The best star host campgrounds near Hickory, North Carolina

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Hickory, North Carolina? With over 1440 options in the area, Hipcamp has got you covered. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin, a rustic campsite, or a unique glamping experience, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Explore top-rated campsites like Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews), Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews), and Rivers Edge Trail Camp (267 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, campfires, and potable water while engaging in activities such as fishing, wildlife watching, and whitewater paddling. With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $10, camping near Hickory, North Carolina has never been more affordable and exciting.

99% (6.1K) • 295 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hickory

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Hickory, North Carolina? With over 1440 options in the area, Hipcamp has got you covered. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin, a rustic campsite, or a unique glamping experience, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Explore top-rated campsites like Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews), Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews), and Rivers Edge Trail Camp (267 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, campfires, and potable water while engaging in activities such as fishing, wildlife watching, and whitewater paddling. With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $10, camping near Hickory, North Carolina has never been more affordable and exciting.

99% (6.1K) • 295 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hickory

1. Waterfall camping close to CLT

99%

(361)

30mi from Hickory · 1 site · Tent, RV

My Neighbor has started his own Campsite, "The Swimming Hole". If mine is booked up and you still want to camp, look him up. His is better suited for small groups but has much more privacy. We have a new road to the campsite; you can now drive down with two-wheel drive vehicle or RV down and park near your tent! There is plenty of soft sand to set up one tent or ten tents; large groups are welcome for an extra fee. A Porta-Potty is available at the campsite. Swimming is usually possible at the base of the falls; however, large amounts of rain can change conditions and make it unusable. I should also add, this is not a completely private campsite deep in the woods. The camp is visible from a shared driveway, and my residence is up a hill that overlooks the area. Also, I do not own the land on the other side of the stream. Occasionally, the owners of that land will spend a weekend afternoon enjoying the waterfall view also. Still much quieter and more private than a regular campground. Glamping tents and additional camping tents are available through a local company. Look in the pictures for the tent with red, white, and blue balloons. Message me for details. Close to US National Whitewater Center (mountain biking, whitewater rafting, kayaking), Kings Mountain National Military Park (Horseback riding and history), Crowders Mountain (Hiking), 3 miles off of I-85 and US-321 for people passing through.

2. Parker Farms

100%

(34)

31mi from Hickory · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

This property is part of a working family farm established in 1900. The farm is currently a beef cattle operation giving campers the opportunity to see a working farm. There are 2 ponds on the property available for fishing and paddling. Given the area the farm covers campers will have peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle. For NASCAR fans, the historic North Wilkesboro Speedway is within walking distance. If you can't occupy your time here we're within 10 minutes of many local attractions. Wilkes also hosts festivals like; MerleFest, Apple Festival, and Peach Festival. This area is home to many Peach and Apple Orchards one personal favorite is Tevepaugh Orchards. And if the local attractions don't suffice the Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone and Blowing Rock are all within an hour.

3. Cherry Mtn. Camp

100%

(10)

32mi from Hickory · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Cherry Mtn. Camp, nestled in the picturesque foothills of Rutherford County, at the base of Cherry Mountain and South Mountain. Conveniently positioned between Asheville and Charlotte, our location offers easy access to a multitude of attractions, including Lake Lure, Chimney Rock State Park, South Mountain State Park, and the Tryon International Equestrian Center, all within a 40-minute drive. Additionally, we're just minutes away from the Yogi Jelly Stone Water Park and Cherry Bounce Adventure ATV Riding Park. Situated off the Bostic Sunshine Hwy, our campground provides a variety of camping options to suit your preferences. Choose from primitive campsites nestled in wooded areas or open field atmospheres. For added convenience, we offer a 30ft gravel camping pad equipped with 30 amp power, water, and sewer hookups, along with a gas fire pit and a 10x10 wooden deck. Accessing your campsite is a breeze with our paved drive. Primitive camping options include BYOE (Bring Your Own Equipment), with a porta-potty conveniently located near wooded area campsites. Wooded area sites feature a tent camping pad and a fire pit ring, while open field sites offer a fire pit ring without a camping pad. Explore the natural beauty of our 8-acre property at your own pace, taking in the serene landscape and peaceful surroundings. As we're located near the ATV riding park, accessing it from our property is convenient. Please inform us if you plan to visit the riding park, and we'll gladly show you the way through the back of our property. Relax, unwind, and enjoy a memorable getaway at Cherry Mtn. Camp.

