Camping near Rutherfordton

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Looking for the best camping near Rutherfordton? The area features dozens of top-rated campgrounds and places to park your RV for the night, many within a short distance of North Carolina hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Whether you want a pet-friendly campsite or a family cabin rental with wifi, check out campsite photos, tips, and reviews from other outdoor enthusiasts to plan your next camping trip near Rutherfordton.

97% (11.5K) 2,904 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Rutherfordton

Lakeside Retreat

1. Lakeside Retreat

98%
(66)
7.8mi from Rutherfordton · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Lakeside RV Retreat, where relaxation meets convenience in the heart of natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or a convenient stop-over during your camping travels, our lakeside location offers the perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility. Nestled amidst 40 acres of woods and open fields, our retreat provides a secluded atmosphere where you can unwind and recharge. Yet, you're never far from local restaurants and conveniences, ensuring that all your needs are met while enjoying the serenity of the lake-side setting. As our guest at Lakeside RV Retreat, you'll have exclusive access to free catch-and-release fishing in our well-stocked lake. Cast your line and reel in bass, catfish, and brim, all while enjoying the scenic beauty that surrounds you. Whether you're a seasoned angler or simply looking to relax by the water's edge, our lake offers a tranquil escape where you can connect with nature and create lasting memories. Join us at Lakeside RV Retreat for a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of natural splendor.
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Campfires
Bear's Woods at Camp Creek

2. Bear's Woods at Camp Creek

98%
(20)
8.6mi from Rutherfordton · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape and get away to the mountains and enjoy the peace and quiet as you camp under the stars. Enjoy a gorgeous canopy of trees, encompassed by all the sounds of nature. If you're lucky, you may even see some of the wildlife that frequents our property (deer, bears, turkeys, birds, butterflies, and more). Pack your outdoor water shoes and dip your toes in the tranquil running stream that runs across the center of the property. Navigate the natural path through the property to explore the 6+ acres as well as the stream. Closed toes shoes and/or hiking boots are recommended. Whether you prefer camping, glamping, or RVing, Bear's Woods at Camp Creek is the perfect escape from reality that you've been longing for! The campsite offers 6 comfortable, new Adirondack chairs with built-in drink holders, a large metal firepit with moveable grill, firewood, and outdoor restroom with portable toilet and sink. Toilet paper and soap included. The campsite is a quick drive from downtown Rutherfordton which boasts some great restaurants, local shops, ice cream & amp; coffee parlor, playgrounds and more. Within 25-30 minutes of grocery stores, Harbor Freight, Lowes, Rural King, Dunkin Donuts, and more! For those visitors who love to hike and explore State Parks, the campsite is a quick 45 -minute drive to Chimney Rock, an hour to Crowder's Mountain, 40-minutes to Lake Lure, and an hour to Asheville. Come enjoy some time in nature as you visit and camp at Bear's Woods at Camp Creek!
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Camp Serene

3. Camp Serene

98%
(72)
9.1mi from Rutherfordton · 3 sites
LAKE LURE IS OPEN and the lake is back up to full level! This property has been many things through the years, an apple orchard, a water park, and is now a 3 site RV park located in a small rural neighborhood. It is conveniently located off NC State Hwy 64/74A, close to Chimney Rock State Park, Lake Lure, Tryon Equestrian Center, wineries, hiking and more.
Pets
Full hookups
South Mountains State Park

4. South Mountains State Park

100%
(3)
State park 23mi from Rutherfordton · 86 sites
In fall 2016, 97 park staff worked 3,700+ hours over three weeks fighting the Chestnut Nob fire.
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Campfires
Lake James State Park

5. Lake James State Park

94%
(8)
State park 25mi from Rutherfordton · 20 sites
Swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up mountain views at this NC state park.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Emberglow Outdoor Resort

