World-class hiking in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains attracts campers to Lenoir.
Explore the untamed wilderness of eastern North Carolina from a Lenoir base camp. Set in the Lower Creek Valley near the Catawba River, Lenoir is filled with cultural attractions like sculpture parks, wineries, and the Edgar Allan Poe House and flanked by hilly forests and creeks. Campers find four seasons of outdoor fun nearby, where popular activities include kayaking along picturesque Wilson Creek, hiking to the top of Hibriten Mountain, and fishing in any of the region’s hundreds of water courses. Many of Lenoir’s best campsites and cabin rentals, both rustic and furnished, are conveniently located near top spots like South Mountains State Park and Pisgah National Forest.
Enjoy a rustic backcountry experience at South Mountains State Park, about an hour’s drive from Lenoir. Featuring 40 miles of woodland trails, visitors can hike its hilly terrain, backpack to discover its 80-foot tall waterfall, or fish for trout in its clear mountain streams. Trot along equestrian trails or test your mountain biking prowess along cycling paths. The park offers year-round activities with campgrounds and RV parks close by.
A celebrated Lenoir landmark, Hibriten Mountain is on the western edge of the Brushy Mountains. The summit stretches 1,000 feet above surrounding green landscapes and beckons climbers to hike to the top to enjoy its majestic views. In addition to hiking, the mountain is a popular hang gliding destination and site of annual 5K and 10k marathons for charity. Nearby cabin rentals and campsites afford visitors plenty of options for camping.
Just 30 minutes from Lenoir, Pisgah National Forest is a must-visit destination for hikers and kayakers. Wilson Creek spills over rocks and hills, offering postcard-worthy views to visitors. Park visitors enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, tubing, and hiking to witness park marvels like Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, and Moore Cove Falls. With nearby RV parks, tent campsites, cabin rentals, and family-friendly campgrounds, the national forest features accommodations for all types of campers and glampers.
With its foothills location in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lenoir offers outdoor excitement year-round, with peak camping season between April and October. During mild winters, the region attracts hardy backpackers to its nearby national and state recreation areas. Campers will find lots of accommodations to choose from, including luxury furnished cabins, rustic cabins, amenity-rich campgrounds, and RV parks with convenient sewer, water, and electricity hookups. Many of these sites are close to restaurants and supply shops selling camping and fishing gear.