The best camping near Sparta with swimming

Situated near Stone Mountain State Park, Grayson Highlands State Park, and the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, Sparta offers easy access to multiple natural wonders. This small town in upper North Carolina provides a diverse range of camping accommodations too—from rustic backcountry campsites with no amenities to glamping yurts with access to hot showers. Dive deeper into the area to find astounding views in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area, or hit up a local bluegrass concert in Doughton Park—where RVers will find full-hookup campsites for optimum comfort.

96% (3.1K) • 145 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sparta

The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

1. The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

99%

(1281)

41mi from Sparta · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

Our new BATHHOUSE is now completely functional with toilet, sink and SHOWER 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 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! 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 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, 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. :)

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$24

/ night

Rivers Edge Trail Camp

2. Rivers Edge Trail Camp

99%

(1087)

35mi from Sparta · 7 sites · RVs

LIKE us on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/riversedgetrailcamp Standing on the New River Trail looking up where the campsites are located will give you the feeling that you truly are sleeping on the edge at Rivers Edge campground. Unique limestone formations can be found on the property. Large birds and even an eagle or two seem to prefer this area for hunting. Watch from a distance as farmers cut hay throughout the summer. This private cliff top setting has 6 newly created camp sites on 5 Acres. These sites are for camper vehicles only. NO TENTS! Enjoy less crowds and more nature! The long range views or the river and farmlands will take your breath away. At the bottom of the drive you have access to the New River and the New River Trail so bring your bike for more fun. Bike the trail, bird watch, or star gaze; the choices are endless. Don't be surprised to see bear, turkey, eagles, deer, or a coyote. PLEASE give us a rating on YELP also if you enjoyed your stay! The direct link to our place on Yelp is https://www.yelp.com/biz/rivers-edge-trail-camp-barren-springs?osq=Camping Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/riversedgetrailcamp This is a great spot for people looking for peace and quiet. 26 Minutes upriver of Claytor Lake State Park. There is a zoo in nearby Ft. Chiswell. Each site has full hook ups. No tents are allowed due to lack of toilet facilities. Area grocery stores are located about 30 minutes away in Wytheville, Pulaski and Hillsville. A portion of the profits will be donated to a non-profit! Bookmark the direct link to our site here on HipCamp: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/discover/virginia/rivers-edge-trail-camp

Pets

Full hookups

from

$50

/ night

Mountain Haven

3. Mountain Haven

91%

(27)

47mi from Sparta · 1 site · Tent, RV

Glamping doesn’t get better than this! Perfectly situated location. 5 mins from Sugar Mtn Ski Area. 10 mins from Banner Elk. 15 mins to Grandfather Mtn and Boone/App State. 20 mins to Beech Mtn and Blowing Rock. PLEASE NOTE: There is a slight slope to the property. Tents/Campers are best located at the top/top left of the property for flattest ground. Secluded paved lot in Banner Elk. PLEASE NOTE: it is best suited for 4x4 vehicles in Winter Months. Do not recommend tow campers, nor Class A or Class C vehicles due to skinny roads and significant elevation changes. Additionally, there is a slight slope to the property (which can be seen in the pics). Tents/Campervans are best located at the top/top left of the property for flattest ground. ). Easy access to the ski slopes, dining, shopping, App State College, Boone and Blowing Rock.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$20

/ night

New River State Park

4. New River State Park

100%

(6)

81 sites · Jefferson, North Carolina

Relax on the river and explore the trails in this North Carolina park.

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Campfires

Jefferson National Forest

5. Jefferson National Forest

98%

(27)

488 sites · Bluefield, Virginia

Literally thousands of miles of hiking trails can take you anywhere you want to go.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Cook Property RV

6. Cook Property RV

100%

(1)

