Lake Camping Near Charlotte, North Carolina, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2025

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Charlotte, North Carolina, with a beautiful lake to enjoy? Look no further than Dark Ridge Hide Out! With over 350 options specifically tailored to your preference for lakeside camping, you're sure to find the perfect spot to relax and unwind. From the highly rated Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews) to the serene Babbling Brook Campground (210 reviews) and the picturesque Camping on Cloud 9 (181 reviews), we've got you covered. With an average price of $35 per night and options as low as $20, you'll find a camping experience that fits your budget. Plus, popular amenities like cooking equipment, potable water, and trash facilities are available to make your stay comfortable. And don't forget about the exciting activities you can enjoy, such as horseback riding, swimming, and climbing. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable lakeside camping adventure!

84% (314)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Charlotte, North Carolina, with a beautiful lake to enjoy? Look no further than Dark Ridge Hide Out! With over 350 options specifically tailored to your preference for lakeside camping, you're sure to find the perfect spot to relax and unwind. From the highly rated Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews) to the serene Babbling Brook Campground (210 reviews) and the picturesque Camping on Cloud 9 (181 reviews), we've got you covered. With an average price of $35 per night and options as low as $20, you'll find a camping experience that fits your budget. Plus, popular amenities like cooking equipment, potable water, and trash facilities are available to make your stay comfortable. And don't forget about the exciting activities you can enjoy, such as horseback riding, swimming, and climbing. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable lakeside camping adventure!

84% (314)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

100%

(37)

13mi from Charlotte · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlotte, NC

This 2.5 acre, partially wooded lot is located on a secluded cove of Lake Wylie. Campers can enjoy the lakeview, lake access, a spacious dock, swimming area, fishing, kayaking, and other lake activities! [This camping spot includes a communal or private fire pit as well as access to a gas grill.] Additionally, this lot is within driving distance to many local attractions listed below. This property is BYOB (Bring Your Own Boat)! There are 2 boat landings within 5 miles of the property, campers are more than welcome to tie up their boat to the on-site dock and park their trailer on the property. Pets are welcome, however note that the property owner has a cat and small dog on site. Pets need to be well behaved and not aggressive to other animals. Cleaning up after your pet in the lawn areas is required. The property owner (Teresa) lives on-site in a cabin between the camping pad and the lake. Local attractions within driving distance include: -Copperhead Island (5 miles) -McDowell Park/Nature Preserve (5 miles) -Carowinds Theme Park (5 miles) -Charlotte Premium Outlets (5 miles) -Whitewater Center (10 miles) -David Stowe Botanical Garden (15 miles) -Uptown Charlotte (15 miles) -Charlotte Motor Speedway (25 miles)

2. Private Oasis In The Forest

96%

(222)

40mi from Charlotte · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Irwin, SC

Quite undisturbed forest for 1/2 a century, used for duck hunting in the previous owners family for decades. I’ve started building a small cabin that’s unfinished hopefully completing in the coming years. Fishing pond and small seasonal creek flows after lots of rain. Excited to share it with others! Note: Daylight arrival at least an hour before sunset recommended!

3. Basecamp_outdoors

100%

(13)

43mi from Charlotte · 1 site · Lodging · Richfield, NC

Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of this rustic haven. Situated at the heart of North Carolina, cradled in the embrace of the Uwharrie Mountains. This extraordinary off-grid bell tent glamping site promises an unparalleled experience, destined to etch lifelong memories. Explore the Uwharrie National Forest, delve into the wonders of the North Carolina Zoo, and beyond—all within a convenient 25-minute radius. If your heart yearns for adventure and outdoor escapades, look no further. Our haven provides seclusion, yet effortless access to essentials and shopping amenities. Your gateway to serene serendipity awaits.

4. Oak Creek Horse Farm

96%

(108)

44mi from Charlotte · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Shelby, NC

Horse farm with lots of space for you and your family! Used to be a dairy farm from 1860 to 1970. Plenty of space, beautiful sunset. You will be surrounded by horses. 5-10 min to restaurants and stores. 5-10 min to swimming and hiking. 20 min to Kings Mountains. 30 min to South Mountains. 20 min to Tryon Equestian Center. Site 1,2 and 4: full hookup 50A, water and sewer. Site 3: full hookup 30A, water and sewer. Site 1 and 2 are about 100ft apart, site 3 is about 200ft from site 1 and 2, so there is plenty of space.

