The best beach camping near Marion

·

Resting at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Marion blends small-town comfort with big-time nature. Close proximity to Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest make the town a popular basecamp year-round. Take a day trip less than thirty minutes from Marion to Lake James State Park. It has over 150 miles of shoreline with beaches, boat ramps, Blue Ridge Mountain views, and lakefront tent and paddle-in campsites. Or stay in town and camp in a cabin rental at Pisgah National Forest, which provides half a million acres of scenic outlooks, tree-covered trails, and iconic waterfalls. East of Marion, South Mountains State Park has RV campsites that can fit trailers and accommodate horses, diverse trails, and multiple creeks—all of which make it a perfect place for paddling, biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

98% (631) 46 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Marion

TangleWood Creekside Campsites

1. TangleWood Creekside Campsites

99%
(643)
11mi from Marion · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
16 miles North of Marion and closer to Linville Gorge, Linville Falls and The Blue Ridge Parkway area, we are a perfect jump off point for all your adventures including The Apple Orchard at Altapass, Linville Caverns in addition to the ones mentioned above. TangleWood Creekside Campsites offers a rocky creek winding through the woods at the base of several hikable peaks hidden just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Wildlife enthusiasts are encouraged to explore, on foot or mountain-bike, anywhere within our 170 acres (or the adjoining 250 acres owned by the US Forestry Service off our North Western border) and are likely to catch glimpses of turkey, beaver, deer, fox, eastern box turtle and the many species of songbird and raptor. The location is convenient to tons of local attractions for sightseeing and outdoor activities as well as shopping, dining, even wine tasting. We would be happy to supply a comprehensive list of the various local attractions upon request but the following are a few of our favorite things to do within a short drive: visit Linville Falls, Caverns, Gorge and/or Winery; drive the Blue Ridge parkway; tube/kayak down the Catawba river; hike beautiful Crabtree Falls; cross Grandfather Mountains mile high bridge and explore the nearby towns of Spruce Pines or Little Switzerland. The scenic drives to Asheville, Blowing Rock or Banner Elk make them each wonderful day-trip destinations.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Corner Pine

2. Corner Pine

96%
(40)
26mi from Marion · 1 site
Linville Land Harbor Is a residential entrance near the base of Grand Farther Mountain. Weekley & Monthly rates available upon EMAIL request. This resort offers a private 40-acre stocked lake with a White Sandie Beach. Canoes, kayaks, & electric motors permitted. The Linville river flows thru the resort stocked with trout for fly fishing only. Heated swimming pool with game rooms and pavilions. 18-hole golf course with practice facilities. the Patio Grill offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and beverages. Tennis and pickleball courts, Bocce ball & basketball court. hiking trails along the river and lake and more. All within walking distance of a private drive thru lot with pavilion and fire pit. 50 and 30 amp hook up with water, sewer, and private WIFI internet. , laundry room and shower house are a short walk away. Just minutes away from Boone, ASU, Blowing Rock, Grand Farther Mt. ,Beach Mt., and Sugar Mt. Snow Skiing , BMX Mountain Biking, Linville Falls, Linville Caverns, Mayland Sky Observatory, Blue Ridge Parkway, Restaurants, Wineries, Breweries and so much more. http://linvillelandharbor.com check in 2:00 check out 12:00 Weekly And Monthly rates are available. Please respond to this email with the dates you are requesting.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$68
 / night
Broken Oak Riverside Getaway

3. Broken Oak Riverside Getaway

97%
(127)
47mi from Marion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in the Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Broken Oak Organics is a former produce and flower farm. Full access to the campsite by vehicle. The North saluda River is just a few short steps away from the front door of your tent. Enjoy a fire pit and white sandy beaches on the edge of the river, then retreat to a 20 foot level tent site, with a picnic table. A brand new full (shared with other campers) bathroom with a shower, is a short walk away. Catch Brown and Rainbow trout, play Cornhole, or hit golf balls when you're not swimming in the river!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Lake James State Park

4. Lake James State Park

94%
(8)
State park 6.6mi from Marion · 20 sites
Swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up mountain views at this NC state park.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Pisgah National Forest

5. Pisgah National Forest

97%
(156)
National forest 20mi from Marion · 251 sites
One of Pisgah's gems is Richland Balsam, the highest peak on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,410 feet.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Triple J Farm and Campground

