Camping in Raleigh, NC, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

95% (1239 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Raleigh

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Lake Monticello

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Under $50

100%

(366)

Honah Lee Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents144 acres · Rougemont, NC

Our camp is the shared vision of Brian and Lee and son Michael. We fell in love with this beautiful property where we plan to build our eco-friendly, off-grid homestead and farm. Lee's favorite song and the inspiration behind our name is "Puff the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul and Mary. A land of whimsical imagination, beauty and maybe a dragon or three is our shared vision for the farm. The camping options are flexible, ranging from prepared campsites along both Little and Deep creeks with composting outhouses nearby, to "Camper's Choice" options where you may hike in or drive in and create your own camping experience. Please note that since the "Camper's Choice" options allow freedom to select hike-in or drive-in options, the exact distance to nearest outhouse may vary. There are 144 acres to explore so campers can set up a secluded getaway or cluster together in a group. We are flexible and can work with you to create a camping experience that suits your needs. Learn more about this land: Honah Lee Farms has over 140 acres of woods with open fields distributed throughout. We are bordered to the south by the Flat River, to the west by Deep Creek, and to the north by Little Creek. Most of our campsites are nestled in the trees along one of these bodies of water and all campers have access to the 10 foot waterfall area where Deep Creek runs into the Flat River.

99%

(97)

Tar River Life

16 sites · Tents40 acres · Lake Royale, NC

Back to the basics, come and experience Tar River Life’s primitive camping on the Tar River. Enjoy being on the river and listening to slow running sound of the Tar River. Bring your own tent or rent one of ours. You can drive your vehicle to all of our campsites. The drive to camp is about 1/2 miles. Each site includes a fire pit, wood and trash bin. Cook your own meals or try and catch your own fish from the river. Campsites can be secluded or grouped. Each site comes with a picnic table, 1 bundle of wood and trash can. Stay for a night or longer period of time, come and enjoy the outdoors with us. We have lots of walking trails, fishing access, wildlife, kayaking and tubing (must be purchased through us). 2WD vehicles are ok except during wet conditions. There is also the Vollmer Farm, with seasonal produce a Full Coffee Shop with breakfast goodies and baked goods and not to mention their fabulous ice cream. They have goods from around NC including, eggs, honey, meats, beers, wine and more. There is a grocery store (Food Lion) about 15 minutes away. So you can stock up on supplies on your way to your next adventure. We are pet friendly!

Tanglewild

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Raleigh, NC

This beautiful spot is tucked away in a secluded private street. It feels like the country, but in the middle of Raleigh suburbs so we are close to all the amenities. There is a small stream running through the backyard and about 4 acres for exploring if you up for it. There are birds, deer, and other wildlife that also call Tanglewild home. This is a great spot if you are passing through, visiting friends for family nearby that don't have space for your RV, or just want to get away from home for a few days but don't really want to go that far away. Amenities are close: RDU (4 miles), RTP (7 miles), Crabtree Valley Mall (4 miles), Umstead (3 miles), Target (1 mile), several grocery stores (1 mile), Falls lake (10 miles), and Brier Creek (4 miles) Note, the spot is a bit tricky to back into. You might need to back down the driveway so take a look before you drive down and get yourself in a tricky spot.

Rural Chapel Hill Forestry Stay

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Chapel Hill, NC

Our property is a private 25 acre forestry plot connected to an adjoining 130 acre family-owned plot, with only 1 house on the 150+ acres. Most of the land is wooded with a couple large fields. Long private driveway. 3+ miles of private maintained walking trails great for human and dog guests! There are a number of creeks that run on the property and a decent size pond with many species of birds- perfect for watching while having a morning coffee, or for an afternoon stint of fishing. Close proximity to downtown Carrboro and Chapel Hill (12-15 minutes), 15 minutes to downtown Hillsborough, and 25 minutes to Durham.

