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Camping near Charlotte

Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina, sits on the state's southern border. Expect humid temperatures in the high 80s from June to September. Spring and fall months are quite comfortable, though. Head about 45 minutes north on I-77 to reach Lake Norman State Park. Cast a line and fish for bluegill, perch, catfish and more in the titular lake. There's a swimming area around the park's south region as well. The park's Itusi Trails are particularly popular for mountain biking. If you're looking for a biking challenge, hit the demanding Laurel Loop. Nature lovers might want to swing southeast and check out the McDowell Nature Center and Preserve. This green area is on the shores of Lake Wylie. The nature preserve's McDowell Campground holds 56 campsites, including an RV park with full hookups. Camping with a large group? You can even rent the entirety of the 14-acre Copperhead Island overnight! Travel a bit east of Charlotte to find the Uwharrie National Forest. Pan for gold, hike the remote Uwharrie Trail, or fish in Badin Lake. If you own horses, don't miss the Canebrake Horse Camp. Here you can take your equine friends out on 38 miles of horse trails.

97% (1.7K) • 1,054 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Charlotte

Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

1. Peaceful RV Camping W Lake Access

100%

(40)

13mi from Charlotte · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

Graham RtV -3

2. Graham RtV -3

100%

(18)

14mi from Charlotte · 1 site · Tent, RV

40 foot spot with plenty of room

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

Peaceful Property

3. Peaceful Property

95%

(10)

15mi from Charlotte · 1 site · Tent, RV

Great wonderful, and convenient open area, outside of a Charlotte, a peaceful getaway. With an amazing beautiful sunset. 2acres of open land, there is water accessible outside of the home. Perfect for a traveler to rest and recover as they travel through North Carolina. Located less than an hour to Uwharrie national forest, and less than thirty minutes from BOA Stadium, Charlotte Douglas Airport and charlotte Motor Speedway

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Andrew Jackson State Park

4. Andrew Jackson State Park

State park 25mi from Charlotte · 22 sites

Discover the historic charm of Andrew Jackson State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Crowders Mountain State Park

5. Crowders Mountain State Park

100%

(4)

State park 26mi from Charlotte · 20 sites

Trails link two mountains at this North Carolina park.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

Cj’s Suburban Oasis

6. Cj’s Suburban Oasis

96%

(27)

18mi from Charlotte · 1 site · Tent, RV

Looking for a place to camp while visiting the greater Charlotte area? Come stay in the woods at our private campsite tucked away in nature. Get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, find peace and solitude amongst the trees. Cozy up and light a fire, enjoy dinner sitting at the picnic bench and feel like you’ve gotten out of the city. But still be close enough to amenities and activities. Plenty of adventure awaits when you only need a quaint little place to stay to take it all in. Come and enjoy our little piece of property and have fun! With a quick 4 min jaunt down to the Renaissance festival Oct- Nov to partake in all the fanfare, you will be pleased with the ease and nearness of our site. For you race fans, only a 20min easy drive to feel the cars thundering down the Charlotte Motor Speedway. Catch a concert at PNC music pavilion 19min away. Currently no bathroom, must be self sufficient, pack in pack out. 40’ level pad. Plenty of firewood and dead fall to make a fire in the pit. Should be proficient at backing your rig. Picnic table. Fire pit with cooking grill and a few chairs. Pet friendly but please pick up after your furry friends. Two hundred yard gravel road leads to paved driveway onto the property. 4 mins from: Harris Teeter, Bojangles, McDonald’s, Subway, DiMaggio’s pizza, Midor sushi and hibachi, Indian cuisine Check out the list below for approximate times to various other fun filled places…. Restaurants, Drug store and Grocery 3 Min Carolina Renaissance Festival 4 minutes Birkdale Village 14 Min White Water Center 29 min Downtown Charlotte 21 min NODA 28 min South End 32 min Lake Norman 20-25 min Lake Norman State Park 37 min Latta Place historic site 31 min Carolina Raptor Center 29 min Bank of America Stadium 28 min

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

Waterfall camping close to CLT

7. Waterfall camping close to CLT

99%

(393)

