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Carl’s Campsites - Riverside

Hosted by Laura · Pilot Mountain, North Carolina
17 sites · RV, Tent · 58 acres
98%
·
80 reviews
Avatar
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Laura is a Star Host
Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.
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! 10 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. 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.

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Tent-only sites

14 sites
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Instant book

#6 - River Rest

97%
(33)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
The most unique and sought after of Carl's Campsites is River Rest. Located at the very end of the campground, with wooded area next to site and the river on the right, next to River Access #2. River Rest has the absolute benefits of river music 24/7 due to large rock formations in the river right below the campsite. Make your way down the access, put your feet in the sand, swim the cool water and sunbathe on the rocks. Great for meditation! Up on the campsite, a hammock under the holly awaits your nap. Picnic table, rock firepit, and trashcan onsite. Includes privacy tent with rustic toilet which has automatic motion light for nighttime needs. Wash station and hand soap provided. Parking above site to avoid blocking other campers from River Access #2 entrance. Plenty of hiking on property, and several State Parks with all levels of hiking.
Short walk to site
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
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Instant book

#2 - Bear Den

97%
(17)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
Bear Den is riverfront and mostly sandy underfoot, with picnic table, trashcan, and rock firepit included. Hammock hangs from trees on site with plenty of onsite parking. Sandy bottom for comfortable tent bottom! Site includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag plus water and soap for hand washing. Close to river access. Protective wood fence along the riverbank ridge helps keep dogs and kids on site. Plenty of hiking on property, and several State Parks with all levels of hiking.
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
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Instant book

#3 - Toad Hollow

100%
(15)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
Toad Hollow is riverfront and mostly sandy underfoot, with picnic table, trashcan, and rock firepit included. There is a wooded area with your own personal hammock awaiting you! You can pitch under trees or in the softer river sand, your choice! Plenty of onsite parking. Site includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag plus water and soap for hand washing. This is one of my favorite sites, as it has it all - and it is located in the center front with river access available with a short walk in either direction. Plenty of hiking on property, and several State Parks with all levels of hiking.
Short walk to site
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
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Instant book

#10 - Owl Hoot

100%
(8)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
Owl Hoot is located at the near end of the campground, tucked in against the back ridge. Close to River Access #1 with a short walk on the camp road. A rock firepit, picnic table and trash receptacle included. Site includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag plus water and soap for hand washing. This is a mostly shaded campsite with a hammock between the trees. Parking onsite. Plenty of hiking on property, and several State Parks with all levels of hiking.
Short walk to site
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
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Instant book

#4 - Deer Run

100%
(6)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
This spacious site extends from the river barrier fence into the middle island of campsite. Pitch your tent closer to river to enjoy river music all night. Mostly sandy underfoot. Hammock awaits you in the shade. 6 foot picnic table, firepit, and several tent sites to choose from. Site includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag plus water and soap for hand washing. A short walk to River access for swimming. Plenty of hiking on property, and several State Parks with all levels of hiking.
Short walk to site
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
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Instant book

#5 - Big Birch

100%
(6)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
Big Birch #5 is riverside with a large birch tree in center of camp to provide shade. Parking next to campsite, rock firepit and picnic table included. Site includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag plus water and soap for hand washing. Located toward end of campsite, where the river sounds are strongest due to large rock formations in the water, where you can sunbathe after swimming. Close to River Access point #2. Plenty of hiking on property, and several State Parks with all levels of hiking.
Short walk to site
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
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Instant book

#8 - Rock Ridge

100%
(3)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
Rock Ridge, located in center of campground closest to the back treeline, is a lovely, shaded campsite. Parking on site, picnic table, rock firepit, hammock, and trash receptacle provided. Site includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag plus water and soap for hand washing. For larger family groups, you can also reserve either #7 or #9 for all three sites and remain in close proximity to one another. Plenty of hiking on property, and several State Parks with all levels of hiking.
Short walk to site
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
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Instant book

#9 - Coyote Way

100%
(2)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
Coyote Way #9 is a spacious, shaded campsite located at the near end of the Campground.. Hammock, picnic table, and rock firepit included. Site includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag plus water and soap for hand washing. There are several areas to place a large tent and plenty of room to stretch out. If camping with larger family or friend groups, reserve #8 as well to camp together - or even 7, 8 and 9! Short walk to River Access #1 to cool off in the river. Plenty of hiking on property, and several State Parks with all levels of hiking.
Short walk to site
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
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Instant book

Hike-In Primitive Sites

100%
(2)
Tent site · Sleeps 2
Park your vehicle close to the A-Frame and walk into the woods covering our 58-acre property for a secluded, peaceful stay away from it all. Bring your tent or hammock and find a spot next to the river or creek, camp on the boulders or somewhere off the many deer trails. Potable water hose across from A-Frame; rustic toilet and bags for rent in Extras. We are a Leave No Trace property. Enjoy the river access onsite, hike the State Parks or take a winery tour closeby. So much to do! Or just relax, and enjoy nature.
Moderate walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
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Instant book

