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Mountainou Camping

The best mountainous camping near Shelby

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.

97% (3.7K) • 233 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Shelby

Triple J Farm and Campground

1. Triple J Farm and Campground

100%

(10)

4.2mi from Shelby · 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

Tellurian Family Campground

2. Tellurian Family Campground

98%

(358)

16mi from Shelby · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Tellurian Family Campground offers conveniently located spacious travel trailer, camper, RV and tent camp sites with incredible views and access to a pristine mountain river. The property consists of 93 acres and 2780 feet (1⁄2 mile) of river frontage on the First Broad River. The First Broad River offers canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing. Smallmouth and freshwater sunfishing is incredible on this stretch of the river and there are also opportunities for mountain river catfish. Tellurian’s scenic location offers stunning vista views of the surrounding countryside, sprawling views of the South Mountain and Cherry Mountain ranges, as well as long range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The sunsets are amazing and the star lit skies are uninhibited by city lights. One of the few lights that can be seen at night lights up a steeple silhouetted against the mountain ridges. It’s truly a peaceful site. Tellurian is centrally located between Charlotte NC, Asheville NC, and Spartanburg SC in the small town of Casar, NC. We are located in a rural setting in the foothills on the edge of the South Mountains Range, a branch of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Thank you for checking out our place! We are Jud and Amanda Wortman. We have three children – Emma Grace and Baxter (twins) and Elena Jo. As a family, we enjoy canoeing, kayaking and camping. We live 9 miles from Tellurian on a family farm. We have always enjoyed quiet secluded campsites, river floats and sitting by the river. After years of looking all over the mountains for a river property we could call our own, our favorite spot on the river came up for sale. It just so happened it was nearly halfway between where we both grew up. After many sleepless nights worrying if we could succeed or not (it was much larger than properties we had been looking for), we bought it! Our favorite spot on the river was virtually inaccessible by any way other than floating. But after hundreds of hours of hard work, we think we have developed a place where others too can enjoy the things we do about the property. We dream big and Tellurian remains a work in progress, but we feel we have created a place where folks can enjoy the peacefulness of nature, the river and incredible views. Naming our campground proved to be one of the most challenging tasks throughout the process of developing it. After many ideas and brainstorming sessions as a family, we decided to go with Tellurian. We know it’s a bit different; that’s what we like about it. We think our place stands out and, after visiting Tellurian, we think you’ll agree it does too. Tellurian Family Campground tel·lu·ri·an [təˈlo͝orēən] ADJECTIVE: of or inhabiting the earth. NOUN: an inhabitant of the earth.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$63

/ night

Cherry Mtn. Camp

3. Cherry Mtn. Camp

100%

(10)

19mi from Shelby · 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

from

$25

/ night

Adin`s river cabin

4. Adin`s river cabin

96%

(76)

19mi from Shelby · 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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Showers

from

$65

/ night

Starlight Hills

5. Starlight Hills

98%

(2509)

20mi from Shelby · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our Spa and Geodesic Dome Planetarium is now available for booking! Our Pond is now OPEN! We are a constantly evolving location. Our goal is to provide a genuine secluded camping experience immersed in nature in a mountainous forest with privacy and well spaced out, secluded camp sites. We also have minimal light pollution, so our skies are beautiful for viewing the stars. We offer trails through natural wooded habitat with hidden gems of nature. Wildlife viewing throughout. There are feed locations to increase viewing opportunities. A creek on the property is lovely for walking. Centered between Charlotte and Asheville we are within your reach! We offer primitive tent camping, Glamping Tents a tiny cabin and Geodesic Dome. Lodging locations have a private Mountain View, fire pit area, Queen bed, Night Stand (built in phone charger), Desk area, interior and exterior lighting, heater and fan (powered by solar system). As a part of Starlight Hills Campground you have access to filtered drinking water, common overlook (w/ BBQ pits & picnic tables), trails, bathroom and showers. Welcome to bring all your furry family members ❤️. Please Note: 2 Wheel Dr. vehicles can access all of our sites. Gravel/ Dirt road up hill.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

Remote Mountain Camping Platform

6. Remote Mountain Camping Platform

93%

(72)

