The best forest glamping near Morganton, North Carolina

Camp in the Eastern Appalachian Mountain foothills around Morganton to become immersed in the nature of North Carolina. Tent and RV campers can find multiple riverside campgrounds right next to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and bike, hike, or paddle into the backcountry from their campsite. Catawba River flows west through the city toward Lake James State Park, where shoreline camping, swimming, and fishing are popular in summer. Winter travelers can try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing while backpacking in Elk Knob State Park, then warm up at a cozy cabin rental back in town.

99% (4.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Morganton

5. Roan Mountain State Park

97%

(15)

141 sites · Roan Mountain, Tennessee

A forested setting for hiking and wildlife watching, Roan Mountain is a Tennessee gem.

20 sites · Kings Mountain, North Carolina

Trails link two mountains at this North Carolina park.

Toilets

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Yurt At Lake James And Fonta Flora

95%

(39)

7.2mi from Morganton · 2 sites · Lodging

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.

Hemlock Hill Hideaway

91%

(11)

35mi from Morganton · 1 site · Lodging

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Hemlock Hill Hideaway - a unique glamping experience while being minutes from Boone city limits!! A perfect place to relax and enjoy the trees! The treehouse is approximately 10'x10'. There is a loft consisting of a brand new foam full-size mattress while facing a clear semi-see-through roof. A futon sits below it. The bathroom consists of a portable toilet and sink in a tent off the treehouse. A shower station sits on the other side of the treehouse. Although there is no plumbing, both have water. (You only need to bring drinking water for yourselves.) There is electricity and WiFi. There is a cooler and an electric kettle available for you to use. Outside of the treehouse, there is a fire pit, a grill, a hammock, and a slide - plenty to do while relaxing in nature! Please bring blankets/sleeping bags and pillows to sleep. (Both the foam mattress and the futon will have freshly laundered sheets.) If you plan to use the grill, please bring your own charcoal. Grilling utensils are provided. Firewood is provided for the fire pit. Although smoking is allowed on the premises, we ask that you do not smoke inside the treehouse. If you decide to smoke, please clean up after yourselves. Checking out is easy! We ask that you throw away your trash & recycles and return the key to the lockbox. We take care of the rest! There is no need to refill the water or take the sheets off of the mattresses. The hideaway is behind our backyard so you may see/hear us from time to time. There may be a cat or a dog running around although we find that they do not go out there as much without us. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask. Thank you!

The Waldhaus Resort

99%

(177)

40mi from Morganton · 5 sites · Lodging

Waldhaus Resort is a special place surrounded by the Pisgah National Forrest. Pure nature close to a thriving metropolitan area. We offer the Sawmill and the Summit!I have been an engineer, corporate executive and world traveler all my life. Born and raised in Switzerland I speak German, French, English and a little Spanish. My passion is the outdoors, hunting, fishing and cooking . My other calling is to entertain people which share the same passions. That’s why I created the Waldhaus resort.During the past years, the Sawmill has become my favorite place to spend quality time in what I call "Cabin Living" which I love so much. Nearly every day there is a small challenge, nothing comes easy, but all the coziness and comfort is there.  The water is supplied by a spring above the mill. Electricity is generated by solar technology and a generator. All refrigeration and cooking appliances are propane; and so is the basic heat (propane again) - and a very old Jotul wood stove will do the rest. I sleep a lot on the day bed in the living room so the Sawmill can be comfortably rented for up to 4 guests. The outhouse is a thing of the past, just recently I installed a compositing toilet besides the bedroom.We also offer The Summit which is a high elevation, 2-story cabin surrounded by national forest which has evolved into an off-grid living and play space located at nearly 3300 feet elevation on a 1/2 acre flat with an incredible view. There are very private old forest service trails leading directly into the Pisgah National Forest. 

Mountain Farm Camping & Glamping

100%

(51)