24mi from Charlotte · 1 site · Tent, RV

Working on Facebook, Instagram, and a website. Search for: Old Mill Falls My Neighbor has started his own Campsite, "The Swimming Hole". If mine is booked and you still want to camp, look him up. He is better suited for small groups and has more privacy. Easy drive right to the campsite 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, the weather can change conditions and make it unusable. I should also add that this is not completely private. 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 also end a weekend afternoon enjoying the waterfall view Still much quieter and more private than a regular campground. Close to the U.S. 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

Toilets

Campfires

The swimming hole

8. The swimming hole

99%

(83)

24mi from Charlotte · 1 site

Secluded camping area next to the swimming hole on long creek. Very quiet and peaceful. Spend your evening relaxing or swimming. Picnic table is provided. We are excited to now provide a port a John , a dumpster and a grill., gate code 6510* It’s just a short walk down hill to the campground. (250 steps) It’s close to US National Whitewater center, Kings Mountain National Military park, and Crowders Mountain park. 3 miles off I-85 and US-321. Also check out my neighbors Hipcamp called the waterfall

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Tails and Trails

9. Tails and Trails

96%

(57)

26mi from Charlotte · 2 sites

Nestled off of the beaten path and located in a small town. Enjoy peace and quiet at this site, back in the woods down a quaint little trail on 9 acres! Whether it's sitting around a campfire, throwing some cornhole, playing some cards or playing some retro games, you can have it all right here. Power is provided via a power bank. Bathroom is equipped with a camp shower bag and flushable toilet. Ask about s'mores kits and firewood. Pet's welcome. State licensed pet boarding available on-site!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Kings Mountain State Park

10. Kings Mountain State Park

90%

(5)

State park 35mi from Charlotte · 123 sites

Step back in time with a living history farm and hike through a forest with gorgeous mountain views

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Lake Norman State Park

11. Lake Norman State Park

94%

(8)

State park 33mi from Charlotte · 37 sites

Outdoor adventure awaits on the banks of North Carolina’s largest manmade lake.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Kings Mountain National Military Park

12. Kings Mountain National Military Park

100%

(1)

National park 32mi from Charlotte · 116 sites

Discover the historic battleground of Kings Mountain National Military Park.

Campfires

Picnic table

Chester State Park

13. Chester State Park

100%

(2)

State park 43mi from Charlotte · 23 sites

Discover Chester State Park's scenic trails, lake, and family-friendly activities.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Lucky Farms Under the Stars

14. Lucky Farms Under the Stars

99%

(174)

29mi from Charlotte · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

Escape the noise and reconnect under the stars, a primitive campground set in a peaceful open field bordered by woods filled with walking trails. Camp your way—tent in a site nestled in the woods or park your camper along the shady tree line. Enjoy fire pits at every site, picnic tables, rope swings, and softly lit trails through the forest for peaceful evening walks. Planning a group retreat? We welcome church groups, girl's/guy's nights, or weekend retreats. Gather around the central bonfire and make space for connection, reflection, and rest. No hookups. No stress. Just stars, stories, and stillness. We do accept same day requests, but PLEASE GIVE US YOUR ETA WHEN MAKING YOUR RESERVATION Facebook: LuckyFarms.LiveHappy

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Cedar Grove Farm RV Site

15. Cedar Grove Farm RV Site

98%

(23)

30mi from Charlotte · 1 site

Cedar Grove RV Site is a peaceful single site that offers full hookups with a nice gravel pad. The site overlooks our 22 acre farm with beautiful rolling hills, cows, goats and chickens. There are some homes nearby but the site is nestled back on it own private acreage. We are within 10 minutes of York, 20 Minutes from Clover, 15 minutes from Kings Mountain, 25 minutes from Lake Wylie and ~30 minutes from both Gastonia and Rock Hill. This is a great central location to go hiking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, and shopping...... or to just sit back, relax and enjoy the country farm life. Please note that you have to be at least 24 years old to rent this site and own a valid drivers license.