25mi from Shelby · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land: Welcome to The High Land: A private, drive-up, mountainside platform for tent(s)!  About the property You will have our entire 14 acre property to yourself which features some amazing mountain views and is adjacent to state lands for exploration.  To access the site you will drive approx. 15 minutes up a gravel road. Overall we are located about ~30 minutes from I-40 and about 25 min to Marion & Morganton, NC.   For recreation you can access South Mountains Gamelands which is adjacent to the property. You can also drive to South Mountains State Park which is only 15 minutes away. Lake James State Park is 35 minutes away and offers great recreation potent entail as well as Linville Gorge which is 45-60 minutes away. About the listing We offer two connected 8x16' tiers with center posts for hanging a tarp or setting up tents. You can see in our photos how a tent would fit on the platforms, there is plenty of space and truly amazing views right from your tent door. The site features a fire pit and an outhouse.  Some amenities offered at the site: -Fire pit with grill attachment available  -Pit toilet outhouse -No water provided, please bring your own for drinking and cooking -No cooking or kitchen supplies provided Additional things to note NOTE: Low clearance vehicles are not recommended, but 4 wheel drive is not necessary. The road up the mountain is terraced in places. We do not offer wifi and cell reception is limited, depending on your carrier, so make sure to plan ahead. We do not offer potable water or kitchen supplies at this time. Pets are allowed.

Pets

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Campfires

from

$75

/ night

A Site From Above

7. A Site From Above

100%

(13)

28mi from Shelby · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Escape to a haven of privacy and seclusion at our campsite, where you'll be surrounded by the beauty of mature trees and diverse wildlife. Set atop an elevated 10+ acre tract, this tranquil spot provides an ideal setting for those seeking peace and connection with nature. We have Recently Added an additional 30 amp breaker and a 50 amp breaker for an additional camp site. Making a total of 2 sites. Great for camping with others camper friends. . Small campfires are allowed , there’s plenty of dead wood - limbs on the property to burn.No need to buy firewood. Each site has water , sewer,30amp 50 amp power, Picnic table Fire pit Road side trash bin Artificial turf rugs Enjoy the serenity of your surroundings, with horses from neighboring properties adding to the charm. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors with ample areas to walk and hike, creating the perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Conveniently located just minutes from Lake Wylie, Walmart, and other shopping and dining options, this campsite offers the best of both worlds – seclusion and accessibility. Explore nearby attractions like the botanical gardens, boat ramps, and the new Drift restaurant on Lake Wylie, all within a five-minute drive. While the drive to your secluded retreat may be steep and currently a dirt gravel road, it adds to the rustic charm of the experience. Bring your boat along, as there is plenty of room for parking, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable and peaceful getaway.

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

$24

/ night

Hinsdale Farm-Mountain View Oasis

8. Hinsdale Farm-Mountain View Oasis

100%

(57)

29mi from Shelby · 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

from

$18

/ night

Camp Serene

9. Camp Serene

98%

(69)

33mi from Shelby · 3 sites

LAKE LURE IS OPEN! 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

from

$35

/ night

Emberglow Outdoor Resort

10. Emberglow Outdoor Resort

100%

(62)

34mi from Shelby · 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

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$42

/ night

Green Willow Farm

11. Green Willow Farm

98%

(131)

34mi from Shelby · 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

from

$35

/ night

Green River Getaway

12. Green River Getaway

100%

(11)

35mi from Shelby · 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

from

$32

/ night

Soulshine Glamping

13. Soulshine Glamping

100%

(10)

36mi from Shelby · 2 sites

3 acres with 2 separate Geodesic Domes that each have Heat/AC, full bathroom, king bed, WiFi, kitchenette, Outdoor Grill, firepit table and Hot Tub. Private peaceful setting in the woods but close to the interstate for day trips and food markets are 2 and 5 miles away. Close to lots of Hiking and Biking trails in the town of Old Fort and Main Street in Marion. Black Mountain, Asheville and Lake James are just short drives away. Come enjoy the Linville Caverns, Linville Falls and the Linville Gorge. Or just stay and enjoy the positive energy of the Dome, cook meals on the grill, and enjoy a night in the hot tub by the fire pit table. All are welcome!

