Discover the best forest cabin rentals near Shelby, North Carolina

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Popular camping styles for Shelby

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12 top forest cabins sites near Shelby

98%

(2203)

Starlight Hills

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Bostic, NC

Our Spa is now available for booking! 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 and a Cabin. Glamping and cabin 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.

TangleWood Creekside Campsites

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents170 acres · Marion, NC

A rocky creek winds 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 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.

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Sage Nesbitt Farm

2 sites · Lodging, Tents12 acres · Fairview, NC

Cabin and/or camping spots on a large wooded farm. Secluded, yet only a short drive to Asheville, Black Mountain, Lake Lure, waterfalls and hikes! There are so many fun places to explore whether you are coming to eat and drink or hike, bike or climb. Take an afternoon walk down through the pasture and sit by the creek. Don't mind the chickens that may walk up and ask for a treat. And the pigs may be shy at first, but they warm up fast if you share with them. Build a fire at night, and sit under the stars as you listen to the nocturnal sounds of Appalachia. This tranquil farm stay is made even more revitalizing by the mist on the mountains in the morning as you enjoy coffee from the porch or your campsite.

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Rooster Ridge Cabin

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Hendersonville, NC

Rooster Ridge cabin is seven 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.

Adin`s river cabin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Casar, NC

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.

Sassafras Cottage Off-Grid

1 site · Lodging1 acres · Mill Spring, NC

Would you like to know what off grid living can look like? This is it! Solar electric, wood burning fire place, rain water collection, chic compost toilet. We have it all. The world is too noisy. If you want to relax and get back to basics then this is your place. Come on over, turn off your phone, quit looking at social media, you will not be roughing it. Learn more about this land: Welcome to our cozy handcrafted tiny house. You can experience what off-grid living is like for a weekend or maybe a little bit longer. Located in the foothills of Western North Carolina.

Spacious Skies Bear Den

127 sites · Lodging10 acres · Spruce Pine, NC

Set right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 324.8, among the breathtaking Blue Ridge and Black Mountains and nestled in the Pisgah National Forest, Spacious Skies Bear Den is your mountain adventure destination! While most of our sites are full hook-up, we have water/electric spots for a more rustic camping experience or for our tent campers. We also offer cabins in an array of sizes and with varied amenities, ensuring we have the perfect spot that meets each family or group’s needs. When you arrive at your site or cabin, breathe in the serene beauty of the Pisgah National Forest, of which Spacious Skies Bear Den is a part. Leave your stress behind as you explore 13 miles of wooded hiking trails, some leading to waterfalls on the park grounds. Playgrounds, a rec hall, arcade, basketball, jumping pillow, and a swimming lake with a separate fishing area will keep campers of all ages occupied. A camp store stocked with necessities and treats alike, bathhouses, and laundry on-site all bring the comforts of home to your campsite.

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The Coziest Cabin on Earth!

1 site · Lodging15 acres · Marion, NC

Secluded, private, and oh-so cozy! This will easily become your most favored get-away spot! The cabin is located at the end of a private gravel road with a fish pond and thousands of acres of peaceful wooded mountains at it's doorstep! And yes, there are hiking trails! We built this cabin with you in mind. Everything was custom made by us; from the woodstove rock wall, to the cabinets and outdoor picnic table. You will instantly relax when you walk into this very special place. You will never want to leave! The cabin includes a large front porch with rocking chairs where you will enjoy your warm tea or coffee each morning and evening while overlooking the peaceful pond and woods. There is an outdoor fire ring and picnic table where you can enjoy a campfire, cook on the open flame, and have smore's in the evening. Inside the cabin you will find everything to be incredibly beautiful and spaced to create the coziest atmosphere you've ever enjoyed. There is a wood burning stove indoors that when lit, takes the whole experience to the next level! But you don't have to rely on the woodstove for heat, we've installed a brand new wall unit for heat and air! You also have a DVD player and a television with an assortment of DVDs to choose from. The cabin sleeps 4-5 people comfortably. There is a full size bed that sleeps 2 in the main room of the cabin. There is a loft above that sleeps 2-3 more. A rolling library ladder is how the kids will access the loft area! So fun! The kitchen is complete with a refrigerator, electric stove, oven, microwave, and Keurig coffee maker. A peaceful mood is set by warm-toned sawmill lumber walls, recessed lighting in the ceiling, a kitchen window above the sink that overlooks the side yard campfire area and beautiful woods surrounding the cozy cabin. The bathroom is so nice with a stand-up shower, hand-made oak vanity, and a door to the "star-gazing" porch. Flood lighting lights up the area around the cabin at night so you might spot a deer, fox, or even a bear traveling through or getting a drink of water from the pond. You will instantly relax at the coziest cabin on earth. You deserve a get-away that actually recharges you! This cabin is for the couple or family that just wants to take a much needed break from the real world. Once you get to the cabin, you can brew something warm to drink, sit in the glider rocker and gaze out at nature, build and enjoy a campfire, hike in the peaceful woods, or just take a much needed nap in the quiet of the coziest cabin on earth. We are grateful for you and can't wait for you to come and relax!