33mi from Morganton · 37 sites · Tents, Lodging

Nestled in North Carolina's Brushy Mountains, Growing Faith Farms & Retreat offers a tranquil escape from modern life, just 90 minutes from Charlotte. Perched atop the mountain, our retreat overlooks vast stretches of mountaintops, rolling hills, and verdant landscapes. Here, we cultivate more than just crops; we nurture a profound sense of tranquility and community. Our space is designed to encourage guests to pause, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the beauty and simplicity of nature. Our campsites provide a variety of camping options, from predefined sites to walk-in spots throughout our expansive 200-acre mountain. You can choose to camp by the creek, in a sunny field, or deep in the woods. In 2024, we introduced our private Shower House, featuring three fully equipped bathrooms with showers, sinks, and toilets, plus heating and air conditioning. We also offer pre-furnished bell tents, camping platforms, and at site water and electricity (select sites) for your convenience. If you want to immerse yourself in outdoor camping without sacrificing the comforts of home, our glamping tent features a queen-size bed with linens, as well as a twin bed that converts into a second bed for added convenience. Stay cozy with a heated indoor wood stove, and enjoy a kitchen table, dresser, and chair for your convenience. You'll also have access to a private bathroom complete with a fully functioning toilet, indoor/outdoor hot shower, and sink. Outside, a private covered kitchen awaits, equipped with a kitchen sink, cooler, pots and pans and cooking utensils. Relax in your lounge chairs on the porch and take in the views, and indulge in outdoor cooking with a gas grill, picnic table, and outdoor fire pit area. During your stay at our farm, guests can unwind amidst natural surroundings, visit with our animals, enjoy on farm activities and explore the wide variety of local attractions that the surrounding area has to offer. Just 30 minutes west, you’ll find the Blue Ridge Parkway. Kerr Scott Lake is only 10 minutes away, where you can swim, rent kayaks and pontoon boats, fish, or enjoy mountain biking and hiking on extensive trails. Prayer Mountain is about 2 miles up the road. To the east, explore several wineries and a local moonshine distillery. A half-hour away, visit the Amish community with shops like Shiloh Bakery and General Store (closed Sundays and Mondays). For fantastic hiking, head northeast to Stone Mountain, about 45 minutes away, which also features a renovated homestead. To the south, Rocky Face Park offers hiking and rock climbing, while Emerald Hollow Mine allows you to search for and keep precious stones. There are always concerts, movies and festivals happening in the area too for entertainment. Check the activities section below for more details!

Public campgrounds near Morganton

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(3)

South Mountains Campground

9.2mi from Morganton · 86 sites · Tents, RVs · in South Mountains State Park

Hiking down Roan mountain on foggy morning.

97%

(15)

Roan Mountain Campground

37mi from Morganton · 141 sites · Tents, RVs · in Roan Mountain State Park

100%

(3)

Crowders Mountain Campground

43mi from Morganton · 20 sites · in Crowders Mountain State Park

93%

(7)

Lake Norman Campground

43mi from Morganton · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Norman State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Ian

2 weeks ago

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.

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William

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Glamping At Fall Creek Retreats

The views were gorgeous and Paul was very helpful with any questions we had!

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Jordan

3 weeks ago

3 nights at Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

Super unique little yurt camp out in the NC Blue Ridge. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for an easy glamping experience that's a very affordable way to stay in the area really nearby Little Switzerland, Linville, Grandfather mountain, etc..The property itself still feels remote as it is situated on the side of a nearby mountain. That being said, be prepared to drive carefully on the property, especially if you have a smaller car, as the drive is a bit rugged. Very doable even in our little hybrid 2 seater, but take your time in inclement weather (even in early December, we still had a lovely time, and enjoyed the tranquility). Would totally return if we come back through the area!

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Kasia and Devin

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

We traveled as a family of 4 and two dogs and we had a wonderful time at Ocean Blue cabin. Exceptional host and cabin was amazing. We had everything and more to has such a great time. Hiking trail on the property was perfect for our young kids. We took it twice and met friendly cows on top of the hill. Hot tub was a perfect spot for after hike and evening watching the stars! We will definitely come back and bring friends with us!

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Brittany

November 2025

1 night at Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens

The Artist Studio was the perfect spot to stay on a solo road trip from Eastern Virginia to Nashville. The property was stunning and the studio was clean & cozy. Outstanding location 10 min from downtown Johnson City. The host, Pat, left delicious baked goods in the fridge of the studio. My highlight of the stay was enjoying a fresh baked good & coffee in the sun room overlooking the pond. Highly recommend!

CASSANDRA

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

My family and I loved this glamping experience! The yurt was spacious and cozy, and the beds were super comfortable and it was easy to find/navigate to. The space had all the amenities and supplies you need on site, which made packing a breeze. We enjoyed sitting around the fire and stargazing, the mountain views from the deck, and playing the games provided. Would definitely recommend this experience!

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.

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Michael

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Outercamp, Blue Ridge Falls Retreat

Evan’s place is perfect. It represents Hipcamp and what it was and is supposed to be. A unique glamping experience with everything you need. It’s also near the parkway so the stars and views are amazing

Jennifer

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Twilight Yurt

The yurt was very cozy and comfy!! Linens were so soft. Best nights sleep I have had in a long time!!

