The best campgrounds in North Carolina with wildlife watching

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're looking to immerse yourself in wildlife watching in the beautiful state of North Carolina, we've got you covered. With over 3,400 options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect campsite that fits your preferences. Whether you're interested in pitching a tent, parking your RV, or staying in a cozy cabin, we have a variety of accommodations to suit your needs. Our top campsites, such as Starlight Hills (627 reviews), Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews), and The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms (288 reviews), are highly recommended by fellow campers. And don't worry about missing out on amenities - popular options like pet-friendly sites, showers, and toilets are available. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also enjoy off-roading (OHV), whitewater paddling, and wind sports. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in North Carolina!

97% (21.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

95%

(29)

141 sites · Troy, North Carolina

Off-roading with full-size vehicles, hunting, fishing and equestrian are all in this amazing forest!

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

11. New River State Park

100%

(6)

81 sites · Jefferson, North Carolina

Relax on the river and explore the trails in this North Carolina park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Grandfather Mountain State Park

100%

(7)

1 site · Seven Devils, North Carolina

This park has sweeping views, challenging trails, and a mile-high swinging bridge.

Pets

100%

(154)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

20. Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

99%

(112)

7 sites · Lodging · Marion, NC

You've been given the key. Come experience 60-acres of private mountain land off the Blue Ridge Parkway with big mountain views, lush Appalachian forest, & our very own waterfall! Inspired by the tale of a young gnome who discovers the power of gratitude in the forest. We bring Hoot Owl Ridge to you with in the same spirit. We are within 15 min of three magnificent waterfalls (Crabtree, Grassy Creek, & Tom's Creek), and only 25 mins from Linville Gorge! Though we are very secluded in the mountains, Walmart is only 5 mins down the road. Spruce Pine is 10-15 mins and has food, grocery, gas, hospital, and a brewery. Marion is a bigger town with mostly anything you could be looking for and is about 20mins away down the mountain. If you want some city buzz, head to vibrant Asheville under an hour away, where you'll find endless art, restaurants, breweries, live music, and more. Live closer to the earth, the mountains, the curious creatures, and return home with some gratitude!

Camper favorites in North Carolina

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Rural Chapel Hill Forestry Stay

100%

(154)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

99%

(112)

7 sites · Lodging · Marion, NC

You've been given the key. Come experience 60-acres of private mountain land off the Blue Ridge Parkway with big mountain views, lush Appalachian forest, & our very own waterfall! Inspired by the tale of a young gnome who discovers the power of gratitude in the forest. We bring Hoot Owl Ridge to you with in the same spirit. We are within 15 min of three magnificent waterfalls (Crabtree, Grassy Creek, & Tom's Creek), and only 25 mins from Linville Gorge! Though we are very secluded in the mountains, Walmart is only 5 mins down the road. Spruce Pine is 10-15 mins and has food, grocery, gas, hospital, and a brewery. Marion is a bigger town with mostly anything you could be looking for and is about 20mins away down the mountain. If you want some city buzz, head to vibrant Asheville under an hour away, where you'll find endless art, restaurants, breweries, live music, and more. Live closer to the earth, the mountains, the curious creatures, and return home with some gratitude!

Loafers Joy Meadow

98%

(254)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Zionville, NC

10/9/2024 NOTICE: We had some damage to our road due to Hurricane Helene that made it impassable. It has since been repaired and is opened to traffic. There are still some remaining rough areas, but the road is easily passable by passenger vehicles and RV's up to 28ft. Our site was once part of a much larger farm growing tobacco and raising cattle and other farm animals. The existing tobacco barn was built in the early 1960's. The concrete pad used for RV camping was used to store silage for the cows. The non-potable water source is a mountain spring that has been used on the farm since the 1930's. While many tobacco barns in the area have been torn down for their rusted tin roofing and rustic siding, we have worked to restore the barn and preserve its history.

Above the Fray Glamping, Black Mtn.

