The best family-friendly glamping near Sparta, North Carolina

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds

The Star Gazer Dome is an extraordinary outdoor structure situated in a picturesque, sun-soaked open field. This dome-shaped observatory offers a stunning view of the clear blue skies during the day and the starry night sky once the sun sets. Its clear, weather-resistant materials allow for unobstructed views of the heavens above, providing a one-of-a-kind stargazing experience. The dome is designed to blend seamlessly into the natural landscape, and its location in an open field ensures ample space and light for a truly unforgettable outdoor adventure. Whether you're an avid astronomer or just looking to appreciate the beauty of the cosmos, the Star Gazer Dome is the ideal place to explore the wonders of the universe.

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. Blue Bear Mountain Camp

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33mi from Sparta · 46 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Boone, NC

Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers year-round camping experiences for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Car-accessible tent and RV sites in a natural setting. Hike-in sites for those looking for a little more adventure and privacy. Stargazer Domes and Cabin rentals for guests wanting a rustic, mountain getaway while staying in comfort. Located just 8 miles north of Boone, NC on over 150 acres of pristine mountain land, miles of hiking trails, a trout pond, and spacious low-density sites allow the guest to get away from it all in a rustic, remote setting. In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At 4,000 feet elevation, come enjoy cool mountain breezes and mild temperatures. Blue Bear Mountain is a scenic location for large events such as weddings, corporate events, and family reunions. Come Get away from it all at Blue Bear Mountain! Blue Bear Mountain offers spacious, Low-Density RV camping, spacious, private, rustic car-accessible tent camping, and spacious, private remote tent camping. Blue Bear Mountain also offers luxury Stargazer Domes and Cabin rentals to provide you with more choices of how to experience your mountain getaway. In a beautiful mountain setting with incredible views, the Stargazer Domes are a great way to enjoy the camping experience without really roughing it. Great for a romantic getaway or bringing the family. Furnished with a queen size bed, complete with high-quality linens, a bistro table, and chairs, you will stay in complete comfort. Conveniently located near the bathhouse with private bathrooms, a Laundry room, and a dishwashing station. You can drive right up to the handcrafted stargazer dome. Relax and take in the views while sitting around your stone fire ring. A park grill, picnic table, and free bundle of firewood are also provided to complete your glamping getaway.

2. joyville, camping site on elk creek

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31mi from Sparta · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Deep Gap, NC

Learn more about this land: camping sites on elk creek or smaller creek that feeds elk creek. trout fishing on stocked stream. mountain biking, hiking. 20 min. to Boone. n.c. Hiking trails can be fairly easy or as steep as your goat would like. there are dirt bike trails near by that can be ridden from camp site. come pan for gold in elk creek. Nice swimming hole at site, motorcycle campers welcome.

3. NEW RIVER REDEMPTION

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18mi from Sparta · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Jefferson, NC

If you are looking for a secluded campsite deep in the woods, you may want to keep looking. But if you want the ease and peace of a campsite RIGHT ON THE NEW RIVER with everything just steps from your tent, then come out and claim your site! Redemption: To repair or restore. To make good. This campground represents redemption and healing in so many ways. Our hope is that you will find much peace, joy, and adventure here and we promise to do our best to make it everything you expected and more! Numerous large manicured campsites in an open space DIRECTLY ON THE NEW RIVER where adventures abound! Up to 4 guests and 2 tents per site. Newly constructed tiny home provides GLAMPING at its finest! The Liberty cabin shares a space with a few tent sites along the river. With the addition of Liberty, I have limited the number of campers to 4. (Exceptions may be made for holiday weekends). There is plenty of space for everyone and the cabin sits above the tent sites for amazing views and privacy. While HWY 16 can be a bit noisy during busy times, step into the campsites and let the peaceful noise-canceling river serenity whisk you away. Forest views across the river with endless fireflies and stars that light up the night! Zaloo's Canoes, Kayak, and Tubes is within eyesight and will set you up with an amazing float or paddle down river. Plentiful small mouth bass and trout fishing just steps from your site. Outhouse w/washing station. Fire pits at each site as well as a large communal fire pit and picnic tables. Downtown West Jefferson is just 15 minutes away with local breweries, quaint restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, shopping, music, art, and a wonderful farmer's market from May - October. The quaint little town of Lansing, NC is quickly becoming a favorite stop of mine. Check out the Old Orchard Creek General Store, Pie on the Mountain Pizza, the Old Orchard Creek Blueberry Farm, and Molly Chomper for a perfect day in Ashe County. The New River State Park is an easy walk, float, paddle or drive away. This park is absolutely GORGEOUS and impeccably maintained, including hiking trails, public facilities, showers, boat launch and pick up, etc. Just a short drive to multiple Blue Ridge Parkway entry points for ease of access to Boone, Appalachian State University, Blowing Rock, Grandfather Mountain, Banner Elk, and the Linville Gorge. Mount Jefferson and Grayson Highlands are also just a short drive away for unlimited hiking and incredible mountain views. My personal favorite is hiking with the wild ponies at Grayson Highlands! We have Firewood available for a nominal fee. Just let us know and we will make arrangements to have it ready for you upon arrival. Please respect quiet hours between 10 PM and 8 AM each evening.