6. Triple J Farm and Campground

100%
(9)
35mi from Marion · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp down by the creek at our private campground. Pan for gold or rock hound for gems in over 1/2 mile of pristine North Carolina creek. Outdoor shower and bathroom facility available. Bring all your camping gear, tents and headlamps for a fun adventure in the woods.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$21
 / night
Private Park

7. Private Park

43mi from Marion · 1 site · Tent, RV
Hello :) Well … Here it is … The Paradise I call Home … For others to Enjoy Also … :) Located within 45 Minutes of a Plethora of Waterfalls, Hicking Trails and Country Things … The Camping area has 100% Privacy … There is a Docile River about a Foot Deep on average with a Silty Bottom … There are Multiple Private Beaches into the River … There is a Hot Shower and Bathroom … There is also a Hot Outdoor Shower … Place to Build a Campfire, Throw a Frisbee/Football, Kick a Ball or Kick Back and Enjoy Nature … Set Your Spot on Sand, Grass or Dirt … :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
Waterfall Paradise on Paw Paw

8. Waterfall Paradise on Paw Paw

100%
(9)
43mi from Marion · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
**Waterfall Paradise on Paw Paw** Welcome to our self-proclaimed nature sanctuary—a peaceful retreat. Forest bathing walks, meditation by water features, wildlife observation, stargazing nights, nature photography, butterfly watching, stream wading, waterfall exploration We raise No animals for food, & there is No hunting, & No fishing allowed. **The Setting** Enjoy a beautiful, bold creek and a magnificent waterfall just a 5-minute walk from your campsite (simply follow the creek upstream). Our well-spaced, private creekside sites are perfect for those seeking tranquility, with the soothing sound of rushing water as your constant companion. **Location** - 13 minutes to downtown Marshall - 10 minutes to Ingles (grocery & gas) - 40 minutes to downtown Asheville *Arrival & Check-in:* - Arrive at least 2 hours before dusk—there are no night lights on the property - No onsite check-in - Enter from Lower Paw Paw Road, follow the driveway past the barns and shipping container, cross the bridge, continue straight, curve right at the swing bench, and look for parking/unloading signs near Beaver Beach *Quiet Hours:* 9 PM - 9 AM *Fire Guidelines* - Bring your own firewood - Fires ONLY in designated fire pits - Leave fire pits as clean (or cleaner) than you found them - No burning of trash. (don't burn trash in Fire Pit) - Observe Fire Bans if in effect. *Waste & Sanitation:* - Pack out all trash - Bring camp toilet supplies for bathroom needs - **Do NOT dig holes or bury waste** (human or pet) - If bringing dogs, you must pick up and pack out all dog waste *Additional Rules:* - No fireworks - Dogs MUST be cleaned up after - Do Not remove rocks from property - No fishing **You're in for a real treat—the creek and waterfall are EPIC. Enjoy!**
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$50
 / night
Starlite Trailer Lodge

9. Starlite Trailer Lodge

30mi from Marion
Discover the unique charm of our premier LGBTQ+ Campground and Tiny Home Community, where inclusivity and nature come together in perfect harmony. Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of North Carolina, this welcoming haven invites everyone to embrace their true selves while enjoying the great outdoors. At our campground, you can escape the pressures of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. With ample acreage, our community offers plenty of privacy, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with both the environment and yourself. Explore nearby natural features, including serene swimming holes and scenic hiking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the stunning surroundings, you'll find a variety of local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Make Starlite Campground your next destination and experience the joy of being part of a vibrant, accepting community while surrounded by the beauty of North Carolina.
Mount Mitchell State Park

10. Mount Mitchell State Park

95%
(11)
State park 16mi from Marion · 9 sites
Sweeping views and challenging hikes define North Carolina’s first state park.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
South Mountains State Park

11. South Mountains State Park

100%
(3)
State park 19mi from Marion · 86 sites
In fall 2016, 97 park staff worked 3,700+ hours over three weeks fighting the Chestnut Nob fire.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grandfather Mountain State Park

12. Grandfather Mountain State Park

100%
(7)
State park 33mi from Marion · 1 site
This park has sweeping views, challenging trails, and a mile-high swinging bridge.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Cherokee National Forest

13. Cherokee National Forest

96%
(49)
National forest 52mi from Marion · 625 sites
Follow us to Tennessee and dive into the grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest! It’s filled to the brim with scenic forested trails, rushing rivers, and rainbow trout. During the day you can go rafting, and at night you can bask yourself in moonshine (of various sorts) and brush up on your constellations. If you are in pursuit of some Appalachian Mountain bliss, this is the right place to start. Don’t forget your camera, you're going to want to show these vistas off!
Wilderness Cove Campground

