The best private sites RV campgrounds near Shelby, North Carolina

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.

98% (78)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

98% (78)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Norman Farms

98%

(46)

50mi from Shelby · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Richburg, SC

Come visit our homestead and experience the beauty of nature. Our property is home to many fruit trees, including peach, fig, persimmon, and mulberry. We also have blueberry bushes and other fruit trees such as apples and plums. Our farm is home to sheep and chickens, so you can experience the joy of interacting with these animals. We have a spot for one RV and multiple spots for dry camping, so you can stay overnight and enjoy the peacefulness of the countryside. Come pick mulberries in our orchard or learn about the variety of plants in our greenhouse. We are located in Richburg, SC, which is a beautiful rural setting that you won't want to miss. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature and experience the beauty of our homestead.

2. Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

100%

(37)

31mi from Shelby · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlotte, NC

This 2.5 acre, partially wooded lot is located on a secluded cove of Lake Wylie. Campers can enjoy the lakeview, lake access, a spacious dock, swimming area, fishing, kayaking, and other lake activities! [This camping spot includes a communal or private fire pit as well as access to a gas grill.] Additionally, this lot is within driving distance to many local attractions listed below. This property is BYOB (Bring Your Own Boat)! There are 2 boat landings within 5 miles of the property, campers are more than welcome to tie up their boat to the on-site dock and park their trailer on the property. Pets are welcome, however note that the property owner has a cat and small dog on site. Pets need to be well behaved and not aggressive to other animals. Cleaning up after your pet in the lawn areas is required. The property owner (Teresa) lives on-site in a cabin between the camping pad and the lake. Local attractions within driving distance include: -Copperhead Island (5 miles) -McDowell Park/Nature Preserve (5 miles) -Carowinds Theme Park (5 miles) -Charlotte Premium Outlets (5 miles) -Whitewater Center (10 miles) -David Stowe Botanical Garden (15 miles) -Uptown Charlotte (15 miles) -Charlotte Motor Speedway (25 miles)

3. GOLDENSTONE CAMP

100%

(5)

20mi from Shelby · 3 sites · RVs · Bostic, NC

GOLDENSTONE CAMP (GSC) is in beautiful, peaceful Golden Valley (Bostic), NC. Golden Valley is in the center of the majestic South Mountains, a mountain range carved out of the Blue Ridge by erosion and lying just east of the main Blue Ridge Mountain range. It is a broad belt of peaks and knobs rising abruptly from a deep valley (Golden Valley). These steep, rugged mountains encompass 100,000 acres (404 km2) in Rutherford, Burke, and Cleveland counties, away from the lights and sounds of the city. GSC sits at the intersection of NC 226 (South Mountains Scenery scenic byway and Golden Valley Church Road and provides easy, paved access from all points north, south, east, and west. Except for an occasional passing vehicle, all you will hear are the sounds of the river that runs behind the campsites and the sounds of nature at your doorstep. You will also enjoy nights away from the city lights, where the moon and stars in the clear mountain sky and fireflies are your primary light sources (the camp does provide lights at each site for hooking up). The First Broad River is steps from your campsite and perfect for wildlife and bird watching. The camp provides easy access to the river for bathing, fishing, and tubing. GSC provides innertubes at a minimal cost per stay for those who want to take a leisurely float down the river. GSC offers easy, nearby access to the South Mountains State Park for hiking, picnicking, nature watching, and trekking to the many beautiful waterfalls in the park. There are also many other wonderful trails and waterfalls in the surrounding area. For our hunters, the South Mountains Game Lands is just up the road. If you are seeking to Glamp, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort is approximately 5 minutes away and offers a day pass for purchase to enjoy their resort amenities, especially for the kids. GSC provides easy access to/from Forest City (20 minutes), Morganton (30 minutes), luxurious Lake Lure (45 minutes), Chimney Rock (55 minutes), Asheville (55 minutes), and Charlotte Airport (1 hour). Inquire! If you are interested in a full hook-up site month-to-month rental.

