private pond off the main lake. Sawmill Creek Tent site right off backside of the dam. Timber Creek are all newer sites. Couples Glamping A-frame Cabin complete with add on extras to make your stay more special. Includes Canoe and fishing passes. New Fully floating Cabin currently moored in RV #1 originally. Featuring full bathroom, kitchenette with Mini Fridge, Microwave, Coffee Pot, 2 burner range, dishes, gas logs, queen bed, futon, ac, tv and wifi, covered front porch with hammock and chairs, firepit, charcoal grill, canoe and more. Enjoy local favorites (ask to see our blog!) The Country Barn, Mike's Farm, Community Food and Grill, The Country Squire, Huffman Vineyards, Duplin Winery, Walton's Distillery, Southern breeze Seafood Market and Food Truck, Richlands Cajun Market, The Mad Boar, Triple C Sweets, Capt. Bob Becks Marina Cafe, Lejeune Memorial Gardens, Lynnwood Zoo, Surf City Beach and hour drive to Wilmington, NC. 30 minutes to Camp Lejeune, NC, and 10 minutes to Albert Ellis Airport, Jacksonville, NC Chinquapin, NC Richlands, NC Beulaville NC Wilmington NC Wallace NC Jacksonville, NC Camp Lejeune, NC Swansboro, NC Burgaw, NC Maple Hill, NC Eastern Nc.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$25
 / night
99%
(1343)

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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$20
 / night
100%
(19)

Lakeside Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Forest City, NC
Welcome to Lakeside RV Retreat, where relaxation meets convenience in the heart of natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or a convenient stop-over during your camping travels, our lakeside location offers the perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility. Nestled amidst 40 acres of woods and open fields, our retreat provides a secluded atmosphere where you can unwind and recharge. Yet, you're never far from local restaurants and conveniences, ensuring that all your needs are met while enjoying the serenity of the lake-side setting. As our guest at Lakeside RV Retreat, you'll have exclusive access to free catch-and-release fishing in our well-stocked lake. Cast your line and reel in bass, catfish, and brim, all while enjoying the scenic beauty that surrounds you. Whether you're a seasoned angler or simply looking to relax by the water's edge, our lake offers a tranquil escape where you can connect with nature and create lasting memories. Join us at Lakeside RV Retreat for a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of natural splendor.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
100%
(15)