Pets

Full hookups

Acts In Motion Sacred Ranch

16. Acts In Motion Sacred Ranch

100%

(24)

30mi from Charlotte · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

This is a running 7 acre Christian micro-farm/ranch in York, South Carolina, 45-60 minutes S. from Charlotte NC. We do things differently here than what you may expect at typical religious organizations. Our values are encompassed by bringing Christ into every day reality where His love shines 24/7. This is a sacred space where community converges with the beauty of creation. So, first and foremost, it is dedicated for people who are seeking refreshing, harmony, and peace with the Creator in a real, "down-to-earth" way. Come experience the culture of ranch life, times of relaxation around the camp fire, rustic meals, and having fun exploring the Carolinas! We are confident that you will not only enjoy the amazing scenery for camping, you will be encouraged by the warm smiles, candor, and hospitality of the staff here to serve you. We are looking forward to your visit soon. Blessings. Features: A rustic scenery with the classic red barn, chapel, pastures, old growth trees, rolling hills, creek, and meadow. We have chickens, sheep, rabbits, dogs, cats, and wildlife. Learn more about this land: The property is picturesque with pastures, a classic red barn, a chapel, and organic garden space. You will enjoy a peaceful meandering creek, old growth trees, rolling hills, fields, meadow, and animals... serene and beautiful. This sacred space is a balance between primitive camping, and just a short walk away from modern amenities. There are restrooms, showers, laundry, coffee, and WiFi available at your request in the chapel.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

PRIVATE Retreat near Lake Norman

17. PRIVATE Retreat near Lake Norman

100%

(83)

32mi from Charlotte · 1 site

Very secluded 30/ 50 amp site among beautiful Pecan tree You will enjoy nature when you stay here at Pecan Meadows!  The mornings are peaceful with the sounds of birds and possible sights of deer.  The dark night skies with the bright stars will amaze you....we can't decide which is better! The site has a large gravel pad that is easy to back into.  We provide 2 Adirondack chairs, a picnic table, a fire pit and lights in the trees.  We do NOT allow tent only renting since there is no bathhouse facilities. Lake Norman State Park is exactly 1 mile from this property and is known for AMAZING mountain biking and hiking trails and access to the 520 miles of shore line of Lake Norman, the largest fresh water lake in Iredell County. The state park also has a FREE boat launching area. Also you can keep your trailered boat with you on the property... FOR NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE. Don't have a boat? There is a marina only 5 mins from here to rent boats and jetskis WANT TO TRAVEL WITH A FRIEND WHO ALSO HAS A CAMPER/RV/TENT?  We have an additional 30/50amp hookup .  You all will enjoy an amazing experience using the hanging out together!  They way we set you up is both RV front doors share the shaded Pecan area.  OR if you are willing to let your friends us your facilities this site can be rented for up to 2 tents. To rent this space you will need to request when booking.  It is only available when booking site #1  WITH this site. Please contact me to discuss this more if you are interested. Troutman is a very quaint southern town very close to Mooresville, NC. It is smack in the middle of Charlotte and Hickory! So you can enjoy the mountains or the city or both from ONE LOCATION!! We are within driving distance to Lowe's Motor speedway and very close to many race teams located in Mooresville. The downtown of Troutman is a short drive from your camp spot and there is a grocery store, drug store and many privately owned restaurants, including Italian, German and amazing fried chicken at Julia's! There is an ice cream parlor too!!  Another wonderful asset to Troutman is Daveste' Vineyard where there is live music often, and of course wine tastings! This beautiful vineyard is less than 10 mins away.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Total Isolation - South 40 Acre Lot

18. Total Isolation - South 40 Acre Lot

99%

(40)

32mi from Charlotte · 1 site

Learn more about this land:Note:  Site is closed for booking Oct 4 - Jan 1 for deer hunting season, sorry for any inconvenience that might cause, but I like to hunt too.   We will open back up Jan. 2, and hopefully have some more amenities by then too!Isolated Farm Field, surrounded by tree lines and woods for private getaway. Walking trails and a cool running creek to wade in.  Wildlife all around.High Hipcamper booking rate, site goes quick.  Always a steady stream of guests here.  This is the site people go to get away from everything.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Golden Spot

19. Golden Spot

100%

(35)