6. Emberglow Outdoor Resort

100%
(64)
9.5mi from Rutherfordton · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Come enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends in the rolling hills of Western North Carolina at Emberglow Outdoor Resort. We’ve assembled one-of-a-kind lodging options on 72 acres in a beautiful private valley, complete with spring-fed creeks and a night sky of a billion stars. We’re conveniently situated between Asheville, Charlotte, Greenville, and Columbia. Get a closer look at the beautiful Emberglow Outdoor Resort property in our photo galleries and book now to experience it for yourself. An elevated camping experience nestled in the Blue Ridge Foothills of Western NC. A CONVENIENT ESCAPE Located near Lake Lure, a less than 2-hour drive from Charlotte, Greenville, Columbia, and Asheville, we offer our guests a convenient escape from the commotion of the weekly grind. UNIQUE LODGING OPTIONS Pick your unique lodging experience or bring your own. Yurts, AirStreams, Treehouses, and more are available for rent or park your RV or pitch a tent in one of our beautiful campsites. OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS There are endless outdoor activities and attractions in nearby Lake Lure, or you can take advantage of our resort-quality amenities without ever leaving the property. At Emberglow, you can play outside on your own terms, limit your travel time, and disconnect from the daily hamster wheel. Our mission is to deliver to our guests an exceptional place to enjoy the great outdoors with a variety of comfortable lodging options and unique amenities. Book your stay today! EXPLORE OUR Unique Lodging Choose from more than 20 memorable lodging options or set up your own in one of our fully-equipped RV or tent sites, all with access to our resort-quality amenities. • Vintage Campers • Treehouses • Tiny Homes • Yurts • Glamping Pods • Safari Tent • Primitive Tree Houses • RV Rental Trailers • RV Sites • Primitive Tent Sites ON-SITE AMENITIES A resort-quality pool awaits you to kick your feet up. Take on the family in sand volleyball or hit the hiking trails. Emberglow’s premium on-site amenities are just the start of your vacation possibilities. • Resort Quality Pool • Hiking/Biking Trails • Dog Park • Pedal Kart Rentals • Free Wifi • The Jump Pad • Sand Volleyball • Bicycle Rentals (Adult + Youth Sizes) • Sport Fields • Community Fire Pit • GaGa Ball Pit • Playground
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Toilets
Full hookups
Green Willow Farm

7. Green Willow Farm

98%
(133)
10mi from Rutherfordton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
I moved here from Colorado just to live on a farm. My neighbor's family has owned much of the land around here since the Revolutionary War. My home is the site of their original homestead. They grow watermelons on their acreage surrounding my farm, while I am growing blueberries. The peace and serenity here is something to be experienced!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Hinsdale Farm-Mountain View Oasis

8. Hinsdale Farm-Mountain View Oasis

100%
(65)
10mi from Rutherfordton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Hinsdale Farm is a beautiful getaway seated amongst the rolling terraces in the foothills of western North Carolina. Minutes away from Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), multiple world class vineyards, and amazing hiking/biking. The camping area is open pasture overlooking a glorious view of the Blue Ridge Mountains alongside Polk County's scenic route of Coxe Rd.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Green River Getaway

9. Green River Getaway

100%
(11)
11mi from Rutherfordton · 1 site · Tent, RV
If you’re looking for accessible and convenient camping in the foothills, bring your camper/RV/tent to Green River Getaway! Not your typical campsite 🏕️-with only 1 other camp site beside you-you’ll be Surrounded by nature🌳🦌 yet convenient to shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Your site is walking distance (.5mi) from the Green River and only: 8 miles from Tryon International Equestrian Center 🐎, 20 minutes from Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, 30 minutes from Hendersonville, and 1 hour from Asheville. If you’re looking for outdoor fun, there are many local hiking trails 🥾, horseback 🐴 riding barns, and local farms 🎃🍎🍑🫐 and vineyards🍷🍷. ***Following Hurricane Helene 🌀, some trails remain closed and the river access near our campsite is quite messy. We can advise you on available hikes, sightseeing, and water activities to help make your stay enjoyable. ***If you have T-mobile service, there is little/no reception at the site. You can get it by driving up the hill in either direction***
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Pisgah National Forest

10. Pisgah National Forest

97%
(158)
National forest 38mi from Rutherfordton · 251 sites
One of Pisgah's gems is Richland Balsam, the highest peak on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,410 feet.
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Campfires
Mount Mitchell State Park