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(309)

R.O.S.A. Land Campground

6 sites · Lodging, Tents23 acres · Rougemont, NC

R.O.S.A. Land stands for Rare Occaneechi Saponi Alluvial Land-based retreat and campground offering individuals and small groups a place for rest, exploration, sanctuary, and grounding. Equal parts woodland, floodplain wetland and pastureland, R.O.S.A land is stewarding 23 acres of ecological magical oasis on a tributary of the Upper Tar River in an Aquatic Habitat deemed an important NC Natural Heritage area of the Piedmont of North Carolina. Rare mussel species and amphibians live here. Come see for yourself! This is a queer-stewarded, solidarity-focused rematriation project. This land is co-deeded to MK of Handewa Farms and owned at present by K Cox, Steward of the Respite and will be passed on to MK and her seven Afro-Indigenous children once the Roundhouse is paid down. In the meantime, an intentional community of farmhub tenants, visitors, campers and Handewa Farm members all co-habitate on the land together. We offer nature-based immersion for artists, healers, cultural and frontline organizers and their families taking time for restful resistance. It is a triptyech of woods, water and pastureland butting up against an untouched wild old hardwood forest - a combination unlikley found in the PIedmont- nestled among small tobacco, horse and hay farms in the Southeast corner of Granville County between Oxford and Roxboro in the beautiful PIedmont of North Carolina.

12 top campgrounds near Raleigh

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(366)

Honah Lee Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents144 acres · Rougemont, NC

Our camp is the shared vision of Brian and Lee and son Michael. We fell in love with this beautiful property where we plan to build our eco-friendly, off-grid homestead and farm. Lee's favorite song and the inspiration behind our name is "Puff the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul and Mary. A land of whimsical imagination, beauty and maybe a dragon or three is our shared vision for the farm. The camping options are flexible, ranging from prepared campsites along both Little and Deep creeks with composting outhouses nearby, to "Camper's Choice" options where you may hike in or drive in and create your own camping experience. Please note that since the "Camper's Choice" options allow freedom to select hike-in or drive-in options, the exact distance to nearest outhouse may vary. There are 144 acres to explore so campers can set up a secluded getaway or cluster together in a group. We are flexible and can work with you to create a camping experience that suits your needs. Learn more about this land: Honah Lee Farms has over 140 acres of woods with open fields distributed throughout. We are bordered to the south by the Flat River, to the west by Deep Creek, and to the north by Little Creek. Most of our campsites are nestled in the trees along one of these bodies of water and all campers have access to the 10 foot waterfall area where Deep Creek runs into the Flat River.

R.O.S.A. Land Campground

6 sites · Lodging, Tents23 acres · Rougemont, NC

R.O.S.A. Land stands for Rare Occaneechi Saponi Alluvial Land-based retreat and campground offering individuals and small groups a place for rest, exploration, sanctuary, and grounding. Equal parts woodland, floodplain wetland and pastureland, R.O.S.A land is stewarding 23 acres of ecological magical oasis on a tributary of the Upper Tar River in an Aquatic Habitat deemed an important NC Natural Heritage area of the Piedmont of North Carolina. Rare mussel species and amphibians live here. Come see for yourself! This is a queer-stewarded, solidarity-focused rematriation project. This land is co-deeded to MK of Handewa Farms and owned at present by K Cox, Steward of the Respite and will be passed on to MK and her seven Afro-Indigenous children once the Roundhouse is paid down. In the meantime, an intentional community of farmhub tenants, visitors, campers and Handewa Farm members all co-habitate on the land together. We offer nature-based immersion for artists, healers, cultural and frontline organizers and their families taking time for restful resistance. It is a triptyech of woods, water and pastureland butting up against an untouched wild old hardwood forest - a combination unlikley found in the PIedmont- nestled among small tobacco, horse and hay farms in the Southeast corner of Granville County between Oxford and Roxboro in the beautiful PIedmont of North Carolina.