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Brex View Cottage

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Hendersonville, NC

This cozy home is tucked away but close to everything! It's on a dirt road shared with our property on 5 acres of heavily wooded land and a small creek with small waterfalls. The house offers a full kitchen/living room/dining room combined and a full bathroom and private bedroom. The front deck overlooks the lower lot and creek. The back offers a fire pit, picnic table and chairs and the creek view.

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Rustic Hillside Hideaway

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Gerton, NC

Our charming tiny house/cabin is nestled on its own lot behind our home, surrounded by forest with stunning winter mountain views. Step outside your door and embark on scenic hikes to Bearwallow Mountain, Little Bearwallow pastures, or Wildcat Rock. Within a 30-minute radius, you'll find several other hiking trails in the Hickory Nut Gorge, recently renowned as a hiking mecca for Western North Carolina! Situated across from the Florence Preserve, spanning over 600 acres for exploration, and with mountain biking trails nearby, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore. Or just soak in the view while you soak in the hot tub! Our small cabin features one queen bed, a big TV with excellent wifi, and a full bath complete with a charming clawfoot tub! While there's no kitchen, we provide a microwave, mini-fridge, coffee press, and kettle for your convenience. Experience the coziest hotel room vibe ever with the added bonus of abundant outdoor space. Relax on the deck with a grill and a spacious fire pit, or feel free to set up your tent or hammocks amidst nature's embrace.

The Dream Road Escape Cabin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Hendersonville, NC

The upstairs master bedroom has a private balcony, in tree tops. The bunk beds are at the back of the house. The main floor queen has a full bath across the hall. The living room has a gas log fireplace and back deck with grill. The basement has a couch,,queen bed,private bathroom with shower and large 2nd refrigerator. Bedroom recap 1. Master King 2. Main floor Queen 3. Main floor bunk bed 2 beds. 4. Basement queen with couch. Extra space Loft has a futon and blow up queen mattress. The space The cabin is located in a cul-de-sac on an acre of land. There is plenty of parking for 3-4 cars if needed. The master suite has a king bed,private bath and, balcony high up in the trees. The main floor bedroom has a queen bed and a full bath right across the hall. The bunk bedroom is located off the far side of the cabin. The loft is located up the stairs at the entrance to the master bedroom. The basement has a queen size bed, a couch, tv and private bathroom. There is also. futon in the loft and queen size air mattress( in master bedroom closet)is available if needed. A high chair is available if needed also. We will have it ready when you arrive. Please make sure and request at time of booking. Guest access All of the space is yours to spread out and relax

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Cherry Bounce Adventure Company

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Bostic, NC

Located on family land granted by King Charles in 1685 we have worked hard to restore and refurbish in a sustainable way, using the trees and supplies from the land that they sit on. Hand crafting doors and furniture the way the family did it 140 plus years ago. The history of this place is deep, even the nails for the cabin and farm house that is now the clubhouse were hand crafted by my great grandfather in his blacksmith shop, along with the wagon wheels, horse shoes, misc farm utensils etc... there was no running out to Lowes to pick up what was needed, it was made in the blacksmith shop. We love riding ATV's and SXS's on the trails on the mountains that I grew up on with my 3 brothers, we hope the people who visit and experience the mountains feel about them the way we do, we love em. We like to give riding tours and talking about the mountain and its challenges. We named the park from the famous product that was created here during prohibition, Cherry Bounce Moonshine. You can visit some of the original still sites on the mountain, of course they are not operational today. About the adventure co side, We are an adrenaline pumping ATV and SXS park with 25+ miles of mountainous trails at four skill levels; Green (Easy), Blue (Challenging), Black Diamond (Very Difficult) and Double Black Diamond (Most Difficult). You can bring your own ATV or SXS or rent one of ours. We have cabins & camp sites that are accessed by ATV or SXS on the mountains as well as hiking or biking. We do not allow jeeps, trucks or dirt bike motorcycles on the mountain, just ATV's and SXS vehicles.

Star Hosts in Shelby

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The Coziest Cabin on Earth!