4. Blowing Rock TreePod & Geodome

100%

(19)

32mi from Hickory · 2 sites · Lodging

The Blowing Rock TreePod and Geodome is only 2.5 miles from Main Street in Blowing Rock, NC and a just a short drive from Boone. Enjoy 100 mile views from your private TreePod or Geodome (both domes have 100 mile views). Relax on the well-appointed deck, complete with an equipped kitchenette, luxurious bathroom, and unique dome featuring a private hot tub, fire table, grill, hammock and comfortable outdoor furniture. Recharge and reconnect with nature as you explore our 20 acres of trails and private pond. ————————————————————— ————————————————————— Experience unforgettable moments at one of the domes of Blowing Rock, where every detail is designed for lasting memories. Enjoy breathtaking 100-mile vistas from the deck, a plush King Bed, and a well-equipped kitchenette paired with a luxurious glamping bathroom. Sleep beneath the stars in comfort, nestled in a King Bed beneath a transparent roof, while the fully functional bathroom offers hot water and a conventional flushing toilet just steps away. This 350-square-foot retreat is complemented by a nearby 300-square-foot bathhouse exclusively for your use. Perched among the trees and carved into the mountainside, the Tripod boasts a deck featuring a hot tub, fire pit, grill, and hammock, inviting relaxation and connection with nature. Built and designed to soak in long range 100 mile views from every angle, the Geodome offers the unique sense of living on the side of a mountain. Lavash in the large deck, see if you can spot Charlotte from the Hot Tub, or lounge in an Adirondack chair by the firepit on cool evenings. Whether indulging in reading, napping, stargazing, or simply soaking in the tranquility, the outdoor furniture and hot tub for each dome provides the perfect vantage points. Keep an eye out for birds and deer as you explore the surrounding 20 acres, including a private pond with fish included for your enjoyment. All of this just minutes to Main Street in Blowing Rock, NC. One of North Carolina's premier mountain towns. OTHER PROPERTY DETAILS LOCATION: We’re located on a 17 acre tract of land with two domes. Both domes can be booked individually or together (please see my other listings in my profile for availability). My goal is always to maximize privacy and I’ve worked hard to create guest seclusion and minimize visibility from the other dome. With that, the domes are separated by 150 feet but are connected via a staircase that has been built into the mountain. If another couple is staying in the other dome during your stay, it is likely that you may hear them during your stay. Finally, our ideal location and close proximity to Blowing Rock is a direct result of our proximity to NC 321. Guests should be aware that they may hear road noise. STEEP MOUNTAIN DRIVEWAY: Please note that the driveway to the TreePod is a mountain road that is ONLY accessible by AWD or 4x4. If you are not comfortable driving on gravel mountain roads, or do not have a 4x4 or AWD, you’re welcome to park at a dedicated space at the top of the driveway and take a 450’ hike to the dome. WINTER WEATHER: In the event of a winter weather during your stay you will be required to park at the top of the driveway regardless of what type of vehicle you arrive in. This does involve a short 350’ walk from that location to the GeoDome door. In general snow fall is light and usually melts the next day. HEATING/COOLING: The Treepod includes both heating and cooling as well as several space heaters and electric blankets. While we make every attempt to create a comfortable environment the domes are not insulated in the same way your home may be and does not heat and cool like a conventional home or apartment. We’ll provide the heated blankets, please bring plenty of warm clothing in the winter. PARKING: Parking is FREE and on Premises but we are only able to accommodate ONE vehicle during your stay. KITCHEN: During the winter months, the kitchen sink may be closed to prevent freezing pipes. If so, water is accessible in the fully functional and heated bathroom. As always, your welcome to use the grill with the supplied grilling tools for cooking. You’ll also find a French coffee press, water kettle, and coffee/creamer/sugar in the event that the Keurig is not available.

5. Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

97%

(330)

32mi from Hickory · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Family Owned location with great views . Located adjacent to the Linville River and across the street from Lake James . This location gives the camper a center location for many activities. The State Fonta Flora trail system sits within feet of this property and offers the mountain biker miles of beautiful trails . Within a short distance is the trail head to Shortoff mountain and Linville George with exceptional views and hiking. Boat landing is a close for those who want to recreate on the lake and kayak. Close by is the renowned Fonta Flora brewery and Mica Town Breweries located only a few miles away.This is a secluded space that is private and on the Linville River before it enters Lake James. Lake James State Park offers a full menu of activities. Along with boating, swimming and fishing in the beautiful, clear waters of the 6,812-acre lake, there are 25 miles of trails, 15 of which are open to mountain biking. Trails vary from the short, educational Holly Discovery Trail with child-friendly activities, to the more adventurous, historic section of the Overmountain Victory Trail. Welcome!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

E

Elizabeth

December 2025

24 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Waterfall camping close to CLT

Absolutely love the place..We have family in the area and every time we visit from Ohio we stay here.

Ross

November 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Waterfall camping close to CLT

The falls are everything you would hope for — Scott has created a perfect place for camping. Great setting, well-appointed site with picnic table, food prep area, and so much more. We look forward to coming back.

Erin

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

Another great stay at LAP! Christian is a great host and the location can’t be beat for adventures in the gorge.

D

Donald

October 2025

22 ft campervan

1 night at Parker Farms

Beautiful property with nice hosts. Be aware that the Pond site is not a traditional site for a RV or camper as you can not park your rig on the site where the view of the pond, picnic table and fire ring are. You have to park down the drive in a gravel lot and then access the amenities at the Pond Site. They were kind enough to let us park our 22’ Sprinter Campervan in the large grassy lot that serves as their outdoor movie theater instead of the gravel lot. That area was beautiful and we had a very nice stay.

Emily

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Waterfall camping close to CLT

Scott has the most beautiful property any time of year! We’ve come every season and it always makes for a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature! The kids love it, too!

