Best Camping in and near South Mountains State Park

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In fall 2016, 97 park staff worked 3,700+ hours over three weeks fighting the Chestnut Nob fire.

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South Mountains Campground

86 sites · RVs, Tents In South Mountains State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near South Mountains State Park

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Starlight Hills

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Bostic, NC

Our Spa is now available for booking! 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 and a Cabin. Glamping and cabin 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.

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TangleWood Creekside Campsites

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents170 acres · Marion, NC

A rocky creek winds 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 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.

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Tellurian Family Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents93 acres · Casar, NC

For more information, visit our website at www.telluriancampground.com 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.

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Riverside Wanderer Hideaway

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Morganton, NC

Relax by the river, hidden amongst trees and fields, where sprawling space meets abundant outdoor adventure. Your riverside, self-serving, primitive stay will leave you feeling refreshed and closer to nature. The cool, shaded space snuggled between a stream and rushing river will be your own private retreat, on several acres, along beautiful Henry Fork River. Seclusion awaits, minutes from historic downtown Morganton restaurants, shops, breweries and more, even nestled along a “winery trail”. If you’re looking to stay put – tubing, body boarding, fishing, paddling, and creative fun await you. Sip your percolated morning coffee by the rushing river, spend afternoons fishing, painting and skipping rocks, into an evening roaming the area and fireside cuddling. If you’re seeking to venture out, head minutes away to hike South Mountain State Park trails and waterfalls, stroll Morganton greenway trails, take the kids (or pets) to all-inclusive Catawba Meadows Park (great disc golfing), cruise the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, explore the (literally!) cool Linville caverns, or splash around Lake James State Park beach area. The riverside area comfortably accommodates eight (with extra tent for additional guests joining your getaway). Games, grilling outdoor fun items are on-site. Bring your family, friends, pets, and your sense of adventure!

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Bolin Knob Meadows

1 site · RV, Tent70 acres · Morganton, NC

Come experience private mountain meadows, on 70 acres, at the crest of the South Mountains. Camp at one of three sites, or hop around during your stay on the meadows below Bolin Knob. This entire listing is one booking, you’ll have the mountain to yourself. Views to the west of Mount Mitchell and the Blue Ridge Mountians; views to the north of Table Rock and Grandfather Mountain and to the east direct views of Silver Creek Knob. Stargaze the Milky Way at night with very little light pollution, relax by the fire, or explore the property and Bolin Knob. Hike adjacent to the property on 1,000s of acres of public land on South Mtn Game Lands. Nearby recreation: South Mtn State Park and Lake James State Park; fish/float the Catawba River in Morganton or Marion; bike the Fonta Flora trail at Lake James.

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Remote Mountain Camping Platform

1 site · RV, Tent14 acres · Morganton, NC

Learn more about this land:Welcome to The High Land: A private, drive-up, mountainside platform for tent(s)! About the propertyYou will have our entire 14 acre property to yourself which features some amazing mountain views and is adjacent to state lands for exploration. To access the site you will drive approx. 15 minutes up a gravel road. Overall we are located about ~30 minutes from I-40 and about 25 min to Marion & Morganton, NC. For recreation you can access South Mountains Gamelands which is adjacent to the property. You can also drive to South Mountains State Park which is only 15 minutes away. Lake James State Park is 35 minutes away and offers great recreation potent entail as well as Linville Gorge which is 45-60 minutes away.About the listingWe offer two connected 8x16' tiers with center posts for hanging a tarp or setting up tents. You can see in our photos how a tent would fit on the platforms, there is plenty of space and truly amazing views right from your tent door. The site features a fire pit and an outhouse. Some amenities offered at the site:-Fire pit with grill attachment available -Pit toilet outhouse-No water provided, please bring your own for drinking and cooking-No cooking or kitchen supplies providedAdditional things to noteNOTE: Low clearance vehicles are not recommended, but 4 wheel drive is not necessary. The road up the mountain is terraced in places.We do not offer wifi and cell reception is limited, depending on your carrier, so make sure to plan ahead. We do not offer potable water or kitchen supplies at this time.Pets are allowed

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Waterfall camping close to CLT

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · 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.

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Adin`s river cabin

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Casar, NC

My property consists of a ridge running east to west with the access road running along the south border. the land slopes up to the ridge for about 300 feet, and then down to the river for about 800 feet. The south side of the ridge has a small pond close to the road. The rest is pasture, and an orchard and small vineyard. The north side of the ridge is old growth timber, and shady and cool. The two cabins are along the river. One is perched on a ridge over looking the river and the other is right on the river. The swimming hole is 30 feet from the lower cabin. There is room for a couple campsites along the river also. The south side of the ridge was a cotton farm decades ago, but was covered in timber when I bought it 12 years ago. The north side has been in timber for the known history of the property.