1 site · Lodging15 acres · Marion, NC

Secluded, private, and oh-so cozy! This will easily become your most favored get-away spot! The cabin is located at the end of a private gravel road with a fish pond and thousands of acres of peaceful wooded mountains at it's doorstep! And yes, there are hiking trails! We built this cabin with you in mind. Everything was custom made by us; from the woodstove rock wall, to the cabinets and outdoor picnic table. You will instantly relax when you walk into this very special place. You will never want to leave! The cabin includes a large front porch with rocking chairs where you will enjoy your warm tea or coffee each morning and evening while overlooking the peaceful pond and woods. There is an outdoor fire ring and picnic table where you can enjoy a campfire, cook on the open flame, and have smore's in the evening. Inside the cabin you will find everything to be incredibly beautiful and spaced to create the coziest atmosphere you've ever enjoyed. There is a wood burning stove indoors that when lit, takes the whole experience to the next level! But you don't have to rely on the woodstove for heat, we've installed a brand new wall unit for heat and air! You also have a DVD player and a television with an assortment of DVDs to choose from. The cabin sleeps 4-5 people comfortably. There is a full size bed that sleeps 2 in the main room of the cabin. There is a loft above that sleeps 2-3 more. A rolling library ladder is how the kids will access the loft area! So fun! The kitchen is complete with a refrigerator, electric stove, oven, microwave, and Keurig coffee maker. A peaceful mood is set by warm-toned sawmill lumber walls, recessed lighting in the ceiling, a kitchen window above the sink that overlooks the side yard campfire area and beautiful woods surrounding the cozy cabin. The bathroom is so nice with a stand-up shower, hand-made oak vanity, and a door to the "star-gazing" porch. Flood lighting lights up the area around the cabin at night so you might spot a deer, fox, or even a bear traveling through or getting a drink of water from the pond. You will instantly relax at the coziest cabin on earth. You deserve a get-away that actually recharges you! This cabin is for the couple or family that just wants to take a much needed break from the real world. Once you get to the cabin, you can brew something warm to drink, sit in the glider rocker and gaze out at nature, build and enjoy a campfire, hike in the peaceful woods, or just take a much needed nap in the quiet of the coziest cabin on earth. We are grateful for you and can't wait for you to come and relax!

Sage Nesbitt Farm

2 sites · Lodging, Tents12 acres · Fairview, NC

Cabin and/or camping spots on a large wooded farm. Secluded, yet only a short drive to Asheville, Black Mountain, Lake Lure, waterfalls and hikes! There are so many fun places to explore whether you are coming to eat and drink or hike, bike or climb. Take an afternoon walk down through the pasture and sit by the creek. Don't mind the chickens that may walk up and ask for a treat. And the pigs may be shy at first, but they warm up fast if you share with them. Build a fire at night, and sit under the stars as you listen to the nocturnal sounds of Appalachia. This tranquil farm stay is made even more revitalizing by the mist on the mountains in the morning as you enjoy coffee from the porch or your campsite.

TangleWood Creekside Campsites

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents170 acres · Marion, NC

A rocky creek winds 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 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.

Starlight Hills

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Bostic, NC

Our Spa is now available for booking! 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 and a Cabin. Glamping and cabin 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.

Dog-friendly getaways

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(55)

Adin`s river cabin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Casar, NC

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.

The Coziest Cabin on Earth!

1 site · Lodging15 acres · Marion, NC

Secluded, private, and oh-so cozy! This will easily become your most favored get-away spot! The cabin is located at the end of a private gravel road with a fish pond and thousands of acres of peaceful wooded mountains at it's doorstep! And yes, there are hiking trails! We built this cabin with you in mind. Everything was custom made by us; from the woodstove rock wall, to the cabinets and outdoor picnic table. You will instantly relax when you walk into this very special place. You will never want to leave! The cabin includes a large front porch with rocking chairs where you will enjoy your warm tea or coffee each morning and evening while overlooking the peaceful pond and woods. There is an outdoor fire ring and picnic table where you can enjoy a campfire, cook on the open flame, and have smore's in the evening. Inside the cabin you will find everything to be incredibly beautiful and spaced to create the coziest atmosphere you've ever enjoyed. There is a wood burning stove indoors that when lit, takes the whole experience to the next level! But you don't have to rely on the woodstove for heat, we've installed a brand new wall unit for heat and air! You also have a DVD player and a television with an assortment of DVDs to choose from. The cabin sleeps 4-5 people comfortably. There is a full size bed that sleeps 2 in the main room of the cabin. There is a loft above that sleeps 2-3 more. A rolling library ladder is how the kids will access the loft area! So fun! The kitchen is complete with a refrigerator, electric stove, oven, microwave, and Keurig coffee maker. A peaceful mood is set by warm-toned sawmill lumber walls, recessed lighting in the ceiling, a kitchen window above the sink that overlooks the side yard campfire area and beautiful woods surrounding the cozy cabin. The bathroom is so nice with a stand-up shower, hand-made oak vanity, and a door to the "star-gazing" porch. Flood lighting lights up the area around the cabin at night so you might spot a deer, fox, or even a bear traveling through or getting a drink of water from the pond. You will instantly relax at the coziest cabin on earth. You deserve a get-away that actually recharges you! This cabin is for the couple or family that just wants to take a much needed break from the real world. Once you get to the cabin, you can brew something warm to drink, sit in the glider rocker and gaze out at nature, build and enjoy a campfire, hike in the peaceful woods, or just take a much needed nap in the quiet of the coziest cabin on earth. We are grateful for you and can't wait for you to come and relax!

