Top 10 Best Campgrounds in North Carolina | 2026
North Carolina's ultimate camping guide featuring Blue Ridge mountains, barrier islands, and waterfalls. East Coast's best campgrounds for every season.
North Carolina packs an absurd amount of geographic diversity into one state. We’re talking ancient mountains in the west, rolling piedmont in the middle, and barrier islands on the coast. For campers, that means you can chase waterfalls one weekend and wake up to ocean waves the next. Here are our favorite spots across the Tar Heel State.
1. Linville Gorge Wilderness
Location: Burke County, Blue Ridge Mountains
Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Linville Gorge offers some of the most rugged backcountry camping on the East Coast. The gorge drops 2,000 feet with sheer rock walls and old-growth forest that feels completely untouched.
Best for: Experienced backpackers seeking solitude and scrambling
Pro tip: Weekend permits are required May through October. Grab one early—they go fast.
2. Carolina Beach State Park
Location: New Hanover County, near Wilmington
Where else can you camp among carnivorous Venus flytraps in their only native habitat on Earth? This coastal gem sits along the Cape Fear River with easy access to Carolina Beach for a quick ocean dip.
Best for: Families and nature nerds who want something unique
Pro tip: The Fly Trap Trail is a must-do loop. Go in late spring when the plants are actively catching.
3. Mount Pisgah Campground
Location: Haywood County, Blue Ridge Parkway (Milepost 408)
Perched at 5,000 feet along America’s favorite scenic drive, Mount Pisgah puts you right in the heart of the southern Appalachians. The sunsets from up here are ridiculous, and the hiking options are endless.
Best for: Road trippers and those who want campground amenities with mountain views
Pro tip: Grab a blackberry milkshake from the Pisgah Inn next door. Trust us.
4. Hanging Rock State Park
Location: Stokes County, Sauratown Mountains
These isolated peaks rise dramatically from the piedmont like something out of a fantasy novel. We love the combination of rugged rock outcrops, waterfalls, and a beautiful swimming lake—all within easy reach of camp.
Best for: Day hikers who want to cover multiple trails from basecamp
Pro tip: The sunrise from Hanging Rock trail is worth the early alarm.
5. Hammocks Beach State Park
Location: Onslow County, Bear Island
You’ll need a ferry or kayak to reach this undeveloped barrier island, and that’s exactly what makes it special. Pristine beach camping with zero light pollution and sea turtles nesting in summer.
Best for: Beach campers who want wild over developed
Pro tip: Reserve the ferry early. Bring everything you need—there are no services on the island.
6. Cataloochee Valley
Location: Haywood County, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Tucked in a remote corner of the Smokies, Cataloochee is where we go to watch elk at dawn. The historic buildings scattered through the valley add to the atmosphere, and the crowds are a fraction of what you’ll find at Cades Cove.
Best for: Wildlife photographers and history buffs
Pro tip: Arrive before sunset and position yourself in the open fields. The elk show up like clockwork.
7. Stone Mountain State Park
Location: Wilkes and Alleghany Counties
A 600-foot granite dome rises from the forest floor here, and the climbing routes attract weekend warriors from across the Southeast. Even if you’re not scaling rock, the waterfall hikes and trout streams keep everyone happy.
Best for: Climbers and families who want a bit of everything
Pro tip: The lower falls loop is an easy 2-mile hike with big payoff.
8. Ocracoke Island
Location: Hyde County, Outer Banks
The end of the road in the Outer Banks (literally—you need a ferry to get there). Ocracoke has a small-town beach vibe that’s disappearing from most of the East Coast. The NPS campground puts you steps from uncrowded sand.
Best for: Beach lovers who want authentic Outer Banks character
Pro tip: Bring bikes. The island is flat and the village is charming.
9. Roan Mountain
Location: Mitchell County, Roan Highlands
Straddling the NC-Tennessee border, Roan Mountain’s balds offer some of the most spectacular views in the southern Appalachians. We time our visits for mid-June when the rhododendrons explode in pink and purple.
Best for: Wildflower enthusiasts and Appalachian Trail hikers
Pro tip: The Carvers Gap to Jane Bald stretch is our favorite section of the AT, period.
10. Lake James State Park
Location: Burke and McDowell Counties
This 6,800-acre reservoir sits at the base of Linville Gorge with mountain views in every direction. We come here when we want the Blue Ridge backdrop without the backcountry commitment. Paddle-in campsites available for those who want to work for it.
Best for: Paddlers, swimmers, and families with gear-heavy setups
Pro tip: The Catawba Falls hike is 20 minutes away and absolutely worth the detour.
Planning Your Trip
North Carolina camping hits different depending on the season. Fall brings peak foliage to the mountains (October is prime time), while spring delivers wildflowers and waterfall season. Summer means coast time, though the mountains stay cool. Winter? The lower elevations stay mild enough for year-round camping.
Whatever your style, NC delivers. See you out there.