The best river, stream, or creek RV camping near Shelby

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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.

99% (3.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Starlight Hills

1. Starlight Hills

98%
(2478)
20mi from Shelby · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bostic, NC
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
TangleWood Creekside Campsites

2. TangleWood Creekside Campsites

99%
(635)
46mi from Shelby · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marion, NC
16 miles North of Marion and closer to "Linville Gorge", "Linville Falls" and "The Blue Ridge Parkway" area, we are a perfect jump off point for all your adventures including "The Apple Orchard" at Altapass, "Linville Caverns" in addition to the ones mentioned above. TangleWood Creekside Campsites offers a rocky creek winding 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 North 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Waterfall camping close to CLT

3. Waterfall camping close to CLT

99%
(358)
17mi from Shelby · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bessemer City, NC
My Neighbor has started his own Campsite, "The Swimming Hole". If mine is booked up and you still want to camp, look him up. His is better suited for small groups but has much more privacy. We have a new road to the campsite; you can now drive down with two-wheel drive vehicle or RV down and park near your tent! There is plenty of soft sand to set up one tent or ten tents; large groups are welcome for an extra fee. A Porta-Potty is available at the campsite. Swimming is usually possible at the base of the falls; however, large amounts of rain can change conditions and make it unusable. I should also add, this is not a completely private campsite deep in the woods. The camp is visible from a shared driveway, and my residence is up a hill that overlooks the area. Also, I do not own the land on the other side of the stream. Occasionally, the owners of that land will spend a weekend afternoon enjoying the waterfall view also. Still much quieter and more private than a regular campground. Glamping tents and additional camping tents are available through a local company. Look in the pictures for the tent with red, white, and blue balloons. Message me for details. Close to US National Whitewater Center (mountain biking, whitewater rafting, kayaking), Kings Mountain National Military Park (Horseback riding and history), Crowders Mountain (Hiking), 3 miles off of I-85 and US-321 for people passing through.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$58
 / night
Eggs And Embers

4. Eggs And Embers

16mi from Shelby · 1 site · Tent, RV · Caroleen, NC
Rustic Creekside Farm Camp with Easy Highway Access Camp beside a peaceful creek and wake up to the sounds of goats and chickens at our small, developing homestead—just minutes from the highway and easy to get to! Whether you’re on a road trip or looking for a quiet spot to unplug, this rustic site offers a simple farm setting with fresh air, farm animals, and open space. We’re building our dream of a self-sufficient farm, and while things are still in progress, we love sharing the land and the journey with guests who appreciate the real, raw side of country life. You can stay at one of our named spots—like Goat Gate, Hen Haven, or hike in to Pokey Broke near the stream—and experience the peaceful rhythm of the farm. ⸻ What Makes It Special: • Just off the main road with quick, easy access to the highway • Friendly goats, chickens, and ducks on site • Short hike to a peaceful creek for relaxing or dipping your feet • Visit The Coop, our open-air communal hangout space ( work in progress) • Optional farm Q&A or tour when available • A quiet place to rest without being far from civilization ⸻ What to Expect (Please Read): This is a barebones, rustic site right now: • No fire ring (feel free to bring a raised fire bowl or camp stove) • No toilet or outhouse yet ( working towards amenities) • No drinking water (bring your own potable water) • No electricity or RV hookups (dry camping only — but flat spots are available) We’re working on adding more features—and your stay directly supports those improvements. ⸻ The Vibe: This is a raw, natural space on a farmstead in progress. If you love animals, open sky, quiet nights, and want a safe place to crash close to the road—but far enough to feel peaceful—you’ll enjoy staying here. It’s real, simple, and full of heart. ⸻ Support the Farm (Optional): If you’d like to support our growth, we’ve set up a small wishlist and donation option. Even small items help a lot! • Amazon Wishlist: Coming soon • Venmo Examples: chicken feed, buckets, fencing tools, gloves, solar lights, or a bale of hay.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night
Site # 2 located to your right

5. Neal Creek Camping Sites

100%
(266)
8.9mi from Shelby · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Blacksburg, SC
Neal Creek Primitive camping by the creek is located on private property. The two large campsites are approximately 300 feet apart and are located right beside the running creek. Plenty of shaded area's. We have a 6-8 person tent available to rent as well! Learn more about this land: We are only 1/2 a mile from the Interstate 85. So bring your tents, campers or your small RV and come and setup down by the babbling creek. If you don't have or own a tent, we have a large 6-8 person tent available for a small rental fee too. Build a nice fire in the fire pit. The firewood and kindling is provided. The campsites are semi-wooded areas with plenty of shade. They are very large private, peaceful and quiet sites.  View the stars at night, play in the creek during the day or if you are into biking or hiking, go to the Overmountain Victory trail located about 15 minutes away and enjoy the 6.7 mile loop around Lake Whelchel right off I-85. Local attractions: Biking, Hiking, Climbing and Horse trails - Kings Mtn National Park, Kings Mtn State Park, Crowder's Mtn State Park, Overmountain Victory Trail Segment - Lake Whelchel. Two Kings Casino is just a 10 minute trip right up Interstate - 85, exit 5 Convenient stores/restaurants within minutes from site.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Tellurian Family Campground

