Family-friendly forest camping in North Carolina
From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Outer Banks, your adventure is waiting.
98% (8604 reviews)
- North Carolina
98% (8604 reviews)
Popular camping styles for North Carolina
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Star Hosts in North Carolina
12 top forest campgrounds in North Carolina
99%
(618)
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.
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.
Amazing views and relaxing sounds of the creek can be heard from anywhere on the property. Many Hiking trails are just a short drive from the property and please be respectful of others' property and no trespassing signs.
It’s a kinda bumpy mountain road to get there but the secluded, peaceful and breathtaking views make this location a must-see and adventure.
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$32.30
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99%
(954)
The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms
15 sites · Lodging, 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! ❤
Our new CAMP STORE offers meats and eggs from our farm, drinks, Amish made ice cream and jams/jellies/preserves, hammocks, hammock chairs, smoked dog bones, soaps (made right here), 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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$21.60
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98%
(2127)
Starlight Hills
18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Bostic, NC
Our Spa 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%
(387)
TangleWood Creekside Campsites
23 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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$40
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99%
(1316)
Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch
15 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.
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. Please contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. NO 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
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99%
(185)
Candy Mountain Goat Farm
10 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Murphy, NC
Our six-acre solar-powered goat farm is a quiet and peaceful slice of paradise away from the chaos and noise but close to so many places to adventure.
Hurricane Helene completely missed the farm. Everything looks fantastic with trees ready for the fall colors.
Feed and play with the goats, picnic along our grass-covered brook, hang out around the large fire pit, and rejuvenate while being close to the many Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountain activities.
We have two custom-built RV pads with 15 and 30-amp service plus water and four grass tent locations overlooking a small brook in a forest-shaded park-like setting.
Internet is provided by Starlink Business - high speed, low latency, and great for remote workers. We provide solid service throughout the entire property. Work from the top of a mountain!! IP service is available throughout the property - perfect for Van Life or van living. 200-300 down and at least 20-30 up!!
Nearby are numerous hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, and other outdoor activities such as tubing, white water rafting, and boating. If you want to chill, you can check out a local swimming hole.
For the next few months we have a kayak guide on-property who can take you and your group through some of the lakes and streams nearby. Contact us for availability and pricing.
We have several options for our guests at the farm, including a small zipline, farm activities, loop trail, massage services (20+yr licensed), spring trail, wine tastings, weekly outdoor movies (on request), and our petting area where you can interact with very friendly goats.
RV/CAR/VANLIFE
We can help by recommending and using local mechanics, on-site RV repair (they come to us), solar and power troubleshooting, and good old-fashioned southern kindness.
STORMS/BAD WEATHER
Located on the campground is a tiny home shed that is being converted to a studio but is open and available during harsh weather.
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$15
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100%
(155)
Pause || Eco-Retreat at Aramesh
10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Clyde, NC
This no ordinary campground. Your experience will be as if you are exploring your own private mountain nature reserve. Aramesh is 120 acres of Blue Ridge heaven with something for every wilderness adventure seeker: unmatched mountain views, lush old growth forests, babbling brooks, and miles of trails for all skill levels. The property starts at 3700 ft altitude, with summit at 4500 ft on the Glades mountain ridge. We have only a few campsites on the vast property, so the wind in the trees and birds will be all you hear. Come and stay with us and be renewed!
Campsites: They are 3/4-1/4 mile from the entrance. Some are accessible by 4WD. There may be some vigorous hiking involved, but the views are worth it. The pads are various sizes. Let us know what the needs of your party are and we can help you choose from the available spots. We also have several more remote “off-menu” sites for those seeking a backpacking adventure - ask for more information if your are interested.
Hiking: There are several miles of trails on the property. They range from an easy slope to very strenuous. The entire property is fenced so you won't easily get lost. Your climbing efforts will be amply rewarded by stunning views, especially at sunset. Trail maps are available upon request.
On-Site Amenities: we provide a clean porta-potty and running water that is spring fed. We ask that you follow "Leave-No-Trace" procedures during your stay.
Off-Site Amenities: If you choose to explore the area : we are a 10 minute drive from I-40 Exit 24. Asheville is 45 minutes away; Waynesville is 25 minutes away. Presnell's Grocery (highly recommended, family-owned store that sells locally farmed products) is 10 minutes away from the property entrance. The Ingles supermarket in Canton is a 15 minute drive. You will find every kind of fast food in that area. There are also several excellent local dining options in Canton, Clyde, and Waynesville which we are happy to recommend to you by request.
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$39
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98%
(201)
Creek side
4 sites · Lodging, Tents18 acres · Hot Springs, NC
Picturesque meadow on what once was a tobacco farm. All campsites are waterfront along the year round babbling creek. Stocked with trout three times a year. Property located very close to Max Patch for hiking or just to watch the amazing sunset. Each site comes with a fireplace, picnic table and charcoal bbq. Porto potty and outdoor shower on property.
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$25
/ night
99%
(202)
Indian Creek Rental's Mountain Camp
3 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Rosman, NC
Learn more about this land:
Enjoy a quiet stay in the mountains of WNC by staying at one of our secluded forest campsites.
Thank you for checking out our property! Our names are Clayton and Tiffany, we own Indian Creek Rentals, llc. We have a couple vacation homes also on property as well as a mini farm. We do have approx. 2 miles of hiking trails that you can enjoy straight from Camp.