4. Marshall Creek Farm

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44mi from Sparta · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Westfield, NC

Marshall Creek Farm is offering 2 camping spots on our 26 acres property out in the country of Westfield NC Just 15 minutes from Hanging Rock State Park where you can enjoy scenic waterfalls and breath taking views on some of our states most beautiful hiking, biking, and horse riding trails. First site is a cabin for two nestled in the private woods on a ridge on the back of the property. Second site is a tent/rv site that sits on the edge of a 3 acre pasture on the bank of Marshall Creek. Other nearby interests include kayaking, tubing, and fishing the Dan River, Zip-lining, Pilot Mt. State Park, Also the town of Mt. Airy (Mayberry) from the Andy Griffith show. You can also visit the well known Maybry Mill on a nearby section of the Blue Ridge Parkway. And of course you can always have a memorable time simply hanging around camp enjoying a cozy fire or gazing into the brightly lit starry skies that have escaped the city lights. Split firewood available on the honor system for purchase on the site of your choice. $5/bundle cash. Please scroll down and explore each listing for more detail.

5. Babbling Brook Campground

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30mi from Sparta · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging · Moravian Falls, NC

Before the Kerr Scott Reservoir was built, in the 40's and 50's, this neighborhood was a local swimming hole and vacation area. Public buses came from neighboring communities so people could boat, swim, camp, and picnic. While we don't have access to the pond, our part of this land still is calling out to people, 'Come, rest, unload your burdens, and find peace.' When we started this project with Hipcamp, we didn't fully realize that we were reconnecting with the history on this property. So, come, take your shoes off, and wade in the creek. Read a book while laying in a hammock. Sit by the fire and chat with family and friends. Come and participate in our little homesteading project, and leave your burdens behind. LOCAL ACTIVITIES: To the west is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is 30 minutes away. 15 minutes away is Kerr Scott Dam where you can rent kayaks, pontoon boats, as well as other sporting equipment. Fish, go mountain biking on the extensive trails, and hiking. Prayer Mountain is right up the road, about 2 miles away. Heading east, you can find several fine wineries andvineyards that you can visit. There is also a moonshine distillery in town. About a half hour away is an Amish community that has several businesses open to the public, including the Shiloh Bakery and General Store. They are closed on Sunday and Monday. To the northeast, about 45 minutes away, is Stone Mountain. Absolutely fantastic hiking, it is also an old homestead that has been renovated and is open to the public. To the south, there is Rocky Face Park, where there is hiking and rock climbing. Nearby, is Emerald Hollow Mine, where you can go and find, and keep, precious stones you find in the nearby river. There is also a great disk course course, Highland Hills Disc Golf Course, one of the top 25 in the country. There is fun for all ages. Merlefest, the last weekend of April, is a world class Bluegrass festival, is located right in our town. Be sure to look at the activities section below for additional information.

