- Family And Glamping
The best family-friendly glamping sites near Lake Norman of Catawba
99% (2K) • 20 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Norman of Catawba
Take a Hike on a Wild side! Camping
1. Take a Hike on a Wild side! Camping
100%
(26)
33mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This property is 180 acres of woods and mountains with streams and ponds.
Beautiful settings. If you like hiking in the mountains this will definitely hit the spot. YO can fish in the ponds it has blue gills and catfish. I also added grass carp there as part of weed management.
This used to be an abandoned farm which I want to bring back to life.
The site offers three luxury large Safari Style Tents and 4 Pioneer wagons.
All tents are far away from each other to provide privacy and freedom of going Wild (still remaining civilized in your manners and careful attitude to Nature around you).
Tent 1 is in the Forrest itself and it is pretty cook and serene.
Tent 2 is on the top of a rocky hill overlooking the forest.
Tent 3 is the most remote and closest to the ponds. It has most of the open space around it, and can be a great place for parties.
We are working on making the sites and the area more comfortable, but I do not want to make it a manicured park. I want it to remain wild and still offer comfortable stay.
The farm is work in progress. Eventually it will be an Ostrich farm. and have other animals too.
The closest town - Lenoir is about 12 miles away . Closest Grocery store (Dollar General) - about 3 miles away. Closest Gas station - 2 miles away.
Professional Tennis court, Basketball court and large kids playground are in a public park within - 5 minute drive.
Lenoir has restaurants, shopping, etc.
Hickory is a larger town about 25 minutes drive. Hickory Lake is a large reservoir with marina where you can rent a boat and it also offers a good game fishing.
Nice swimming beach access on Lake Hickory 13 miles ( 20 Minutes) from here: Lake Hickory Wittenburg access area (Wittenburg Access Area, 175 Wildlife Access Rd, Hickory, NC 28601)
Asheville is 1:25 hrs to the West, Charlotte is 1:25 hr to the East.
There are couple of Ski resorts 45 minutes to an hr away.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Babbling Brook Campground
2. Babbling Brook Campground
99%
(390)
34mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging
Before the Kerr Scott Reservoir was built, in the 40's and 50's, this neighborhood was a local swimming hole and vacation area. Public buses came from neighboring communities so people could boat, swim, camp, and picnic.
While we don't have access to the pond, our part of this land still is calling out to people, 'Come, rest, unload your burdens, and find peace.'
When we started this project with Hipcamp, we didn't fully realize that we were reconnecting with the history on this property. So, come, take your shoes off, and wade in the creek. Read a book while laying in a hammock. Sit by the fire and chat with family and friends.
Come and participate in our little homesteading project, and leave your burdens behind.
LOCAL ACTIVITIES:
To the west is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is 30 minutes away.
15 minutes away is Kerr Scott Dam where you can rent kayaks, pontoon boats, as well as other sporting equipment. Fish, go mountain biking on the extensive trails, and hiking.
Prayer Mountain is right up the road, about 2 miles away.
Heading east, you can find several fine wineries and vineyards that you can visit. There is also a moonshine distillery in town.
About a half hour away is an Amish community that has several businesses open to the public, including the Shiloh Bakery and General Store. They are closed on Sunday and Monday.
To the northeast, about 45 minutes away, is Stone Mountain. Absolutely fantastic hiking, it is also an old homestead that has been renovated and is open to the public.
To the south, there is Rocky Face Park, where there is hiking and rock climbing. Nearby, is Emerald Hollow Mine, where you can go and find, and keep, precious stones you find in the nearby river.
There is also a great disk course course, Highland Hills Disc Golf Course, one of the top 25 in the country. There is fun for all ages.
Merlefest, the last weekend of April, a world class Bluegrass festival, is located right in our town.
Be sure to look at the activities section below for additional information.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$55
/ night
Adin`s river cabin
3. Adin`s river cabin
96%
(74)
42mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 1 site
My property consists of a ridge running east to west with the access road running along the south border. the land slopes up to the ridge for about 300 feet, and then down to the river for about 800 feet. The south side of the ridge has a small pond close to the road. The rest is pasture, and an orchard and small vineyard. The north side of the ridge is old growth timber, and shady and cool. The two cabins are along the river. One is perched on a ridge over looking the river and the other is right on the river. The swimming hole is 30 feet from the lower cabin. There is room for a couple campsites along the river also. The south side of the ridge was a cotton farm decades ago, but was covered in timber when I bought it 12 years ago. The north side has been in timber for the known history of the property.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$65
/ night
The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek
4. The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek
99%
(297)
43mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
A small homestead on the bank of Abbotts Creek near where it feeds into High Rock Lake. Peace and solitude , but close to the amenities of town. Less than a five minute drive to the grocery store, and less than a fifteen minute drive to uptown Lexington. Public access for kayaks is less than half a mile away. And the view is unbelievable!