Tar River Life

16 sites · Tents40 acres · Lake Royale, NC

Back to the basics, come and experience Tar River Life’s primitive camping on the Tar River. Enjoy being on the river and listening to slow running sound of the Tar River. Bring your own tent or rent one of ours. You can drive your vehicle to all of our campsites. The drive to camp is about 1/2 miles. Each site includes a fire pit, wood and trash bin. Cook your own meals or try and catch your own fish from the river. Campsites can be secluded or grouped. Each site comes with a picnic table, 1 bundle of wood and trash can. Stay for a night or longer period of time, come and enjoy the outdoors with us. We have lots of walking trails, fishing access, wildlife, kayaking and tubing (must be purchased through us). 2WD vehicles are ok except during wet conditions. There is also the Vollmer Farm, with seasonal produce a Full Coffee Shop with breakfast goodies and baked goods and not to mention their fabulous ice cream. They have goods from around NC including, eggs, honey, meats, beers, wine and more. There is a grocery store (Food Lion) about 15 minutes away. So you can stock up on supplies on your way to your next adventure. We are pet friendly!

Tanglewild

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Raleigh, NC

This beautiful spot is tucked away in a secluded private street. It feels like the country, but in the middle of Raleigh suburbs so we are close to all the amenities. There is a small stream running through the backyard and about 4 acres for exploring if you up for it. There are birds, deer, and other wildlife that also call Tanglewild home. This is a great spot if you are passing through, visiting friends for family nearby that don't have space for your RV, or just want to get away from home for a few days but don't really want to go that far away. Amenities are close: RDU (4 miles), RTP (7 miles), Crabtree Valley Mall (4 miles), Umstead (3 miles), Target (1 mile), several grocery stores (1 mile), Falls lake (10 miles), and Brier Creek (4 miles) Note, the spot is a bit tricky to back into. You might need to back down the driveway so take a look before you drive down and get yourself in a tricky spot.

Rural Chapel Hill Forestry Stay

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Chapel Hill, NC

Our property is a private 25 acre forestry plot connected to an adjoining 130 acre family-owned plot, with only 1 house on the 150+ acres. Most of the land is wooded with a couple large fields. Long private driveway. 3+ miles of private maintained walking trails great for human and dog guests! There are a number of creeks that run on the property and a decent size pond with many species of birds- perfect for watching while having a morning coffee, or for an afternoon stint of fishing. Close proximity to downtown Carrboro and Chapel Hill (12-15 minutes), 15 minutes to downtown Hillsborough, and 25 minutes to Durham.

99%

(43)

By the water

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Burlington, NC

Beautiful 20+ acres with a large pond all to yourself! Situated conveniently next to the state highway, our farm has a barn and newly planted blue berries and fruit trees. Fishing, canoeing, stargazing, wildlife watching... a perfect place to relax and unwind. Local attractions include Animal Park at the Conservators Center and the charming downtown Mebane. Pets are welcomed. Take a walk around the pond or venture into the woods, and enjoy your stay! P.S. If you are planning an extended stay (more than 4 weeks) or have a party exceeding 6 people, please reach out to me directly. Thank you.

99%

(79)

Holt’s Hideaway

2 sites · RVs5 acres · Fearrington Village, NC

Small hobby farm in a family owned neighborhood just outside of downtown Chapel Hill. Learn more about this land: Large, level gravel RV sites with 30amp and 50amp power and water hookup. No dump station yet. Big rig friendly. Only 5 minutes to Jordan Lake and 10 minutes to UNC hospital. Private and safe area, each site has a fire pit. Tent campers welcome. Firewood available. Pull right in off paved state road. One pull through and one back in site available. Pets must be on a leash at all times.

