The best lakeside camping near Charlotte

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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!

92% (375) 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Charlotte

Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

1. Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

100%
(38)
13mi from Charlotte · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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)
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Private Oasis In The Forest

2. Private Oasis In The Forest

96%
(223)
40mi from Charlotte · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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! FYI out of firewood at this time
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$19
 / night
Basecamp_outdoors

3. Basecamp_outdoors

100%
(13)
43mi from Charlotte · 1 site · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$108
 / night
Andrew Jackson State Park

4. Andrew Jackson State Park

22 sites · South Carolina
Discover the historic charm of Andrew Jackson State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kings Mountain State Park

5. Kings Mountain State Park

90%
(5)
123 sites · South Carolina
Step back in time with a living history farm and hike through a forest with gorgeous mountain views
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Lookout Campground

6. Lake Lookout Campground

95%
(87)
44mi from Charlotte · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Lake Lookout is a small family campground with waterfront and water access RV and tent sites in Claremont, NC. PLEASE NOTE DUE TO HURRICANE HELENE, THE SITES ALL HAVE SAND, WE ARE WORKING ON MOVING SAND AND GETTING GRASS BACK BUT ASSUME YOUR SITE WILL BE SAND AT THIS TIME. Excellent fishing, swimming, kayaking, and boating on the Catawba River and Lookout Shoals Lake We are in the process of improving the facilities and expand the campground area. Please pardon our construction, we are in the process of bringing more amenities to Lake Lookout! Located only 7-minutes off I-40, in the Foothills of North Carolina. Stay on the water surrounded by nature but still be close to everything. 20 minutes to Hickory, 60 minutes to Charlotte, Winston Salem, or Asheville. We currently have waterfront RV and tent sites. 30 amp electric and water hookups. There is a dump station on site also, no sewer hookups due to proximity to the water. Boat ramp access on site included with rental. Extra parking area for boat trailers. Bath house. Community lake front area with shoreline access, volleyball and horseshoe pits for all campers. A short drive to River Bend Park for Hiking and biking trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$85
 / night
Oak Creek Horse Farm

7. Oak Creek Horse Farm

96%
(108)
44mi from Charlotte · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
The Mountain Island Lake House

8. The Mountain Island Lake House

12mi from Charlotte · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
🌊 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. 🛶🔥
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
Twilight

9. Twilight

35mi from Charlotte · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$8
 / night
Lake Norman State Park

10. Lake Norman State Park

93%
(7)
37 sites · Troutman, North Carolina
Outdoor adventure awaits on the banks of North Carolina’s largest manmade lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
North 40

11. North 40

100%
(9)
40mi from Charlotte · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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. .
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
from 
$27
 / night
Ebenezer Park

12. Ebenezer Park

17mi from Charlotte · 2 sites
Ebenezer Park in York County stands out as a unique destination due to its stunning location along the shores of Lake Wylie, a sprawling 13,443-acre lake that straddles both North and South Carolina. This 26-acre park offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. At Ebenezer Park, you can enjoy a variety of day-use activities, including picnicking, hiking, and fishing. For those looking to extend their stay, the park features 67 campsites that provide a peaceful retreat amidst nature. The park's well-maintained facilities ensure a comfortable experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. Whether you're swimming in the lake, exploring nearby trails, or simply relaxing by the water, Ebenezer Park offers a memorable escape into the heart of South Carolina's natural beauty. With its diverse amenities and proximity to local attractions, it’s a perfect destination for anyone seeking adventure or tranquility.

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!

92% (375) 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Charlotte

Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

1. Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

100%
(38)
13mi from Charlotte · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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)
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Private Oasis In The Forest

2. Private Oasis In The Forest

96%
(223)
40mi from Charlotte · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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! FYI out of firewood at this time
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$19
 / night
Basecamp_outdoors

3. Basecamp_outdoors

100%
(13)
43mi from Charlotte · 1 site · Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$108
 / night
Andrew Jackson State Park

4. Andrew Jackson State Park

22 sites · South Carolina
Discover the historic charm of Andrew Jackson State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kings Mountain State Park

5. Kings Mountain State Park

90%
(5)
123 sites · South Carolina
Step back in time with a living history farm and hike through a forest with gorgeous mountain views
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Lookout Campground

6. Lake Lookout Campground

95%
(87)
44mi from Charlotte · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Lake Lookout is a small family campground with waterfront and water access RV and tent sites in Claremont, NC. PLEASE NOTE DUE TO HURRICANE HELENE, THE SITES ALL HAVE SAND, WE ARE WORKING ON MOVING SAND AND GETTING GRASS BACK BUT ASSUME YOUR SITE WILL BE SAND AT THIS TIME. Excellent fishing, swimming, kayaking, and boating on the Catawba River and Lookout Shoals Lake We are in the process of improving the facilities and expand the campground area. Please pardon our construction, we are in the process of bringing more amenities to Lake Lookout! Located only 7-minutes off I-40, in the Foothills of North Carolina. Stay on the water surrounded by nature but still be close to everything. 20 minutes to Hickory, 60 minutes to Charlotte, Winston Salem, or Asheville. We currently have waterfront RV and tent sites. 30 amp electric and water hookups. There is a dump station on site also, no sewer hookups due to proximity to the water. Boat ramp access on site included with rental. Extra parking area for boat trailers. Bath house. Community lake front area with shoreline access, volleyball and horseshoe pits for all campers. A short drive to River Bend Park for Hiking and biking trails.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$85
 / night
Oak Creek Horse Farm

7. Oak Creek Horse Farm

96%
(108)
44mi from Charlotte · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
The Mountain Island Lake House

8. The Mountain Island Lake House

12mi from Charlotte · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
🌊 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. 🛶🔥
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
Twilight

9. Twilight

35mi from Charlotte · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$8
 / night
Lake Norman State Park

10. Lake Norman State Park

93%
(7)
37 sites · Troutman, North Carolina
Outdoor adventure awaits on the banks of North Carolina’s largest manmade lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
North 40

11. North 40

100%
(9)
40mi from Charlotte · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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. .
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
from 
$27
 / night
Ebenezer Park

12. Ebenezer Park

17mi from Charlotte · 2 sites
Ebenezer Park in York County stands out as a unique destination due to its stunning location along the shores of Lake Wylie, a sprawling 13,443-acre lake that straddles both North and South Carolina. This 26-acre park offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. At Ebenezer Park, you can enjoy a variety of day-use activities, including picnicking, hiking, and fishing. For those looking to extend their stay, the park features 67 campsites that provide a peaceful retreat amidst nature. The park's well-maintained facilities ensure a comfortable experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. Whether you're swimming in the lake, exploring nearby trails, or simply relaxing by the water, Ebenezer Park offers a memorable escape into the heart of South Carolina's natural beauty. With its diverse amenities and proximity to local attractions, it’s a perfect destination for anyone seeking adventure or tranquility.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field