We have a corn hole board and bags now available for use, as well as a few other yard games. Please let us know if you are interested in using them.
The edible landscape is available for you to enjoy. A list of current available items is posted in our greenhouse, as well as baskets for picking and foraging.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$33
/ night
Starlight Hills
5. Starlight Hills
98%
(2503)
44mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our Spa and Geodesic Dome Planetarium is now available for booking!
Our Pond is now OPEN!
We are a constantly evolving location.
Our goal is to provide a genuine secluded camping experience immersed in nature in a mountainous forest with privacy and well spaced out, secluded camp sites. We also have minimal light pollution, so our skies are beautiful for viewing the stars. We offer trails through natural wooded habitat with hidden gems of nature.
Wildlife viewing throughout. There are feed locations to increase viewing opportunities.
A creek on the property is lovely for walking.
Centered between Charlotte and Asheville we are within your reach!
We offer primitive tent camping, Glamping Tents a tiny cabin and Geodesic Dome. Lodging locations have a private Mountain View, fire pit area, Queen bed, Night Stand (built in phone charger), Desk area, interior and exterior lighting, heater and fan (powered by solar system).
As a part of Starlight Hills Campground you have access to filtered drinking water, common overlook (w/ BBQ pits & picnic tables), trails, bathroom and showers.
Welcome to bring all your furry family members ❤️.
Please Note: 2 Wheel Dr. vehicles can access all of our sites. Gravel/ Dirt road up hill.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Blue Ridge Ranch
6. Blue Ridge Ranch
99%
(214)
46mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Blue Ridge Ranch, established in December of 2020, is located on 440 acres nestled between two mountain ridges in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The property features an established pasture, mountain ridges, barns, and a homestead. In addition, the ranch is home to five ponds (some stocked and one trophy), more than a mile of trout streams, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Together, they provide the perfect foundation for the establishment of farming, livestock, camping, and community events. All profits of Blue Ridge Ranch go to Hope for His Children, Inc., a 501(c)(3) that conducts youth camps at the ranch. Tours of the ranch are available for $10/person and includes interaction with some farm animals. We pride ourselves in doing everything possible to help our guests have a great experience. We offer coffee during morning hours in our farm store!
We are sorry, but we are not able to allow guests to bring ATV's and motorcycles to operate on the property. There are many acres of hay that we must protect and our agritourism insurer does not allow guests to operate ATV's and motorcycles on property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
99% (2K) • 20 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Norman of Catawba
Take a Hike on a Wild side! Camping
1. Take a Hike on a Wild side! Camping
100%
(26)
33mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This property is 180 acres of woods and mountains with streams and ponds.
Beautiful settings. If you like hiking in the mountains this will definitely hit the spot. YO can fish in the ponds it has blue gills and catfish. I also added grass carp there as part of weed management.
This used to be an abandoned farm which I want to bring back to life.
The site offers three luxury large Safari Style Tents and 4 Pioneer wagons.
All tents are far away from each other to provide privacy and freedom of going Wild (still remaining civilized in your manners and careful attitude to Nature around you).
Tent 1 is in the Forrest itself and it is pretty cook and serene.
Tent 2 is on the top of a rocky hill overlooking the forest.
Tent 3 is the most remote and closest to the ponds. It has most of the open space around it, and can be a great place for parties.
We are working on making the sites and the area more comfortable, but I do not want to make it a manicured park. I want it to remain wild and still offer comfortable stay.
The farm is work in progress. Eventually it will be an Ostrich farm. and have other animals too.
The closest town - Lenoir is about 12 miles away . Closest Grocery store (Dollar General) - about 3 miles away. Closest Gas station - 2 miles away.
Professional Tennis court, Basketball court and large kids playground are in a public park within - 5 minute drive.
Lenoir has restaurants, shopping, etc.