40mi from Sparta · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land: Come and park your RV and enjoy tons of activities in and around Mountain City and the surrounding area. On the property you can walk through the woods, sit by the stream and listen to the water rushing downstream or trickling if we haven’t had rain. We accommodate one RV at a time and provide water and hookups in a circle drive through on private property. The owner's house and two outbuildings are on the property. A future cabin and pottery shop are in the works. If you like the privacy and quiet away from other camper then you will enjoy your stay with us. Pets are welcome! WI-FI is available. Campfires allowed in designated area if permitted by Fire Dept. Between October 15 to May 15 a burn permit is required. Permits are free, Owner can obtain for you. Located 1/2 mile down the road is an entrance to Doe Mountain Recreation Area. ATV rentals available or bring your own. UTV and dirt bikes also allowed. ATV tours available at the entrance. Other nearby activities and amenities include: Johnson County TN County Airport - 10 minutes away Enterprise car rental in Boone NC. 26 miles away Lake Watauga boat ramp 10 miles away rentals at Lake Shore Marina Damascus Virginia 20 mile scenic drive from our property following Laurel Creek where you can find bike rentals and a shuttle for the Virginia Creeper Trail. Damascus is also an Appalachian Trail destination for supplies. “The snake” motorcycle road trip Day trips to Gatlinburg, Dollywood, Asheville, and Bristol where country music began Blue Ridge Parkway is accessible from Blowing Rock NC. and pass Boone NC. which would make a nice Day trip Boone NC 24 miles away offers a Quaint downtown with Shops and restaurants Tweetsie Railroad Park between Boone and Blowing Rock NC. Grandfather Mountain State Park located an hour away featuring the Mile High Swinging Bridge located two miles north of Linville, North Carolina, and one mile south of the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 305. This year the Grandfather Mountains Scottish Highland Games will be July 7-10, 2022. Their website https://gmhg.org/ If you watched the “Outlander” series Grandfather’s Mountain is the area where Jamie and Claire settled in North Carolina Continue 15 minutes from Linville NC. To Linville Falls hiking trails with 4 overlooks for the falls and Duggers Creek Falls a smaller falls located in the same park. Other State Parks nearby: Roan Mountain State Park Elk Knob State Park Grayson Highlands State Park Hungry Mother State Park Warrior’s Path State Park Sycamore Shoals State Park Bristol Motor speedway NASCAR races April and September- 49 miles away Fall foliage peak mid October spectacular color 3 mountains to ski in nearby North Carolina Sugar Mountain, Appalachian Ski Mountain, and Beech Mountain Skiing, snowboarding, tubing Wine tour, for the wine enthusiast there are 10 wineries within 1 1/2 hours from Mountain City. Taste what Tennesee, North Carolina and Virginia have to offer. Watauga Winery 20 minutes away from our property Banner Elk Winery & Villa Grandfather Vineyard and Winery Linville Falls winery Corey Ippolito Winery Thistle Meadow Winery Abingdon Vineyards Vincent’s Vineyard MountainRose Vineyards Little Switzerland Orchard and Winery Hiking trails and waterfalls Kayak and canoeing Zip lines Antiquing, auctions, and flea markets Covered Bridges Civil war sites Restaurants in or nearby Mountain City. *Suba’s *La Cucina Italian Kitchen The Pickled Beet Monsoon Thai Poblanos Mexican Grill Panda Garden Teammates Pizza Farmers Barbecue and Grill Taco Bell KFC Little Caesar’s Burger King And many more *Reservation Required Family owned restaurants close for the winter from October through February and some longer but we have chain restaurants that stay open year round. Farmer’s Market on Saturday year round Site information: Asphalt driveway 15’ wide at entrance 11 1/2’ wide at exit Narrowest width of driveway 9 1/2’ To 10 1/2’ 2 1/2” or less drop from asphalt to grass Outer curve approximately 103’ Electrical box 38’ from drive but I have 50’ extension cords for 20, 30, and 50 amp Dump station nearby

Pets

Electrical hookup

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from

$35

/ night

Rocky Face Camp

7. Rocky Face Camp

100%

(21)

43mi from Sparta · 1 site · Lodging

Nature lover’s paradise, song birds, wildlife, creek side, at the pastoral base of Rocky Face Mountain. Creek stocked for 800 feet of private fishing. Quick access to Ski Slopes and hiking trails. Plenty of room to pitch a tent to add extra guests. This is a functioning farm with horses, pigs and chickens as well as agriculture. Tiny house has WiFi, covered porch, attached bathroom- hot shower and sink, port-a-potty, kitchenette, grill and fire pit. Central to Sugar and Beech Ski Mtns, Valle Crucis and Banner Elk 10 minutes, Boone is 25 minutes away.