5. The Mountain Island Lake House

12mi from Charlotte · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlotte, NC

🌊 Welcome to The Mountain Island Lake House — Your Lakefront Hideaway! Escape the everyday and uncover serenity on a quiet cove of Charlotte’s Mountain Island Lake. Nestled on a private drive with just a few neighbors, this lakeside gem offers multiple tent and RV/tent sites so you can choose your ideal way to unwind. From the upper deck, soak in panoramic water views. Craving adventure or rest? Jump in the lake, gather around the fire pit, or grill up something delicious under starlit skies. With accessible water, picnic tables, showers, and all the peaceful vibes, this is more than a getaway. It’s the kind of place where mornings begin with sunlight dancing on the water—and evenings wrap up with laughter and the crackle of a campfire. Ready for lakeside memories? Pack up, arrive ready, and let the lake work its magic. 🛶🔥

6. Race City Lakeshore Camping

25mi from Charlotte · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mooresville, NC

Escaping to this 3.5-acre waterfront paradise on Lake Norman, near Brawley School Rd., Mooresville, NC, is the ultimate camping experience. With over 200 feet of pristine shoreline, this wooded lot offers stunning open-water views and unmatched privacy, making it the best spot to camp, fish, and kayak. Nestled in a peaceful neighborhood among distinguished estates, the serene setting is perfect for relaxing by a campfire under the stars. A private floating dock provides year-round deep-water access, ideal for casting a line or paddling in a quiet cove with minimal boat traffic, yet only 5-10 minutes from the main channel.

7. Twilight

35mi from Charlotte · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Lancaster, SC

We’re located on the quiet back side of the Lancaster Reservoir, a beautiful public lake with designated fishing days on Thursdays and Saturdays. The waters are home to bass, bream, crappie, and catfish. There’s a public boat ramp on the opposite shore, and the lake allows electric motors only — perfect for peaceful days on the water. Kayakers are always welcome! We’re just minutes from town, with easy access to restaurants, Walmart, and grocery stores. Clear Water Cove at Lake Wateree is about 30 miles away, and the Nitrolee access point is only 13 miles from the property. Don’t forget to bring your kayak!

8. North 40

100%

(9)

40mi from Charlotte · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Norwood, NC

Learn more about this land: In this 40 acre track there are 2 hay fields, pasture, and forrest. From any area you camp🏕 the pond🏞, with fish, is in walking distance, so is a beautiful clear stream. ****Did I mention that this stream empties into Lake Tillary, yep, that is right. We are within walking distance to Lake Tillary and less than 5 mins to the boat landing. You may bring your boat and park it here while you camp. SPECIAL NOTE: There are animals here that you may pet once you have been properly introduced. You may bring your pets as long as they are vaccinated and behaved. If they fight with other animals or chase chickens or ducks you may want to test this upon your arrival. Unfortunately, you must keep them on leash at all times. Our County does have a leash law, and should property🌱🌹🌻🚜🚗📬🗑or animals🦌🐂🐏🐐🐰🦃🦆 be damaged or harmed you will be held responsible. For example, if your dog kills a chicken, you buy the chicken🐓🐔🐥. If they harm a horse🐎 or donkey🐴, you are responsible for ALL vet fees. Also, be aware we have coyotes, osprey, hawks, as any rural area does. Small animals must be suprevised. We are not responsible for acts of nature. The barn is beautiful and you are welcome to take photos, however, you are NOT permitted in the barn without supervision. Absolutley NO smoking or fire near the barn. It is over 100 years old and built by my great grand family and is irreplaceable. SPECIAL FEATURE: As I am just beginning the camp on site experience I offer several options and additional services. #1. Some find out after arriving that I teach NC Concealed Carry Handgun Classes. If you wish to participate in a class, it is preferred that you register before the day of the class. I will post classes on this site so that campers will know there will be shooting in the late afternoon. Some chose to camp on other weekends, some choose to go out to eat during those times, and some don't mind either way. #2. I am also much in favor of work for camp site. Some have asked to do clean up or other small jobs for the priviledge to camp. So far this has worked out well, with one exception. Please do not accept an offer to take on a task that you do not know how to do. Example, pulling weeds or trimming if you do not know what a weed verses flower looks like. LOL #3. There is plenty of firewood, see photos, here laying around and some trees down that will make great firewood (bring your own cutting tools.) We also sell firewood by the bundle. #4. Being a camper here gives you the privilege of fresh veggies and fruits that are in season, as well as fresh free range eggs. MAJOR POINT: You must remember this is a working farm and our duties and responsibilities for the farm come first. You must abide by the boundaries. *see map* The creek is the back boundary and should never be crossed onto my neighbors. I will not tolerate any disrespect to my neighbors, what so ever. No! the roosters don't have an off button, neither does the jacka... donkey! When it is hay cutting time, we will cut hay. If you want to hike the property, feel free, know the boundaries and bring a machete to cut your way by the creek/stream in some areas. We have thistle trees and briars, you are welcome to cut all you wish as you go. There are spiders, bugs, and snakes etc. Black snakes, king snakes, runners, and whip snakes belong here and we ask that you do not kill them. Copperheads are here as qell and if you see one, come get me and I will dispatch it for you. .

