North Carolina is the dream of a camper – it has green forests, large mountains and snow white lakes that call you out of the plug and venture into the wilderness. You will find something to enjoy, whether you want a quiet weekend with the stars or an active hiking vacation in gorgeous scenery: the best NC state parks for camping will have something to offer.
The following is your list to the top 10 that provide breathtaking scenes, best facilities and memorable outdoor activities.
1. Mount Mitchell State Park
Need to camp on the top of the tallest peak in the east of the Mississippi, then this is the place: Mount Mitchell State Park. In its panoramic mountain outlooks, this park encircles a great number of campsites surrounded by Fraser firs and cool mountain winds. The rugged trails such as the Deep Gap Trail provide the hikers with majestic views that are miles long. No wonder, it is one of the best NC state parks for camping, cozy campfires and stargazing.
2. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Just south of Raleigh sits Jordan Lake, an ideal mix of proximity and tranquility. With more than 1,000 campsites dotted through nine access points, it is suitable for families and groups as much as solo camping.
If you like kayaking and fishing then the smooth, cool water is perfect. If you love lakefront camping, Jordan Lake should be near the top of your list for best NC state parks for camping.
3. Hanging Rock State Park
Hanging Rock State Park is one of these parks located in Stokes County and considered to be a treasure by outdoor lovers. There are also 20 miles of scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and cliffs which leave endless possibilities. Tenting and trailer camping sites have made the park easily accessible to stay overnight or a few days in the nature.
Do not miss the Hanging Rock Trail, which is not long, however, being steep, with spectacular sweeps of the Sauratown Mountains.
4. Lake Norman State Park
For watery sports mixed with peaceful camping, Lake Norman State Park can’t be beat. Just outside Charlotte, it is home to one of North Carolina’s largest lakes which offers boating and fishing. What makes it one of the best NC state parks for camping is the shaded campsites and family-friendly facilities if lakefront adventure is your thing.
5. Stone Mountain State Park
This park is popular with rock climbers, fishermen and walkers. The 600-foot granite dome of Stone Mountain is the park’s headliner, but its picturesque trails and waterfalls are equally memorable. There are primitive camping and RV sites, while trout fishing in the park’s clear streams is an equally charming draw.
It’s absolutely one of the best NC state parks for camping and hiking due to its gorgeous vistas and outdoor options.
6. Pilot Mountain State Park
The summit of Pilot Mountain is a steep incline off the countryside and it is one of the most unique attributes of the area. Tent and trailer camping is available in the park with some of the camps having beautiful scenery. The Yadkin River and trails give the campers an opportunity to hike both high into the forest or just unwind at the river shores.
It is a place of interest to the outdoor lover, who might want to enjoy gorgeous camping in the central part of North Carolina.
7. Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock is not just all about the famous 315-foot monolith of the same name but breathtaking views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure when observed at the top. The park offers convenient camping grounds and a good place to visit by hikers, photography enthusiasts and families with scenic nature of sightseeing.
The trail called outcroppings trail will lead you directly to the chimney rock where one of the most breathtaking views in the state awaits!
8. Cape Hatteras National Seashore
For beach-camping buffs, Cape Hatteras is a totally different kind of experience. Situated on the Outer Banks, it’s a seaside marvel where you can pitch your tent with the sound of waves nearby. Swim, fish or visit lighthouses from ages past.
Technically in the care of the National Park Service, this area is one of the best NC state parks for camping on the coast.
9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC Side)
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park North Carolina side is an area that is rich in camping and hiking. It is a biodiversity area where forests, wildflowers and spectacular mountain ranges abound – all you require in an outdoor adventure.
10.Lake James State Park
Lake James State Park has some of the finest lake front camping sites in N.C. The paddle-in campsites in the park are also suitable to paddlers who prefer to kayak or canoe to their camping place. The lake has hiking and biking trails which are used as an adventure as well as a form of relaxation.
There is no reason why Lake James can be considered one of the best NC state parks for camping and taking nature photographs.
Tips for Camping in NC State Parks
You should remember the following tips in order to have a better time before you pack your gear.
- Book way in advance: Parks that are the most popular get booked out early, particularly during the spring and fall.
- Check facilities: There are those with electric hookups and hot showers, and there are those which are primitive.
- Wildlife protection: Put the food in place and respect the park rules, to save our environment.
- Bring a weather plan: Mountain parks might be cold, even in summer — pack accordingly.
Experience North Carolina’s Outdoor Beauty
These are the best NC state parks for camping as they represent the beauty of nature both in the coastal beaches and mountain peaks. You might be on your way to a waterfall, to the bottom of a calm lake or roasting marshmallows around the fire and every single step makes you feel even closer to our planet.
When you are planning your next trip to camp near Asheboro, be sure to check out Zooland Family Campground — your ideal home away from home for exploring these beautiful parks and returning at the end of each day to a family-friendly camping environment right here in the heart of North Carolina.