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from

$89

/ night

Tiny House in Happy Valley

8. Tiny House in Happy Valley

99%

(249)

41mi from Sparta · 1 site · Lodging

I moved here from San Francisco, to simplify my life, and accomplish my dreams. The Tiny house was designed and built by architect, Jesse Plaster. It's a unique cozy loft style design, set back in the woods on our property. It's purposely placed next to a creek, with a nice stone fire ring to really enjoy the outdoors. In the cold months, it's heated by a wood burning stove. Also next to the house are logging roads that allow you to hike the Ripshin Mountains. The Yadkin River is near by, and so is Boone and Blowing Rock. If you like mountain biking, bring your bike to ride Kerr Scott, or Zacks Fork trails. Also, check out the workshops at Pattersonschoolfoundation.org They offer sustainable living classes such as cheese making, mushroom foraging, blacksmithing, soap making, kimchi making, etc...  Also ask about our private Yoga sessions. Last but not least, there is a wood burning private sauna that your able to reserve.Come enjoy our Happy Valley! Mi casa es su casa!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$105

/ night

Babbling Brook Campground

9. Babbling Brook Campground

99%

(390)

30mi from Sparta · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging

Before the Kerr Scott Reservoir was built, in the 40's and 50's, this neighborhood was a local swimming hole and vacation area. Public buses came from neighboring communities so people could boat, swim, camp, and picnic. While we don't have access to the pond, our part of this land still is calling out to people, 'Come, rest, unload your burdens, and find peace.' When we started this project with Hipcamp, we didn't fully realize that we were reconnecting with the history on this property. So, come, take your shoes off, and wade in the creek. Read a book while laying in a hammock. Sit by the fire and chat with family and friends. Come and participate in our little homesteading project, and leave your burdens behind. LOCAL ACTIVITIES: To the west is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is 30 minutes away. 15 minutes away is Kerr Scott Dam where you can rent kayaks, pontoon boats, as well as other sporting equipment. Fish, go mountain biking on the extensive trails, and hiking. Prayer Mountain is right up the road, about 2 miles away. Heading east, you can find several fine wineries andvineyards that you can visit. There is also a moonshine distillery in town. About a half hour away is an Amish community that has several businesses open to the public, including the Shiloh Bakery and General Store. They are closed on Sunday and Monday. To the northeast, about 45 minutes away, is Stone Mountain. Absolutely fantastic hiking, it is also an old homestead that has been renovated and is open to the public. To the south, there is Rocky Face Park, where there is hiking and rock climbing. Nearby, is Emerald Hollow Mine, where you can go and find, and keep, precious stones you find in the nearby river. There is also a great disk course course, Highland Hills Disc Golf Course, one of the top 25 in the country. There is fun for all ages. Merlefest, the last weekend of April, is a world class Bluegrass festival, is located right in our town. Be sure to look at the activities section below for additional information.

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from

$55

/ night

George Washington National Forest

10. George Washington National Forest

99%

(51)

487 sites · Deerfield, Virginia

Come and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Hungry Mother State Park

11. Hungry Mother State Park

100%

(16)

51 sites · Marion, Virginia

Woodland glamping, lake activities, and a sandy beach make this a family favorite.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Cherokee National Forest

12. Cherokee National Forest

96%

(49)

625 sites · Mountain City, Tennessee

Follow us to Tennessee and dive into the grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest! It’s filled to the brim with scenic forested trails, rushing rivers, and rainbow trout. During the day you can go rafting, and at night you can bask yourself in moonshine (of various sorts) and brush up on your constellations. If you are in pursuit of some Appalachian Mountain bliss, this is the right place to start. Don’t forget your camera, you're going to want to show these vistas off!

Pisgah National Forest

13. Pisgah National Forest

97%

(156)

251 sites · Burnsville, North Carolina

One of Pisgah's gems is Richland Balsam, the highest peak on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,410 feet.

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Camppan

14. Camppan

95%

(159)

19mi from Sparta · 1 site · Tent

I started purchasing land in 1984 to create a forest animal wildlife preserve. After retiring from my construction business in New York I have returned to the New River to continue the project. I have a biology degree and raise various types of animals on the land Learn more about this land: Campsite with fire pit with river view near the double shoals . Wood available. Private, beautiful trail to river with immediate access to 60-mile long New River Trail in less than 5 minutes.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$48

/ night

FoxDen by Heartwood Farm and Cabins

15. FoxDen by Heartwood Farm and Cabins

98%

(45)

47mi from Sparta · 1 site · Lodging

Get away from it all when you stay among nature in this secluded off-grid tiny cabin in the forest. Complete with outdoor grill, fire pit, picnic table, well maintained outhouse, miles of trails and a large swimming or fishing pond (catch and release). This is a secluded off grid location without power, wifi, or cell service, so be prepared to UNPLUG and unwind. Firewood for your first campfire is provided along with one tank of propane to run the indoor camp stove. Five gallons of drinking water are included with coffee and a French press. There is a cooler provided. Remember to bring ice for your groceries and sleeping bags! Please include an extra rental fee of $20 for pets (up to 3). Multiple firewood bundles can be waiting for you at $8 each (a decent fire's worth per bundle). Extra guests (more than 2) are approved on a case by case basis for $10 each per day.