98%

(383)

6 sites · Lodging · Black Mountain, NC

The views are hypnotic, looking down and out over the continental divide. Good morning, and sunsets can be seen from the same spot. Your car is parked within feet of your deck, so Car Campers and experienced campers can enjoy. Designed with campers and dogs in mind. The deck is large (384 square feet) with a tin roof. Some roofs are full size, some are two-thirds, and some are one-third, depending on what one wants for tent size or sun exposure. (See pictures of each site/deck) Each deck features sun and rain curtains to help keep you comfortable in normal weather conditions. Dogs enjoy a two-gate system, allowing guests and dogs be leash-free and away from the road. All dog owners know to pick up after their pets. The human Private Porta John is cleaned on a weekly basis. Lights and electrical outlets are 110V (3 prongs) for YOUR coffee pots, electric grills, mattress inflators, crockpots, electric blankets, fans, et I do not provide any electrical appliances, other than counter area lighting and low-level string lights, so one can see the night sky Many of my campers will "Pay it Forward" and leave coffee pots, hot plates, fans and such, so count yourself lucky to find a deck with them. I provide chairs, 5 gallons of fresh water in containers, a fickle solar shower, and a pop-up changing room, along with an assortment of camping supplies from dog bowls to antimicrobial. I provide various-size garbage bags to manage your garbage. Your parking area is next to the deck. Black Mountain’s tasty restaurants are 4 miles away, and All Trails is an excellent app for finding trails suited for your interests. Be respectful to the place and please be friendly to the people yo Learn more about this land: Private Glamping Decks with a view that pictures do not do justice. Private decks on a dead-end gravel road mean hopefully the sounds will only be of nature. The conveniences of electricity, porta john, water, chairs, table, roof, cleaning supplies, rain curtains, and astounding views have my Glampers coming back often. Designed with Dogs in mind with a two-gate system and no need for a leash when on the deck. Obnoxious, barking dogs are not welcome, so bring only controlled and well-socialized dogs. Help me keep it dog-friendly. Never block the road with a park car.

97%

(257)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Murphy, NC

Our six-acre solar-powered goat farm is a quiet and peaceful slice of paradise away from the chaos and noise but close to so many places to adventure. Winter is here and our Upper RV Pad has 30 amp service to help keep you warm. Temperatures generally recover in March, so unless you want to dress for sub 40 degrees, we'll see you in the Spring! Feed and play with the goats, picnic along our grass-covered brook, hang out around the large fire pit, and rejuvenate while being close to the many Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountain activities. We have two custom-built RV pads with 15 and 30-amp service plus water and four grass tent locations overlooking a small brook in a forest-shaded park-like setting. Internet is provided by Starlink Business - high speed, low latency, and great for remote workers. We provide solid service throughout the entire property. Work from the top of a mountain!! IP service is available throughout the property - perfect for Van Life or van living. 300-500 down and at least 20-30 up!! Nearby are numerous towns, festivals, hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, and other outdoor activities such as tubing, white water rafting, and boating. If you want to chill, you can check out a local swimming hole. We have several options for our guests at the farm, including a small zipline, farm activities, loop trail, spring trail, Saturday outdoor movies (on request), and our petting area where you can interact with very friendly goats. RV/CAR/VANLIFE We can help by recommending and using local mechanics, on-site RV repair (they come to us), solar and power troubleshooting, and good old-fashioned southern kindness.

6 sites · in Pisgah National Forest

Stories from the community

J

Jamey

5 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Black River Camping Ventures

This is really the best place to stay when exploring the Black River.

A

Approved

1 week ago

29 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cedar Creek Campground at Elease

Beautiful, private and somewhat enchanted. We felt such a sense of peace here. From the first contact with Mike, we knew it would be special. Large, private lots were scattered throughout the wooded area. Very well landscaped and looking forward to returning when everything is in bloom. If this is any indication of what our retirement will be like, we’re ready to explore now. A lot of love and care has built this place and it shows!

S

Spenser

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Black River Camping Ventures

Lisa has a wonder place to visit with a beautiful river front view. Very quit and roomie. nice bathrooms that were keep very clean. Defiantly will be coming back.

C

CAMERON

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Black River Camping Ventures

The place was absolutely gorgeous! I would definitely love to go back again!

S

Sherie

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Black River Camping Ventures

Absolutely beautiful place. The pictures don't do it justice. Well spaced, generously sized sites, and clean, nicely maintained porta-john. The provided wipes are especially nice. The camp hostess rolls out the red carpet. We will definitely be coming back here.