T

Tyler

November 2025

Group trip

3 nights at TangleWood Creekside Campsites

This was the perfect spot for us. A group of long time friends wanting to spend time together. Have some comforts that make it easier then camping but still enjoy the outside was a perfect fit. The tent was incredible and the location was secluded. Definitely hope to make it back here in the future.

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William

November 2025

Group trip

3 nights at TangleWood Creekside Campsites

Amazing campsite! 10/10 and Blair was an amazing host. Clean bathroom. Tent was awesome as well. Beautiful location. We will be making this a yearly camping trip.

Daniel

November 2025

Group trip

3 nights at TangleWood Creekside Campsites

Blair was an exceptional host. He takes great care of his guests and responded to things very promptly. He brought up a second solar generator for us because the first wasn't fully charged and got us tiki torch oil when we needed it. The property is beautiful and I definitely plan on going back. The hilltop safari tent is a great spot and I highly recommend it. The tent was in immaculate shape and ready for us to have a great weekend.

Your dome sits secluded at the top of a hill with amazing views.

L

Larry

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Bee Our Guest

This is a really amazing spot. Everything was perfect, and the location is very private; there is no one else anywhere close to the dome, but it is still only a short drive into town. Jeremy was super communicative and I would definitely stay here again.

J

JEREMY

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

My wife and I loved staying in the Green cabin. The fire pit and hot tub were the best. The cabin was great. The bed was comfortable. The shower had good hot water. The first night we made steaks over a campfire with baked potatoes from the air fryer. The second night we made hot dogs and roasted marshmallows on the campfire. It was a beautiful drive from Knoxville. It was about as close to perfect as you can get. Thank you for the firewood, and thank you for having us.

C

Christy Lynn

November 2025

Weekend Trip to TangleWood Creekside Campsites

We loved our visit and will very likely return! The safari tent was exactly as described, and it made for an easy and relaxing overnight after a big hiking day. Really enjoyed the creekside spot, winding-down around the fire-pit and the Adirondack chairs on the deck. Other campers were around but were no bother. The peaceful sound of the creek reduced any noise, plus wooden dividers around sites increased privacy. Thank you Blair for hosting us!

M

Megan

November 2025

Weekend Trip to TangleWood Creekside Campsites

Amazing campsite. The glamping tents were spacious, clean, and the beds were so comfy! The sites themselves were spacious with a picnic table and fire ring. Definitely would stay again.

C

Chris

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to TangleWood Creekside Campsites

Great spot for a fun weekend! Our kids loved running around and playing in the creek. Facilities were clean and well maintained. Also, it was a good jump off location for hikes and other activities in the region.

The best campsites for under $50 near Morganton

A Frame Cabin in East Tennessee

94%

(16)

39mi from Morganton · 1 site · Lodging

Adorable A-Frame cabin in Butler, TN. Cabin has wifi, tv, twin bunk bed on top and Queen bed underneath. Mini fridge and microwave. Cute front porch and perfect for overnight stays or a mini weekend away. Bath house has his/her toilets and his/her showers down a quick trail. Lots of trails, bring your horses, dirt bikes or ATVs. 30 minutes from Boone, 30 minutes from Beech Mountain, Roan Mountain, 10 minutes to Lake Watauga. Enjoy the mountains of East Tennessee and GET OUTSIDE!!

Bear Creek Mountain Camping

96%

(13)

28mi from Morganton · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging

Welcome to Bear Creek Mountain Camping, where nature's beauty meets outdoor adventure! Nestled on the mountainside, our campground offers the perfect retreat for those seeking both serenity and excitement amidst the breathtaking beauty of the wilderness. At Bear Creek, we pride ourselves on offering an authentic mountain camping experience. Bring your own tent and supplies, and rent a designated site, or for a deeper immersion in nature, choose a spot in the woods. Whichever option you prefer, we are committed to ensuring you have a memorable camping experience from start to finish. Embark on invigorating hikes through lush forest trails, where the air is crisp and the scenery breathtaking. For those seeking aquatic excitement, tubing down the nearby Toe River promises an unforgettable experience, while fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines into pristine waters teeming with trout. As the day transitions to night, gather around the fire pit to roast marshmallows and share stories under the twinkling stars. The tranquil mountain backdrop sets the stage for moments of connection and relaxation with loved ones. But the adventure doesn't end there. Venture into the surrounding area and discover a wealth of activities, from gem finding expeditions to browsing charming art and antique shops showcasing local talent. Saddle up for a scenic horseback ride at a local ranch, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. Skiing slopes are about a 45–60-minute drive in the winter. Plus, don't miss out on the Penland School of Craft, a national craft education center dedicated to the creative life, located just 2.8 miles away—a mere 8 minutes from our doorstep! Our property boasts its own spring-fed water source, providing crisp, refreshing hydration throughout your stay. And for the ultimate connection with nature, our outdoor shower offers a revitalizing experience from May to November. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Bear Creek Mountain Camping. Your next adventure awaits amidst the beauty of the mountainside. Site Rules: Before reserving, please ensure that you read all our site rules and are willing to 100% comply with them.