Hickory is a larger town about 25 minutes drive. Hickory Lake is a large reservoir with marina where you can rent a boat and it also offers a good game fishing.
Nice swimming beach access on Lake Hickory 13 miles ( 20 Minutes) from here: Lake Hickory Wittenburg access area (Wittenburg Access Area, 175 Wildlife Access Rd, Hickory, NC 28601)
Asheville is 1:25 hrs to the West, Charlotte is 1:25 hr to the East.
There are couple of Ski resorts 45 minutes to an hr away.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$28
/ night
Babbling Brook Campground
2. Babbling Brook Campground
99%
(390)
34mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging
Before the Kerr Scott Reservoir was built, in the 40's and 50's, this neighborhood was a local swimming hole and vacation area. Public buses came from neighboring communities so people could boat, swim, camp, and picnic.
While we don't have access to the pond, our part of this land still is calling out to people, 'Come, rest, unload your burdens, and find peace.'
When we started this project with Hipcamp, we didn't fully realize that we were reconnecting with the history on this property. So, come, take your shoes off, and wade in the creek. Read a book while laying in a hammock. Sit by the fire and chat with family and friends.
Come and participate in our little homesteading project, and leave your burdens behind.
LOCAL ACTIVITIES:
To the west is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is 30 minutes away.
15 minutes away is Kerr Scott Dam where you can rent kayaks, pontoon boats, as well as other sporting equipment. Fish, go mountain biking on the extensive trails, and hiking.
Prayer Mountain is right up the road, about 2 miles away.
Heading east, you can find several fine wineries and vineyards that you can visit. There is also a moonshine distillery in town.
About a half hour away is an Amish community that has several businesses open to the public, including the Shiloh Bakery and General Store. They are closed on Sunday and Monday.
To the northeast, about 45 minutes away, is Stone Mountain. Absolutely fantastic hiking, it is also an old homestead that has been renovated and is open to the public.
To the south, there is Rocky Face Park, where there is hiking and rock climbing. Nearby, is Emerald Hollow Mine, where you can go and find, and keep, precious stones you find in the nearby river.
There is also a great disk course course, Highland Hills Disc Golf Course, one of the top 25 in the country. There is fun for all ages.
Merlefest, the last weekend of April, a world class Bluegrass festival, is located right in our town.
Be sure to look at the activities section below for additional information.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$55
/ night
Adin`s river cabin
3. Adin`s river cabin
96%
(74)
42mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 1 site
My property consists of a ridge running east to west with the access road running along the south border. the land slopes up to the ridge for about 300 feet, and then down to the river for about 800 feet. The south side of the ridge has a small pond close to the road. The rest is pasture, and an orchard and small vineyard. The north side of the ridge is old growth timber, and shady and cool. The two cabins are along the river. One is perched on a ridge over looking the river and the other is right on the river. The swimming hole is 30 feet from the lower cabin. There is room for a couple campsites along the river also. The south side of the ridge was a cotton farm decades ago, but was covered in timber when I bought it 12 years ago. The north side has been in timber for the known history of the property.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$65
/ night
The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek
4. The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek
99%
(297)
43mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
A small homestead on the bank of Abbotts Creek near where it feeds into High Rock Lake. Peace and solitude , but close to the amenities of town. Less than a five minute drive to the grocery store, and less than a fifteen minute drive to uptown Lexington. Public access for kayaks is less than half a mile away. And the view is unbelievable!
We have a corn hole board and bags now available for use, as well as a few other yard games. Please let us know if you are interested in using them.
The edible landscape is available for you to enjoy. A list of current available items is posted in our greenhouse, as well as baskets for picking and foraging.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$33
/ night
Starlight Hills
5. Starlight Hills
98%
(2503)
44mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our Spa and Geodesic Dome Planetarium is now available for booking!
Our Pond is now OPEN!
We are a constantly evolving location.
Our goal is to provide a genuine secluded camping experience immersed in nature in a mountainous forest with privacy and well spaced out, secluded camp sites. We also have minimal light pollution, so our skies are beautiful for viewing the stars. We offer trails through natural wooded habitat with hidden gems of nature.
Wildlife viewing throughout. There are feed locations to increase viewing opportunities.
A creek on the property is lovely for walking.
Centered between Charlotte and Asheville we are within your reach!