T

The

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Black River Camping Ventures

We loved Black River Camping Ventures, it’s a most beautiful and serene landscape. Right on the river the views are magical. Walking up to the point and watching the sunset was a breathtaking moment. They have a lovely beach area to launch kayaks and some wonderful swamp and cypress areas to explore. Catfish in the river make fishing a fun time! The camping areas are large and each feature a fire ring with swing over cooking grate, trash can and picnic table. There are a couple of portable-John’s for use which are kept spotless. They even supply tissue, wipes and sanitizer! Mrs Lisa and Mr Eric were absolutely wonderful hosts, and made sure we had everything we needed for a fabulous time. We recommend very highly this camping site for fun family adventures.

H

Heather

2 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Sugarneck Glamping Resort, NC

Loved your facility! Everything was so neat,clean, had everything you could need. Absolutely beautiful property and very accomodating! Can't wait to come back.

Audrey

2 weeks ago

25 ft travel trailer

2 nights at At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

Beautiful location, wild fishies, great hosts. Tom was very helpful recommending hikes and recommendations!

C

Craig

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

The site was great! The owner took care of us more than we ever expected! We cant wait to come back in the spring! Great way to disconnect from the city too!

T

2 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

1 night at The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Very accommodating hosts, guided us to our site 5, right on the banks of a small creek.We camped with a 20 ft trailer,only neighbors were friendly farm critters.We would definitely return, when in the area .

Rocks is in the background of this photo

J

Jeanlu

2 weeks ago

23 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

No other words than absolutely beautiful!! Great hosts and great location! Try and ask for the bacon!

H

Hailey

2 weeks ago

40 ft travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at Asheville Area Luxury Solo RV'ing

My family loved this Asheville retreat! This was our first time in the area and although it was a short trip, it was mighty! Jam packed full of tons of touristy activities within the city, but also exploring trails and sights along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Nate and Stephanie’s place was the perfect distance to not be too far away, allowing us to enjoy the evening out from under the city lights, but also still close enough to all of the various activities that we did. Throughout everything we did, my son (7) said the hot tub was his favorite part. It’s also worth mentioning that when the hosts found out we were arriving well after dark, they made the effort to turn the lights on for us, which most definitely helped with our arrival. Nate and Stephanie, thank you for allowing us to call your place “home”. We look forward to returning again some day!

J

Juan

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

8 nights at Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

Loved tent camping on Big Ian! The views were incredible. We also walked down to enjoy the river. Andy was a great host. Very welcoming and always made sure we had everything we needed. Highly reccommed!

A

An-Mei

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

This was by far the best camping experience I have ever had! Catherine and Rick are such great hosts. They are very responsive and create a great experience and atmosphere. The views are stunning and the farm animals add so much to the experience! My husband and I will definitely be coming back 😊.

Picnic table and tent pad area. Brian has a string of USB lights set up that you can plug into a USB port.

T

Tiffany

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountain Creek Rest

I cannot recommend this campsite enough. The sound of the creek flowing right beside the site was beautiful and made the entire stay feel calm and peaceful. The campsite itself was spacious, giving my dogs plenty of room to roam off leash while still letting me keep a close eye on them. I also loved having the island trail just a few steps away for easy exploring. It was everything I needed for a simple, stress-free camping trip that still felt secluded and quiet. Perfect in every way. I hope to visit again soon!

C

Conor

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Mountain Creek Rest

The Islandsite is probably one of, if not the most unique and beautiful campsites I’ve stayed at. Brian communicated everything we needed to know ahead of our arrival. We will definitely be returning. Highly recommend bringing everything you plan on needing before arriving as the road into town is quite lengthy.

Site 1 - Golden hour lighting up the campground and tent

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Philip

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lil Snowbird Farm Primitive Camping

We had an amazing stay on Andrew’s land. Andrew was super helpful and helped get set up and checked in on occasion to make sure everything was going smoothly as well as give recommendations for the surrounding area. The site itself was absolutely beautiful and peaceful. 10/10 would recommend

T

Travis

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek

Me and my son had a great time! Cabin was great, bed was comfy and they had everything you could need. We enjoyed the animals and exploring. The hosts were very accommodating.