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The best camping in North Carolina with swimming

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking to combine your love for swimming with the beauty of North Carolina, we've got you covered. With over 1900 options in North Carolina that offer swimming, you're sure to find the perfect spot to dive in and cool off. Whether you prefer a lakeside retreat, a riverfront oasis, or a coastal getaway, we have something for everyone. Get ready to make a splash at campsites like Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews), The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms (288 reviews), and Black River Camping Ventures (217 reviews). And with popular amenities like campfires, pet-friendly sites, and potable water, you can enjoy your swimming adventure in comfort. Plus, with prices as low as $10 per night and an average price of $40 per night, you can make a splash without breaking the bank. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to explore the best swimming spots in North Carolina with Hipcamp!

98% (14.4K) 4,653 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in North Carolina

TangleWood Creekside Campsites

1. TangleWood Creekside Campsites

99%
(772)
Marion, NC · 26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
!!NEW BATH HOUSE!! Private, climate-controlled bathrooms each consist of hot/cold shower, sink with spacious vanity, and toilet. *6 new, 11 total Safari Tents (multiple layouts sleep 2-5)* LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! North of Marion, NC and just south of Linville, TangleWood Creekside Campsites offers something for everyone: primitive campsites, Safari Tents, a Little Log Cabin and a Tiny House with a wood-fired hot tub. 95% of our wooded sites are situated immediately beside a clear mountain stream and all are just minutes from the regions most famous local attractions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The following are but a few of our favorite things to do within a short drive: visit Linville Falls, Caverns, Gorge and/or Winery; cruise the Blue Ridge parkway; pick apples at the Orchard at Altapss; tube/kayak down the Catawba river; hike beautiful Tom’s Creek Falls or 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, Banner Elk, Sugar and Beech mountains make them each wonderful day-trip destinations as well. We are happy to supply a comprehensive list upon request (including distance, drive time and links with directions) but there is also plenty of exploring to do right at here on site where nature lovers and 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 North Western border) and are likely to catch glimpses of turkey, beaver, deer, fox, eastern box turtle and the many species of songbird and raptor.
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Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

2. Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

99%
(1614)
Waynesville, NC · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Voted #1 in NC and Top 50 in the USA!! 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! 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. No porta potties are provided b/tw Dec 15 and March 15 Please contact us in advance regarding paying for firewood ($7/5 pieces), dogs ($15 each), day vehicle visitors ($30), private farm tour ($15/person) and/or a private porta potty ($120). 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. Contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. LIMITED 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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The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

3. The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

99%
(1403)
Yadkinville, NC · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our Oasis on Harmon Creek! We'd love to have you come and camp with us! Feel free to peruse our Hipcamp page and check out all of our current site offerings. (We also have a tiny house that is rented off of Hipcamp-- just message to inquire of availability.) Festival season is fast approaching, and we are centrally located for you to take advantage of all the fun festivities! Sites are already booking fast, and we don't want anyone to miss out on the fun! Please respect our land by not bringing firewood from off-site and burning it here. We are a working farm that allows camping, not a campground. Our native trees and crops could easily be devastated by outside diseases or pests that are carried in firewood. We offer firewood for sale from our farm (delivered to your site for no additional fee). You do NOT have to purchase it prior to your arrival, and we have large tubs too! Our STORE offers firewood, meats, eggs, Tallow, lard (both rendered right here!), drinks, Amish ice cream and jams/jellies/preserves, hammocks, hammock chairs, smoked dog bones, soaps (made right here), rentals of: cast iron cookware, a tent, Coleman stove, fishing poles, ... 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. 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 160 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, geese, rabbits and llamas are all eager to meet you, as are we! We currently have fresh eggs, pork,, chicken, rabbit and beef for sale. Like us on Facebook (Harmon Creek Farms of NC)
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Nantahala National Forest

4. Nantahala National Forest

95%
(73)
National forest in North Carolina · 438 sites
Discover what the Cherokee call the Land of the Noonday Sun.
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Pisgah National Forest