White Stone Forge & Farm

12 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Jaars, NC
Waxhaw Country at its best! Very secluded 16 acres that is sparsely wooded with mostly old hard woods. Very peaceful and quiet in Waxhaw, NC with farm animals to watch during your stay. We have goats, cows, mini donkeys, dogs, cats and a pony. We have bottle babies several times a year and offer feeding times. We are also starting to offer day trips for those who wish not to camp overnight. Message for more details on anything. Should have babies through September 2023 possibly longer we are waiting on more to be born. This is a special place, a happy place and our Haven. It’s not really a camp ground It’s an actual working farm. We have animals of all ages here. We Have goats, cows, donkeys, dogs, cats and a pony. You get to come and tent camp in the woods or be right beside our hay barn next to cows and goats. Walking to the bath/club house you can pet a cow or goat or two on the way. We almost always have some baby animals. And you can come cuddle them. And hike in the woods. Sit by a campfire or just plain have some peace and quiet. Yes we are pet friendly. Seeing, watching and petting the animals is free to all our campers. But they are so many extras so much to do free or a small fee. All campers have use of the bath/club house at no charge. You can shower and rest in the ac/heat. Also we have a tv and dvd player. Free to use by all campers We very much hope you will come join us on the farm! So much to do. Walk the 16 acres, sit and watch the farm animals. We having sitting areas around the outside of the pastures so you can sit and enjoy. You may pet the animals too. Just watch those fingers. We have a lot of youngsters here. And please never feed them. Nutrition is a big thing on the farm. All these are included in your campsites no extra charge. We do have extras you can purchase to do. But the above things are just for you to enjoy. Also take a moment and look at the Hipcamp website on a browser. App doesn’t always let you know what we are doing and what we are up to. Owners are empty nesters that raised their family here for over 25 years. The owners are also artist and crafters. The art is available to be viewed and purchased. We also offer craft classes for all ages from preschool to adults of all ages and the fee depends on the craft. The property is very near Cane Creek Park daily use for the public and a short 2 minute drive to the main entrance of Cane Creek Park. That's where the biking, hiking, walking, fishing and boating can be done. yes there is room for your boat to be parked at the site. Google Cane Creek Park Union County NC for information on the Park. Yes you can walk to the park as well just a little longer than driving. You can eat your meals and watch deer and rabbits among other wildlife visitors and you can view the farm animals from your camp sites as well. Whether it is for just one person or and couple or a family with children or older parents there is room for everyone. Our RV campsite is cleared and flat area already at the barn that has an RV hook up, electric only. You just dry camp (no sewer or water hook ups). Wheelchairs can be used around the Barnside RV site. There is room for a tent or another small camper with the RV site but will require an extra fee. This campsite we are working to make more private you can see a neighbors house on the backside only but we are working on a live privacy fence just going to take a little time for everything to grow. the neighbors are very quiet and keep to themselves. you will here the animals more than the neighbors. The bathroom is a short walk to the bath house and kitchen but a beautiful little walk and you see wildlife and the farm animals on your way. This is a spot you can come and hide if you want to. If you just want to get away and not be bothered this is the space for you. There is a bath house with toilet and shower free to campers. Also a kitchen available this extra does have a small fee to cover propane, water and electricity. There is a stove, frig, sink a place to sit for a couple of people to sit and eat. This is free to all campers. Please bring your own food, soaps, toiletries and towels. The bathroom and kitchen are an apartment over a detached garage so there is a flight of stairs no wheel chair access. We have farm animal adventures available as well. You can brush a goat, cow, donkey or pony. We also have a Farm Hand Experience check out the extras. No riding available just brush or pet these animals. Also a few times a year we have bottle babies that can be scheduled for our campers to feed them a bottle and play with them. Bottle feeding is not available year round so please ask ahead of time if we have them. We have rules that are a must to do these adventures. We will let you know ahead time if you schedule an animal adventure. Truly is a sanctuary here but you can easily commute to Charlotte Metro Area anywhere in Union and Lancaster County or surrounding areas. You can bring your boat plenty of parking here at the farm and many nice lakes around to fish or play. There is water at the property we just do not have it available to hook up to RV’s currently. So bring your water cubes and we can fill them for you. You can pitch a tent or bring an RV for this camping site. We are making more improvements every week. More campsites coming. We have fire pits. Yes pets welcome on leash or can run in designated areas. We are now offering day trips, farm hand experiences, romantic campfires, small group get together aka party. You do have to book on hipcamp as the Farm Day Trip and choose your Extras for your activities. No you do not have to camp over night. But for a day trip you must book here on hipcamp. Please message with any questions. Thank you
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$49.50
 / night
100%
(2)

Valley Bear Farms & Resort

32 sites · Lodging, Tents150 acres · Balsam Grove, NC
If you're looking for a unique way to enjoy nature, Valley Bear Farms is definitely worth checking out. Located just a short drive away from Brevard, NC, this picturesque farm offers a camping experience that's a cut above the rest. Spread out across 150 acres of private forest, our well-appointed cabins and wide-open spaces are the perfect place to unwind, relax, and get inspired. Get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and take the time to reconnect with what really matters. Valley Bear Farms Balsam Grove is a serene getaway spot located in Balsam Grove, NC, just an hour's drive from Asheville. Spread out across 150 acres of beautiful rolling hills and mountains, our resort features four cozy cabins that are perfect for those seeking some peace and quiet. You can explore various nature trails onsite that lead to calming streams, a pond for trout fishing, a scenic waterfall, volleyball and pickleball courts, a private garden, and more. Our cabins are designed to provide you with an immersive nature experience, with multiple windows that offer stunning views of the natural surroundings. The cabins feature a comfortable king bed or two queen bunk beds with fresh linens, as well as a private patio where you can relax and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. You can stay with us for a night or a week, and during your stay, you can recharge your batteries and reconnect with your loved ones. It's more than just camping - it's a chance to experience nature in a whole new way. We have multiple cabins available at our outpost, so your view, layout, and design may vary slightly from the one shown.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

Star Hosts in North Carolina

Dog-friendly getaways

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside 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.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

© 2024 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.