Dolly The Retro Camper

48mi from Morganton · 1 site · Lodging

Dolly is a 1968 retro camper trailer that has been restored to meet the needs of our visiting guests. Located close to Asheville, Hendersonville, Brevard (home to waterfalls and mountain bike trails), the Asheville airport, Biltmore Estate and all the best breweries, restaurants and shops that WNC has to offer!

Pisgah Roots Yome

93%

(3)

45mi from Morganton · 1 site · Lodging

Want to GLAMP without all the hassle? Asheville area’s one-of-a-kind, YEAR-ROUND-ALL-INCLUSIVE LUXURY and MODERN GLAMPING deck will do just that! This indoor–outdoor property has everything you need for the perfect glamping experience. MAXIUM of 6 guests inside the deck, but you can bring a tent and add extra guests for a one-time fee in the “Extras” section at checkout. Our unique open-air glamping deck features a fully functional kitchen with everything you need to cook comfortably. The kitchen includes hot water at the sink, an under-counter refrigerator and freezer, a dishwasher, induction cooktop, air fryer/toaster oven, and all your coffee and tea essentials. There’s also an outdoor grill area for your BBQ nights. An EV charger is included. The heated bathroom includes a large modern shower, bathroom vanity with a lighted mirror, toilet, and fresh towels. Sleeping arrangements include two separate lofts accessible by angled ladders. One loft has luxurious king bed and the other loft has two twin beds, all with premium linens. The spacious sectional on the main floor can also be used for sleeping, or you can unfold the comfortable queen floor bed. A smart TV is mounted inside the deck for your entertainment. Bringing friends or extra kiddos? No problem! There’s an outdoor tent pad area available for additional guests. Can I get a hot tub? Yes, you can! We’ve added a large private hot tub on the lower side of the deck, complete with a heater for those chilly fall and winter nights. We will be adding a polar plunge area by the branch for guests who want to cool off in style. Enjoy evenings by the outdoor fire pit, surrounded by nature and the soothing trickling sounds of the branch. Please note: The glamping deck sits on a shared driveway with neighbor traffic in the early morning and after school hours. While we love animals, this site is pet-free. Neighbors may occasionally walk their pets along the driveway in the afternoon or evening. We provide firewood, fresh-ground coffee and creamer, tea, cooking spices, all cookware, plates, bowls, and linens for your stay. Please bring your own tent if you’re hosting extra guests. We hope you’ll enjoy your luxury glamping experience and make lasting memories at our one-of-a-kind mountain retreat!

The best dog-friendly campsites near Morganton

Rooster Ridge Cabin

100%

(9)

41mi from Morganton · 2 sites · Lodging

Rooster Ridge cabin is 12 years old. I had it built as a vacation rental, it's my most cozy and comfortable cabin. Centrally located between Chimney Rock and Hendersonville, NC. A 4 wheel drive is not necessary.Learn more about this land: Sensational Cabin Get Away. Looking for a great and affordable getaway in North Carolina? Look no further, this is it! The cabin at 'Rooster Ridge' is a  two bedroom, two bath retreat, located mid-way between Hendersonville and Lake Lure NC. Convenient to downtown, Chimney Rock, Lake Lure and Asheville this is the best of both worlds. A private deck off the master bedroom, features a relaxing hot tub spa for your enjoyment. The rustic fireplace and comfortable living area are perfect for movie nights in front of the 42'' flat screen tv. The Cabin at 'Rooster Ridge' is cozy, clean and waiting for you.