6. Take a Hike on a Wild side! Camping

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43mi from Sparta · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lenoir, NC

This property is 180 acres of woods and mountains with streams and ponds. Beautiful settings. If you like hiking in the mountains this will definitely hit the spot. YO can fish in the ponds it has blue gills and catfish. I also added grass carp there as part of weed management. This used to be an abandoned farm which I want to bring back to life. The site offers three luxury large Safari Style Tents and 4 Pioneer wagons. All tents are far away from each other to provide privacy and freedom of going Wild (still remaining civilized in your manners and careful attitude to Nature around you). Tent 1 is in the Forrest itself and it is pretty cook and serene. Tent 2 is on the top of a rocky hill overlooking the forest. Tent 3 is the most remote and closest to the ponds. It has most of the open space around it, and can be a great place for parties. We are working on making the sites and the area more comfortable, but I do not want to make it a manicured park. I want it to remain wild and still offer comfortable stay. The farm is work in progress. Eventually it will be an Ostrich farm. and have other animals too. The closest town - Lenoir is about 12 miles away . Closest Grocery store (Dollar General) - about 3 miles away. Closest Gas station - 2 miles away. Professional Tennis court, Basketball court and large kids playground are in a public park within - 5 minute drive. Lenoir has restaurants, shopping, etc. Hickory is a larger town about 25 minutes drive. Hickory Lake is a large reservoir with marina where you can rent a boat and it also offers a good game fishing. Nice swimming beach access on Lake Hickory 13 miles ( 20 Minutes) from here: Lake Hickory Wittenburg access area (Wittenburg Access Area, 175 Wildlife Access Rd, Hickory, NC 28601) Asheville is 1:25 hrs to the West, Charlotte is 1:25 hr to the East. There are couple of Ski resorts 45 minutes to an hr away.

Stories from the community

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Kathryn

3 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at NEW RIVER REDEMPTION

We stayed during a snow fall, so we did not get the full river experience- but even in November the view is beautiful. The little cabin was just enough for my young family of 4 and our dog. Host made it super simple and had everything we would need and made sure to check on us via messages to make sure the heater was sufficient (which it definitely was).

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nancy

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

Such an amazing weekend at Joyville!! Gary and Dianne were just amazing. Our little cabin had 2 rooms, a deck overlooking the creek where we played games and had such a great time!!

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Kevin

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Blue Bear Mountain Camp

This is one of the best campgrounds we have stayed at. Mike was a great host, very friendly and easy to talk to. The bathhouse gets 5 stars from us. Heated water as well as heated room. We stayed in Dome #3 and it was clean and comfortable. The heated blanket was a very helpful for our cold evenings. We stayed 11/7-11/9 and have already started planning another trip to try the backpack sites. It is a beautiful property.

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Melissa

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Babbling Brook Campground

I loved spending several nights in the treehouse. I came prepared for colder weather so I had plenty of warm clothes, hand and feet warmers, and propane for the buddy heater and Coleman stove, both of which I used and appreciated. It rained during part of my stay which was magical on the tin roof. The creek babbled. I found dry firewood and kindling prior to the rain, and paired with firewood I brought I enjoyed several campfires. The water accessible pump/kitchen came in handy as the treehouse doesn’t have water or electricity. The attached compostable toilet was convenient and never smelled funky. The cabin is stocked with all the kitchen things you might want for cooking. There were plenty of blankets and I slept snug as a bug in the comfy loft bed. I did rescue a spider or two and released into the wild. As expected for a treehouse in their habitat. Parking for one car was convenient atop a walkway to the treehouse. I enjoyed a farm visit with Elizabeth and learned about her goats horses and more. Her dogs came to visit a few times. Overall I couldn’t have been more happy. It helped to come prepared for the cooler weather paired with Elizabeth’s thoughtful touches. While there are solar lights in and around the cabin, make sure to bring headlamps and/or other light sources. It felt whimsical and dreamy and I can’t wait to return. Thanks Elizabeth!

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Jordan

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

The cabin was great! Beautiful view of the river and super easy to get to. We loved our stay and have already talked about plans for coming back!

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Amanda

October 2025

With kids

3 nights at Marshall Creek Farm

Beautiful spot, private and secluded. Had everything we needed for a wonderful stay.

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Britt

October 2025

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

Awesome campsite right near boone, blowing rock, and banner elk. The owners are very nice and super attentive!

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Shelbe

October 2025

2 nights at Babbling Brook Campground

Beautiful little treehouse with a magical feeling! Absolutely recommend as a way to reconnect with your inner child and nature. Elizabeth also has the cutest pups who love to pop by and say hi. Definitely will be back ☺️

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Marcus

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

My Family of three stayed in a small cabin right by Elk Creek. We had breakfast on a little balcony overlooking the creek. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Got there during the dark, so not having to setup a tent was certainly a benefit. Dianne is a great host and so very friendly and helpful!