4. Camping With Mini Cows And More!

100%

(4)

23mi from Shelby · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Rutherfordton, NC

Hi! We are excited that you are thinking of camping with us. You'll be staying on our farm, which is a working horseback riding and equine therapy facility as well as a sanctuary for many other animals (including mini cows, turkeys, chickens, a pig, alpacas, goats, and a llama!) But don't worry, your campsite is surrounded by beauty and privacy. Enjoy walking through the woods, sharing a picnic while visiting with the animals, or just having relaxing in nature! We also sell farm fresh eggs by the half-dozen for $2, so you can cook your own egg breakfast if you would like! Our campsites are rustic. We do provide a port-a-potty on site as well as 7 gallons of drinking-safe water. There is a King Camp portable shower on-site, and we live on site at the front of the property in case of emergency. Each campsite has a fire pit, and a bucket of water is provided for safety. There is a convenience store and gas station 1/2 mile away, so snacks and fuel can be easily accessed. If you're looking for extremely quiet, we may not be the right fit, as our animals don't keep quiet hours so you may hear a moo or a crow at any time, but we think it's fantastic here! Tents and RVs are welcome! RV folks, we do NOT have hookups at this time, so you will be boon docking. If you're looking for nearby attractions, here are some to check out: Lake Lure- 45 min. Isothermal Rail Trail- 20 min. Strawberry Hill Farm Stand and Restaurant- 10 min. Purple Martin Greenway Trail- 20 min. Pearson Falls and Glen- 35 min. Linville Caverns- 1 hr., 15 min. Lake Bowen- 15 min. Lake Jocassee (Devil's Fork State Park)- 1 hr., 30 min. KidSenses Interactive Museum- 22 min. Children's Museum of the Upstate- 50 min. There are plenty of places to explore! We are 25 minutes from Rutherfordton or Tryon, 20 minutes to Forest City, 30 minutes to Landrum or Spartanburg, 45 min. to Greenville and an hour to Asheville.

5. Catawba Bend

100%

(8)

42mi from Shelby · 3 sites · RVs · Old Fort, NC

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.

6. Camp Serene

98%

(65)

33mi from Shelby · 4 sites · RVs · Lake Lure, NC

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.

7. Cherry Bounce Adventure Company

100%

(4)

19mi from Shelby · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

8. Buck Creek RV Park

100%

(4)

42mi from Shelby · 31 sites · RVs · Marion, NC

Welcome to Buck Creek RV Park, tucked away in the city of Marion, North Carolina, and surrounded by acres of sprawling greenery and burbling streams. Here, we invite you to explore an outdoor expanse unlike any you’ve ever seen, complete with waterfalls, hiking paths, and fun for the entire family. If you’re a new visitor to the area, we’re happy you found your way to us. If you’re a long-time veteran of the park, or you’re simply passing by on your way to Pisgah Forest, Asheville NC, Linville NC, and the scenic Linville Falls, it’s great to have you back. As a premier resting station, Buck Creek RV Park is all about creating a tight-knit community feel amidst what we feel to be the most stunning natural campground in the nation. Now, let’s get down to the details: our 74 RV sites are currently sprawled across 48 acres of land, with a half-mile frontage set along a beautiful mountain stream. The setting is spacious and peaceful, and many of our customers come from all over the state and country to see what Marion, NC, is truly about. We’re also conveniently located in the Western part of our great state, which means we’re just a stone’s throw away from the legendary Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests. In terms of cities, we’re currently only about a 45-minute drive from Asheville or Linville, and a 1-hour drive from Boone and Hickory. It’s our prime location and offerings that make us a one-of-a-kind destination, and Buck Creek RV Park has already become a well-known fixture around these parts. So, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, it’s safe to say this is the place for you. Just bring your toy haulers and motorcycles, and experience some of the best roads in the nation, including the Diamondback Loop. Oh, and strap on those hiking shoes. From Mount Mitchell and Linville Falls, to the Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests, there are more than enough opportunities for next-level climbing and fun. Not to mention the fact we have seven other waterfalls in the area

9. Moon Glow Haven

100%

(7)