Toilets

Showers

Hot Tub

from

$225

/ night

Bigfoot Brook Campground

14. Bigfoot Brook Campground

99%

(34)

37mi from Shelby · 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.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$36

/ night

Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

15. Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

97%

(331)

40mi from Shelby · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Family Owned location with great views . Located adjacent to the Linville River and across the street from Lake James . This location gives the camper a center location for many activities. The State Fonta Flora trail system sits within feet of this property and offers the mountain biker miles of beautiful trails . Within a short distance is the trail head to Shortoff mountain and Linville George with exceptional views and hiking. Boat landing is a close for those who want to recreate on the lake and kayak. Close by is the renowned Fonta Flora brewery and Mica Town Breweries located only a few miles away.This is a secluded space that is private and on the Linville River before it enters Lake James. Lake James State Park offers a full menu of activities. Along with boating, swimming and fishing in the beautiful, clear waters of the 6,812-acre lake, there are 25 miles of trails, 15 of which are open to mountain biking. Trails vary from the short, educational Holly Discovery Trail with child-friendly activities, to the more adventurous, historic section of the Overmountain Victory Trail. Welcome!

Pets

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Campfires

from

$58

/ night

Rose Creek Retreat

16. Rose Creek Retreat

96%

(128)

41mi from Shelby · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

In 2018 we purchased this property to enjoy a little freedom, privacy and relaxation. We have slowly been updating the property over the years and in the end of 2019 we decided to create the site and share it with everyone. After beginning to camp ourselves, a year later. we realized that so many campgrounds resembled the HOA like atmosphere our guests want to escape. We then decided to start our own and we hope you enjoy it!

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

$24

/ night

Catawba Bend

17. Catawba Bend

100%

(10)

42mi from Shelby · 2 sites

Perched above the stunning Pisgah National Forest, our property offers breathtaking mountain views and three spacious gravel RV sites with full hookups. Each site features a level back-in pad that can accommodate rigs up to 40 feet, along with a private concrete patio for relaxing outdoors. Guests enjoy access to a well-maintained bathhouse and laundry facility, plus plenty of extra parking. Please note: the driveway is a steep gravel road—4WD or AWD is strongly recommended for towable setups.

Pets

Full hookups

from

$60

/ night

Creekside Camper & Tent Site Rental

18. Creekside Camper & Tent Site Rental

93%

(40)

43mi from Shelby · 1 site

Enjoy your stay in one of our 2 campers or either one of our 2 tent sites on 5 acres of private property. We are not a commercial campground but offer all the amenities you will need for an inexpensive weekend in this area. A babbling stream runs through our property providing soothing sounds. The area is loaded with rhododendrons, mountain laurels, hemlocks, birch and poplars to keep it cool and shady. The terrain is sloped and has a few beautiful "flatter" spaces for 2 nice campers with their own fire pit. The wooded private property provides unlimited free kindling and fire wood. Enjoy a comfortable, camper stay after visiting the hiking trails, and other sites in the Black Mountain/Asheville area. Nearby: The quaint city of Black Mountain offers unique shopping and restaurants just 11 miles North on the newly paved Hwy 9.  Chimney Rock State Park is 20 minutes South off Hwy 9. Visit Lake Lure where Dirty Dancing was filmed. Hike Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Trailhead in Gerton @ 10 miles away. Access the famous Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville 30 minutes away.

Pets

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Showers

from

$68

/ night

The Sanctuary at RockHouseFarm

19. The Sanctuary at RockHouseFarm

98%

(67)