94%

(27)

Ancient Spring Farm

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Snow Camp, NC

Our farm is a beautiful, private 25 acres with an 1830s house, outbuildings, animals, orchards, gardens, pastures, old trees, wildlife habitat, a spring, and woods. Here you can relax; watch nature; meet our chickens, goats, horse, cats, and dog; learn about archaeology, history, and plants; and get eggs and homegrown seasonal food. Listen to birdsong and watch clouds during the day, wander a path through our ca. 5 acres of woods, see fireflies in the evening, and star watch at night. Nearby are hiking, horseback riding, historical sites, fishing, antiques, wineries, shooting, and more. We are located in a rural area and have many different domesticated and wild animals so you may hear diverse animal noises and see or smell animal poop, although we try to keep things clean and tidy. Our neighbors have dogs, cattle, and chickens and occasionally shoot guns during daylight hours (one neighbor is a sporting club with skeet shooting and hunting dogs) but typically our farm is a quiet and peaceful place. We mow regularly and our chicken ladies wander far and wide eating bugs but, in the summer, they can't get every mosquito and tick so please plan accordingly for your own comfort.

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(24)

Container Experience

3 sites · Lodging4 acres · Graham, NC

I purchased a 1960's ranch home and 4 acres over 5 years ago. I turned the home into The Fab 4 House, furnishing it with authentic Mid-century Modern furniture and naming each bedroom for 1 of the Beatles. I rent it out and it is great for events. However, I needed 1 bedroom accommodations so I purchased 3- 8'x40' shipping containers and turned them into tiny homes. You can rent 1 or all 3. The courtyard in the middle features a Tiki Bar, Beach Scene, Putting Green. I want people to enjoy the in and outside together.

97%

(375)

Animal Sanctuary and Peace Park

5 sites · TentsCoats, NC

Calling all hippies, treehuggers, Earth worshipers, and others who enjoy immersing themselves in nature! At Animal Ed.ventures Sanctuary, we are all about engendering a respectful, compassionate, and harmonic relationship with each other as well as the Natural World and her amazing creatures.We have high hopes for the long-term preservation of our remarkable planet, her breathtaking habitats, stunning species, and awe-inspiring ability to support the Natural Order of all of it.For almost 2 decades, we’ve been driven by the dream of creating a place of peace and respite for all who cross our threshold. From our USDA licensed educational program to our ongoing rescue efforts, we have the ability to provide an enriching and enlightening experience for people of all ages. While camping with us, visit Betsy, the Two-toed Sloth, and Teddy, the Capuchin Monkey, plus many other ambassadors at our sanctuary who are sure to inspire you and remind us of our interconnectedness!

Scott’s Lakeview Camp and Park

7 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Linden, NC

50+ acres of woods, water and walking/Rolling trails with two small lakes and a STOL runway for experienced ultralight and short takeoff and landing aircraft pilots only! Room for RV’s but no power or sewer service. Room for mountain bikes, hiking, drone racing and flying, R/C boat racing, fishing, swimming at your own risk. Primitive camping, handicap accessible trail around lake. Access to drinking water and ice at my home

Benzai Bloomstead

7 sites · Tents32 acres · Graham, NC

8 minutes from the Saxapahaw General Store and the Haw River Ballroom, you'll find us tucked away off the road. 32 gorgeous acres with exciting topography including two creeks, vast healthy woods and several open pastures. During the day, the blue heron flies overhead. At night, a pack of coyotes sings a wild chorus. The property has a home, a studio and a barn on it, so when you're near the parking area, you'll see those of us who live here. The campsites are private/secluded. We look forward to hosting you. Please note that this camping spot does require walking from the parking area to the camping spot and crossing the creek.

Dog-friendly getaways

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(309)