6. Tellurian Family Campground

98%
(347)
16mi from Shelby · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Casar, NC
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$59
 / night
Dogpatch Farms

10. Dogpatch Farms

100%
(5)
17mi from Shelby · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Mooresboro, NC
Dogpatch Farms is a farm offering Broad River access( canoe portage under construction but usable) campsites with the goal of making camping affordable again. We aren’t shooting for fancy or flashy just a clean quiet spaces and friendly safe environment where a person or group can enjoy nature without breaking the bank. We have one space for a RV/Camper with power water and septic dump ( down by the Barndo) and only a few with power and water only ( up by the well house)($60 and $40 per night respectively). Primitive areas vary from hillside, river side and open field all of which have an indoor toilet access and outside ( soon inside too) shower. Barndo is an active construction zone as we turn it into a full facility with cooking and laundry benefits so don’t expect fancy but that’s not our goal. Expect to see a sweet dog, a goat and probably a chicken ( and even enjoying a free egg) and definitely a tractor. Have a good time but I don’t tolerate stupid and you are expected to not leave a mess like a true outdoorsman should. There is an of wildlife including beavers, turkeys( roosting in the valley), deer and such to see because of our low impact approach so observe but don’t harass. We hope to become your destination and guide to the great outdoors.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

13. Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

97%
(330)
40mi from Shelby · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Nebo, NC
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$58
 / night
Emberglow Outdoor Resort

14. Emberglow Outdoor Resort

100%
(62)
34mi from Shelby · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mill Spring, NC
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$42
 / night
Yadkin Mountain Farm

16. Yadkin Mountain Farm

89%
(14)
49mi from Shelby · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Lenoir, NC
The 27-acre site is centrally located in beautiful Happy Valley, NC and accessed via Indian Grave Roady from the NC 268 Scenic Byway, which is frequented by motorcyclists, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts in general. You and your party will be the ONLY campers here. We offer 3 options for our one site based on your camping style, but once the property is booked, we close off the additional two site options. The site features uncommon privacy along with exclusive access to a beautiful section of the Yadkin River featuring a wadable and swimmable series of mostly rock filled pools and riffles. Approximately 1 acre of shaded lawn-like grass with an established fire ring is suitable for tents, camper vans, and large RV’s. Your dogs are welcome to roam off leash! The site is accessed through an almost entirely flat hayfield via a mowed trail that is easily accessible throughout the year via a 23-foot-wide entrance, except for during extreme wet weather. Nearby tourist attractions include: The Chapel of Rest, The Patterson School, Fort Defiance, the Happy Valley Filling Station, and much more with Blowing Rock and the Blue Ridge Parkway being on 15 minutes away.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
GOLDENSTONE CAMP

18. 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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Green River Getaway

20. Green River Getaway

100%
(11)
35mi from Shelby · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mill Spring, NC
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
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night

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.

99% (3.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Starlight Hills

1. Starlight Hills

98%
(2478)
20mi from Shelby · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bostic, NC
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
TangleWood Creekside Campsites

2. TangleWood Creekside Campsites

99%
(635)
46mi from Shelby · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marion, NC
16 miles North of Marion and closer to "Linville Gorge", "Linville Falls" and "The Blue Ridge Parkway" area, we are a perfect jump off point for all your adventures including "The Apple Orchard" at Altapass, "Linville Caverns" in addition to the ones mentioned above. TangleWood Creekside Campsites offers a rocky creek winding 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 North 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Waterfall camping close to CLT