14. Wilderness Cove Campground

33mi from Marion
Wilderness Cove Campground stands out as a unique destination where the refreshing embrace of cool mountain water meets the thrill of outdoor adventure. On a hot summer day, there's nothing quite like escaping the heat and immersing yourself in the exhilarating experience of the Green River, which offers a perfect blend of serene floating and exciting whitewater rapids. This campground serves as an ideal base for exploring the stunning Green River Gamelands, providing a variety of accommodations to suit every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking a luxurious glamping experience, a cozy tiny home, a rustic cabin, or a primitive campsite, Wilderness Cove has you covered. For those looking for a more private retreat, a single-family vacation rental is also available. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities designed to enhance their stay, including water sport rentals, electric vehicle charging stations, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Each site features private grills for your convenience, and during the season, you can savor delicious meals from the on-site food truck. Additionally, the fully stocked camp store ensures you have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Reconnect with nature and create lasting memories at Wilderness Cove Campground, where adventure and relaxation await.
Elk Knob State Park

15. Elk Knob State Park

100%
(2)
State park 48mi from Marion · 13 sites
Elk Knob State Park: A Haven for Hikers and Nature Lovers.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Resting at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Marion blends small-town comfort with big-time nature. Close proximity to Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest make the town a popular basecamp year-round. Take a day trip less than thirty minutes from Marion to Lake James State Park. It has over 150 miles of shoreline with beaches, boat ramps, Blue Ridge Mountain views, and lakefront tent and paddle-in campsites. Or stay in town and camp in a cabin rental at Pisgah National Forest, which provides half a million acres of scenic outlooks, tree-covered trails, and iconic waterfalls. East of Marion, South Mountains State Park has RV campsites that can fit trailers and accommodate horses, diverse trails, and multiple creeks—all of which make it a perfect place for paddling, biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

98% (631) 46 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Marion

TangleWood Creekside Campsites

1. TangleWood Creekside Campsites

99%
(643)
11mi from Marion · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
16 miles North of Marion and closer to Linville Gorge, Linville Falls and The Blue Ridge Parkway area, we are a perfect jump off point for all your adventures including The Apple Orchard at Altapass, Linville Caverns in addition to the ones mentioned above. TangleWood Creekside Campsites offers a rocky creek winding through the woods at the base of several hikable peaks hidden just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Wildlife enthusiasts are encouraged to explore, on foot or mountain-bike, anywhere within our 170 acres (or the adjoining 250 acres owned by the US Forestry Service off our North Western border) and are likely to catch glimpses of turkey, beaver, deer, fox, eastern box turtle and the many species of songbird and raptor. The location is convenient to tons of local attractions for sightseeing and outdoor activities as well as shopping, dining, even wine tasting. We would be happy to supply a comprehensive list of the various local attractions upon request but the following are a few of our favorite things to do within a short drive: visit Linville Falls, Caverns, Gorge and/or Winery; drive the Blue Ridge parkway; tube/kayak down the Catawba river; hike beautiful Crabtree Falls; cross Grandfather Mountains mile high bridge and explore the nearby towns of Spruce Pines or Little Switzerland. The scenic drives to Asheville, Blowing Rock or Banner Elk make them each wonderful day-trip destinations.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Corner Pine

2. Corner Pine

96%
(40)
26mi from Marion · 1 site
Linville Land Harbor Is a residential entrance near the base of Grand Farther Mountain. Weekley & Monthly rates available upon EMAIL request. This resort offers a private 40-acre stocked lake with a White Sandie Beach. Canoes, kayaks, & electric motors permitted. The Linville river flows thru the resort stocked with trout for fly fishing only. Heated swimming pool with game rooms and pavilions. 18-hole golf course with practice facilities. the Patio Grill offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and beverages. Tennis and pickleball courts, Bocce ball & basketball court. hiking trails along the river and lake and more. All within walking distance of a private drive thru lot with pavilion and fire pit. 50 and 30 amp hook up with water, sewer, and private WIFI internet. , laundry room and shower house are a short walk away. Just minutes away from Boone, ASU, Blowing Rock, Grand Farther Mt. ,Beach Mt., and Sugar Mt. Snow Skiing , BMX Mountain Biking, Linville Falls, Linville Caverns, Mayland Sky Observatory, Blue Ridge Parkway, Restaurants, Wineries, Breweries and so much more. http://linvillelandharbor.com check in 2:00 check out 12:00 Weekly And Monthly rates are available. Please respond to this email with the dates you are requesting.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$68
 / night
Broken Oak Riverside Getaway