25mi from Shelby · 87 sites · Tents, RVs · Chesnee, SC

Moon Glow Haven is a magical countryside location. We are creating a place we can offer to hold festivals, weddings, family and friends reunions, rustic camping and more. The lower part of the property spans approximately 3 acres. It is partially wooded with a relaxing creek running through the woods. There is a porta john onsite (Rental required for large events) and we also have a water spigot available and a 100 gallon trash can for you to dispose of your trash. We have horseshoe pits and corn hole available for some low key activities. There is a bonfire area where you relax and enjoy a fire. There is a 16' x 22' stage tucked away in the corner of the property if needed for dancing or musicians. Come camp in the woods near the creek and enjoy the sounds of nature. It is dark enough for star gazing as well. There are also 2 RV Sites available; one with power available and one without. Nearby attractions include Strawberry Hill Cafe about 3 miles away, Cowpens Battlefields about 11 miles away and Tryon Equestrian Center about 13 miles away.

10. Cherry Mtn. Camp

100%

(10)

19mi from Shelby · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bostic, NC

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.

Camper favorites near Shelby

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Camping With Mini Cows And More!

100%

(4)

23mi from Shelby · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Rutherfordton, NC

Hi! We are excited that you are thinking of camping with us. You'll be staying on our farm, which is a working horseback riding and equine therapy facility as well as a sanctuary for many other animals (including mini cows, turkeys, chickens, a pig, alpacas, goats, and a llama!) But don't worry, your campsite is surrounded by beauty and privacy. Enjoy walking through the woods, sharing a picnic while visiting with the animals, or just having relaxing in nature! We also sell farm fresh eggs by the half-dozen for $2, so you can cook your own egg breakfast if you would like! Our campsites are rustic. We do provide a port-a-potty on site as well as 7 gallons of drinking-safe water. There is a King Camp portable shower on-site, and we live on site at the front of the property in case of emergency. Each campsite has a fire pit, and a bucket of water is provided for safety. There is a convenience store and gas station 1/2 mile away, so snacks and fuel can be easily accessed. If you're looking for extremely quiet, we may not be the right fit, as our animals don't keep quiet hours so you may hear a moo or a crow at any time, but we think it's fantastic here! Tents and RVs are welcome! RV folks, we do NOT have hookups at this time, so you will be boon docking. If you're looking for nearby attractions, here are some to check out: Lake Lure- 45 min. Isothermal Rail Trail- 20 min. Strawberry Hill Farm Stand and Restaurant- 10 min. Purple Martin Greenway Trail- 20 min. Pearson Falls and Glen- 35 min. Linville Caverns- 1 hr., 15 min. Lake Bowen- 15 min. Lake Jocassee (Devil's Fork State Park)- 1 hr., 30 min. KidSenses Interactive Museum- 22 min. Children's Museum of the Upstate- 50 min. There are plenty of places to explore! We are 25 minutes from Rutherfordton or Tryon, 20 minutes to Forest City, 30 minutes to Landrum or Spartanburg, 45 min. to Greenville and an hour to Asheville.

Catawba Bend

100%

(8)

42mi from Shelby · 3 sites · RVs · Old Fort, NC

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.

Camp Serene

98%

(65)

33mi from Shelby · 4 sites · RVs · Lake Lure, NC

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.

Cherry Bounce Adventure Company

100%

(4)

19mi from Shelby · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

Buck Creek RV Park

100%

(4)

42mi from Shelby · 31 sites · RVs · Marion, NC

Welcome to Buck Creek RV Park, tucked away in the city of Marion, North Carolina, and surrounded by acres of sprawling greenery and burbling streams. Here, we invite you to explore an outdoor expanse unlike any you’ve ever seen, complete with waterfalls, hiking paths, and fun for the entire family. If you’re a new visitor to the area, we’re happy you found your way to us. If you’re a long-time veteran of the park, or you’re simply passing by on your way to Pisgah Forest, Asheville NC, Linville NC, and the scenic Linville Falls, it’s great to have you back. As a premier resting station, Buck Creek RV Park is all about creating a tight-knit community feel amidst what we feel to be the most stunning natural campground in the nation. Now, let’s get down to the details: our 74 RV sites are currently sprawled across 48 acres of land, with a half-mile frontage set along a beautiful mountain stream. The setting is spacious and peaceful, and many of our customers come from all over the state and country to see what Marion, NC, is truly about. We’re also conveniently located in the Western part of our great state, which means we’re just a stone’s throw away from the legendary Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests. In terms of cities, we’re currently only about a 45-minute drive from Asheville or Linville, and a 1-hour drive from Boone and Hickory. It’s our prime location and offerings that make us a one-of-a-kind destination, and Buck Creek RV Park has already become a well-known fixture around these parts. So, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, it’s safe to say this is the place for you. Just bring your toy haulers and motorcycles, and experience some of the best roads in the nation, including the Diamondback Loop. Oh, and strap on those hiking shoes. From Mount Mitchell and Linville Falls, to the Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests, there are more than enough opportunities for next-level climbing and fun. Not to mention the fact we have seven other waterfalls in the area

