Beach Camping Near Sparta, North Carolina, US: 20 Best Beach Campsites 2026

Situated near Stone Mountain State Park, Grayson Highlands State Park, and the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, Sparta offers easy access to multiple natural wonders. This small town in upper North Carolina provides a diverse range of camping accommodations too—from rustic backcountry campsites with no amenities to glamping yurts with access to hot showers. Dive deeper into the area to find astounding views in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area, or hit up a local bluegrass concert in Doughton Park—where RVers will find full-hookup campsites for optimum comfort.

100% (843) • 60 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sparta

Situated near Stone Mountain State Park, Grayson Highlands State Park, and the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, Sparta offers easy access to multiple natural wonders. This small town in upper North Carolina provides a diverse range of camping accommodations too—from rustic backcountry campsites with no amenities to glamping yurts with access to hot showers. Dive deeper into the area to find astounding views in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area, or hit up a local bluegrass concert in Doughton Park—where RVers will find full-hookup campsites for optimum comfort.

100% (843) • 60 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sparta

1. The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

99%

(1280)

41mi from Sparta · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

Our new BATHHOUSE is now completely functional with toilet, sink and SHOWER Please respect our land by not bringing firewood from off-site and burning it here. We are a working farm that allows camping, not a campground. Our native trees and crops could easily be devastated by outside diseases or pests that are carried in firewood. We offer firewood for sale from our farm (delivered to your site for no additional fee). You do NOT have to purchase it prior to your arrival, just let us know how much you will need so we will have it ready for you. Our STORE offers firewood (delivered to your site!) , meats and eggs from our farm, Tallow & lard (both rendered right here!), drinks, Amish made ice cream and jams/jellies/preserves, hammocks, hammock chairs, smoked dog bones, soaps (made right here), rentals of: cast iron cookware, a tent, Coleman stove, fishing poles, ... and MUCH MORE! Please note that all our sites are reserved with a one vehicle limit. Some sites are large enough to accommodate additional vehicles but each additional vehicle will incur a $10 per night charge. Free parking for additional vehicles is located at the office/store. Check us out for your next camping experience. We promise we will do everything within our power to make it great! Looking for a camping experience with a little luxury to boot? Look no further than our Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms! You can drive right up to most sites, weather permitting. You will have access to a fire ring and picnic table (located at each site), firewood for sale on site (please do not bring firewood from off-site), clean well water (located near the pond), the creek to explore, our stocked pond to fish, and wooded trails to hike. Once roamed by Native Americans and now farmed by the same family for over 6 generations, Harmon Creek Farm is a working farm of over acres. Peace, quiet, tranquility and privacy are overflowing along the creek, and hiking throughout the hills on the backside of the farm (and on the other side of the creek) leads to interesting and abundant flora and fauna. The stocked, spring fed pond is 'brimming" with angler challenges🎣 Our cows, pigs, sheep, donkeys, chickens, ducks, geese are all eager to meet you, as are we! We currently have fresh eggs, pork and beef for sale on site as well. Like us on Facebook (Harmon Creek Farms of NC) for the latest on what's going on here at the farm. :)

2. Easy Bend River Farms

100%

(11)

37mi from Sparta · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Private riverside camping and tree house cabin. We are a Blackberry agro tourism farm offering 3 river front camping options equipped with warm shower, off grid shelter, river access and miles of trails to explore- completely private, but also close to many local wineries.- Camp by the river, or opt to stay above the river in the "rivernest" treehouse - which sleeps up to 4 and offers kitchenette and bathroom!