3. Broken Oak Riverside Getaway

97%
(127)
47mi from Marion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in the Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Broken Oak Organics is a former produce and flower farm. Full access to the campsite by vehicle. The North saluda River is just a few short steps away from the front door of your tent. Enjoy a fire pit and white sandy beaches on the edge of the river, then retreat to a 20 foot level tent site, with a picnic table. A brand new full (shared with other campers) bathroom with a shower, is a short walk away. Catch Brown and Rainbow trout, play Cornhole, or hit golf balls when you're not swimming in the river!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
Lake James State Park

4. Lake James State Park

94%
(8)
State park 6.6mi from Marion · 20 sites
Swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up mountain views at this NC state park.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Pisgah National Forest

5. Pisgah National Forest

97%
(156)
National forest 20mi from Marion · 251 sites
One of Pisgah's gems is Richland Balsam, the highest peak on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,410 feet.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Triple J Farm and Campground

6. Triple J Farm and Campground

100%
(9)
35mi from Marion · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp down by the creek at our private campground. Pan for gold or rock hound for gems in over 1/2 mile of pristine North Carolina creek. Outdoor shower and bathroom facility available. Bring all your camping gear, tents and headlamps for a fun adventure in the woods.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$21
 / night
Private Park

7. Private Park

43mi from Marion · 1 site · Tent, RV
Hello :) Well … Here it is … The Paradise I call Home … For others to Enjoy Also … :) Located within 45 Minutes of a Plethora of Waterfalls, Hicking Trails and Country Things … The Camping area has 100% Privacy … There is a Docile River about a Foot Deep on average with a Silty Bottom … There are Multiple Private Beaches into the River … There is a Hot Shower and Bathroom … There is also a Hot Outdoor Shower … Place to Build a Campfire, Throw a Frisbee/Football, Kick a Ball or Kick Back and Enjoy Nature … Set Your Spot on Sand, Grass or Dirt … :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
Waterfall Paradise on Paw Paw

8. Waterfall Paradise on Paw Paw

100%
(9)
43mi from Marion · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
**Waterfall Paradise on Paw Paw** Welcome to our self-proclaimed nature sanctuary—a peaceful retreat. Forest bathing walks, meditation by water features, wildlife observation, stargazing nights, nature photography, butterfly watching, stream wading, waterfall exploration We raise No animals for food, & there is No hunting, & No fishing allowed. **The Setting** Enjoy a beautiful, bold creek and a magnificent waterfall just a 5-minute walk from your campsite (simply follow the creek upstream). Our well-spaced, private creekside sites are perfect for those seeking tranquility, with the soothing sound of rushing water as your constant companion. **Location** - 13 minutes to downtown Marshall - 10 minutes to Ingles (grocery & gas) - 40 minutes to downtown Asheville *Arrival & Check-in:* - Arrive at least 2 hours before dusk—there are no night lights on the property - No onsite check-in - Enter from Lower Paw Paw Road, follow the driveway past the barns and shipping container, cross the bridge, continue straight, curve right at the swing bench, and look for parking/unloading signs near Beaver Beach *Quiet Hours:* 9 PM - 9 AM *Fire Guidelines* - Bring your own firewood - Fires ONLY in designated fire pits - Leave fire pits as clean (or cleaner) than you found them - No burning of trash. (don't burn trash in Fire Pit) - Observe Fire Bans if in effect. *Waste & Sanitation:* - Pack out all trash - Bring camp toilet supplies for bathroom needs - **Do NOT dig holes or bury waste** (human or pet) - If bringing dogs, you must pick up and pack out all dog waste *Additional Rules:* - No fireworks - Dogs MUST be cleaned up after - Do Not remove rocks from property - No fishing **You're in for a real treat—the creek and waterfall are EPIC. Enjoy!**
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$50
 / night
Starlite Trailer Lodge

9. Starlite Trailer Lodge

30mi from Marion
Discover the unique charm of our premier LGBTQ+ Campground and Tiny Home Community, where inclusivity and nature come together in perfect harmony. Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of North Carolina, this welcoming haven invites everyone to embrace their true selves while enjoying the great outdoors. At our campground, you can escape the pressures of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. With ample acreage, our community offers plenty of privacy, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with both the environment and yourself. Explore nearby natural features, including serene swimming holes and scenic hiking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the stunning surroundings, you'll find a variety of local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Make Starlite Campground your next destination and experience the joy of being part of a vibrant, accepting community while surrounded by the beauty of North Carolina.
Mount Mitchell State Park