11. Mount Mitchell State Park

95%
(11)
State park 32mi from Rutherfordton · 9 sites
Sweeping views and challenging hikes define North Carolina’s first state park.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Kings Mountain National Military Park

12. Kings Mountain National Military Park

100%
(1)
National park 36mi from Rutherfordton · 116 sites
Discover the historic battleground of Kings Mountain National Military Park.
Campfires
Picnic table
Croft State Park

13. Croft State Park

100%
(2)
State park 34mi from Rutherfordton · 94 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Croft State Park's trails and lakes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cherry Mtn. Camp

14. Cherry Mtn. Camp

100%
(10)
13mi from Rutherfordton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Cherry Mtn. Camp, nestled in the picturesque foothills of Rutherford County, at the base of Cherry Mountain and South Mountain. Conveniently positioned between Asheville and Charlotte, our location offers easy access to a multitude of attractions, including Lake Lure, Chimney Rock State Park, South Mountain State Park, and the Tryon International Equestrian Center, all within a 40-minute drive. Additionally, we're just minutes away from the Yogi Jelly Stone Water Park and Cherry Bounce Adventure ATV Riding Park. Situated off the Bostic Sunshine Hwy, our campground provides a variety of camping options to suit your preferences. Choose from primitive campsites nestled in wooded areas or open field atmospheres. For added convenience, we offer a 30ft gravel camping pad equipped with 30 amp power, water, and sewer hookups, along with a gas fire pit and a 10x10 wooden deck. Accessing your campsite is a breeze with our paved drive. Primitive camping options include BYOE (Bring Your Own Equipment), with a porta-potty conveniently located near wooded area campsites. Wooded area sites feature a tent camping pad and a fire pit ring, while open field sites offer a fire pit ring without a camping pad. Explore the natural beauty of our 8-acre property at your own pace, taking in the serene landscape and peaceful surroundings. As we're located near the ATV riding park, accessing it from our property is convenient. Please inform us if you plan to visit the riding park, and we'll gladly show you the way through the back of our property. Relax, unwind, and enjoy a memorable getaway at Cherry Mtn. Camp.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Dogpatch Farms

15. Dogpatch Farms

100%
(10)
14mi from Rutherfordton · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Dogpatch Farms is a farm offering Broad River access( canoe portage under construction but usable) campsites with the goal of making camping affordable again. We aren’t shooting for fancy or flashy just a clean quiet spaces and friendly safe environment where a person or group can enjoy nature without breaking the bank. We have one space for a RV/Camper with power water and septic dump ( down by the Barndo) and only a few with power and water only ( up by the well house)($60 and $40 per night respectively). Primitive areas vary from hillside, river side and open field all of which have an indoor toilet access and outside ( soon inside too) shower. Barndo is an active construction zone as we turn it into a full facility with cooking and laundry benefits so don’t expect fancy but that’s not our goal. Expect to see a sweet dog, a goat and probably a chicken ( and even enjoying a free egg) and definitely a tractor. Have a good time but I don’t tolerate stupid and you are expected to not leave a mess like a true outdoorsman should. There is an of wildlife including beavers, turkeys( roosting in the valley), deer and such to see because of our low impact approach so observe but don’t harass. We hope to become your destination and guide to the great outdoors.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Bigfoot Brook Campground