35mi from Charlotte · 1 site · Tent, RV

This rural setting walking distance to Historic Gold Hill Center. Is convenient to Charlotte, Concord, Winston Salem. An abundance of pecan and walnut trees makes for an ideal visit. Gazebo with picnic bench and chairs, lights, fans and Fire pit and firewood. Gravel driveway, level parking pad, electric 50, 30, 20 amp included with septic clean-out available for waste accumulated during stay. Historic Gold Hill is an attraction with shops including antiques, flowers, bakery, pottery, jewelry, old fashion general store, trails park and mines to explore and Flynn's Village Grill open Thursday thru weekend lunch and dinner.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Twilight

20. Twilight

95%

(20)

35mi from Charlotte · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

We’re located on the quiet back side of the Lancaster Reservoir, a beautiful public lake with designated fishing days on Thursdays and Saturdays. The waters are home to bass, bream, crappie, and catfish. There’s a public boat ramp on the opposite shore, and the lake allows electric motors only — perfect for peaceful days on the water. Kayakers are always welcome! We’re just minutes from town, with easy access to restaurants, Walmart, and grocery stores. Clear Water Cove at Lake Wateree is about 30 miles away, and the Nitrolee access point is only 13 miles from the property. Don’t forget to bring your kayak!

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Joel

1 day ago

21 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Golden Spot

Great spot with plenty of shade for the hot days. The hist was very gracious. I look forward to staying available in the future. Great experience thanks again!

Lisa

3 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Twilight

We had a great time in our RV at site 2. The view of the lake/reservoir was beautiful, and the whole experience was relaxing and peaceful. There is a bit of traffic noise from the road on the other side of the water but nothing bothersome. It was great to have full hook-ups. The septic hook-up is slightly up hill so don’t be like us lol and be sure to park as close to it as possible to avoid needing an additional hose. As another reviewer mentioned, there are some ticks but that’s to be expected when you’re camping in the woods- just something to be aware of if you aren’t already. There isn’t a picnic table on site but we had a folding table that we used for cooking. We will definitely be back with a kayak and fishing rod! Thank you, Chris for a great trip!

Cheyenne

4 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Twilight

very very pretty at night, the host was responsive and nice. since our last trip was so nice we’ve booked it for the second time now! the fire place is perfect to put a grill piece over so you can cook. we could see the stars and moon from our tent and it was gorgeous to wake up to the sun on the water! will be using this whenever we want to do a little camping trip.

Gillian

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Waterfall camping close to CLT

Amazing spot! So many amenities provided. Perfect for swimming and lounging. Quiet and private.

Samantha

2 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Cj’s Suburban Oasis

Was a great stay! Lots of birds to wake up with in the morning!

Peter

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lucky Farms Under the Stars

Taylor is a wonderful host, extremely sweet and she obviously cares about her land. Around the campsites there are trails to walk and explore the land. The campsites are extremely well kept and Taylor provides everything you could need for a nice weekend in the woods.

Kayla

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Golden Spot

My partner and I had the pleasure of last-minute tent camping here! This area is so beautiful, definitely a home-away-from-home!! Paul is an absolute gem! We are so grateful for such a wonderful human to share their home and life with us. Thank you for a wonderful time, we’ll be back to Gold Hill so, so soon!

Billy

3 weeks ago

26 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Peaceful Property

Great Host! Easy in and out spot. Beautiful view and plenty of room.

RHETT

3 weeks ago

40 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to PRIVATE Retreat near Lake Norman

We loved this place. Very private. Easy to access. About a mile from the lake and trails. One of the best places we’ve stayed.

Colin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Neal Creek Camping Sites

Perfect secluded spot not far from the highway. As another reviewer mentioned, we did hear some road noise, but it wasn’t louder than all the crickets and wildlife. Our favorite Hipcamp spot by far! Can’t wait to come back.

Michael

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Farm at Long Creek

The whole weekend was great. The kids caught some fish and released them. The creek was our favorite thing. Took our chairs over to it and sat there. Great place to camp.

Dan & Krista

3 weeks ago

20 ft Class C

With pets

13 nights at Twilight

We thoroughly enjoyed our time at this location. The host added a dock to walk out to the water and we spent plenty of time watching out at the horegous view. We inflated some rafts and paddle around the reservoir, it was so much to be out in the water an watching nature all around us. The fish are very active so if you loving fishing this place is for you. Fishing is only allowed on Thursdays and Saturdays though. There was plenty of space to walk the pups and even set up our bug tent. The host was very nice and very responsive(thank you so much!). Highly recommend this location for the relaxing vibes, beautiful views and great host. Only heads up I will give is to park close to the sewer hook up, we didnt and the hose was tilted down hill (this was our oversight in the beginning).

