Forest camping in North Carolina

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

97% (17602 reviews)
97% (17602 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

Available this weekend

Under $50

12 top forest campgrounds in North Carolina

98%
(2222)

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%
(723)

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. 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
99%
(1039)

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%
(1331)

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. 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
99%
(232)

Indian Creek Rental's Mountain Camp

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Rosman, NC
Escape to Nature at Indian Creek Rentals Looking for a peaceful mountain retreat? Our secluded campsites in the heart of Western North Carolina offer the perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind under the stars. We’re Clayton & Tiffany, owners of Indian Creek Rentals, LLC—a unique property featuring vacation homes, a mini farm, and miles of private hiking trails (approx. 2 miles), all accessible right from camp! We now offer two campsites and one unique camper stay, all with access to a shared bathhouse and outdoor Wi-Fi. Campsite & Camper Options 🔥 Site 1: Mountain Shine Camp Trailer – A one-of-a-kind, converted horse trailer with a queen bed, stocked essentials, and a cozy setup. Offers privacy, yet still close to Site 2. 🏕 Site 2: Mountain View Site – Features a hot tub and a covered shed, so you can relax and stay dry no matter the weather. 🌲 Site 3: Primitive Forest Site – A true off-grid experience deep in the woods, complete with a picnic table and firepit 🌟Group Camping Option– Booking Site 1 & Site 2 together is perfect for group camping! We can also accommodate an additional RV for an extra charge. Good to Know ✔ Pack in/Pack out – No dumpsters on-site, so please take your trash with you. ✔ Private hiking trails – Explore 2 miles of scenic trails straight from camp. ✔ Mini farm on-site – Say hello to our friendly animals! Whether you’re looking for a cozy camper stay, a hot tub under the stars, or a rustic primitive site, Indian Creek Rentals has the perfect spot for your next adventure. **Happy Camping!**
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$31.50
 / night
99%
(400)

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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$36
 / night
98%
(81)

Cold Spring Basecamp

6 sites · Lodging, Tents38 acres · Flat Rock, NC
Cold Spring Basecamp is the perfect spot to launch your adventure. Located in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Whether camping, glamping or high in a treehouse (coming soon), Cold Spring Basecamp is the jumping off point for biking, hiking, paddling, zip lining, waterfalls or just enjoy our beautiful 38 acre property with mountain bike trails, hiking trails, beautiful creeks, waterfalls and endless relaxation potential. Three rustic and historic cabins recently rehabbed, but keeping all the old charm. One open wall lets in lots of light and the old wood accents the walls, kitchen, eating area, and bunk beds (with queen on the bottom and twin up top). Cook over the stone fire pit or on cast iron pots and pan on the propane stove. Full equipped kitchen for all your needs, including French press, and tea pot. Relax under the solar lights and charge your devices using our solar powered charging station. Campsites are all nestled in the woods and next to the creek and are all spacious and private. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring with grill for cooking over the fire. Additionally a water filter is provided for purifying drinking water from the creek. Launch your adventure from Cold Spring or stay on the property to enjoy the mountain bike trails, hike to the waterfall and cliffs or relax in the meadow. Minutes to the world class trails of Ride Rock Creek Bike Park and beautiful Lake Summit, just down the road from Ride Kanuga Bike Park and the world famous Green River, with class I-V rapids. We are at the back door of 86 miles of trails and dozens of famous waterfalls in Dupont State Forest. The steep, fast and fun Gorge Zipline is located in the quaint town of Saluda, along with shops and great restaurants. The shops and restaurants of Flat Rock and just up the hill and a bit further is the thriving town on Hendersonville, apple country and many of the areas wineries.
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$22.50
 / night
99%
(178)

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
 / night
100%
(31)