5. Pisgah National Forest

97%
(158)
National forest in North Carolina · 251 sites
One of Pisgah's gems is Richland Balsam, the highest peak on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,410 feet.
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Riverside Camping on the Farm

6. Riverside Camping on the Farm

98%
(544)
Mills River, NC · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
*Do not use map photo to enter property - you will receive a message with the correct address to use. Please do not enter neighbor's driveway* Sleep under the stars while listening to the river run while staying on a working farm! During the summer months watch our vegetables grow and the pickers pick! The winter months you'll enjoy a sea of green as our cover crop takes over the field. You can cool off in the river or check out the surrounding Pisgah National Forest. Dogs on leashes are welcome and owner is responsible for cleaning up after pet. The farm provides a portable toilet but no other amenities. Campfires may be restricted, so check local regulations. This is a working farm, so please be respectful of the crops and workers and keep dogs on leashes. Fishing is NOT allowed on the river unless you have booked a trip with one of our guides. Please note, if it’s rainy the roads will be muddy and 4-wheel-drive vehicles are the best option. Head 4 miles east to the town of Mills River for restaurants, stores, and services. You can find hiking, biking, and horseback-riding trails within a short bike or car ride in Pisgah National Forest. Chimney Rock State Park is 25 miles east and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountain scenery. Or perhaps go for a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our guests love staying here: "This was our first time using Hipcamp and we couldn’t have been happier! Candace was great at communicating and quick to respond to our questions. Site 1 was perfect. We had so much room for just the two of us and the water access was great for our dogs to swim. Plus it was so quiet, we’ll probably never go back at state park camping! Thanks for everything and look forward to visiting again!"
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Hidden River Experience

7. Hidden River Experience

98%
(220)
West Jefferson, NC · 9 sites
Nestled along a full mile of the scenic New River, this quiet, private campground offers a peaceful escape into nature’s calm. Tucked away from the noise of everyday life, the property stretches along gentle river bends, shaded by mature trees and framed by rolling mountains. Campsites are spacious and thoughtfully placed to preserve privacy, giving every guest their own slice of riverfront serenity. Wake to the sound of flowing water, spend your days fishing, paddling, or simply relaxing by the riverbank, and unwind each evening under wide-open skies perfect for stargazing. With its untouched natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and secluded atmosphere, this campground is an ideal retreat for anyone seeking rest, reflection, and a deeper connection to the outdoors.
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Blue Ridge Basecamp

8. Blue Ridge Basecamp

99%
(177)
Topton, NC · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Forested 15 acre lot with a beautiful grassy meadow, and a meandering stream with shallow spots to cool off in on a hot day. We have a meadow by the creek with first come first served tent spots. Pitch your tent anywhere you like and relax the day away. We also offer 6 fully stocked campers and 4 RV sites for rent. Please see each site for all the details! ALL RV/camper sites have FULL hookups with 20/30/50 amp, water and septic. There is fresh drinking water, on site garbage, picnic tables, firepits, firewood for purchase and a well-maintained porta-john. Porta John is only available March 1 - November 1. We are just minutes away from Nantahala Lake, Nantahala River, and the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy nearby white-water rafting, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, kayaking, ziplines and more. If you're not up for cooking there is a local restaurant on the lake 5 minutes away, as well as the Nantahala Outdoor Center a quick 20-minute drive.
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The Rocky Knoll

9. The Rocky Knoll

99%
(165)
Germanton, NC · 1 site · Tent, RV
The Rocky Knoll sits on about two acres of wooded land on a knoll with a breathtaking view of the mountains. Bring your family, pet and your tent to enjoy this beautiful secluded campsite which is conveniently located to Hanging Rock State, Pilot Mountain State Park, Belews Lake and Winston-Salem. This land has been in the family for many, many years. We just love the solitude on the Rocky Knoll and wanted to share it's beauty with others who enjoy nature.
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Uwharrie National Forest

10. Uwharrie National Forest

95%
(33)
National forest in North Carolina · 141 sites
Off-roading with full-size vehicles, hunting, fishing and equestrian are all in this amazing forest!
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New River State Park