10. Mount Mitchell State Park

95%
(11)
State park 16mi from Marion · 9 sites
Sweeping views and challenging hikes define North Carolina’s first state park.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
South Mountains State Park

11. South Mountains State Park

100%
(3)
State park 19mi from Marion · 86 sites
In fall 2016, 97 park staff worked 3,700+ hours over three weeks fighting the Chestnut Nob fire.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Grandfather Mountain State Park

12. Grandfather Mountain State Park

100%
(7)
State park 33mi from Marion · 1 site
This park has sweeping views, challenging trails, and a mile-high swinging bridge.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Cherokee National Forest

13. Cherokee National Forest

96%
(49)
National forest 52mi from Marion · 625 sites
Follow us to Tennessee and dive into the grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest! It’s filled to the brim with scenic forested trails, rushing rivers, and rainbow trout. During the day you can go rafting, and at night you can bask yourself in moonshine (of various sorts) and brush up on your constellations. If you are in pursuit of some Appalachian Mountain bliss, this is the right place to start. Don’t forget your camera, you're going to want to show these vistas off!
Wilderness Cove Campground

14. Wilderness Cove Campground

33mi from Marion
Wilderness Cove Campground stands out as a unique destination where the refreshing embrace of cool mountain water meets the thrill of outdoor adventure. On a hot summer day, there's nothing quite like escaping the heat and immersing yourself in the exhilarating experience of the Green River, which offers a perfect blend of serene floating and exciting whitewater rapids. This campground serves as an ideal base for exploring the stunning Green River Gamelands, providing a variety of accommodations to suit every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking a luxurious glamping experience, a cozy tiny home, a rustic cabin, or a primitive campsite, Wilderness Cove has you covered. For those looking for a more private retreat, a single-family vacation rental is also available. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities designed to enhance their stay, including water sport rentals, electric vehicle charging stations, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Each site features private grills for your convenience, and during the season, you can savor delicious meals from the on-site food truck. Additionally, the fully stocked camp store ensures you have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Reconnect with nature and create lasting memories at Wilderness Cove Campground, where adventure and relaxation await.
Elk Knob State Park

15. Elk Knob State Park

100%
(2)
State park 48mi from Marion · 13 sites
Elk Knob State Park: A Haven for Hikers and Nature Lovers.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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The best beach camping near Marion guide

Where to go

Lake James State Park

Northeast of Marion on the border of Pisgah National Forest, Lake James State Park features sandy beaches, rugged forestry, and two on-site campgrounds. Lake James’ campgrounds offer tent-only accommodations with backpacking areas and paddle-in campsites. All frontcountry campsites include a firepit, picnic table, and 12x12 tent pad with access to potable water faucets, toilets, and hot showers. After a night in nature, check out the park’s boat rentals for a day out on the water or hike along Mill's Creek Trail for Blue Ridge Mountain views.

Pisgah National Forest

Less than an hour from Marion, forested peaks, rivers, and waterfalls await in Pisgah National Forest. The forest maintains multiple campgrounds, cabin rentals, dispersed districts, and horse-friendly campsites, many of which include full hookups, drinking water, dump stations, and showers. Pisgah is also home to over 200 waterfalls, Blue Ridge Mountains, and gem and mining caves in Emerald Village, where visitors can take a unique black-light tour of the cavernous depths. Campers can also consider the rugged terrain and valleys of Linville Gorge Wilderness area for more challenging trails and mountain climbing.

South Mountains State Park

South Mountains State Park has two access points for campers: Clever Creek and Jacob Fork. As the largest state park in North Carolina, South Mountains is renowned for its 18-mile mountain-bike loop, an 80-ft waterfall, and 40 miles of hiking trails reaching elevations up to 3,000 feet. On-site camping facilities for tents, RVs, trailers, and horses are available at the Jacob Fork access. All campsites come with firepits, picnic tables, and access to showers—a few provide electric hookups, as well.

When to go

Marion’s warm summers and mild winters attract campers year-round. With sun-filled summer skies and temperatures reaching the mid 80s to low 90s, campers can spend warm days by the beach and out on the water from late June to early September. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing overnight, making cold-weather camping gear essential for winter camping.