3. Jessup Mill

99%

(82)

42mi from Sparta · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Hi there. Here is a little rundown of everything we do at the mill…. So, as far as camping, there are two main options on either side of the river; the mill yard or primitive camping across the river. In the mill yard, we do festival style camping, meaning that there are no individual campsites per se, but rather a large grassy lawn near the mill and bathhouse with shared fire pits, picnic tables, charcoal grill, and sinks for water/dishes. We also have two platforms up in the woods that are good for a little more privacy and are completely shaded, but do require a small climb up the hill. The bathhouse has three restrooms and hot showers in each. Across the river, there are several more primitive sites that are generally very private and offer great sounds coming from the river and waterfall, but no facilities. Most sites are car accessible, and a 5 minute walk back over to the mill (or a 1 minute drive). Lastly, our newest camping spot on the primitive side is a river front beach right by the dam with space for a several medium sized tents and a private fire pit. The beach is hike-in only (2-3 minutes along a mostly flat trail). Our normal rate is $10 per person per night. Firewood is available for $10 per wheelbarrow load. We accept cash, credit card, Venmo, Paypal, and crypto. We are also fairly flexible on check in/check out times, but just let us know if you’ll be arriving at odd hours. Dogs are generally welcome as long as they are kept on leash. Here is a little rundown of tubing at the mill (May-October, weather permitting). We have two tubing options available. We have a short Fun Run that takes roughly 45 minutes, and cost $10 per person for as many rides as you’d like. The river bends sharply like a horseshoe in this section, so it makes everything accessible by foot traffic. It’s a 3 minute walk up the trail to the dam, put in and float 30-45 minutes (depending on water level), then a 5-10 minute walk back to the mill carrying your tube. There is also the longer Forks Run, which last 3-4 hours (~2.5 river miles), and costs $15. For this, we shuttle you up the river in a vehicle, and you float back to the top of the dam, then 3 minutes walking back to the mill. Most weekends, tubing starts at 11 am and the last Forks Shuttle is around 3 pm, with the Fun Run staying open till around 5. Also, with enough heads up, we can sometimes arrange for trips during the week. Our tubes are required for each person floating for insurance and liability reasons, but you are welcome to bring your own cooler tubes to carry drinks and snacks. Technically, alcohol is not permitted on the river, but what is in your cooler is your business. Either way, please bring ALL trash out with you! Water shoes are recommended, and we have life jackets on request. Most of our tubes come with bottoms and back rests, but a few are open to the water. Most weekends, reservations are not required, but it does help tremendously if we know when you want to come and how many in your group. Lastly, check out a Facebook page for our occasional live music events and festivals!

4. Stone Mountain State Park

98%

(33)

91 sites · Sparta, North Carolina

With rock climbing and hiking, Stone Mountain is a top spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

5. New River State Park

100%

(6)

81 sites · Jefferson, North Carolina

Relax on the river and explore the trails in this North Carolina park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Carl’s Campsites - Riverside

98%

(89)

34mi from Sparta · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

BEST KEPT SECRET IN PILOT MOUNTAIN!! Select TENT SITES below to book specific campsite. Small wooded camping area on the Ararat river in beautiful Pilot Mountain on Private Land! 9 riverfront sites for tents with two access points into river. There is a 2-car limit parking at the sites, and four wheel drive absolute MUST when wet or rain expected! There is also availability to camp on total of 58 acres owned by Carl’s Campsites. Select a field or hike-in site, with 2 field sites which have rock firepits. Bring your own camp toilet and water containers. Take trash with you. Potable water available across from A-Frame. Riverside Sites includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag. Water and soap for hand washing provided. Separate trashcan for toilet bags. No ATVs. No firearms or fireworks. LIMIT 2 TENTS AND TWO VEHICLES PER CAMPSITE. Campers expected to be environmentally respectful. Riverside sites have trash receptacles, Fire pit, hammock, and picnic table. Swimming, fishing, hiking of property permitted. Pilot Mountain State Park, Hanging Rock, and MANY wineries close by. Lots of hiking on property as well as State Parks close by. Hanging Rock is a great place to explore, with a lake and swimming for reasonable price and picnic areas in the park. We are also 20 minutes from Mt Airy, fictitious home of Mayberry.

7. 3 Springs Camping

100%

(2)

40mi from Sparta · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Small Gypsy Vanner, organic farm, bird sanctuary in the foothills of the Appalachians nestled in on Little King Creek with 3 gorgeous springs running fresh water to the creek from our mountain with 3 hollars. Boy it's a mouthful, but there's a great outhouse built for a king, outdoor shower, picnic area and creekside beaches to wash the world away and relax.