3. Waterfall camping close to CLT

99%
(358)
17mi from Shelby · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bessemer City, NC
My Neighbor has started his own Campsite, "The Swimming Hole". If mine is booked up and you still want to camp, look him up. His is better suited for small groups but has much more privacy. We have a new road to the campsite; you can now drive down with two-wheel drive vehicle or RV down and park near your tent! There is plenty of soft sand to set up one tent or ten tents; large groups are welcome for an extra fee. A Porta-Potty is available at the campsite. Swimming is usually possible at the base of the falls; however, large amounts of rain can change conditions and make it unusable. I should also add, this is not a completely private campsite deep in the woods. The camp is visible from a shared driveway, and my residence is up a hill that overlooks the area. Also, I do not own the land on the other side of the stream. Occasionally, the owners of that land will spend a weekend afternoon enjoying the waterfall view also. Still much quieter and more private than a regular campground. Glamping tents and additional camping tents are available through a local company. Look in the pictures for the tent with red, white, and blue balloons. Message me for details. Close to US National Whitewater Center (mountain biking, whitewater rafting, kayaking), Kings Mountain National Military Park (Horseback riding and history), Crowders Mountain (Hiking), 3 miles off of I-85 and US-321 for people passing through.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$58
 / night
Eggs And Embers

4. Eggs And Embers

16mi from Shelby · 1 site · Tent, RV · Caroleen, NC
Rustic Creekside Farm Camp with Easy Highway Access Camp beside a peaceful creek and wake up to the sounds of goats and chickens at our small, developing homestead—just minutes from the highway and easy to get to! Whether you’re on a road trip or looking for a quiet spot to unplug, this rustic site offers a simple farm setting with fresh air, farm animals, and open space. We’re building our dream of a self-sufficient farm, and while things are still in progress, we love sharing the land and the journey with guests who appreciate the real, raw side of country life. You can stay at one of our named spots—like Goat Gate, Hen Haven, or hike in to Pokey Broke near the stream—and experience the peaceful rhythm of the farm. ⸻ What Makes It Special: • Just off the main road with quick, easy access to the highway • Friendly goats, chickens, and ducks on site • Short hike to a peaceful creek for relaxing or dipping your feet • Visit The Coop, our open-air communal hangout space ( work in progress) • Optional farm Q&A or tour when available • A quiet place to rest without being far from civilization ⸻ What to Expect (Please Read): This is a barebones, rustic site right now: • No fire ring (feel free to bring a raised fire bowl or camp stove) • No toilet or outhouse yet ( working towards amenities) • No drinking water (bring your own potable water) • No electricity or RV hookups (dry camping only — but flat spots are available) We’re working on adding more features—and your stay directly supports those improvements. ⸻ The Vibe: This is a raw, natural space on a farmstead in progress. If you love animals, open sky, quiet nights, and want a safe place to crash close to the road—but far enough to feel peaceful—you’ll enjoy staying here. It’s real, simple, and full of heart. ⸻ Support the Farm (Optional): If you’d like to support our growth, we’ve set up a small wishlist and donation option. Even small items help a lot! • Amazon Wishlist: Coming soon • Venmo Examples: chicken feed, buckets, fencing tools, gloves, solar lights, or a bale of hay.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night
Site # 2 located to your right

5. Neal Creek Camping Sites

100%
(266)
8.9mi from Shelby · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Blacksburg, SC
Neal Creek Primitive camping by the creek is located on private property. The two large campsites are approximately 300 feet apart and are located right beside the running creek. Plenty of shaded area's. We have a 6-8 person tent available to rent as well! Learn more about this land: We are only 1/2 a mile from the Interstate 85. So bring your tents, campers or your small RV and come and setup down by the babbling creek. If you don't have or own a tent, we have a large 6-8 person tent available for a small rental fee too. Build a nice fire in the fire pit. The firewood and kindling is provided. The campsites are semi-wooded areas with plenty of shade. They are very large private, peaceful and quiet sites.  View the stars at night, play in the creek during the day or if you are into biking or hiking, go to the Overmountain Victory trail located about 15 minutes away and enjoy the 6.7 mile loop around Lake Whelchel right off I-85. Local attractions: Biking, Hiking, Climbing and Horse trails - Kings Mtn National Park, Kings Mtn State Park, Crowder's Mtn State Park, Overmountain Victory Trail Segment - Lake Whelchel. Two Kings Casino is just a 10 minute trip right up Interstate - 85, exit 5 Convenient stores/restaurants within minutes from site.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Tellurian Family Campground

6. Tellurian Family Campground

98%
(347)
16mi from Shelby · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Casar, NC
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
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$59
 / night
Dogpatch Farms