Booked 1 time

Yurt At Lake James And Fonta Flora

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Morganton, NC

For the same price as a campsite, awaken amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature without the hassles of traditional camping! Our accommodation is conveniently located just steps away from the Fonta Flora trail and Lake James, offering a private and pristine retreat while remaining close to all amenities. If you love the idea of camping but dread the tasks of buying, packing, hauling, and setting everything up, we have the perfect solution for you. Simply unplug and unwind next to the tranquil sounds of the small creek, with the gentle breeze rustling through the trees and the delightful chirping of birds. Embark on adventures right from your doorstep - hike the scenic trail, enjoy a leisurely picnic at the beach, paddle through picturesque coves, roast marshmallows over a crackling fire, gaze up at the star-studded sky, and cherish quality time with family. Experience the joys of camping without the stress, and make unforgettable memories surrounded by the wonders of nature. Check out pictures and their captions for more details on the lake access and amenities in the campsite.

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Above the Fray Glamping, Black Mtn.

6 sites · Lodging11 acres · Black Mountain, NC

The views are hypnotic and look down and out over the continental divide. Good morning sun and sunsets can be seen in the same spot. Your car is parked within feet of your deck so Car Campers and experienced campers can enjoy. Designed with campers and dogs in mind. The deck is large (384 square feet) with a tin roof. Some roofs are full size, some 2/3rds and some 1/3rd, depending on what one wants for tent size or sun exposure. (See pictures of each site/deck) Each deck has sun and rain curtains for helping keep comfortable in normal weather. Dogs enjoy a two gate system so quests and dogs can be leash free and away from the road. All dog owners know to pick up after their pets. The human Private Porta John is cleaned weekly. Lights and electrical is 110V (3 prongs) for YOUR coffee pots, electric grills, mattress inflators, crockpots, electric blankets fans, etc. I do not provide any electrical appliances, other than counter area lighting and low level string lights so one can see the night sky. Many of my campers will "Pay it Forward" and leave coffee pots, hot plates, fans and such, so count yourself lucky to find a deck with them. I provide chairs, 5 gallons of fresh water in containers, fickle solar shower and pop up changing room along with an assortment of camping supplies from dog bowls to antimicrobial wipes. I provide various size garbage bags to manage your garbage. Your parking area is next to the deck. Black Mountain’s tasty restaurants are 4 miles away and All Trails is a great app for finding trails suited for your interest. Be respectful to the place and please be friendly to the people you meet. Learn more about this land: Private Glamping Decks with a view that pictures do not do justice. Private decks on a dead-end gravel road mean hopefully the sounds will only be of nature. The conveniences of electricity, porta john, water, chairs, table, roof, cleaning supplies, rain curtains, and astounding views have my Glampers coming back often. Designed with Dogs in mind with a two-gate system and no need for a leash when on the deck. Obnoxious, barking dogs are not welcome, so bring only controlled and well socialized dogs. Help me keep it dog friendly. Never block the road with a park car.

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Catawba River Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents83 acres · Marion, NC

I have 83 acres of prime camping with close to a mile of boatable river frontage that runs into Lake James and borders Shiflet Airfield and I can offer flyin camping. This is a working nursery with plenty of room for campers and views of Mnt. Mitchell, the highest elevation in Eastern North America.

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Linville Adventure Pasture (LAP)

9 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · 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!

The best camping near South Mountains State Park guide

Overview

About

Looking for a rugged and challenging multi-use trail system in the NC mountains? South Mountains aims to please with over 40 miles of trails for hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers.

The same trails also lead to backcountry campsites. You'll find 24 such backpack camping sites in seven different areas of the park. Eureka!

The most popular trail in the park rewards you with views of the iconic 80-foot waterfall. Pick up the High Shoals Falls Loop Trail
in the Jacob Fork parking area. Your glorious waterfall is 1 mile in, but the entire strenuous hike totals 2.7 miles.

Mountain bikers enjoy a 17-mile loop, while 33 miles of bridle trails make equestrians happy. So does the equestrian camping area with 15 sites. You'll find drive-to campsites conveniently located next to the trout-filled Jacob Fork River.

Going for a true backcountry experience? Plan to hike distances ranging from 1.2-5.4 miles from the Jacob Fork parking area to your site.

When to go

The ideal time to visit South Mountains State Park is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is vibrant. Summer brings lush greenery but also higher temperatures and busier trails. Winters can be cold, with some areas prone to ice and snow, making certain activities less accessible.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and prepare for changing conditions when planning your visit.
Some trails may be closed due to weather or maintenance; always verify open trails before arrival.
Ensure you have proper gear for hiking, as terrain can be challenging.
Park hours are from 8:30am to 5pm; plan your activities within this timeframe.
Cell service can be spotty, so download maps and park information ahead of time.