8. New River Hideout 1

100%

(4)

27mi from Sparta · 5 sites · Lodging

Its been a busy Winter since Hurricane Helene blew through but we are cleaned up and ready to go. We will open 1 May 2025! Y'all come visit! Located on the New River! Common area includes over an acre of an Island! A unique Camping Experience: We do all the un-fun camping steps so you can show up and enjoy yourself. Then leave without a care. This includes: Glamper delivery and setup, very comfortable upgraded mattresses, outdoor living/Kitchen area setup, 12 hrs per day of generator service (more available, just ask), full water tank and stocked cooking utensils. After your stay, we will break camp and empty all waste. -Best kept secret in SWVA!

9. Glamping Wild

100%

(3)

30mi from Sparta · 4 sites · Lodging

Glamping Wild is a luxury Glampground located on 40 acres in the very northwest corner of Ashe County, North Carolina. Glamping Wild offers three 20 foot geodesic dome tents, each featuring Thuma Queen sized beds and luxury bedding, indoor and outdoor dining, kitchenette with granite or quartz countertop, two burner induction cooktop, undercounter freezer/fridge, Breville smart oven, Keurig coffee bar, two sitting chairs and ottoman, and full private bathroom with shower, vanity and toilet. Outside you will enjoy a large private deck with propane Weber grill, seating area and fire table, dining table for four, large cooler and herb garden. On-site amenities include beach area along stream, three cold plunge areas, charcoal grill, communal firepit, cornhole, 2.5 acre wetland preserve, walking trails, streamside sitting areas, walking trails, interpretive walking trail, ridge climb, and a variety of games, books and other activities.

10. New River Trail State Park

80%

(5)

32 sites · Ivanhoe, Virginia

Travel across Virginia without ever leaving this long, narrow state park! Amazing biking trails.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Jefferson National Forest

98%

(27)

488 sites · Bluefield, Virginia

Literally thousands of miles of hiking trails can take you anywhere you want to go.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Grayson Highlands State Park

100%

(37)

22 sites · Troutdale, Virginia

Along with hiking and bouldering, these rocky mountains host wild ponies and live music festivals.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

13. George Washington National Forest

99%

(51)

487 sites · Deerfield, Virginia

Come and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

14. Starlite Trailer Lodge

45mi from Sparta · 6 sites

Discover the unique charm of our premier LGBTQ+ Campground and Tiny Home Community, where inclusivity and nature come together in perfect harmony. Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of North Carolina, this welcoming haven invites everyone to embrace their true selves while enjoying the great outdoors. At our campground, you can escape the pressures of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. With ample acreage, our community offers plenty of privacy, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with both the environment and yourself. Explore nearby natural features, including serene swimming holes and scenic hiking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the stunning surroundings, you'll find a variety of local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Make Starlite Campground your next destination and experience the joy of being part of a vibrant, accepting community while surrounded by the beauty of North Carolina.

15. Riverwalk on the Yadkin RV Park

24mi from Sparta · 9 sites

Welcome to Riverwalk on the Yadkin, a standout RV park nestled in the picturesque Yadkin Valley. What sets our campground apart is its prime location along the scenic Yadkin River, right next to the renowned Mountain to Sea Trail, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Our RV park is conveniently situated within walking distance of the charming historic downtown area, where you can explore a variety of local breweries, delightful restaurants, unique shops, and entertaining theaters. This vibrant community offers something for everyone, ensuring your stay is filled with fun and adventure. At Riverwalk RV Park, we prioritize the comfort of our guests. Our full hookup RV sites are designed to accommodate even the largest units on the road, providing ample space and privacy for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're planning a short visit or an extended stay, come and experience the beauty and excitement of this incredible area. Enjoy a night, a weekend, or even longer in our welcoming campground!