We now have two campsites available to guests.
- Site 1 has a hot tub as well as a covered shed to stay dry.
- Site 2 is a completely primitive site in the woods equipped with a picnic table and firepit.
- Site 3 is a full hookup site nearby Site 1. The two sites together are perfect for group camping if interested.
- We currently do not have any bathroom facility or bath house on property. We do plan to build on in the near future. Until then guest are required to bring their own camp toilets. (Bathhouse coming soon)
Both sites are pack in/pack out.
Happy Camping!
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$22.50
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100%
(175)
Mountain Creek Rest
3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents41 acres · Robbinsville, NC
Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic campsite for 2! There is a new, large tent pad if you have children!
Islandsite is an equally beautiful tent site ideally for two, but the 10x12 platform can accommodate a 6-man tent, best for 2 adults and a couple of kids!
The Diamondstone site is a unique, beautiful, one-of-a-kind tentsite, EXCEPT a beautiful, furnished, shelter cabin is provided for you instead of your tent!!! Leave your tent and set-up at home! There is also room for a tent and your children out front, right beside the creek!
You won't want to leave, but if you do there are many recreational opportunities in the area such as hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, and more! Stays of 6 days or more get a big discount!
Enjoy the fresh, cooler mountain air, and the beautiful, private settings!
Heartstone is located on a modestly pitched, terraced slope where a divided mountain stream, the tumbling Squally Creek rejoins itself! The sunlight filters down through the forest canopy providing a warm, inviting glow!! There is a 9'-6" x 10' wooden tent platform, and if needed a new, larger tent pad!
Islandsite is located at the top of the island where the tumbling Squally Creek divides! Access is provided by the 40' long fallen tree bridge! Islandsite is unique, private, and very romantic!
Diamondstone, Heartstone, and Islandsite feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility all within a short walk from your private parking! Enjoy evenings at the new fire pit area with benches overlooking the fire pit and creek!
Explore the island on the 400' island trail, or go downstream to a nice pool for dipping!
Contact me for discounts when staying more than 6 nights!
The gravel road is uneven, and 5" of clearance is recommended.
Extra guests are an available option!
The property is spacious and there is parking for a second vehicle nearby if needed!
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$39
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97%
(255)
Above the Fray Glamping, Black Mtn.
6 sites · Lodging11 acres · Black Mountain, NC
The views are hypnotic and look down and out over the continental divide. Good morning sun and sunsets can be seen in the same spot. Your car is parked within feet of your deck so Car Campers and experienced campers can enjoy. Designed with campers and dogs in mind. The deck is large (384 square feet) with a tin roof. Some roofs are full size, some 2/3rds and some 1/3rd, depending on what one wants for tent size or sun exposure. (See pictures of each site/deck) Each deck has sun and rain curtains for helping keep comfortable in normal weather. Dogs enjoy a two gate system so quests and dogs can be leash free and away from the road. All dog owners know to pick up after their pets. The human Private Porta John is cleaned weekly. Lights and electrical is 110V (3 prongs) for YOUR coffee pots, electric grills, mattress inflators, crockpots, electric blankets fans, etc. I do not provide any electrical appliances, other than counter area lighting and low level string lights so one can see the night sky. Many of my campers will "Pay it Forward" and leave coffee pots, hot plates, fans and such, so count yourself lucky to find a deck with them. I provide chairs, 5 gallons of fresh water in containers, fickle solar shower and pop up changing room along with an assortment of camping supplies from dog bowls to antimicrobial wipes. I provide various size garbage bags to manage your garbage. Your parking area is next to the deck. Black Mountain’s tasty restaurants are 4 miles away and All Trails is a great app for finding trails suited for your interest. Be respectful to the place and please be friendly to the people you meet.
Learn more about this land:
Private Glamping Decks with a view that pictures do not do justice. Private decks on a dead-end gravel road mean hopefully the sounds will only be of nature. The conveniences of electricity, porta john, water, chairs, table, roof, cleaning supplies, rain curtains, and astounding views have my Glampers coming back often. Designed with Dogs in mind with a two-gate system and no need for a leash when on the deck. Obnoxious, barking dogs are not welcome, so bring only controlled and well socialized dogs. Help me keep it dog friendly. Never block the road with a park car.
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$60
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98%
(152)
Blue Ridge Ranch
21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents440 acres · Ferguson, NC
Blue Ridge Ranch, established in December of 2020, is located on 440 acres nestled between two mountain ridges in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The property features an established pasture, mountain ridges, barns, and a homestead. In addition, the ranch is home to five ponds (some stocked and one trophy), more than a mile of trout streams, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Together, they provide the perfect foundation for the establishment of farming, livestock, camping, and community events. All profits of Blue Ridge Ranch go to Hope for His Children, Inc., a 501(c)(3) that conducts youth camps at the ranch. Tours of the ranch are available for $10/person (to offset fuel expense) and includes interaction with some farm animals. We pride ourselves in doing everything possible to help our guests have a great experience. We offer coffee during morning hours in our farm store!
We are sorry, but we are not able to allow guests to bring ATV's and motorcycles to operate on the property. There are many acres of hay that we must protect and our agritourism insurer does not allow guests to operate ATV's and motorcycles on property.
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$15
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Under $50
Dog-friendly getaways
Family-friendly forest 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.
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