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from

$64

/ night

Carl’s Campsites - Riverside

16. Carl’s Campsites - Riverside

98%

(89)

34mi from Sparta · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

BEST KEPT SECRET IN PILOT MOUNTAIN!! Select TENT SITES below to book specific campsite. Small wooded camping area on the Ararat river in beautiful Pilot Mountain on Private Land! 9 riverfront sites for tents with two access points into river. There is a 2-car limit parking at the sites, and four wheel drive absolute MUST when wet or rain expected! There is also availability to camp on total of 58 acres owned by Carl’s Campsites. Select a field or hike-in site, with 2 field sites which have rock firepits. Bring your own camp toilet and water containers. Take trash with you. Potable water available across from A-Frame. Riverside Sites includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag. Water and soap for hand washing provided. Separate trashcan for toilet bags. No ATVs. No firearms or fireworks. LIMIT 2 TENTS AND TWO VEHICLES PER CAMPSITE. Campers expected to be environmentally respectful. Riverside sites have trash receptacles, Fire pit, hammock, and picnic table. Swimming, fishing, hiking of property permitted. Pilot Mountain State Park, Hanging Rock, and MANY wineries close by. Lots of hiking on property as well as State Parks close by. Hanging Rock is a great place to explore, with a lake and swimming for reasonable price and picnic areas in the park. We are also 20 minutes from Mt Airy, fictitious home of Mayberry.

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Campfires

from

$30

/ night

'Possum Creek Ranch

17. 'Possum Creek Ranch

97%

(54)

15mi from Sparta · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

My land has a long history... come visit and I'd love to share it.Learn more about this land:2 tent sites offered, Site 1 is on the top of hill shaded by trees overlooking a field and is tent only. Site 2 is a nice level spot on the edge of the woods, which can accommodate tents or an RV. There are fire pits at each site, firewood available. A 120v outlet centrally located in the field. For toilet there's a clean, cute, not creepy, outhouse onsite. No water but there is a small creek that's great for taking a dip in. See photos for camp map. Located in beautiful Elk Creek, this quiet homestead offers a place to pitch a tent, and enjoy nature with endless local adventures at every direction. Lots of biking, hiking, fishing at your fingertips. All attractions are connected by some of Virginia's best dirt and paved roads, motorcycles encouraged! Message me for help route planning. Less than a mile from Falls road, waterfalls snaking along a scenic drive 5 miles from Comers Rock and Jefferson Nat. Forest, birds eye view of Elk Creek valley 8 miles from Hale lake, bring a rod and reel 13 miles to the New River, one of 5 oldest rivers in the world, canoe/kayak/tube rentals available 30 miles from Grayson Highlands and Mt Rogers state parks, highest point in Virginia, wild ponies! Multiple old-time and bluegrass festivals in Elk Creek, Fries, Galax..etc

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Electrical hookup

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from

$20

/ night

Healing Springs

18. Healing Springs

89%

(32)

15mi from Sparta · 16 sites · Lodging

Healing Springs is a special place. It was discovered in 1884 and was originally called Thompson's Bromine and Arsenic Springs. In later years, the property became known as Healing Springs Resort, and is now simply called The Cabins at Healing Springs. The natural spring is purported to have mystical healing abilities and rumored to have cured everything from poison ivy to rheumatism, indigestion to ulcers. Come, try the water from Healing Springs! 

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Toilets

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from

$67

/ night

Hoppers Dairy Road

19. Hoppers Dairy Road

87%

(31)

2.8mi from Sparta · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

open field Learn more about this land: Camping space available for tent, camper or RV with a picnic table and small stream.  No power or water at this time but upgrades are planned according to traffic flow.  Blue Ridge Parkway two miles away.  Country Store 1/2 mile away.  New River 6 miles away.  The town of Sparta, North Carolina is 3 miles away. Elevation 3000 feet in the mountains of northwest North Carolina.  Site #1 is beside the small stream that is on the property.  Site # 3 now has a electrical outlet and the fee for Site # 3 is $6.48 per day. ( Please note site # 3 with electrical use is $16.48 per day which is ---$6.48 per day (site rental ) plus $10.00 electrical rental per day ( with adjustments for usage ). Site # 2 Has been discontinued as of this date of 1 November 2025. Each Site will have an electrical outlet in the future and this will be posted when the outlets have been installed. CHANGES TO RENTAL FEES WILL TAKE EFFECT ON 11 NOVEMBER 2025 !!!