Rooster Ridge Cabin

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Hendersonville, NC

Rooster Ridge cabin is seven 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.

Starlight Hills

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Bostic, NC

Our Spa is now available for booking! 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 and a Cabin. Glamping and cabin 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.

Spacious Skies Bear Den

127 sites · Lodging10 acres · Spruce Pine, NC

Set right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 324.8, among the breathtaking Blue Ridge and Black Mountains and nestled in the Pisgah National Forest, Spacious Skies Bear Den is your mountain adventure destination! While most of our sites are full hook-up, we have water/electric spots for a more rustic camping experience or for our tent campers. We also offer cabins in an array of sizes and with varied amenities, ensuring we have the perfect spot that meets each family or group’s needs. When you arrive at your site or cabin, breathe in the serene beauty of the Pisgah National Forest, of which Spacious Skies Bear Den is a part. Leave your stress behind as you explore 13 miles of wooded hiking trails, some leading to waterfalls on the park grounds. Playgrounds, a rec hall, arcade, basketball, jumping pillow, and a swimming lake with a separate fishing area will keep campers of all ages occupied. A camp store stocked with necessities and treats alike, bathhouses, and laundry on-site all bring the comforts of home to your campsite.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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(3)

South Mountains State Park

Salem, North Carolina

100%

(3)

Crowders Mountain State Park

Kings Mountain, North Carolina

100%

(4)

Lake Norman State Park

Troutman, North Carolina

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest cabins near Shelby guide

Overview

Shelby, North Carolina is east of the Blue Ridge Mountains and provides a mix of camping options from rugged backcountry areas to pet-friendly cabin rentals and RV parks outfitted with full hookups. Walk oak-tree-lined streets in town before paying a visit to Shelby’s City Park, which offers 155 acres of green space, including an original wooden carousel from 1919 and the Rotary Special mini train. Campers can then trek to Stone Mountain State Park for hiking, day-trip to Lake Norman State Park to float the day away in a kayak, or hop the border to South Carolina to view Whitewater Falls.

Where to go

Lake Norman State Park

Find electricity-equipped cabins, RV parks with full-hookups, and tent campsites with firepits and hot showers at Lake Norman State Park. The 1.5-hour drive east brings campers to fun boating and fishing opportunities along a 375-foot long sandy beach. Rent a jet ski to cruise around, a speedboat to waterski, or a pontoon boat to leisurely experience the outdoor splendors of Lake Norman. Many companies also offer guided fishing tours as well as wakeboard, kayak, and canoe rentals. For campers looking for land activities, wander along Lake Norman Lakeshore Trail or hit the 30 miles of single-track mountain biking trails.

Whitewater Falls

Cascading 411 feet down, Whitewater Falls is dubbed the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. It’s open year-round from dawn until dusk and is roughly a 2-hour drive east from Shelby. While there isn’t any camping right at the falls, there are picnic tables and restrooms, making it a scenic stop for snacks or lunch. Then stay and savor the stunning views of the falls from two overlook areas—one of which is wheelchair-accessible. Peak hours are in the middle of the day, making morning or evening quieter times to visit.

Stone Mountain State Park

A 2-hour drive north from Shelby, Stone Mountain State Park delivers unparalleled hiking, horseback riding, fishing, rock climbing, and a variety of camping options year-round. Find tent campsites with fire rings, or hike Widow’s Creek Trail to four primitive backcountry campsites. For more amenities, try an RV park nearby that features electrical and water hookups as well as communal dump stations. Then check out the restored Hutchinson Homestead farm and the 600-foot granite dome that looms in the background.

When to go

North Carolina experiences four distinct seasons. June, July, and August are peak summer months, with temperatures reaching a high of 89°F, accompanied by plenty of rain. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures dropping slightly below freezing. The busiest times to visit Shelby are in spring and autumn, when warm weather with less humidity makes outdoor activities like hiking and biking most comfortable.