We offer primitive tent camping, Glamping Tents a tiny cabin and Geodesic Dome. Lodging locations have a private Mountain View, fire pit area, Queen bed, Night Stand (built in phone charger), Desk area, interior and exterior lighting, heater and fan (powered by solar system).
As a part of Starlight Hills Campground you have access to filtered drinking water, common overlook (w/ BBQ pits & picnic tables), trails, bathroom and showers.
Welcome to bring all your furry family members ❤️.
Please Note: 2 Wheel Dr. vehicles can access all of our sites. Gravel/ Dirt road up hill.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Blue Ridge Ranch
6. Blue Ridge Ranch
99%
(214)
46mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Blue Ridge Ranch, established in December of 2020, is located on 440 acres nestled between two mountain ridges in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The property features an established pasture, mountain ridges, barns, and a homestead. In addition, the ranch is home to five ponds (some stocked and one trophy), more than a mile of trout streams, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Together, they provide the perfect foundation for the establishment of farming, livestock, camping, and community events. All profits of Blue Ridge Ranch go to Hope for His Children, Inc., a 501(c)(3) that conducts youth camps at the ranch. Tours of the ranch are available for $10/person and includes interaction with some farm animals. We pride ourselves in doing everything possible to help our guests have a great experience. We offer coffee during morning hours in our farm store!
We are sorry, but we are not able to allow guests to bring ATV's and motorcycles to operate on the property. There are many acres of hay that we must protect and our agritourism insurer does not allow guests to operate ATV's and motorcycles on property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jessica
2 weeks ago
With pets
The campground was peaceful and the hosts were very accommodating we had a clean campsite and a fire pit loaded with wood when we arrived. We loved the spa it was worth the money to relax there after a long days hike. I feel like being able to add on 30 minute increments should be an option also. As opposed to purchasing by the hour. We felt we needed just a little extra time there. The hot shower included with the spa also would not work for us which was disappointing considering this was most of the reason we originally chose to purchase the spa add on. We then tried to shower at the free shower near by but it was just too cold for us despite being heated. “Hot” shower was a stretch there it was warm at best. But overall, enjoyed it. The heater in the tents kept us warm even when the temp dropped to 32 for a night. The privacy at mtg 3 was awesome and loved hearing the church bells across the hills. If you plan to charge your phone make sure to bring a usb Compatible chord.
See more
G
Gabriel
January 2026
1 night at The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek
I absolutely loved my time at this campsite! Darel was the kindest host I have had using Hipcamp! Could not recommend this spot more !!
See more
Kat
January 2026
Weekend Trip to The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek
Our stay at Natalie & Darrell’s cabin was such a delight! 🥹 I didn’t want to leave! They’re so kind and had everything prepped for us so thoughtful. We can’t wait to come back!
See more
S
Skylar
January 2026
Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills
It was great and a well needed retreat , if you ever attend please don’t hesitate going to the private spa! Everything was a 10/10 and will be going again
See moreS
Shaquille
January 2026
Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills
Loved my stay I will be visiting more often, the spa area was amazing as well & very private
See moreM
Mason
January 2026
Weekend Trip to The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek
Very nice folks! The cabin was cute and romantic. Jack the donkey wouldn't take our treats but besides that it was pretty cool!
See more
R
Rebecca
January 2026
4 nights at Starlight Hills
Host was response rate was fast and friendly. He made sure we were warm and comfortable during the whole stay. I really enjoyed the spa and the view it had for us. I want to come back with the update plans he has for his campgrounds and the scenery.
See moreE
Eugene
December 2025
With kids
We had a great stay in this little cabin. The farm is charming and beautiful… so if you need to get away from the city, this is a great option. The cabin is nice and rustic, and we greatly enjoyed using the wood stove. The hosts are attentive and responsive. Great place to stay with kids.
See moreE
Ellen
December 2025
With pets
Our hosts were fantastic and supplied every possible convenience for us. As mentioned before, Jack the donkey is very friendly, and the stars at night are fantastic. The cabin is facing the rising sun, so be prepared for a lovely sunrise as well. :). We were looking for a "Little House on the Prairie" experience and this cabin didn't disappoint . The downtown is cute and the museum has hands-on things for kiddos. My kids are already asking to come back!
See moreI
Ian
December 2025
Group trip
I stayed in one of the MTG sites and it was great! The heater works very well in the winter and was super clean for me and my party. The views were great and the restrooms were clean. I’ve been here multiple times and always enjoy coming back. I would highly recommend this campground.
