Lake Camping Near Lake Norman of Catawba, North Carolina, US: 20 Best Lake Campsites 2026

93% (1.4K) • 40 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Norman of Catawba

1. Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

100%

(38)

33mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 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

Take a Hike on a Wild side! Camping

2. 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

Parker Farms

3. Parker Farms

100%

(34)

38mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$35

/ night

Lake Norman State Park

4. Lake Norman State Park

94%

(8)

State park 6mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 37 sites

Outdoor adventure awaits on the banks of North Carolina’s largest manmade lake.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Kings Mountain State Park

5. Kings Mountain State Park

90%

(5)

State park 41mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 123 sites

Step back in time with a living history farm and hike through a forest with gorgeous mountain views

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Oak Creek Horse Farm

6. Oak Creek Horse Farm

96%

(108)

43mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 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

Starlight Hills

7. 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

Basecamp_outdoors

8. Basecamp_outdoors

100%

(13)

46mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 1 site

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

Yurt At Lake James And Fonta Flora

9. Yurt At Lake James And Fonta Flora

95%

(39)

48mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 2 sites

For the same price as a campsite, awaken amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature without the hassles of traditional camping! Our accommodation is conveniently located just steps away from the Fonta Flora trail and Lake James, offering a private and pristine retreat while remaining close to all amenities. If you love the idea of camping but dread the tasks of buying, packing, hauling, and setting everything up, we have the perfect solution for you. Simply unplug and unwind next to the tranquil sounds of the small creek, with the gentle breeze rustling through the trees and the delightful chirping of birds. Embark on adventures right from your doorstep - hike the scenic trail, enjoy a leisurely picnic at the beach, paddle through picturesque coves, roast marshmallows over a crackling fire, gaze up at the star-studded sky, and cherish quality time with family. Experience the joys of camping without the stress, and make unforgettable memories surrounded by the wonders of nature. Check out pictures and their captions for more details on the lake access and amenities in the campsite.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$42

/ night

The Mountain Island Lake House

10. The Mountain Island Lake House

18mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 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

North 40

11. North 40

100%

(9)

54mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 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

18mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 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

North 40

11. North 40

100%

(9)

54mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 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

40mi from Lake Norman of Catawba · 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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jessica

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

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.

J

Josh

January 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

The sites were well maintained and clean! Site 1 offered good space with great access to the bathroom, showers, etc. while providing privacy at the same time. The location of the grounds offered great views of both the sunrise and sunsets, the common area has the best sunset mountain view while relaxing in the hammock and also offers a great stargazing spot. We had a great time camping here and will be back.

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

S

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

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.

C

Colleen

January 2026

15 ft campervan

3 nights at Starlight Hills

We tent camped for New Year’s Eve. It was quiet and secluded with beautiful views from multiple places. He has thought of everything and addresses it with vending from last minute things you forgot to snacks to your firewood! The property was clean and well cared for with multiple options for accommodations. The pond looks like it would be amazing when open and the trail was a nice walk. The sites are large, but be advised that you may need some leveling and may not be able to park by the table/fire ring. This did not take away anything from the experience! The spa is worth the add on, especially if it’s cold! It very well done and private with uninhibited mountain views. There are also showers and porta potties (that were extremely clean!) William was friendly and responsive to questions. He has done a wonderful job with this site and we plan to go again.

K

Kevin

December 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

Teresa was very kind. The site was easy to find and felt very spacious. It felt private and clean.

I

Ian

December 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

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.

B

Billy

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

It’s really nice even though it was very cold it was still worth it.

G

George

November 2025

20 ft Class B

With kids

2 nights at Starlight Hills

Beautiful camp grounds. Well maintained and easy to navigate. A number of additional amenities and small touches to make the stay feel a bit elevated while still feeling off grid and primitive. I also really liked how spaced out the sites were. You didn’t feel like you were on top of the other campers, it felt like you had reasonable privacy. Would stay again.

Tyler

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

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.

J

Jose

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

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.

K

Kelly

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

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!

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.

M

Matthew

November 2025

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.

T

Travis

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

Nice little spa. Nice view from the overlook. Pleasant camp sites far enough away from each other with very few disturbances. Over all nice time.

M

Mauricio

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

Wonderful views and a really accessible campground, recommend it to anyone who just wants to relax far from the city for some time!

T

Thao

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Starlight Hills

William’s campground was so lovely. Plenty of room to spread out and explore. The stars, oh my gosh! We loved sitting at the shared lookout point at night and just staring up at the sky. Check out the spa add-on! The sauna was perfect on a chilly Fall day. Would love to come back in the warmer months.

T

Tyler

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

This was a really awesome camp site, a lot of great views, good amenities, and great location. The actual sites are a bit close together but still spread out enough that you have you privacy, and there’s a lot of great views around the camp. They had running water which we used to refill our bottles, and the showers were really nice and got very hot. If you need wood, then the bundles they offer supply plenty for a long trip. The sites also were set up very smart with plenty of room for parking, a hook to hang up either food or a lantern, and a large container of water given to you for the fires. I would definitely come back here if I was in the area again.

C

Chris

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Starlight Hills

We really enjoyed our time here. Host was friendly and can tell he takes pride it updating the campground. Overlook was awesome for sunrise and sunset viewing. Some neighbor campers got a little load at times but that has nothing to do with the host. Overall, 9/10 on my camping score card.