River, stream, or creek camping in North Carolina
From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Outer Banks, your adventure is waiting.
96% (17277 reviews)
- North Carolina
96% (17277 reviews)
Popular camping styles for North Carolina
Under $50
Available this weekend
12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds in North Carolina
99%
(614)
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
/ night
98%
(2121)
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%
(951)
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
/ night
99%
(385)
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
/ night
99%
(1315)
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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100%
(154)
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
/ night
97%
(109)
Jake's Farm
5 sites · Lodging, Tents11 acres · Candler, NC
Jake's Farm is an 11 acre organic farm producing vegetables, small fruits, medicinal herbs and tea ingredients. We began our venture in 1997 and added campsites and treehouses in 1995. The farm is conveniently located 8 miles from West Asheville, 11 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and 15 miles from Asheville Regional Airport.
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$33
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99%
(1336)
Dark Ridge Hide Out (Adults Only)
16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Elk Park, NC
"Adults only" doesn't mean anything other than just "no children", so as to preserve the natural peace and quiet, and assurance that there won't be loud and unruly children on the property.
Inquiries and booking requests received after 9: pm may not be answered until the next morning.
Dark Ridge Hide Out, is a 20 acre parcel in the Blue Ridge Mountain's on the back side of the Beech Mt Ski Resort in a secluded quiet and safe community with less than a dozen homes in a one mile radius.
Away from light and sound pollution. Except for an occasional passing vehicle "and often none at all from 10pm to 6am" all you will hear is the sound of the creek which runs through the lower section by the RV sites, cricket's and frogs at the nearby fish pond and only the light from the moon and star's in the clear mountain sky and fire flies. It is my home place with a tobacco barn and a big combination cattle/tobacco barn built almost entirely just by my Mom and Dad in early 1940"s. My parents and grand parents lived off of the land here and raised cash crops like cabbage, corn and tobacco, we also raised sugar cane and made molasses, we had free range chickens, as many as 50 honey bee hives and over 50 head of cattle, two or three hog's and of course a horse. There was four main fields; two for cow pasture, one meadow to grow hay "now Christmas trees" and the main one on my part where all crops were grown is where the camp sites are. I grew up helping with the crops and other farm chores, one was to go to the pasture and bring the milk cows in and do the milking every day before and after school, feed the hogs and chickens, gather the egg's, let the chickens out in the morning and close the chicken house in the evening to protect them from critters like opossums, raccoons and wildcats.
This is where I grew up, my dad grew up and, near where my mother and both of my grandparents grew up. My house was built in 1905 the same year my dad was born. The campsites are on my 20 acre section section of the original 82 acres with the house and barns, the remainder went to my brother but now is out of the family.
The section of Elk River with the Compression Falls "45 ft high" and Twisting Falls which is part of Pisgah National Forest is less than two miles from here, and an old logging road going around the mountain above the river for about three miles to another Falls "Elk River Falls, 65 ft high" is a great place to hike or mountain bike.
You will be free to explore and hike any part of my property except the house and out building's. The pond's are full of Trout and Blue Gill fish that are like pet's they love little pieces of bread. You can feed the fish but no fishing.
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$20
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86%
(11)
Mandala Springs
21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents67 acres · Barnardsville, NC
We welcome you to Mandala Springs, a magical healing oasis just 25-30 minutes from Downtown Asheville, where you can take your time, breathe in the mountain air, relax to the soothing sound of a spring-fed stream, explore a plethora of hiking trails on the 67-acre property that lead into the Pisgah National Forest, and reconnect with yourself and loved ones in nature.
Our pristine land offers a vibrant natural habitat situated in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. This perfect, Earthy paradise is ideal for couples seeking an intimate getaway, families longing to share nature’s playground with their children, adventurers eager to hike and climb, and individuals craving the solitude and stillness of a mountain retreat.
While you’re here, you can enjoy endless, living spring water that flows freely on the land, a swimming hole to revitalize your senses, massive boulders in the forest to play on, and decadent organic chocolate made in our chocolate factory at a discounted price.
We also welcome you to book a sauna session during your stay for a deep, cleansing experience. For the full effect, alternate between the sauna and cold plunges in the stream—you’ll likely leave feeling like a new human. Additional healing services such as massage and body work are available upon request.
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$26.70
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100%
(388)
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 allowed. We strive to create an environment for nature viewing, stargazing, fishing, and unwinding in nature as camping should be.
Events: August 31st Boat demos with another Family-Owned Business. September 28th Carolina Critters Preschool Nature Class, October 19th is our Halloween Bash. Trunk or treat through the RV sites and Cabins main side, potluck, movies, games, and more. November 9th Toys for Tots Bass Boat Tournament and Christmas in the Cabins starts!
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.
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$25
/ night
99%
(184)
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.
Fall is in the air, and the leaves are already changing colors due to cooler temperatures and less than-normal rain. We are about two weeks ahead of schedule.
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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97%
(97)
Appalachian Pond Campground
16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Waynesville, NC
Get back to nature at this incredible private campground nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina! This tranquil campground offers a peaceful place to unwind while listening to the wonderful sights and sounds of nature at its best! There are 11 unique and cozy campsites to choose from as well as a shower and portable potties. This campground has a pond for fishing and swimming, a creek running along the campsites and is surrounded by the most magnificent and beautiful foliage and wildlife! Prepare to have the most peaceful sleep under the glorious celestial stars of Western North Carolina!
*We also have a sink for dishes alongside the shower house as well as a drinkable well water spicket in the back of the campground!
*We are also located close to stores for your convenience as well as many nearby attractions!
* Please contact us regarding pets before booking…
*We recommend checking in before 10 pm…. The property gets really dark and hard to navigate at night without being shown where to go! If for any reason you will be getting here later please inform us upon booking so we can plan for your arrival!
*During the months from November to April we cannot guarantee our shower will be operational due to freezing temperatures. However, during warm periods during those months we do have our shower available.
If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of life and return to the simplicity of nature this is your spot!
We hope to see you soon!!
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$27
/ night
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River, stream, or creek camping in North Carolina guide
Overview
Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near a river in North Carolina, you're in luck. We have over 2,600 options available just for you. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or parking your RV, we've got you covered. Our top campsites like Starlight Hills (627 reviews), Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews), and Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews) are sure to impress. With popular amenities like potable water, trash disposal, and campfire pits, you'll have everything you need for a fantastic camping trip. Plus, with activities like climbing, surfing, and fishing nearby, there's never a dull moment. So why wait? Start planning your river camping adventure in North Carolina today, with prices as low as $10 per night and an average price of $39 per night.
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