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Stormbrew Farm

20. Stormbrew Farm

99%

(135)

46mi from Sparta · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled in the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia, , hens, ducks, bees, Great Pyrenees, and cats pastorally roam over 18 acres of rolling farmland and forest. Experience our favorite parts of Stormbrew Farm through a primitive camping experience. Learn more about this land:An agrarian dream- a literal field of possibility. With 18 acres to choose from you may find yourself sleeping along the lazy Fifteenmile Creek, atop a hill under Virginia stars, or even set up with pastoral views of hens and Great Pyrenees dogs. The roadfront side of our property offers level terrain for pull-behind trailers, while vehicles (preferably 4WD) and tent campers can travel all the way back to the creek. Feeling froggy? Ford the stream and camp in the large field on the other side. Be sure to mind the animals and fields, as this is a working farm. One mile down the road from the farm is the Virginia Creeper Trail, renowned for biking, but as a multi-use trail, you can also enjoy walking, running, horseback riding, fishing, cross country skiing, and geocaching. South Holston Lake is only minutes away by vehicle, with two public access boating ramps 10 to 20 minutes away. For a drink by the water, head to Abingdon Vineyards- only 10 minutes away. Access to the Appalachian Trail is only 20 minutes away in Damascus. We became caretakers of this lovely property in June of 2021, moving from our existing farm, 45 minutes away. When we got it, it was a blank slate of a hayfield, and we have spent the summer laying infrastructure so that we may grow our cut-flower, honey, and vegetable business.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$29

/ night

96% (3.1K) • 145 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sparta

The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

1. The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

99%

(1281)

41mi from Sparta · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

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from

$24

/ night

Rivers Edge Trail Camp

2. Rivers Edge Trail Camp

99%

(1087)

35mi from Sparta · 7 sites · RVs

Pets

Full hookups

from

$50

/ night

Mountain Haven

3. Mountain Haven

91%

(27)

47mi from Sparta · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$20

/ night

New River State Park

4. New River State Park

100%

(6)

81 sites · Jefferson, North Carolina

Relax on the river and explore the trails in this North Carolina park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

99%

(51)

487 sites · Deerfield, Virginia

Come and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Hungry Mother State Park

11. Hungry Mother State Park

100%

(16)

51 sites · Marion, Virginia

Woodland glamping, lake activities, and a sandy beach make this a family favorite.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Cherokee National Forest

12. Cherokee National Forest

96%

(49)

625 sites · Mountain City, Tennessee

87%

(31)

2.8mi from Sparta · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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/ night

Stormbrew Farm

20. Stormbrew Farm

99%

(135)

46mi from Sparta · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$29

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

josh

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Such a great spot for camping! Plus the farm is incredible! We had a family matter that required us to leave unexpectedly, Cheryl was super understanding. I cannot wait to try again in the future. A+

chris

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Mountain Haven

Great little spot with a fire pit and picnic table. A little tough to find because of Google Maps ending short, but very easy set up once you’re there. I enjoyed my car camping time night before hitting the slopes the next morning, which was only a few mins down the road.

William

December 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Nice place to stay was very peaceful and quiet. owner was super nice

Karissa

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

We absolutely loved our stay here! The host went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed, and the campsite itself was peaceful, clean, and perfect for a relaxing getaway. We would 100% recommend this spot to anyone looking for a great camping experience and would love to come back!

Lindsay

November 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rivers Edge Trail Camp

I wish we could’ve stayed longer! We were running behind schedule and arrived after dark, then had to leave before sunrise, so we didn’t get to take in the views. But the signs and string lights guiding us into the campground were such a welcoming sight after a long day on the road and pulling in so late. We’ll definitely be back to enjoy the campground properly!

November 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

1 night at The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Very accommodating hosts, guided us to our site 5, right on the banks of a small creek.We camped with a 20 ft trailer,only neighbors were friendly farm critters.We would definitely return, when in the area .

Damon

November 2025

10 ft travel trailer

1 night at Tranquil Fisher River Cattle Farm

I enjoyed camping by the river. I could here the running river all night. No houses in site. Passing cars could be heard, didn't bother me. The land was flat which is perfect for caming.

Travis

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Was upgraded to a nicer site on arrival. Nearby stream was nice. New bathhouse is nice as well.

Megan

November 2025

1 night at FoxDen by Heartwood Farm and Cabins

It was quiet and peaceful! It was absolutely beautiful!