16. Bigfoot Brook Campground

99%
(34)
14mi from Rutherfordton · 3 sites
If you are looking for peace and tranquility in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this privately owned, primitive campground is a great place for your tent! Nestled in Medford Mountain at about 1200 ft., each creek-side slip has a magnificent view of the 1532 ft. mountaintop. Whether surrounded by spring blossoms or fall foliage, animal and leaf lovers often see turkeys at dawn and deer at dusk. Foxes and bobcats have also been spotted on occasion. It is important to note that bear and coyote roam freely on the adjacent mountaintop, although are rarely seen or heard. Proper wilderness precautions must always be taken while camping. Aside from the flora and fauna, one of the biggest attractions is the star-filled sky. On a clear night, it is imperative to take a break from your private campfire to appreciate the Milky Way. You may also enjoy the meteor showers in August and other celestial events. Not to be outdone, the day sky does not disappoint. If a pop-up shower passes through, a double rainbow is often left in its wake. In the surrounding area, there are many outdoor activities to enjoy during the day. In a half hour or less, you may go horseback riding, ziplining, kayaking, tubing, fishing, hiking, and climbing. Public access to Lake Lure is less than 15 mi. away, but access to a lakeside road with amazing views is only a couple of minutes away. In addition, there is a little-known waterfall about 8 minutes up the street. If spending the day on site, be sure to walk the trail on the opposite side of the creek and hike up the hill for a different view. In addition, badminton, volleyball, ladder ball, cornhole, Yardzee, croquet, bocce, frisbees, footballs, board games and books are available for free rental. Plus, children may enjoy gem mining in the creek (for an additional fee). Of course, everyone can play Slapsquatch on the grounds for free. *Last minute decision? No worries! Check out our equipment package for two. We also sell firewood and rent tents, hammocks and other equipment separately. In addition, some toiletries and basic camping supplies are available for purchase. ***Disclaimer: Bigfoot activity has neither been confirmed nor denied.
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Gold River / camp + cabins

17. Gold River / camp + cabins

97%
(92)
14mi from Rutherfordton · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A former Gold & Gem Panning operation on the Second Broad River, this little slice of paradise was once a part of the United States' first gold rush, in one of the most bustling regions in the early 1800s. Now, a trending campground with 9 glamping cabins, tents spots, and one RV. Recently renovated, you'll find a sparkling clean bath house, community and private fire pits, a covered pavilion, and of course the relaxing river with gold panning equipment available to all guests. Gold River is the perfect base camp for your adventures; with dozens of activities within 30 minutes, you won't be short of entertaining options to choose from. 
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
The Earth Center Camp

18. The Earth Center Camp

95%
(11)
15mi from Rutherfordton · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
25 acres of woods, running creek and pond for fishing and boating. 4 wooded rustic camp-sites and two sites close to Office and Bathhouse with showers and toilet. Some supplies can be purchased at Office including wood for fires. You are also allowed to gather your own while it is available. Walk in campsites, we will four-wheel your gear to you. plenty of parking space on land. Located in the middle of farm land 30 minutes from Marion, Morganton or Rutherfordton. One hour from Asheville, Hickory and Shelby NC. Pets are allowed but must be maintained at all times as not to disturbed other campers. Some campsites offer multiple tent space for larger groups. (contact host for details) The creek that runs the length of the property is called "Hopper's Creek" It runs from Vein Mountain where gold was found. If you like to pan for gold, you can try your luck along our creek bed. Ask for more details when you check in. Cell service is a little sketchy here but we do offer a wifi hot spot for you to stay connected to outside world and a place to charge your phone. If you a motorcyclist you might have come to enjoy the motorcycle mecca of our area. One of the favorite and well known rides is “The Diamondback on NC 226A, starting in Marion NC. This ride is only 22 miles from our camp. There is also The Blue Ridge Parkway and Lake James Loop that includes “The Devil’s Staircase. Make The Earth Center Camp your base. We do offer long term parking for those who have trailered their bikes here. The Earth Center offers guest the opportunity to reserved the entire ground for their private event. Go to "Earth Center Campground and Retreat" to reserved for your group Camp Policy: 1.For your safety our gates are kept locked. Our business hours are 8am to 10pm. No check-ins before 8am or departures after 10pm. During your stay with us ,entries and exits must be coordinated with the office so we can open the gate for you. Please let us know when booking what time we can expect your arrival, If for some reason you need to come or go during non business hours, check with us to make special arrangements. 2. NO illegal drugs or abusive alcohol use. 3. No unleashed pets 4. No nudity 5.. No unattended children/ minors 6. No loud noise after 10pm
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Starlight Hills

19. Starlight Hills

98%
(2568)
15mi from Rutherfordton · 21 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.
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Toilets
Campfires
Adin`s river cabin

20. Adin`s river cabin

96%
(78)
17mi from Rutherfordton · 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.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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