35mi from Morganton · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging

Greener Acres minutes from Roan Mountain State Park and the Appalachian Trail. Use Greener Acres campsite as your jumping-off point for fun nearby activities or relax on our 40 acre mountainside property and watch for meteor showers in the clear night sky! Within 5 minutes, you can be at Roan Mountain State Park or drive 5-10 minutes to hike the Appalachian Trail. Head up to Carvers Gap just below Roan Mountain High Knob where you can hop out and enjoy a short walk to a scenic view of both the TN and NC mountains or visit the famous Rhododendron Gardens in season. Campsite also boasts energizing, private hike up to Heaton Ridge. Want to spend the day kayaking or canoeing? Head to Wilbur Lake, about a 30 minute drive away from our campsite. Exploring Laura Falls is only a 20 minute drive away. Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock, and Grandfather Mountain in N.C. are about 30-45 minutes away. The Smokey Mountains, Gatlinburg, and Dollywood are about a 2 hour drive through amazing mountain views. The annual Rhododendron Festival takes place minutes away. Supplies can be found at the state park camp store or in town at Redi-Mart or Dollar General. Water and showers are down by barn. A Gator is available for the duration of your stay. Please arrive before sundown so we can meet you the first time you stay to show you the way and make sure you are comfortable driving Gator. We will have you follow us up to the campsite and from there you can come and go and just leave the Gator by your car near the barn when you are out and about and when checking out. A small Bluetti power charging station will be available in the tent (for light charging of cell phones, other) which can be recharged by the barn if used heavily. A Coleman stove with a small propane tank, pots, a frying pan and utensils is also included in the site. Another small propane tank is provided for the radiator in the tent.

Nearby public parks

Browse national and state parks near Morganton

100%

(3)

South Mountains State Park

Salem, North Carolina

97%

(15)

Roan Mountain State Park

Roan Mountain, Tennessee

100%

(3)

Crowders Mountain State Park

Kings Mountain, North Carolina

93%

(7)

Lake Norman State Park

Troutman, North Carolina

More campsites near Morganton

Catawba Falls Campground

31mi from Morganton · 10 sites

Catawba Falls Campground stands out as a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque mountains of Western North Carolina, specifically in the charming town of Old Fort. This unique campground offers a serene escape, surrounded by nature's beauty and the soothing sounds of a nearby flowing river, perfect for cooling off on warm days. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a playground for the kids and a camp store where you can grab a fresh cup of coffee. The campground serves as an ideal base for exploring the region's major attractions, such as Little Switzerland, the Mountain Gateway Museum, and the stunning Lake James Park. Open from March 15th to November 30th, Catawba Falls Campground invites you to embark on your next North Carolina adventure. Experience the tranquility and excitement that awaits you in this beautiful setting. Book your spot today and create unforgettable memories!

Wilderness Cove Campground

47mi from Morganton · 12 sites

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.

Starlite Trailer Lodge

21mi from Morganton · 6 sites

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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best forest glamping near Morganton guide

Where to go

Elk Knob State Park

Just over an hour outside Morganton, Elk Knob State Park offers primitive camping opportunities in the backcountry. Backpack 1-2 miles in for an overnight stay, and register your visit in the box at the trailhead. Then, set up at a campsite next to New River streams. Or take a daytrip and hike 5.5 miles up to the Elk Knob overlook to see panoramic views of North Carolina’s high country. Winter campers can try snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on a mile of ungroomed trail in Elk Knob, as well.

Stone Mountain State Park

Stone Mountain, a 600-foot granite dome and National Natural Landmark, is the chief attraction at Stone Mountain State Park. Here, campers can explore waterfalls and creeks, spend the day rock climbing, or learn the history of the area at the restored 19th-century Hutchinson Homestead farm at the base of Stone Mountain. Some park campsites are ADA-accessible with hot showers, firepits, and 50-amp hookups. There are also hike-in primitive campsites available. Many nearby campgrounds are also close to horseback riding trails and trout fishing streams.

Lake James State Park

Just a half an hour west of Morganton along the Catawba River, Lake James State Park offers shoreline camping along Paddys Creek or Catawba River streams. Campers can boat and fish in Lake James waters, or take canoes and kayaks to primitive paddle-in campsites. Prepare for bears in some areas of the park. Most campsites in the park have firepits and picnic tables, and potable water is available throughout the park.

When to go

Morganton has hot, humid summers that start in May and last until mid-September. Average daily temps are generally above 80°F, and water sports at nearby campgrounds are popular during these months. Most rainfall happens during summer, as well—prepare for wetter days and set up at campsites with paved pads or rain covers. In the winters, moderate snowfall between December and March is perfect for mountain snow sports. An average winter temperature of 58°F makes skiing and snowshoeing enjoyable for campers who visit this time of year.