Vic

November 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Rivers Edge Trail Camp

rivers edge trail was beautiful! the site was clean, easy to find and the views were gorgeous. hookups were straight forward and full service, which we appreciated. there is a bit of junk around and there’s a house very close, so not private, but it looks like they’re still building the sites so we didn’t mind. we will definitely stay again!

Private woods located in the Ripshin Mountains

Chloe

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Tiny House in Happy Valley

Had such a lovely stay for our anniversary, Angela was super responsive. Don't miss the chance to say hi to Ms. Moonpie!

Mia

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

My friends and I LOVED this camp site! The land was beautiful and we enjoyed waking up by the lovely creek. Dianne was incredibly helpful and nice. In short, we had a blast. It was so easy to get up and go see Boone, visit Blowing Rock, and find hikes along the blue ridge, etc. We will definitely be back in the summer time. Thank you, Garry & Dianne!!

Thadeus

November 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Mountain Haven

Great experience camping at the hidden haven! Loved getting to use the fire pit they provided too 🙂

Nathan

November 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Mountain Haven

Site was clean and had great camping amenities. Had a picnic table, a camp fire pit and lots of pretty decorations

Katalina

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tranquil Fisher River Cattle Farm

My boyfriend and I camped here for a night before we went climbing at pilot mountain! The camping spot is only about 20 minutes away from the mountain which made for a great morning! The sound of the river at night was very peaceful and the fire pit was a very nice touch! We were visited by cows throughout our visit. Cow number 22 was especially friendly and we became good friends! Plan on coming back to this camp site and would recommend it to a friend:)

Jody

November 2025

10 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at 'Possum Creek Ranch

Jeanie's place is now among our favorite Hipcamp spots. The premium site is incredibly well-maintained, private, and overlooks a lovely meadow. Our dog loved being able to explore the sights, sounds, and smells off-leash. Looking forward to our next visit!

nancy

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

Such an amazing weekend at Joyville!! Gary and Dianne were just amazing. Our little cabin had 2 rooms, a deck overlooking the creek where we played games and had such a great time!!

Tatum

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

We loved staying at Joyville! The site was so lovely and the sounds were so serene. We loved tent camping by the creek! The covered deck was great during the evenings when it rained. Dianne & Gary (and Booger!) were great hosts!

Nichole

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to NEW RIVER REDEMPTION

Such an amazing host and the scenery is gorgeous! Amy was so attentive and provided us water, logs for purchase and even a cute goodie bag.

David

November 2025

24 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Rivers Edge Trail Camp

Our site had a great view of the river! The site was flat with easy access to power, water, and sewer. Arrival and departure were super easy. If arriving at night keep in mind that the site numbers are on the power posts and might not be within view of your headlights.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Sparta with swimming guide

Where to go

Stone Mountain State Park

Visit the 19th-century Hutchinson Homestead, hike 16 miles of trails, or rock climb the renowned 600-foot wide granite dome that gives Stone Mountain State Park its name. The park is roughly 30-minutes south of Sparta and features primitive hike-in campsites (accessed from Widow’s Creek Trail) as well as drive-in options. Every car-access campsite offers tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings with grill tops. Some also have hookups for electricity and water. A communal dump station is free of charge for all campers.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Anglers will love the 10 miles of streams filled with rainbow trout in Grayson Highlands State Park, situated 30 minutes from Sparta. Book the bunkhouse for larger camping groups or one of four yurts with screen-covered windows and dome skylights. There are also plenty of traditional campsites with electricity and water hookups. Then spend the day mountain biking or searching for wild ponies—the trail to Wilburn Ridge is a top-pick for sightings. Hiking and cross country skiing are available in winter, offering beautiful views of the snow-covered landscape.

Linville Gorge Wilderness Area

Part of Pisgah National Forest, the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area has steep, rocky terrain that delivers incredible backcountry camping and gorgeous views. Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” the landscape was formed by the Linville River, which carved out the gorge over thousands of years. Primitive campsites found here are pack-in and pack-out, with no amenities but tons of access to hiking trails and vistas. Wiseman’s View and the top of Table Rock Mountain are some of the best spots to take it all in.

When to go

Most campers flock to North Carolina in June, July, and August. For a quieter camping experience, visit right before summer begins in April and May, or as it ends in September and October. Temperatures stay relatively mild throughout the year, but Sparta does get snow in wintertime, with the highest amount of snowfall in February. If hiking is on the agenda, spring is the perfect time to catch blooming flowers, while fall showcases changing leaves.