C

Chelsey

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cherry Mtn. Camp

The campsite was pristine, just like staying at a state park!

E

Emily

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cherry Mtn. Camp

Easy to find. The area was cleared well with nice trees for hammocks. The firepit was great and portapotty clean. Although there were other campers there, the spot still felt private. It was relatively quiet, some road noise.

Jason

October 2025

15 ft campervan

1 night at Waterfall camping close to CLT

Everything is great. Just pick up after yourselves and enjoy tranquility. Highly recommend

K

Kirby

September 2025

17 ft pop-up camper

With kids

4 nights at Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

We absolutely loved our time at the Linville Adventure Pasture. Christian was a wonderful host and went above and beyond to make our stay great. We have three boys 6-11, and we did EVERYTHING! We threw axes, rode the zip line, did a round of frisbee golf, swam in the river and jumped off the rock ledges. The location is great for other local activities as well. There is a running/biking path, a great 4.5 mile hike up Shortoff Mountain with spectacular views, close to Old NC 105 for some off-roading fun and so much more within an hour. Endless fun to be had. The property is not only beautiful but it’s also clean and safe. We highly recommend staying here and plan to come back if able. Thank you, Christian!!

L

Leah

September 2025

31 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Waterfall camping close to CLT

Beautiful location, the waterfalls were such a treat for my three boys. Scott was very kind and accommodating!

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Emily

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waterfall camping close to CLT

We had the most amazing weekend at Scott’s. The waterfall is beautiful and the land is set up perfectly for tent camping. Scott was kind, responsive, and awesome to talk to. Hands down the best camping spot we’ve ever been to, from the peaceful surroundings to the spotless port a potty. Can’t recommend enough & we can’t wait to be back

Jason

September 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Waterfall camping close to CLT

Great place for a getaway. I live locally and never knew that it was there after 40 years. Recommend bug spray for mosquitoes or citronella candles, for the time if season should be expected. Beautiful site with lots of room. Kinda secluded but there's a house and another site across the water. Everyone minded their business, just clean up after yourselves and everything should be a great experience. Clean porta potty. Highly recommend!!!

L

Leighanne

September 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Waterfall camping close to CLT

This is our absolute favorite place to visit. Took my family from out of town for a day trip and they loved it. We’ve also camped here and wish we didn’t have to leave! Scott is a great host. Kind and attentive. The dogs favorite spot as well. :)

D

Dominique

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waterfall camping close to CLT

What a weekend! The entire weekend we kept saying how special and great this campsite is. Private, plenty of room, clean cool water to swim in, gorgeous waterfall, the list goes on. Incredibly unique and we will absolutely be returning. Grateful we were able to experience one of the best campsites we have been to!

W

Wyatt

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Parker Farms

Quiet, peaceful and easy to find, it was great couple days and exploring the area

T

Tara

September 2025

14 ft toy hauler

With pets

2 nights at Waterfall camping close to CLT

What an amazing getaway spot! The area was a lot bigger than anticipated, and the views so much better in person. The swinging benches looking out at the waterfall was great! So much to explore and many opportunities for play. Dinner on top of the waterfall was amazing. We had the pleasure of meeting Scott and getting a brief history lesson (I recommend asking if you see him). We also thoroughly enjoyed two visits from a heron.

Fazil

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Waterfall camping close to CLT

We were a group of seven families. The place was absolutely fantastic and large for all of us to comfortably camp. It was maintained beautifully and the best highlight was the waterfall. Luckily for us there was rain last night so the waterfall had a lot of water when we visited everybody enjoyed to our hearts content. Would definitely recommend for others and we will plan another trip to this place.

M

Melinda

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Waterfall camping close to CLT

This campsite was fantastic!! Very quiet and pleasant especially with the waterfall. The owner is very hospitable and very easy to speak to. The camping area had everything that was needed and the layout was perfect. I wish we had more time to explore the area and the falls. This is one campsite that I would highly recommend!

Linda

September 2025

29 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cherry Mtn. Camp

I really enjoyed this site! It was very easy to get into, with a convenient pull-through layout that’s mostly flat and provides plenty of space. The full hookups were great, and the view of the hills and trees made it feel peaceful and open. I also loved the added sense of security — there’s a locked gate at the bottom of the drive. Getting in was smooth too, with the drive paved most of the way and well-laid, well-maintained gravel for the rest. The roomy layout also made it simple to turn around, back in, and pull out without stress. A few things to note: there’s no shade, picnic table, or fire pit, and the site isn’t clearly marked, so it took me a moment to figure out where to park. That said, I would definitely recommend this spot if you’re looking for a secure, spacious, and quiet site with hookups and a nice view.

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Evelyn

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Parker Farms

The overlook was private and peaceful. You can hear the creek just past the trees. The campsite is up a rocky hill that we were able to clear just fine in my 2WD Honda CRV but would think twice if it were wet. The farm is sweet to walk around, there’s a grocery store nearby to grab essentials and the site has a picnic table, fire ring, and two chairs ready to be used. Perfect for a little getaway in nature. Would stay here again!