R.O.S.A. Land Campground

6 sites · Lodging, Tents23 acres · Rougemont, NC

R.O.S.A. Land stands for Rare Occaneechi Saponi Alluvial Land-based retreat and campground offering individuals and small groups a place for rest, exploration, sanctuary, and grounding. Equal parts woodland, floodplain wetland and pastureland, R.O.S.A land is stewarding 23 acres of ecological magical oasis on a tributary of the Upper Tar River in an Aquatic Habitat deemed an important NC Natural Heritage area of the Piedmont of North Carolina. Rare mussel species and amphibians live here. Come see for yourself! This is a queer-stewarded, solidarity-focused rematriation project. This land is co-deeded to MK of Handewa Farms and owned at present by K Cox, Steward of the Respite and will be passed on to MK and her seven Afro-Indigenous children once the Roundhouse is paid down. In the meantime, an intentional community of farmhub tenants, visitors, campers and Handewa Farm members all co-habitate on the land together. We offer nature-based immersion for artists, healers, cultural and frontline organizers and their families taking time for restful resistance. It is a triptyech of woods, water and pastureland butting up against an untouched wild old hardwood forest - a combination unlikley found in the PIedmont- nestled among small tobacco, horse and hay farms in the Southeast corner of Granville County between Oxford and Roxboro in the beautiful PIedmont of North Carolina.

Tanglewild

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Raleigh, NC

This beautiful spot is tucked away in a secluded private street. It feels like the country, but in the middle of Raleigh suburbs so we are close to all the amenities. There is a small stream running through the backyard and about 4 acres for exploring if you up for it. There are birds, deer, and other wildlife that also call Tanglewild home. This is a great spot if you are passing through, visiting friends for family nearby that don't have space for your RV, or just want to get away from home for a few days but don't really want to go that far away. Amenities are close: RDU (4 miles), RTP (7 miles), Crabtree Valley Mall (4 miles), Umstead (3 miles), Target (1 mile), several grocery stores (1 mile), Falls lake (10 miles), and Brier Creek (4 miles) Note, the spot is a bit tricky to back into. You might need to back down the driveway so take a look before you drive down and get yourself in a tricky spot.

100%

(68)

Rural Chapel Hill Forestry Stay

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Chapel Hill, NC

Our property is a private 25 acre forestry plot connected to an adjoining 130 acre family-owned plot, with only 1 house on the 150+ acres. Most of the land is wooded with a couple large fields. Long private driveway. 3+ miles of private maintained walking trails great for human and dog guests! There are a number of creeks that run on the property and a decent size pond with many species of birds- perfect for watching while having a morning coffee, or for an afternoon stint of fishing. Close proximity to downtown Carrboro and Chapel Hill (12-15 minutes), 15 minutes to downtown Hillsborough, and 25 minutes to Durham.

100%

(366)

Honah Lee Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents144 acres · Rougemont, NC

Our camp is the shared vision of Brian and Lee and son Michael. We fell in love with this beautiful property where we plan to build our eco-friendly, off-grid homestead and farm. Lee's favorite song and the inspiration behind our name is "Puff the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul and Mary. A land of whimsical imagination, beauty and maybe a dragon or three is our shared vision for the farm. The camping options are flexible, ranging from prepared campsites along both Little and Deep creeks with composting outhouses nearby, to "Camper's Choice" options where you may hike in or drive in and create your own camping experience. Please note that since the "Camper's Choice" options allow freedom to select hike-in or drive-in options, the exact distance to nearest outhouse may vary. There are 144 acres to explore so campers can set up a secluded getaway or cluster together in a group. We are flexible and can work with you to create a camping experience that suits your needs. Learn more about this land: Honah Lee Farms has over 140 acres of woods with open fields distributed throughout. We are bordered to the south by the Flat River, to the west by Deep Creek, and to the north by Little Creek. Most of our campsites are nestled in the trees along one of these bodies of water and all campers have access to the 10 foot waterfall area where Deep Creek runs into the Flat River.