43mi from Shelby · 1 site · Tent, RV

Escape to a wild, 400-acre mountain and two river property beside Pisgah National Forest in western North Carolina. Our land offers direct access to two rivers—Wilson’s Creek( a scenic River Act member) and the Johns River soon to be a scenic river —along with freshwater springs , hardwood forests, and miles of private hiking trails that can be walked . Wildlife, water, and mountain air make this a peaceful retreat into nature. With a multitude of activities , like one mile away across the road, you'll find Brown Mountain Beach Access—a favorite stop for the motorcycle and RV crowd. For hiking enthusiasts, the Table Rock trailhead is less than 5 miles away, Sitting Bear up Hwy 181 less than 12 miles and so much more like the blue ridge parkway etc . Our farm is a perfect spot for cooling off, relaxing, or using as a launch point for exploring the wild region that so closely surrounds us. Please note that Wilson’s Creek Gorge is closed for Summer 2025, but you’ll still have all our private creek and river access on the farm property. Campsite Details: Your campsite includes a wooden tent platform (~12’ x 24’) with steps, a fire pit and grilling area, four chairs, a round dining table, a water hose, and four electrical outlets. A newly built outhouse is just steps away. Tent Platform Use: Additional $8 per night, payable upon arrival A Frame under construction. Firewood: Not provided, but available for a fee by prior arrangement with owner Dogs: Welcome if well-managed and leashed when needed Parties or Gatherings: Not permitted without advance approval and paid arrangements Swim, rock-hop, or sunbathe along our private riverbanks. Kayak routes end on the property, and secluded spots for stargazing or just sitting with the sounds of the forest are everywhere. Whether you're here for adventure or deep quiet, this is a wild mountain stay where nature leads.

Pets

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Campfires

from

$30

/ night

Take a Hike on a Wild side! Camping

20. Take a Hike on a Wild side! Camping

100%

(26)

44mi from Shelby · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

98%

(69)

33mi from Shelby · 3 sites

Pets

Full hookups

from

$35

/ night

Emberglow Outdoor Resort

10. Emberglow Outdoor Resort

100%

(62)

34mi from Shelby · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$42

/ night

Green Willow Farm

11. Green Willow Farm

98%

(131)

34mi from Shelby · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

from

$35

/ night

Green River Getaway

12. Green River Getaway

100%

(11)

35mi from Shelby · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

$32

/ night

Soulshine Glamping

13. Soulshine Glamping

100%

(10)

36mi from Shelby · 2 sites

Toilets

Showers

Hot Tub

from

$225

/ night

Bigfoot Brook Campground

14. Bigfoot Brook Campground

99%

(34)

37mi from Shelby · 3 sites

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$36

/ night

Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

15. Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

97%

(331)

40mi from Shelby · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$58

/ night

Rose Creek Retreat

16. Rose Creek Retreat

96%

(128)

41mi from Shelby · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

$24

/ night

Catawba Bend

100%

(26)

44mi from Shelby · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$28

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Donald

3 days ago

40 ft toy hauler

With pets

4 nights at Catawba Bend

We loved staying here, the place is clean and we always felt safe. The attention to detail of the property is great. Communication was excellent. We will be back again. A+

Bette

2 weeks ago

17 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tellurian Family Campground

We had a wonderful stay at Tellurian Campground. Site 1 was spacious with absolutely killer views, and the starry skies at night were incredible. The campground itself is small, which made it feel really peaceful and private. One of our favorite parts was the easy river access such a great spot to relax and hang out. The bathrooms were also surprisingly clean and comfortable, which is always a big bonus when camping. Jud, the host, was super friendly and helpful and made us feel really welcome. The location is also very convenient if you’re planning to explore nearby waterfalls. We would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it!

Mindy

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hinsdale Farm-Mountain View Oasis

If you’re craving wide open spaces, this is the place. This oasis was a glorious getaway and the peace and quiet we needed. It’s also just a few minutes away from the Tryon Equestrian Center so shops, restaurants, and entertainment was right around the corner! I will be back for stargazing!

Andy

2 weeks ago

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

Linville Adventure Pastures was awesome. Beautiful views, a fun experience, and just an all-around great place to spend time outdoors. Everything was well done and easy to enjoy. Highly recommend checking it out if you’re in the area.

Scarlette

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

We really enjoyed our trip!! Great location, and clean bathrooms and showers. Beautiful spaces and overlooks and well maintained areas! We hope to come back another time!

Jacqueline

2 weeks ago

13 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Tellurian Family Campground

What a lovely camp spot on a mountain. The wrap around views are impressive, the night sky is dark, the river was a great place to set a camp chair, the bathroom facilities are clean, the campsite was roomy, and the firewood burned well. I could say a lot more . We camped with friends who stayed in site 3, very convenient. The owners have done a wonderful job carving out the land to create this out of the way experience. This is not a typical campground. It's so much better than that. It is land that is being shaped into a place to enjoy the views and the river. Grateful for the time the owner Jud spent with our little group making us feel comfortable about exploring the land. The hospitality was superb. We will be back :-)

Jess

2 weeks ago

35 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tellurian Family Campground

We had a great weekend out at Jud’s place - the views were beautiful and we loved getting to explore the property and hang out down on the river. Took our small travel trailer and the hookups worked great. The bathhouse was clean and nice to have as well. Definitely want to come back when it’s warmer to get in the swimming hole!