Moon Glow Haven

100%

(7)

25mi from Shelby · 87 sites · Tents, RVs · Chesnee, SC

Moon Glow Haven is a magical countryside location. We are creating a place we can offer to hold festivals, weddings, family and friends reunions, rustic camping and more. The lower part of the property spans approximately 3 acres. It is partially wooded with a relaxing creek running through the woods. There is a porta john onsite (Rental required for large events) and we also have a water spigot available and a 100 gallon trash can for you to dispose of your trash. We have horseshoe pits and corn hole available for some low key activities. There is a bonfire area where you relax and enjoy a fire. There is a 16' x 22' stage tucked away in the corner of the property if needed for dancing or musicians. Come camp in the woods near the creek and enjoy the sounds of nature. It is dark enough for star gazing as well. There are also 2 RV Sites available; one with power available and one without. Nearby attractions include Strawberry Hill Cafe about 3 miles away, Cowpens Battlefields about 11 miles away and Tryon Equestrian Center about 13 miles away.

Cherry Mtn. Camp

100%

(10)

19mi from Shelby · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bostic, NC

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.

Stories from the community

A

Amber

4 days ago

32 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Catawba Bend

Views were awesome! Able to get up and down the drive fairly well despite the steepness in our 32ft travel trailer. Quiet little spot, would camp here again.

D

Dan

1 week ago

13 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Catawba Bend

My site was very nice and plenty of space. Bathroom and shower was very clean. The view was fantastic while still being close to the highway. Within close enough distance to anything you want to do in and around Asheville.

My rig at the site nearest the bathhouse.

M

Matt

1 week ago

25 ft campervan

With pets

4 nights at Catawba Bend

The steep driveway wasn't that bad and led to camping sites that captured the heart of the North Carolina mountains. Great privacy and views and even some woodland creatures to remind you of the camping experience. Full hookups and access to a very, very clean bathhouse/laundry room. Awesome quick access to many attractions (I favor all the local hiking trails). Definitely on my list to visit again. Thankx!

Craig

2 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

6 nights at Camp Serene

It was the perfect fall getaway. Nice and quiet, clean campsites. Leslie was warm, inviting and accommodating. Great communication!! Will be back!!

M

Matthew

2 weeks ago

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

Great spot, close to the road but did t feel like it. Good communication. One of my best experiences with hipcamp.

M

Manda

October 2025

21 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Moon Glow Haven

Awesome place to stay! Kelly and Tony are the best!

Audry

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Moon Glow Haven

Amazing hosts! We booked during an event they had on their property. I didn't k ow it was possible to have that much fun and wake up the next morning feeling 1000%. These hosts really care about their guests. Yes, we are repeats, but there is a reason for that. As a woman camping, I know I am safe! So whenever I camp here, i can really, truly, relax. Kelly is the best!

J

Jeniffer

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Catawba Bend

Loved the view of the mountains from the campsite. Super nice, as there are only 3 other spots and convient to have your sewer connection on site as well. Note to those with cars that have to be put in 4wd, put in 4wd before heading up the hill. The hardest part is in the beginning. Also, pull your rig all the way to the right after you get up the hill and then back into site.