99%

(97)

Tar River Life

16 sites · Tents40 acres · Lake Royale, NC

Back to the basics, come and experience Tar River Life’s primitive camping on the Tar River. Enjoy being on the river and listening to slow running sound of the Tar River. Bring your own tent or rent one of ours. You can drive your vehicle to all of our campsites. The drive to camp is about 1/2 miles. Each site includes a fire pit, wood and trash bin. Cook your own meals or try and catch your own fish from the river. Campsites can be secluded or grouped. Each site comes with a picnic table, 1 bundle of wood and trash can. Stay for a night or longer period of time, come and enjoy the outdoors with us. We have lots of walking trails, fishing access, wildlife, kayaking and tubing (must be purchased through us). 2WD vehicles are ok except during wet conditions. There is also the Vollmer Farm, with seasonal produce a Full Coffee Shop with breakfast goodies and baked goods and not to mention their fabulous ice cream. They have goods from around NC including, eggs, honey, meats, beers, wine and more. There is a grocery store (Food Lion) about 15 minutes away. So you can stock up on supplies on your way to your next adventure. We are pet friendly!

Star Hosts in Raleigh

100%

(366)

Honah Lee Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents144 acres · Rougemont, NC

Our camp is the shared vision of Brian and Lee and son Michael. We fell in love with this beautiful property where we plan to build our eco-friendly, off-grid homestead and farm. Lee's favorite song and the inspiration behind our name is "Puff the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul and Mary. A land of whimsical imagination, beauty and maybe a dragon or three is our shared vision for the farm. The camping options are flexible, ranging from prepared campsites along both Little and Deep creeks with composting outhouses nearby, to "Camper's Choice" options where you may hike in or drive in and create your own camping experience. Please note that since the "Camper's Choice" options allow freedom to select hike-in or drive-in options, the exact distance to nearest outhouse may vary. There are 144 acres to explore so campers can set up a secluded getaway or cluster together in a group. We are flexible and can work with you to create a camping experience that suits your needs. Learn more about this land: Honah Lee Farms has over 140 acres of woods with open fields distributed throughout. We are bordered to the south by the Flat River, to the west by Deep Creek, and to the north by Little Creek. Most of our campsites are nestled in the trees along one of these bodies of water and all campers have access to the 10 foot waterfall area where Deep Creek runs into the Flat River.

Tanglewild

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Raleigh, NC

This beautiful spot is tucked away in a secluded private street. It feels like the country, but in the middle of Raleigh suburbs so we are close to all the amenities. There is a small stream running through the backyard and about 4 acres for exploring if you up for it. There are birds, deer, and other wildlife that also call Tanglewild home. This is a great spot if you are passing through, visiting friends for family nearby that don't have space for your RV, or just want to get away from home for a few days but don't really want to go that far away. Amenities are close: RDU (4 miles), RTP (7 miles), Crabtree Valley Mall (4 miles), Umstead (3 miles), Target (1 mile), several grocery stores (1 mile), Falls lake (10 miles), and Brier Creek (4 miles) Note, the spot is a bit tricky to back into. You might need to back down the driveway so take a look before you drive down and get yourself in a tricky spot.

R.O.S.A. Land Campground

6 sites · Lodging, Tents23 acres · Rougemont, NC

R.O.S.A. Land stands for Rare Occaneechi Saponi Alluvial Land-based retreat and campground offering individuals and small groups a place for rest, exploration, sanctuary, and grounding. Equal parts woodland, floodplain wetland and pastureland, R.O.S.A land is stewarding 23 acres of ecological magical oasis on a tributary of the Upper Tar River in an Aquatic Habitat deemed an important NC Natural Heritage area of the Piedmont of North Carolina. Rare mussel species and amphibians live here. Come see for yourself! This is a queer-stewarded, solidarity-focused rematriation project. This land is co-deeded to MK of Handewa Farms and owned at present by K Cox, Steward of the Respite and will be passed on to MK and her seven Afro-Indigenous children once the Roundhouse is paid down. In the meantime, an intentional community of farmhub tenants, visitors, campers and Handewa Farm members all co-habitate on the land together. We offer nature-based immersion for artists, healers, cultural and frontline organizers and their families taking time for restful resistance. It is a triptyech of woods, water and pastureland butting up against an untouched wild old hardwood forest - a combination unlikley found in the PIedmont- nestled among small tobacco, horse and hay farms in the Southeast corner of Granville County between Oxford and Roxboro in the beautiful PIedmont of North Carolina.