16. Elk Knob State Park

100%

(2)

13 sites · Cove Creek, North Carolina

Elk Knob State Park: A Haven for Hikers and Nature Lovers.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

17. Hungry Mother State Park

100%

(16)

51 sites · Marion, Virginia

Woodland glamping, lake activities, and a sandy beach make this a family favorite.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

18. Pilot Mountain State Park

90%

(15)

51 sites · Pinnacle, North Carolina

Pilot Mountain is part of the Yadkin Valley American Viticultural Area comprising over 50 wineries.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

19. Cherokee National Forest

96%

(49)

625 sites · Mountain City, Tennessee

Follow us to Tennessee and dive into the grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest! It’s filled to the brim with scenic forested trails, rushing rivers, and rainbow trout. During the day you can go rafting, and at night you can bask yourself in moonshine (of various sorts) and brush up on your constellations. If you are in pursuit of some Appalachian Mountain bliss, this is the right place to start. Don’t forget your camera, you're going to want to show these vistas off!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

William

December 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Nice place to stay was very peaceful and quiet. owner was super nice

T

November 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

1 night at The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Very accommodating hosts, guided us to our site 5, right on the banks of a small creek.We camped with a 20 ft trailer,only neighbors were friendly farm critters.We would definitely return, when in the area .

T

Travis

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Was upgraded to a nicer site on arrival. Nearby stream was nice. New bathhouse is nice as well.

Arnie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

We had a wonderful time camping at The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farm! We were originally booked at Creek Front 4, but Cheryl kindly offered us the chance to move to Creek Front 5, which turned out to be perfect. She was very responsive and answered all our questions quickly, making sure we had a great experience from start to finish. The property is beautiful, peaceful, and well-maintained — the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. We’re already planning our next visit and inviting a few friends to join us. Highly recommend this lovely place!

S

Sugar Soul

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

We absolutely love staying here! As seasoned campers, it’s in the top of our list of favorite places and we are so blessed that it’s not too far from home! The scenery is perfect and serene. If you’re looking for a place to escape the busyness of life and sit by a flowing creek for awhile, this is your spot! The farm store on site has fresh goodies, firewood and ice. The bath house is spotless and well equipped. The family that owns the farm will take very good care of you while you visit, but give you plenty of privacy

K

Karen

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Easy Bend River Farms

We cannot believe our incredible good luck to have found this place. Christine and Ken cover everything - with so many thoughtful touches in every area to make our stay over the top. There is ample space for multiple tents with flat sandy/dirt as the base and boat-ramp access to the river. The large open kitchen area is beautiful and would hold many if it were raining. Our group was there for an annual get-together, and we’ve decided not to explore other locations or venues, looking forward to returning.

D

Donald

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

This was the most exquisite camping experience and we cannot wait to come back!! The sites are perfect and the hospitality was immeasurable in the best way possible!!

D

Dana

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

What a great experience and perfect use of land! Our camp site was beautiful, private, and clean. Everyone was very welcoming and the animals were very well loved and attended. Thank you so much for opening your land for the rest of us!! We will be back to visit again and strongly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful retreat into nature.

D

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Jessup Mill

Awesome place... beautiful, private, and everything we wanted. Will definitely be back!!

G

Gregory

October 2025

13 ft pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

We had a wonderful stay at The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms. From the moment we arrived, Cheryl and Scott welcomed us with genuine hospitality—they couldn’t have been more friendly or helpful. We ended up at Creek Front 3, a peaceful site right along the creek with plenty of space between us and the nearest neighbor, which made for a quiet and relaxing experience. The farm store was a charming bonus—we grabbed some fresh eggs and sausage during our visit. All in all, a fantastic getaway. We were in town for one night only but we’re already looking forward to returning and spending more time exploring the farm.

D

David

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Gracious hosts. Took the kids on a farm tour which ended up being pretty interesting for adults also. Great site. Quiet and private. Easy to get to.

Fred

September 2025

22 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Peaceful and private sights along the creek. Farm animals were fun to explore and even saw an owl land in front of us at our camp sight. Walking the property was nice along with visiting local breweries and wineries. Sight 5 was a good fit for our 22 foot travel trailer and felt like sight 1 would have been nice as well.