Anita

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Catawba Bend

We highly recommend Catawba Bend! The driveway is a bit steep, but we had no trouble towing our camper (Luna Rover) up the hill. We chose the camping site under a giant oak tree and next to the fabulous bathhouse. The bathhouse was spotlessly clean, with a shower that had instant hot water and really nice water pressure. Laundry machines and a large utility sink were also available in the bathhouse. All three camping sites were well-maintained and well-spaced. The location, just off I-40, is perfect, offering quick access to Asheville (25 minutes) and Old Fort (5 minutes), yet you feel like you are in the middle of the mountains. The views were fabulous and the hosts were warm and welcoming.

T

Tom

October 2025

23 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Catawba Bend

Everything was as advertised. Host was pleasant and the view was amazing.

H

Heather Marie

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Moon Glow Haven

Kelly and Tony were gracious, friendly hosts. They are incredibly helpful and worked to accommodate our needs. I threw a small surprise party for my husband at Moon Glow Haven and it was the perfect space to eat BBQ and listen to the band. The property is beautiful and well kept and easily accessible. We always enjoy visiting Moon Glow Haven.

M

Mathew

September 2025

24 ft pop-up camper

3 nights at Buck Creek RV Park

The sites are beautiful, and the facilities are very clean. To top it off, the hospitality was unmatched. The added bonus was being able to watch some RC Planes fly. We will be back.

Linda

September 2025

29 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cherry Mtn. Camp

I really enjoyed this site! It was very easy to get into, with a convenient pull-through layout that’s mostly flat and provides plenty of space. The full hookups were great, and the view of the hills and trees made it feel peaceful and open. I also loved the added sense of security — there’s a locked gate at the bottom of the drive. Getting in was smooth too, with the drive paved most of the way and well-laid, well-maintained gravel for the rest. The roomy layout also made it simple to turn around, back in, and pull out without stress. A few things to note: there’s no shade, picnic table, or fire pit, and the site isn’t clearly marked, so it took me a moment to figure out where to park. That said, I would definitely recommend this spot if you’re looking for a secure, spacious, and quiet site with hookups and a nice view.

Robin

September 2025

13 ft travel trailer

1 night at Camping With Mini Cows And More!

We really enjoyed our overnight at Winding Creek Stables. Nice, quiet camping spot and it was easy to maneuver our 13 footer. Hosts were great! They provided some firewood and water and their directions to the site made it very easy to find. Beautiful pastures and love the animals!

A

Amanda

August 2025

43 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to Buck Creek RV Park

Friendly hosts, friendly atmosphere, campsites friendly for set up and view was beautiful! Thank you to the host for helping us get into our spot. Very generous staff! This place os far enough away for a getaway but still close enough to home. We'll be staying again!

A

Andrew

August 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to GOLDENSTONE CAMP

This is our second time staying at goldenstone camp and we have enjoyed both times! The creek is nice to sit and relax with the cool water and the dogs loved the open fields run around. A tip for future guests is to make sure you have a long enough waste hose because the sewer connections are at the back of the sites. Would definitely stay again!

L

Laurinda

July 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

9 nights at Buck Creek RV Park

Great campground, wonderful quiet stay. Sites are right on the creek. Swimming was great and not very crowded. Campground was very clean, including the bathhouse. The RC flying field was an added bonus. Would definitely recommend and we'll hopefully be back again.

T

Tressa G.

July 2025

18 ft toy hauler

Weekend Trip to GOLDENSTONE CAMP

Everything at Goldstone was easy! The location next to HWY 226 made it easy to get in and out of the site. Jesus had everything ready for us with easy access to utilities and great WIFI. We put lounge chairs in the river and just enjoyed one afternoon with a little bit of fishing too. South Mountain park was a 25 min drive with great hike along the river and we drove into Forest City for dinner at the Copper Penny. It was July 4th so most businesses were closed but it is a cute town. The steps to get into the river were steep and I’m not a fan in general of sites with only gravel, but everything else was wonderful! The automatic lights at the power supply and the river deck were especially helpful and Jesus was a responsive but not invasive host. We would go again.

Kevin

June 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cherry Mtn. Camp

Very private and beautiful view. Great for a quiet get away

T

Tom

April 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Norman Farms

Rebecca had ample room for us and we were able to look at their fruit orchard and greenhouse while we were there. Very quiet. And our pets were welcome.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best private sites RV camping near Shelby 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.