Camper favorites near Charlotte

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Oak Creek Horse Farm

96%

(108)

44mi from Charlotte · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Shelby, NC

Horse farm with lots of space for you and your family! Used to be a dairy farm from 1860 to 1970. Plenty of space, beautiful sunset. You will be surrounded by horses. 5-10 min to restaurants and stores. 5-10 min to swimming and hiking. 20 min to Kings Mountains. 30 min to South Mountains. 20 min to Tryon Equestian Center. Site 1,2 and 4: full hookup 50A, water and sewer. Site 3: full hookup 30A, water and sewer. Site 1 and 2 are about 100ft apart, site 3 is about 200ft from site 1 and 2, so there is plenty of space.

The Mountain Island Lake House

12mi from Charlotte · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlotte, NC

🌊 Welcome to The Mountain Island Lake House — Your Lakefront Hideaway! Escape the everyday and uncover serenity on a quiet cove of Charlotte’s Mountain Island Lake. Nestled on a private drive with just a few neighbors, this lakeside gem offers multiple tent and RV/tent sites so you can choose your ideal way to unwind. From the upper deck, soak in panoramic water views. Craving adventure or rest? Jump in the lake, gather around the fire pit, or grill up something delicious under starlit skies. With accessible water, picnic tables, showers, and all the peaceful vibes, this is more than a getaway. It’s the kind of place where mornings begin with sunlight dancing on the water—and evenings wrap up with laughter and the crackle of a campfire. Ready for lakeside memories? Pack up, arrive ready, and let the lake work its magic. 🛶🔥

Race City Lakeshore Camping

25mi from Charlotte · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mooresville, NC

Escaping to this 3.5-acre waterfront paradise on Lake Norman, near Brawley School Rd., Mooresville, NC, is the ultimate camping experience. With over 200 feet of pristine shoreline, this wooded lot offers stunning open-water views and unmatched privacy, making it the best spot to camp, fish, and kayak. Nestled in a peaceful neighborhood among distinguished estates, the serene setting is perfect for relaxing by a campfire under the stars. A private floating dock provides year-round deep-water access, ideal for casting a line or paddling in a quiet cove with minimal boat traffic, yet only 5-10 minutes from the main channel.

Twilight

35mi from Charlotte · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Lancaster, SC

We’re located on the quiet back side of the Lancaster Reservoir, a beautiful public lake with designated fishing days on Thursdays and Saturdays. The waters are home to bass, bream, crappie, and catfish. There’s a public boat ramp on the opposite shore, and the lake allows electric motors only — perfect for peaceful days on the water. Kayakers are always welcome! We’re just minutes from town, with easy access to restaurants, Walmart, and grocery stores. Clear Water Cove at Lake Wateree is about 30 miles away, and the Nitrolee access point is only 13 miles from the property. Don’t forget to bring your kayak!