C

Christina

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Jessup Mill

Our family loved camping on the beach overlooking the river. The walk in was short - and the wheelbarrow near the parking area was so helpful for schlepping our stuff. We enjoyed the soothing sound of the waterfall just upstream, and the kids kept busy playing in the river and sand. We went tubing the first afternoon, basically from our campsite - so fun! Appreciated the bathrooms not too far away. Great experience!

E

Emily

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Jessup Mill

We had the best camping trip at Jessup Mill. We stayed at the beach spot and it was absolutely perfect! It was warm enough we could swim and use the rope swing, my kids (13 and 8) had the best time. And so did our chocolate lab! One of our favorite camping trips ever! Thank you so much Matthew! We would love to come back!

G

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Lovely as always. Quiet. And peaceful. Great host.

Russell

September 2025

Weekend Trip to New River Hideout 1

We had an amazing and very relaxing trip this weekend. Keith was an amazing, informative, and attentive host. We had everything we need to comfortably stay. We of course brought things of our own to make it ours for the weekend. The location is very nice beside the river and yes, I took a nap everyday. We highly recommend.

A

Amailyta

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Oasis at Harmon Creek Farms

Amamos este camping, las personas del lugar son muy amables, conocer los animales fue muy divertido, la instalación está muy bonita y la verdad tiene comodidades, el baño muy limpio y nuevo!! Recomiendo este lugar para familias!!!!

T

Tieisha

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Jessup Mill

We stayed here for 3 nights to celebrate my birthday and had the best time! Our campsite was right on the river with our own little private beach—it was peaceful, relaxing, and perfect for cooking out and going tubing on the river. Matthew, the owner, was super nice and very informative, which made everything even better. We really enjoyed ourselves and would absolutely love to come back again!

Torgny

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Jessup Mill

Great place great views friendly people would recommend this to anyone

Amy

July 2025

Weekend Trip to New River Hideout 1

What a fantastic experience. Keith is the king of glamping. As another reviewer states, show up with your clothes and food/bev, everything else is here. Fully stocked indooor and outdoor kitchen, comfortable mattresses and bedding, even comfortable camp chairs. As a seasoned camper, I over packed and was able to leave the majority of what I brought in the car, clean and ready for the next adventure. The new river is stunning at this location and the island beach is something uniquely special. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a stress and effort free river getaway.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best beach camping near Sparta guide

Where to go

Stone Mountain State Park

Visit the 19th-century Hutchinson Homestead, hike 16 miles of trails, or rock climb the renowned 600-foot wide granite dome that gives Stone Mountain State Park its name. The park is roughly 30-minutes south of Sparta and features primitive hike-in campsites (accessed from Widow’s Creek Trail) as well as drive-in options. Every car-access campsite offers tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings with grill tops. Some also have hookups for electricity and water. A communal dump station is free of charge for all campers.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Anglers will love the 10 miles of streams filled with rainbow trout in Grayson Highlands State Park, situated 30 minutes from Sparta. Book the bunkhouse for larger camping groups or one of four yurts with screen-covered windows and dome skylights. There are also plenty of traditional campsites with electricity and water hookups. Then spend the day mountain biking or searching for wild ponies—the trail to Wilburn Ridge is a top-pick for sightings. Hiking and cross country skiing are available in winter, offering beautiful views of the snow-covered landscape.

Linville Gorge Wilderness Area

Part of Pisgah National Forest, the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area has steep, rocky terrain that delivers incredible backcountry camping and gorgeous views. Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” the landscape was formed by the Linville River, which carved out the gorge over thousands of years. Primitive campsites found here are pack-in and pack-out, with no amenities but tons of access to hiking trails and vistas. Wiseman’s View and the top of Table Rock Mountain are some of the best spots to take it all in.

When to go

Most campers flock to North Carolina in June, July, and August. For a quieter camping experience, visit right before summer begins in April and May, or as it ends in September and October. Temperatures stay relatively mild throughout the year, but Sparta does get snow in wintertime, with the highest amount of snowfall in February. If hiking is on the agenda, spring is the perfect time to catch blooming flowers, while fall showcases changing leaves.