Rural Chapel Hill Forestry Stay

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Chapel Hill, NC

Our property is a private 25 acre forestry plot connected to an adjoining 130 acre family-owned plot, with only 1 house on the 150+ acres. Most of the land is wooded with a couple large fields. Long private driveway. 3+ miles of private maintained walking trails great for human and dog guests! There are a number of creeks that run on the property and a decent size pond with many species of birds- perfect for watching while having a morning coffee, or for an afternoon stint of fishing. Close proximity to downtown Carrboro and Chapel Hill (12-15 minutes), 15 minutes to downtown Hillsborough, and 25 minutes to Durham.

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(14)

Sugarneck Glamping Resort, NC

2 sites · Lodging400 acres · Broadway, NC

Situated on over 400 acres, Sugarneck has private and communal gathering areas to stay put and soak in the escape or take a short drive to great things to and places to eat. Private Amenities include: Bathrooms, Mini Refrigerators, Heat & A/C, Luxury Bedding and Private Solo Stove Campsites. Communal Amenities include: TV/Game room, Grill, Fire Pit, Walking trails and lawn games.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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(22)

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Fearrington Village, North Carolina

100%

(2)

Eno River State Park

Hillsborough, North Carolina

93%

(8)

Kerr Lake State Recreation Area

Middleburg, North Carolina

William B Umstead State Park

Morrisville, North Carolina

79%

(7)

Falls Lake State Park

Gorman, North Carolina

Camping near Raleigh guide

Overview

Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Raleigh offers a haven for camping enthusiasts at nearby state parks and serene lakeside destinations. Explore the city and visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences before immersing in the sprawling wilderness of Umstead State Park. Venture out farther to seek tranquility at Falls Lake State Recreation Area, where shimmering waters invite fishing, paddling, and lakeside relaxation. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, with its expansive reservoir, offers swimming, boating, and bird-watching for any type of camper. Then choose from a variety of camping options, including waterfront tent campsites, RV parks with hookups, and open-room lodges for covered stays during cold and wet seasons.

Where to go

William B. Umstead State Park

Only 20 minutes from Raleigh is Umstead State Park, where miles of well-maintained trails wind through lush forests and along bubbling creeks. Campers can set up tents in the park's designated pet-friendly campsites near Crabtree Creek, each equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. For more coverage, book a spot at Maple Hill Lodge where all campers need are sleeping bags. Then hike Sal's Branch Trail or Reedy Creek Multi-Use Trail to see the park’s unique chainsaw art along forests and man-made lakes.

Falls Lake State Recreation Area

For a lakeside camping adventure, head to Falls Lake State Recreation Area. Campers can spend the night at on-site campgrounds with over 300 pet-friendly campsites next to Falls Lake and modern amenities like clean restroom facilities and designated swimming areas. Wake up and go fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish, or paddle along the lake's tranquil coves in a canoe or kayak. Hikers who visit in spring and fall can explore the extensive network of trails and see migrating monarch butterflies, while mountain bikers may want to ride along the renowned Mountains-to-Sea State Trail.

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Embrace the beauty of Jordan Lake's expansive reservoir from one of the scenic campgrounds on-site in the recreation area. Each of the 1,000 pet-friendly campsites has convenient access to swimming beaches, boating ramps, and fishing spots for tent campers and RVers alike. Campsites are also equipped with firepits, picnic tables, and restroom facilities—some also have electric and water hookups. Then, explore Jordan Lake Educational State Forest, take a leisurely hike along New Hope Trail, or embark on a bird-watching expedition for bald eagles.

When to go

Raleigh enjoys a mild climate with four distinct seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F as well as vibrant foliage and glimpses of migrating monarch butterflies. Summers invite campers to cool off in the lakes, with temperatures averaging around 80°F to 90°F. Winters near Raleigh see temperatures averaging around 30°F to 50°F, which allow for year-round camping trips to the area.