11. New River State Park

100%
(6)
State park in North Carolina · 81 sites
Relax on the river and explore the trails in this North Carolina park.
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Hanging Rock State Park

12. Hanging Rock State Park

100%
(19)
State park in North Carolina · 86 sites
See waterfalls, heavily wooded trails, and towering peaks in this state park.
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Croatan National Forest

13. Croatan National Forest

83%
(12)
National forest in North Carolina · 99 sites
Ever wanted to see a carnivorous Venus flytrap up close and in action? Here's your big chance.
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The Confluence

14. The Confluence

98%
(249)
Mills River, NC · 4 sites
The Confluence campsite is situated on 21 acres between the north and south forks of Mills River. This serene campsite borders native trout water and an an additional 45 private acres that have been passed down in the Brittain family since the 1790s. The upper and lower meadow provides canoe, kayak and fishing access to South Mills River. Four-wheel drive is needed during rainy weather. (Please respect the privacy of neighboring property across the river.) This very private campground is a five minute drive from Pisgah National Forest and 10 minutes from the Asheville Airport and the Sierra Nevada Brewing company. You can follow signs in the driveway. Stay left all the way up the driveway. After you pass the barn, you will see a small sign and stay left below the cabin. When you come to the field, follow the arrows to the right to your campsite. Four-wheel-drive is required for rainy weather.
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Mountain Creek Rest

15. Mountain Creek Rest

100%
(301)
Robbinsville, NC · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Mountain Creek Rest is a rural, creek side get-a-way in the mountains with 2 beautiful, huge, tent sites and a mini-cabin! Bring your kids & dog! (Registering pets in the "Extras" portion of your registration is required.) It does not have hook ups, power, or running water. You get there on a gravel road with 2wd. 5.5" of clearance is recommended. (google your car) Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic campsite for 2! There is a large tent pad if you have children! The Diamondstone site is also a unique, beautiful, one-of-a-kind site! It has a beautiful, furnished, shelter cabin which is provided for you instead of using your tent!!! Leave your tent and tent set-up at home! There is room for your tent and your children out front, right beside the creek! Islandsite is an equally beautiful tent site ideally for two, but the 10x12 platform can accommodate a 6-man tent, best for 2 adults and a couple of kids! You won't want to leave, but if you do there are many recreational opportunities in the area such as hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, and more! Stays of 6 days or more get a big discount! Enjoy the fresh, cooler mountain air, and the beautiful, settings! Heartstone is located on a modestly pitched, terraced slope where a divided mountain stream, the tumbling Squally Creek rejoins itself! The sunlight filters down through the forest canopy providing a warm, inviting glow!! There is a 9'-6" x 10' wooden tent platform, and if needed a new, larger tent pad! Islandsite is located at the top of the island where the tumbling Squally Creek divides! Access is provided by the 40' long fallen tree bridge! Islandsite is amazing and very unique! Diamondstone, Heartstone, and Islandsite all feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility. They are all within a short walk from your private parking! Enjoy evenings at the new fire pit area with benches overlooking the fire pit and creek! Explore the island on the 400' island trail, or go downstream to a nice pool for dipping! Contact me for discounts when staying more than 6 nights! The gravel road is uneven, and 5.5" of clearance is recommended. Extra guests are an available option! The property is spacious and there is parking for a second vehicle nearby if needed!
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Spruill Conservation Farm