North 40

100%

(9)

40mi from Charlotte · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Norwood, NC

Learn more about this land: In this 40 acre track there are 2 hay fields, pasture, and forrest. From any area you camp🏕 the pond🏞, with fish, is in walking distance, so is a beautiful clear stream. ****Did I mention that this stream empties into Lake Tillary, yep, that is right. We are within walking distance to Lake Tillary and less than 5 mins to the boat landing. You may bring your boat and park it here while you camp. SPECIAL NOTE: There are animals here that you may pet once you have been properly introduced. You may bring your pets as long as they are vaccinated and behaved. If they fight with other animals or chase chickens or ducks you may want to test this upon your arrival. Unfortunately, you must keep them on leash at all times. Our County does have a leash law, and should property🌱🌹🌻🚜🚗📬🗑or animals🦌🐂🐏🐐🐰🦃🦆 be damaged or harmed you will be held responsible. For example, if your dog kills a chicken, you buy the chicken🐓🐔🐥. If they harm a horse🐎 or donkey🐴, you are responsible for ALL vet fees. Also, be aware we have coyotes, osprey, hawks, as any rural area does. Small animals must be suprevised. We are not responsible for acts of nature. The barn is beautiful and you are welcome to take photos, however, you are NOT permitted in the barn without supervision. Absolutley NO smoking or fire near the barn. It is over 100 years old and built by my great grand family and is irreplaceable. SPECIAL FEATURE: As I am just beginning the camp on site experience I offer several options and additional services. #1. Some find out after arriving that I teach NC Concealed Carry Handgun Classes. If you wish to participate in a class, it is preferred that you register before the day of the class. I will post classes on this site so that campers will know there will be shooting in the late afternoon. Some chose to camp on other weekends, some choose to go out to eat during those times, and some don't mind either way. #2. I am also much in favor of work for camp site. Some have asked to do clean up or other small jobs for the priviledge to camp. So far this has worked out well, with one exception. Please do not accept an offer to take on a task that you do not know how to do. Example, pulling weeds or trimming if you do not know what a weed verses flower looks like. LOL #3. There is plenty of firewood, see photos, here laying around and some trees down that will make great firewood (bring your own cutting tools.) We also sell firewood by the bundle. #4. Being a camper here gives you the privilege of fresh veggies and fruits that are in season, as well as fresh free range eggs. MAJOR POINT: You must remember this is a working farm and our duties and responsibilities for the farm come first. You must abide by the boundaries. *see map* The creek is the back boundary and should never be crossed onto my neighbors. I will not tolerate any disrespect to my neighbors, what so ever. No! the roosters don't have an off button, neither does the jacka... donkey! When it is hay cutting time, we will cut hay. If you want to hike the property, feel free, know the boundaries and bring a machete to cut your way by the creek/stream in some areas. We have thistle trees and briars, you are welcome to cut all you wish as you go. There are spiders, bugs, and snakes etc. Black snakes, king snakes, runners, and whip snakes belong here and we ask that you do not kill them. Copperheads are here as qell and if you see one, come get me and I will dispatch it for you. .

Public campgrounds near Charlotte

Andrew Jackson Campground

25mi from Charlotte · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Andrew Jackson State Park

90%

(5)

Kings Mountain Campground

29mi from Charlotte · 123 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kings Mountain State Park

93%

(7)

Lake Norman Campground

33mi from Charlotte · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Norman State Park

Stories from the community

M

Matthew

2 weeks ago

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

Great spot, close to the road but did t feel like it. Good communication. One of my best experiences with hipcamp.

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Oasis In The Forest

We had a lot of fun camping here! The water was perfect and loved having the row boat to use. I would highly recommend this spot to anyone!

T

Travis

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to North 40

Great site and great host! Will definitely be back

R

Rick

October 2025

Group trip

2 nights at Private Oasis In The Forest

The property was really a great location for our group that were overall new to camping with amenities nearby to pickup groceries or go to a diner when needed! We really enjoyed taking turns on the row boat, and playing card games and monopoly in the cabin area at night. The campsite felt really private, but there was some barking from dogs nearby at night, and sometimes gunshots. Alex, the owner, was very responsive and helpful in finding local activities and resolving any issues we had during the stay!

S

Sarah

September 2025

With kids

2 nights at Basecamp_outdoors

Everything about this site was convenient and fun! Can’t wait to go again!

M

Michael

September 2025

1 night at Private Oasis In The Forest

Second time. Even better than the first. I’ll be back soon.

M

Michael

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Private Oasis In The Forest

Absolutely loved it. Perfect place to get away. Awesome creepy “Cabin in the Woods” vibes. When the sun went down the night came alive. We watched Evil Dead 2 in the cabin. This was an amazing trip. I will be booking this exact spot again. Love it!!!