Canter Lakes Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents47 acres · Rocky Point, NC
Canter Lakes Farm offers waterfront camping on 47 acres. We are a private horse farm with beautiful swimming lakes and river access on site via “Sand Hill Creek” At canter lakes farm you can explore over 10 acres of water without ever leaving our property, and hike almost 3 miles of manicured trails. The sunset and sunrise is always beautiful here! If you’re an early riser you can witness the magnificent steam rolling in over the lakes, creek and cypress swamp while you sip your coffee at sunrise. Bring your paddle boards and cruise, or warm up with sunny yoga on your private dock. Kayak or John boats can explore the river bends from our property, or even make it out to the big wide cape fear. We are also very close to two public boat ramps suitable for larger boats and jet skis. Holly Shelter boat ramp is literally 2 minutes away, Shelter Creek boat ramp is 10 minutes away. Both ramps have a fishing area and allow kayaks/paddle boards. Fishing is good on our ponds and the river year round, (bass, catfish, crappie, bowfin, gar, etc) in June hundreds of wild blueberry plants you can pick and eat. We also have prickly pear cacti for harvesting which you can cook the fruit and paddles over the fire and enjoy. If our trails aren’t enough and you want more adventure, just two miles away is the Holly Shelter game lands entrance where you’ll find thousands of acres for hunting, biking, hiking or horseback riding. And if you’re craving a beach day, Wrightsville beach is just a 30 minute drive away as well as is downtown Wilmington where you can enjoy walking the riverfront for shopping or dining. Stargazing galore! Surrounding the property is privately owned country land- this is a phenomenal place to be amazed by the stars. Photography lovers will be in heaven from the sunrises and sunsets golden hour is magical here! And with the diverse landscape there’s always something to capture. Tent camping or dry rv camping only at this time. Hot Shower, sink and full size toilet are provided in the bath house. No feeding of the horses allowed, or entering fencing. campers are welcome to visit or partake in farm experience with permission. If you’re looking for a yummy bite to eat we recommend chilitos, about 10 minutes away, for some authentic Mexican food! •Nearest gas station, grocery store and restaurants are in Rocky Point, just 12 minutes from us. •Wrightsville Beach - 30-40 minutes depending on traffic •Surf City/Topsail - 35 minutes •Hampstead- 15 minutes •Jacksonville - 38 minutes •Downtown Wilmington - 30 minutes (riverfront/live oak bank pavilion) •urgent care address: 7910 US hwy 117, Rocky point. (10 minutes from our farm) “novant health express care”.
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$45
 / night
99%
(141)

The Human Spirit

1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Hays, NC
True off-grid, primitive camping in untouched nature with almost 100 acres all to yourself! The entire property is secluded with an amazing view of Stone Mountain. - Perfect for 4-wheelers, dirt bikes, side by sides. - Discover several hidden springs throughout - Firepit provided. Firewood bundles and starter bundles are available for purchase. - You can pull right up to the campsite. - Higher clearance vehicle is recommended (truck, SUV, or crossover), however, 4-wheel drive is unnecessary. Please know the 2-mile road up to the campsite is bumpy and narrow. ~70 minutes from Charlotte ~20 minutes from Wilkesboro ~50 minutes from Boone ~50 minutes from the Winston-Salem area ~30 minutes off I-77 ~30 minutes from Stone Mountain public entrance ~30 minutes from Warrior Creek trails ~10 minutes from Doughton Park trailhead Unplug, recharge, and immerse yourself in untouched nature! A couple of highly recommended nearby restaurant options: (both ~20 minutes from campsite) Roaring River Vineyards - great outdoor atmosphere right on the banks of the Roaring River, pet friendly, entertainment, wine, and beer tasting 493 Brewer Mill Rd, Traphill, NC    Nonna & Pops Mercantile - small sandwich and ice cream shop catered to campers, the homemade focaccia bread is TO DIE FOR 6278 Sparta Road North Wilkesboro, NC
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$55
 / night
99%
(174)

Spruill Conservation Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Roper, NC
(Note: Fireworks, crackers, sparklers, garbage burning are not permitted) 2pm August 8th - 2 pm August 10th, 2025 are currently not available for bookings due to the 3rd Annual Fig Festival! It is open to the public and finishes at 4 pm on August 10. More info coming soon at spruillfarm dot com, or FB SpruillConservationFarm. The Spruill Farm belonged to the Spruill Family for over a hundred years and has just been set up as conservation easement protected land. It includes hardwood forest, swamp, a beautiful swimming beach* on the Albemarle Sound - one of the largest freshwater sounds in the world-, acres of farmland, vegetable garden and perhaps the largest fig orchard for hundreds of miles around. The purpose of the Spruill Farm is to further environmental research, promote ecological education and sustainable practices, and provide access for the public to the ever-diminishing shoreline experience. Please enjoy the incredible sunsets and woodland views, while respecting the serenity of this unique gem on the inner-banks. Wildlife on the property include Red Fox, River Otter, and 95 species of birds, including Bald Eagles (2 nests on the farm), nesting Osprey, Wood Ducks. Visit the 'Spruill Farm Conservation Project' on inaturalist(dot)org to see all 95 species, and upload any images from your observations. Because it is a nature preserve, please read the guidelines and rules closely if you choose to book with us. *Note: the shoreline changes with the wave action and the seasons. This makes the Bobby Wilkins shoreline trail so beautiful- always changing. If your expertise and interests coincide with the mission of the Farm, feel free to propose collaborative projects to julia@thepeanutfactory.org
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$35
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Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest camping in North Carolina guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience in North Carolina's forests. With over 2,600 options available, you'll have no trouble finding the ideal spot to immerse yourself in nature. From the peaceful serenity of Starlight Hills (627 reviews) to the rustic charm of Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews) and the tranquil oasis of The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms (288 reviews), there's something for everyone. Enjoy popular activities like off-roading (OHV), fishing, and swimming, and rest easy knowing that amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and toilets are readily available. Prices start as low as $10 per night, with an average price of $40 per night. So grab your gear and get ready to experience the beauty of North Carolina's forests!

Top parks in North Carolina

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