16. Spruill Conservation Farm

100%
(326)
Roper, NC · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
(Note: Fireworks, crackers, sparklers, are not permitted. Also, garbage cannot be burned in the fire pits.) Come and pitch your tent right on the Albemarle Sound! (first photo shows Site #3; all sites include waterfront) Ask us about our annual Fig Festival AUGUST 1-2, 2026. FREE CAMPING FOR VOLUNTEERS. The Spruill Farm belonged to the Spruill Family for over a hundred years and has been set up as conservation easement protected land in '23. It includes hardwood forest, swamp, a beautiful swimming beach* on the Albemarle Sound - one of the largest freshwater sounds in the world-, acres of farmland, vegetable garden and perhaps the largest fig orchard for hundreds of miles around. The purpose of the Spruill Farm is to further environmental research, promote ecological education and sustainable practices, and provide access for the public to the ever-diminishing shoreline experience. Please enjoy the incredible sunsets and woodland views, while respecting the serenity of this unique gem on the inner-banks. Wildlife on the property include Red Fox, River Otter, and 95 species of birds, including Bald Eagles (2 nests on the farm), nesting Osprey, Wood Ducks. Visit the 'Spruill Farm Conservation Project' on inaturalist(dot)org to see all 95 species, and upload any images from your observations. Because it is a nature preserve, please read the guidelines and rules closely if you choose to book with us. *Note: the shoreline changes with the wave action and the seasons. The beach is bigger in winter, smaller in summer. These changes make the Bobby Wilkins shoreline trail so beautiful- always changing. If your expertise and interests coincide with the mission of the Farm, feel free to propose collaborative projects to julia@thepeanutfactory.org
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At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

17. At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

95%
(243)
Balsam Grove, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to At the Ridge Camp – “Simple Mountain Camping” at Its Best. Nestled just seven miles from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, At the Ridge Camp offers a peaceful escape in the heart of North Carolina’s stunning Pisgah National Forest—also known as the Land of the Waterfalls. We offer 7 cozy camping cabins, 14 spacious tent/RV sites, and two convenient bathhouses to make your stay comfortable. Whether you're here to hike to breathtaking waterfalls, cast a line in a quiet stream, or simply unwind by the campfire under the stars, this is your place to reconnect with nature. And one of our favorite pastimes? Just sitting back and watching the water flow by. Come enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains—without breaking the bank.
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DuPont Bike Retreat

18. DuPont Bike Retreat

99%
(540)
Brevard, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
DuPont Bike Retreat is located 1/4 mile from the Fawn Lake Access area into DuPont State Forest. The DBR is 37 acres and has a pond with a dock and numerous camping sites available. The property used to hold Glass Feather Studio, which was a glass art studio and is now Glass Feather Lodge. The mountain view from the indoor porch is amazing and there are several places to relax and enjoy this view. There is an outdoor shower and bike wash station behind the lodge and two indoor bathrooms (one with shower) off the porch. The lower Pond Area of the property has a port-a-john near the pond. Starter bundles of firewood are included, and additional can usually be purchased on-site. Come enjoy the forest straight from your campsite!
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Appalachian Pond Campground

19. Appalachian Pond Campground

97%
(179)
Waynesville, NC · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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Escape near Cape Lookout

20. Escape near Cape Lookout

96%
(240)
Davis, NC · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Secluded campsite with 4 RV spots, 3 electric and water, 1 water only (quiet generator allowed here) and 1 tent only site. All spots are waterfront, located on Core Sound. There is a dock to tie up your kayaks and paddle boards. Boats are welcome to park in our overflow parking area and a public boat ramp is 0.25 miles away. Take the Davis ferry to the beautiful beaches of Cape Lookout just a few minutes away! 3 sites with 30-amp power (sites 1, 2 and 3) we welcome generators at the other sites, so long as they are quiet. All with water hookups except tent site 5. Enjoy swimming in the sound, fishing, wind surfing, paddle boarding, kayaks and your canoes!!!! Enjoy it all and only share the space with 4 other sites. No waste dump on site. Core Creek Campground will allow you to dump for $39. 20 minutes from shops and restaurants of Beaufort and Morehead city. There is also a ferry to Ocracoke Island from Cedar Island, a peaceful 20-minute drive away. Really great access to a quiet and beautiful part of the outer (inner) banks. Everything you’d ever want to do at the beach is within 30 minutes and the sunrise on the sound is gorgeous. Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially at dusk. Recommend spray or a bug light. Carteret County is now spraying our site for mosquitoes! With Cape Lookout National seashore and Fort Macon State Park under 20 minutes from us, you also have tons of outer-bank activities to choose from.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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