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Sandra

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Babbling Brook Campground

A really special stay. We were a group of friends from different areas and we loved staying here. Some of us camped and some stayed in the little cabin. The owners can’t be nicer. They’re responsive with communication and every detail is thought out. We had a toddler with us and she loved visiting the animals (horses, donkeys, chickens, goats…) BRP is about 40 mins away, and Boone is 50 mins away. Very convenient. We would love to come back. Thank you for having us!!

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Jody

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

This is a great spot! The directions from the host were spot on, very easy to find. Hit or miss on the phone signal, bit it was great to disconnect and enjoy the area. Great sites and beautiful views!

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Marcus

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

This booking was actually an extension of the prior day’s stay at the cabin. My family of 3 loved it the same!

Susan

October 2025

1 night at Marshall Creek Farm

This is a wonderful cabin getaway. The grounds were well kept, the cabin was comfortable and Darin was so great deal with. It is close to Hanging Rock SP which was a plus. I would definitely stay here when I’m in the area.

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SuJin

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

Garry and Dianne were so kind to share their lovely log cabin with our family. Dianne was especially kind and sweet, and we truly appreciated their hospitality. The cabin was beautifully prepared for us, and there was plenty of space to pitch a tent right outside. Our kids especially loved fishing by the stream and roasting s’mores by the campfire. It was such a fun and relaxing getaway for all of us. We’ll definitely try to come back in the future!

The Star Gazer Dome is a unique outdoor structure located in a tranquil, wooded area. This dome-shaped observatory is designed to provide a spectacular view of the night sky and surrounding forest. The dome is made of clear, weather-resistant materials that allow for an unobstructed view of the stars above, and is nestled in a shaded area to provide a comfortable, cool environment for stargazing. Whether you're an astronomy enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the Star Gazer Dome is the perfect place to marvel at the wonders of the universe.

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Chris

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blue Bear Mountain Camp

We absolutely LOVED this place! We were worried when we were booking relatively late and had a hard time finding quality spots, then came across this place. It was AMAZING. We rented both a yurt and a tent site for 4 adults, 6 kids, and 1 dog. There was plenty of room for the kids to run around and play soccer or throw frisbee. We had big fires at night around the campfire. My wife and the other mom just LOVED their yurts (though the kids weren't as impressed when they found out they were sleeping in a tent, ha). Bathrooms were close and clean, and there was a sink to wash dishes. I also loved how though there were other campers there, we didn't feel "on top" of them and had plenty of room. Our dog was welcomed and we had a blast. Plus, we were only like 15 minutes from Boone. There's also lots of trails to explore and 150 acres, we when we (not if we) come back, we'll have a lot more exploring to do! We have written this place down as a favorite and will FOR SURE be coming back again.

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Sky

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

We loved our stay. Garry & Dianne were great hosts, they went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. I wish we could have stayed longer.

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Heather

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Babbling Brook Campground

We had the absolute best stay at the little adjacent barn. Very special to have all the sweet animals all around us. The cottage has everything you need, including fresh eggs and coffee/tea. We had a fire in the fire pit with wood provided. Elizabeth has some awesome recommendations for things to do in the area, which we took her up on and thoroughly enjoyed. Good people, good time!!! Highly recommend this peaceful stay in nature.

Abby

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Babbling Brook Campground

Enjoyed the comforts of the treehouse and exploring the surrounding area!

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Chelsea

October 2025

Weekend Trip to joyville, camping site on elk creek

Dianne went above and beyond to ensure my boys and I had a comfortable stay. She made us feel safe and right at home. My boys felt so at ease with her that I had to go looking for them a couple of times bc they’d run off in search of her company! She was truly a joy and we would come back if we ever visited the area again.

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tabitha

October 2025

1 night at Take a Hike on a Wild side! Camping

Highly recommend staying in one of the wagons!! Such a cute and beautiful scenery! Individual picnic tables and fire pits along with one major fire pit for group events! The host was extremely quick with responses and understanding and helpful!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping 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.