See more
A
Amanda
December 2025
With pets
This place was Amazing 👏 From the animal's to the water, this is a place you can't go wrong with!!! Good vibes Wonderful host, just a place you dont want to leave...
See more
cher
November 2025
With kids
If you're looking for fancy, bells and whistles this isn't for you. If you're looking for privacy, peace and serenity in a rustic cabin then you found it. The cabin is small but cozy. The cabin does have hot water, but only for a couple minutes. It has a decent size sink in the kitchen. The bathroom is tiny and not for the costraphibic, but it's nice having something indoors. There also an outhouse. Adin offers heat for an extra fee if you ask. We didn't use it, it was chilly at night, but still warmer than tent camping. The rd to the cabin in narrow and a little steep, but we made it in and out with two wheel drive. The property terrain itself is pretty rugged and steep(sometimes slippery) with cliffs. I would say younger children need good supervision venturing if you bring them and it wouldn't be suitable for people with mobility issues. If you have children I would bring a baby gate for the upstairs loft, as it's an open entrance and exit at the ladder stairs, which are steep. Room for extra tents in site. There's tons of deck space here with three decks and amazing views from the top. The sounds of the rapids and the frogs are so serene. The river is beautiful and clear with plenty of room. There's also some trails on the property. Sadly you can see some of the damage caused by flooding from the hurricane. Our little family enjoyed our stay here. Adin and his wife were kind and helpful. What a blessing to own a beautiful piece of paradise. Thank you for sharing it.
See more
T
Travis
November 2025
With pets
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.
See more
Tyler
November 2025
With pets
Great camp spot for the family and dog! Great views and quick access to hiking. We really enjoyed the views and common space. Highly recommended.
See more
J
Jose
November 2025
With kids
Amazing property, with thoughtful planned out campground. I love to sleep outside in the hammock and this was an extraordinary experience for my wife and daughter staying at Luna Glamping spot. Great showers, the spa spot is so ingeniously tucked away while having the freedom of enjoying a beautiful evening under the stars. Will definitely return.
See more
K
Kelly
November 2025
With kids
The campground is well organized, clean, and has beautiful views. The only downside is if you are staying towards the back of the property the bathroom is a long walk away, but the scenery is so lovely we didn’t mind! Highly recommend!
See more
C
Christine
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills
The yurt was well appropriated with conveniences, but best of all the view of the Blue Ridge Mountains was awesome.
See more
Danielle
November 2025
Group trip
My best friend wanted to celebrate her birthday in nature, and this spot has been on my Hipcamp bucket list so we booked it for a girls’ trip, and it did not disappoint! The hosts make you feel welcomed while still giving you complete privacy. I’m honestly surprised this place isn’t listed under the stargazing category because it felt like we were in a dome, we saw so many constellations plus Jupiter and Saturn!
The farm is clean, beautiful, and peaceful. The animals were adorable, but Jack was the star of the trip his perfectly timed laugh kept us cracking up all weekend. The greenhouse was awesome, but the outdoor shower was the true winner for all of us. The products were top-tier and the water pressure/temperature were perfect!
This is a true hidden gem. We walked the on-site trail to Abbott’s Creek it’s HUGE, definitely kayak ready, and even good for fishing. The massive cypress trees along the water are breathtaking. We’re already planning more trips here because it’s perfect for everyone: families, couples, friend groups, or solo travelers.
You don’t have to worry about ice, wood, or charcoal since you can buy them on-site, and if you don’t want to cook, you’re less than 5 miles from food and gas stations. Plus, so many attractions are nearby right now you can even visit the troll less than 20 minutes from the cabin!
Highly recommend bringing a telescope. Thank you N & D for hosting us 10/10!
See more
E
Emily
November 2025
With pets
My family & I loved Adin’s cabin. It was perfect for us to escape the fast city life for the weekend. We walked the creek bank, searched for worms, tried fishing.. but had no luck. Mr. Adin said Helene had taken most of the fish. The water was crystal clear, & the sound of the water moving had me mesmerized. The kids enjoyed watching movies upstairs in the loft, & they had plenty to keep them busy. We can’t wait to come back in the Summer. Thanks again Adin for having us! The Turner Family 🥰
See moreJ
John
November 2025
Group trip
Really great spot! Natalie wheeled us out more firewood for our fire. Cool animals. Nice cozy cabin
See more