Bradley

June 2026

18 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private Oasis In The Forest

Secluded camping spot, quiet, 15 min to Lancaster.

Nate

June 2026

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Farm at Long Creek

We loved camping there, the woods by the creek was a peaceful place to set up the tents and hammocks to sleep. The water was a huge hit for the kids and even for the adults. The only improvements I think would be good is a more stable fire grill. And the toilet situation was a little unique and not a big hit. Overall lovely time and would return!

Elijah

May 2026

Tent

1 night at Waterfall camping close to CLT

Pulling up, I thought we got scammed, I was like, “there’s no way there’s a waterfall here”, there is. It’s beautiful and natural white noise. Lots of nature and wildlife around, saw some pretty cool owls and hawks. Host was kind, has a cool history here. We went to the white water rafting center for some live music (40min drive)

Kelsey

May 2026

2 nights at Tails and Trails

Great place to stay for a few nights! The bed was comfortable and tent was cozy and dry on some very rainy days. Made for a great alternative to our usual tent camping since we anticipated the weather wouldn’t cooperate. Felt very private but is a bit of a hike back and when we arrived, the lights weren’t lit so it was a bit hard to see and find our way back. Aside from that, was perfect!

Waverly

May 2026

16 ft car

1 night at Lucky Farms Under the Stars

Very secluded, didn’t have anyone else there because of the storm. the lights couldn’t be on for the trails because of this but taylor mentioned that :) big open field and port a potties :) sure the stars would’ve been pretty if it wasn’t cloudy when I stayed. very easy check in :)

Darla

May 2026

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Waterfall camping close to CLT

This was our 2nd Annual Family Camp-Out on Scott's beautiful site. We absolutely love it here. And this year, the fish were hungry. As the grandmother of my clan, it's an absolute joy to watch my family fish, hunt rocks, roast marshmallows, & just interact out in nature. I couldn't ask for a better place for my family to gather & I'm already excited for next year.

Ronald

May 2026

16 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to North 40

We had the camp part of the farm all to ourselves. We wanted peace and quiet and we definitely got that. We chose to set up on the short grass nearer to the house rather than in Hayfield 2., where the grass was a good bit longer. We loved the clucking, crowing, and braying and feeding the horses and donkey. We also had a great time exploring the small towns nearby, found some great restaurants, and checked out the state park and national forest areas which are close by. There are endless recreational possibilities within a 20 mile radius!

SienneChris

May 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lucky Farms Under the Stars

Tent camping here was a great experience! The trails are a very nice touch and well maintained. The campsites are well kept! Would stay again!!

Top camping destinations around Charlotte

Cherokee National Forest

106 campgrounds

Pisgah National Forest

110 campgrounds

Grayson Highlands State Park

94 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

What outdoor activities are available near Charlotte?

You can head about 45 minutes north on I-77 to reach Lake Norman State Park, where you can fish, swim, and enjoy mountain biking. Nature lovers might want to swing southeast and check out the McDowell Nature Center and Preserve on the shores of Lake Wylie. Travel a bit east of Charlotte to find the Uwharrie National Forest for activities like panning for gold, hiking, and fishing in Badin Lake.

Where can I go camping near Charlotte?

You can go camping at Lake Norman State Park, McDowell Nature Center and Preserve, and Uwharrie National Forest. The McDowell Campground at the nature preserve even has an RV park with full hookups. You can also explore different options for camping near Charlotte on Hipcamp.

What are some popular outdoor destinations near Charlotte?

Popular outdoor destinations near Charlotte include Lake Norman State Park, McDowell Nature Center and Preserve, and Uwharrie National Forest. These places offer activities such as fishing, swimming, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

Where can I go horseback riding near Charlotte?

You can go horseback riding at the Canebrake Horse Camp in Uwharrie National Forest, located a bit east of Charlotte. The camp offers 38 miles of horse trails for riding.