J

James

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Oasis In The Forest

Great spot. Spectacular view. Quiet and tucked away. It was a nice getaway for the weekend.

K

Kim

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Private Oasis In The Forest

Loved every peaceful and relaxing moment of our trip to Alex"s place. That front porch was exactly what I needed to unwind.

Riding the zip line that runs from the main structure down to the patio in the woods — hands down my favorite part!

Angelique

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Basecamp_outdoors

What an awesome and unique stay! I felt like my childhood dreams were realized in this tucked away little treehouse. I’m so excited to come back and zip line sometime soon!

J

Jacob

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Basecamp_outdoors

The compound is a beautiful wonderland. Simple instructions help make everything work perfectly.

Jason

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Oasis In The Forest

My sons ans I had an amazing time. I was concerned about the possibility of thunderstorms so Alex told us to feel free to use the cabin and we did. We caught lots of blue gill. The cooking area is well equipped. I would highly recommend checking out Alex's property. We cant wait to go back.

On the gas fire deck - with our tapestries added

T

Teraysa

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Basecamp_outdoors

I brought my friend for his first glamping experience to Basecamp_outdoors and it couldn’t have been better! There is every amenity here to make you feel at home. A full kitchen, hot shower, clean beautiful spacious tent with no bugs, a comfortable bed, a covered kitchen, an out house, a porch and a covered eating area. Plus lighting and heating and cooling. Everything is an easy unload from where you park your cars. Plus, there is an additional area down the path where there is a fire platform. Because it was hot, we skipped the fire and used it more as an extra patio and outdoor room. We spent a lot of time there immersed in the beauty of the forest and sky and listening to the birds and music. The main site is located nearer to the road and we hung a couple of tapestries in the lower eating area for a little extra privacy. The host was very thorough in giving us directions and sending a video to show us how to turn on and use everything. He also checked on us via text through the app to make sure we had everything we needed. It was easily accessible and there is plenty to do in the area as far as hiking and water features. If you’re considering this place, you should book it, I can’t imagine being able to find one better!

Willow

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Private Oasis In The Forest

Really pretty and quiet! We had a really good time even though it was the hottest it’s been this year so far. It was over 90° the whole time we were there so it was HOT but we still had an awesome time! Definitely recommend having a thermacell and bug spray as you ARE in the woods. There were a ton of flies but having chargeable fans definitely helped deter them away from us! We cooked over the fires had tons of laughs and such an awesome time! The road in is bumpy but we didn’t have any trouble getting in or out! The ground is full of quartz which is so pretty to look at but if you’re sleeping on the ground I would recommend a thick sleeping pad or cots! We had cots so it didn’t bother us at all!

D

Dalton

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Private Oasis In The Forest

Awesome little spot to fish and just hangout for a quick getaway.

K

Kim

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to North 40

I appreciated Joy's helpfulness and communication. I fully intended to unplug for the weekend, and was content to choose a spot in the back 40 without cell signal. It was only a few steps to get to signal, but I put the phone into airplane mode and enjoyed complete solitude.

K

Kelly

April 2025

28 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

Teresa was a great host and has a lovely piece of property on the lake. the fhu campsite is a bit tricky to get into if you have a larger camper, but we did just fine. she met us at the driveway and walked us thru what we needed to do. we had a peekaboo view of the lake from the camper. the site was level side to side but a bit downhill. we had no issue getting level with our 28 ft tt. it’s a short walk down the hill to the dock behind her home.

J

Jessie

April 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to North 40

We took our 5 year old son here for his first camping trip and we had a great time! The hat field was a nice open area to have room for the tent and to run and play. He also loved feeding the animals and the exploring the woods/creek!

A

Aaron

April 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

Ms. Teresa was very accommodating with our 2 day trip to Lake Wylie. I would definitely recommend this spot for camping to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of life. Very peaceful and a beautiful spot. We were able to enjoy her dock both morning and evening. She allowed us to dock our boat as well. A++

D

Debra

April 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to North 40

What a great experience. We set up our campervan on site 7, a big open field. Very quiet. The moon rising was breathtaking. In the morning we met Joy. She brought us carrots and introduced us to all the animals. AMAZING! Water easily accessible. Uwharrie only 15 minutes away. Fun hiking and mountain biking!