10. Dogpatch Farms

100%
(5)
17mi from Shelby · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Mooresboro, NC
Dogpatch Farms is a farm offering Broad River access( canoe portage under construction but usable) campsites with the goal of making camping affordable again. We aren’t shooting for fancy or flashy just a clean quiet spaces and friendly safe environment where a person or group can enjoy nature without breaking the bank. We have one space for a RV/Camper with power water and septic dump ( down by the Barndo) and only a few with power and water only ( up by the well house)($60 and $40 per night respectively). Primitive areas vary from hillside, river side and open field all of which have an indoor toilet access and outside ( soon inside too) shower. Barndo is an active construction zone as we turn it into a full facility with cooking and laundry benefits so don’t expect fancy but that’s not our goal. Expect to see a sweet dog, a goat and probably a chicken ( and even enjoying a free egg) and definitely a tractor. Have a good time but I don’t tolerate stupid and you are expected to not leave a mess like a true outdoorsman should. There is an of wildlife including beavers, turkeys( roosting in the valley), deer and such to see because of our low impact approach so observe but don’t harass. We hope to become your destination and guide to the great outdoors.
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from 
$20
 / night
Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

13. Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

97%
(330)
40mi from Shelby · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Nebo, NC
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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$58
 / night
Emberglow Outdoor Resort

14. Emberglow Outdoor Resort

100%
(62)
34mi from Shelby · 61 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mill Spring, NC
Come enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends in the rolling hills of Western North Carolina at Emberglow Outdoor Resort. We’ve assembled one-of-a-kind lodging options on 72 acres in a beautiful private valley, complete with spring-fed creeks and a night sky of a billion stars. We’re conveniently situated between Asheville, Charlotte, Greenville, and Columbia. Get a closer look at the beautiful Emberglow Outdoor Resort property in our photo galleries and book now to experience it for yourself. An elevated camping experience nestled in the Blue Ridge Foothills of Western NC. A CONVENIENT ESCAPE Located near Lake Lure, a less than 2-hour drive from Charlotte, Greenville, Columbia, and Asheville, we offer our guests a convenient escape from the commotion of the weekly grind. UNIQUE LODGING OPTIONS Pick your unique lodging experience or bring your own. Yurts, AirStreams, Treehouses, and more are available for rent or park your RV or pitch a tent in one of our beautiful campsites. OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS There are endless outdoor activities and attractions in nearby Lake Lure, or you can take advantage of our resort-quality amenities without ever leaving the property. At Emberglow, you can play outside on your own terms, limit your travel time, and disconnect from the daily hamster wheel. Our mission is to deliver to our guests an exceptional place to enjoy the great outdoors with a variety of comfortable lodging options and unique amenities. Book your stay today! EXPLORE OUR Unique Lodging Choose from more than 20 memorable lodging options or set up your own in one of our fully-equipped RV or tent sites, all with access to our resort-quality amenities. • Vintage Campers • Treehouses • Tiny Homes • Yurts • Glamping Pods • Safari Tent • Primitive Tree Houses • RV Rental Trailers • RV Sites • Primitive Tent Sites ON-SITE AMENITIES A resort-quality pool awaits you to kick your feet up. Take on the family in sand volleyball or hit the hiking trails. Emberglow’s premium on-site amenities are just the start of your vacation possibilities. • Resort Quality Pool • Hiking/Biking Trails • Dog Park • Pedal Kart Rentals • Free Wifi • The Jump Pad • Sand Volleyball • Bicycle Rentals (Adult + Youth Sizes) • Sport Fields • Community Fire Pit • GaGa Ball Pit • Playground
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from 
$42
 / night
Yadkin Mountain Farm

16. Yadkin Mountain Farm

89%
(14)
49mi from Shelby · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Lenoir, NC
The 27-acre site is centrally located in beautiful Happy Valley, NC and accessed via Indian Grave Roady from the NC 268 Scenic Byway, which is frequented by motorcyclists, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts in general. You and your party will be the ONLY campers here. We offer 3 options for our one site based on your camping style, but once the property is booked, we close off the additional two site options. The site features uncommon privacy along with exclusive access to a beautiful section of the Yadkin River featuring a wadable and swimmable series of mostly rock filled pools and riffles. Approximately 1 acre of shaded lawn-like grass with an established fire ring is suitable for tents, camper vans, and large RV’s. Your dogs are welcome to roam off leash! The site is accessed through an almost entirely flat hayfield via a mowed trail that is easily accessible throughout the year via a 23-foot-wide entrance, except for during extreme wet weather. Nearby tourist attractions include: The Chapel of Rest, The Patterson School, Fort Defiance, the Happy Valley Filling Station, and much more with Blowing Rock and the Blue Ridge Parkway being on 15 minutes away.
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$30
 / night
GOLDENSTONE CAMP

18. 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.
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$60
 / night
Green River Getaway

20. Green River Getaway

100%
(11)
35mi from Shelby · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mill Spring, NC
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***
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from 
$32
 / night

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The best river, stream, or creek 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.