Andrea

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Sanctuary at RockHouseFarm

Wonderful private spot to enjoy nature. We hiked around the property, and also drove to nearby hikes. You have all you need at the site - pit toilet room, electricity, water, even a large folding table. We made it down to the rock house at the end of the Wilson creek road which was cool to see. We were visited by super friendly farm cat as well! Over all it was a wonderful place to unwind. Unbelievable sunsets and star gazing. we can't wait to come back!

Cory

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

The site was wonderful. They were doing a lot of building for the busy season, but even then we were never bothered. The view from the communal area was wonderful and the short observation trail was a nice way to spend the morning. Can't wait to come back!

Thomas

2 weeks ago

19 ft Class B

With pets

2 nights at Starlight Hills

William was very friendly and helpful. Campsites are very quiet, clean easily accessible and has a great view.

Christopher

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Adin`s river cabin

Quiet and secluded. Nothing around but morning birds and the consistent sound of the rippling water minus the jets descending off the mountain. If you desire PEACE and want to unplug from life but have a roof over your head with electric and running water look no more because this is it!!! Not much to do but sit and soak on one of 3 decks.

Scott

3 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Catawba Bend

Perfect spot for a weekend riding MTB in Old Fort. East access to the Gateway Trails and the Kitsuma area. Campsite was perfectly level, bathhouse was very nice and clean. Host was responsive, quickly answered any and all questions. Highly recommend this host!

Cody

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Starlight Hills

Compared to other campsites I’ve been to, this one has by far been one of my favorites. The campsites were spread out enough for privacy, the trail was very nice and the sites themselves are very spacious! The employees are very nice as well, greeting us once we checked in and told us a little more about the campground. The overlook is very beautiful and you can definitely see the stars well on a clear night. There were other spots for stargazing and overlooks that were nice as well. The vending machines were also a plus, especially the hand sanitizers and flashlights in them. Parking is convenient and it’s not hard to navigate to which site you’re on at all. I would highly recommend buying the firewood deal on the website before arriving, as the employees put it directly at your campsite right next to the fire pit, including firewood and other sticks/smaller wood. Very convenient and nice of the employees to do that!

Carolyn

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rose Creek Retreat

Nice secluded spot for a good night's sleep. Close to Linville and Morganton. I appreciated the extra touches, like a water catchment and benches for a kitchen area. The only tricky thing was getting there. The address on the driveway is 3626, not whatever it says on HipCamp. The Rose Creek Retreat sign is small and easy to miss. 4wd definitely helpful to get up the steep driveway.

Brian

March 2026

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tellurian Family Campground

Nice spacious camping areas, clean bath house. The owner, Jud, came by to check on us since we told him we were newbies. Has a nice river within walking distance

Hannah

March 2026

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tellurian Family Campground

It was a great stay! Away from city life! Peaceful, clean and accessible. The owner is very helpful from the beginning from directions till the time we checked out. I would highly recommend the campground. Till next time!

Ian

March 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Sanctuary at RockHouseFarm

This is a great location with everything you might want or need for a getaway. Having water and electric available take it to the next level of comfort. We have tmobile and had 5G service the whole time. I will be back.

Paolo

February 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hinsdale Farm-Mountain View Oasis

Was amazing! Thank you! Will be going again if possible!

shayla

February 2026

Weekend Trip to Adin`s river cabin

Adins cabin is a MUST for out of towners, especially leaving from the city. Highly recommended, just bring blankets sheets and pillows/cases! Everything was pretty straight forward and maybe a hybrid or van type vehicle is recommended as well.

Rick

February 2026

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tellurian Family Campground

Amazing place. Great hosts. Everything was the same in the pictures. Breathtaking views, clean bathrooms. Really top notch place. We will visit again!!!

Shelby camping guide

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.