Stargazing Field - Guest Overflow

100%
(1)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
Pick a spot anywhere on the field - either tucked into the trees or just out in the open. This field is close to the dirt road which heads down to the river and campground area. For groups or campers who prefer open fields for AMAZING stargazing, or watching the full moon rise, we have several fields on the land available during dry times, as parking would not be advised when wet and muddy. Parking can be an option next to the grey shed at owner’s discretion. There is a four-person limit for each site, so book sites according to size of group. Dogs are welcome as well as children, as long as they are respectful of others and the dogs non-aggressive. Respect other campers who may also be at Stargazing field and try to pick sites away from others for optimal privacy. There are some wooded areas to tuck into and some pines to provide privacy. A rustic toilet can be rented through Extras for $5 per group and you will be provided with extra bags/pellets, or you can bring your own camp toilet, as we do not want defecation buried on the land per County Health Ordinance. Bags can be taken with trash to the receptacles on Rte 268, which is only a few minutes from Campground. Cooking on cookstoves allowed, but open fires prohibited in the fields. Personal fire pits are allowed with field camping, as long as they are well contained and extinguished with water if you leave the site or before sleeping. Firewood bundles on sale through Extras. Fill water containers at the hose across the A-frame house. Hike the property through the deer trails and explore woods, rock formations, and creek beds. Forage for natural, organic plants. See the new hatchlings of toads by the river in Spring/Summer, or the crayfish in the creeks. We just ask that you leave all creatures in their habitat as Mother Nature intended. A short walk down the dirt road will lead you to the Ararat river. There are two river access sites for swimming or sunbathing. The River is open to all campers. Come enjoy our famous Saturday Night Cookout with Steve and Laura. Regular and vegan meals for only $14. Purchase in Extras.
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
No picnic table
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Instant book

Stargazing Field - Guest Overflow 2

100%
(1)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
Pick a spot anywhere on the field - either tucked into the trees or just out in the open. This field is close to the dirt road which heads down to the river and campground area. For groups or campers who prefer open fields for AMAZING stargazing, or watching the full moon rise, we have several fields on the land available during dry times, as parking would not be advised when wet and muddy. Parking can be an option next to the grey shed at owner’s discretion. There is a four-person limit for each site, so book sites according to size of group. Dogs are welcome as well as children, as long as they are respectful of others and the dogs non-aggressive. Respect other campers who may also be at Mulch Hill field and try to pick sites away from others for optimal privacy. There are some wooded areas to tuck into and some pines to provide privacy. A rustic toilet can be rented through Extras for $5 per group and you will be provided with extra bags/pellets, or you can bring your own camp toilet, as we do not want defecation buried on the land per County Health Ordinance. Bags can be taken with trash to the receptacles on Rte 268, which is only a few minutes from Campground. Cooking on cookstoves allowed, but open fires prohibited in the fields. Personal fire pits are allowed with field camping, as long as they are well contained and extinguished with water if you leave the site or before sleeping. Firewood bundles on sale through Extras. Fill water containers at the hose across the A-frame house. Hike the property through the deer trails and explore woods, rock formations, and creek beds. Forage for natural, organic plants. See the new hatchlings of toads by the river in Spring/Summer, or the crayfish in the creeks. We just ask that you leave all creatures in their habitat as Mother Nature intended. A short walk down the dirt road will lead you to the Ararat river. There are two river access sites for swimming or sunbathing. The River is open to all campers. Come enjoy our famous Saturday Night Cookout with Steve and Laura. Regular and vegan meals for only $14. Purchase in Extras.
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
No picnic table
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Instant book

Stargazing Field

Tent site · Sleeps 4
Pick a spot anywhere on the field - either tucked into the trees or just out in the open. This field is close to the dirt road which heads down to the river and campground area. For groups or campers who prefer open fields for AMAZING stargazing, or watching the full moon rise, we have several fields on the land available during dry times, as parking would not be advised when wet and muddy. Parking can be an option next to the grey shed at owner’s discretion. There is a four-person limit for each site, so book sites according to size of group. Dogs are welcome as well as children, as long as they are respectful of others and the dogs non-aggressive. Respect other campers who may also be at Mulch Hill field and try to pick sites away from others for optimal privacy. There are some wooded areas to tuck into and some pines to provide privacy. A rustic toilet can be rented through Extras for $5 per group and you will be provided with extra bags/pellets, or you can bring your own camp toilet, as we do not want defecation buried on the land per County Health Ordinance. Bags can be taken with trash to the receptacles on Rte 268, which is only a few minutes from Campground. Cooking on cookstoves allowed, but open fires prohibited in the fields. Personal fire pits are allowed with field camping, as long as they are well contained and extinguished with water if you leave the site or before sleeping. Firewood bundles on sale through Extras. Fill water containers at the hose across the A-frame house. Hike the property through the deer trails and explore woods, rock formations, and creek beds. Forage for natural, organic plants. See the new hatchlings of toads by the river in Spring/Summer, or the crayfish in the creeks. We just ask that you leave all creatures in their habitat as Mother Nature intended. A short walk down the dirt road will lead you to the Ararat river. There are two river access sites for swimming or sunbathing. The River is open to all campers. Come enjoy our famous Saturday Night Cookout with Steve and Laura. Regular and vegan meals for only $14. Purchase in Extras.
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
No picnic table
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Instant book

#7 - Doe Pass

Booked 1 time
Tent site · Sleeps 4
Doe Pass #7 is a lovely spacious site located on the middle island of Carl's Campsites. Nice shade trees throughout. Rock firepit, picnic table, trash receptacle provided. Site includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag plus water and soap for hand washing. Plenty of hiking on property, and several State Parks with all levels of hiking.
Short walk to site
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
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Instant book

Taj Mahal Field

Tent site · Sleeps 4
Taj Mahal Field is named after the deer stand erected for hunting season. Because it has windows, a seat, and propane heater inside, Steve named it the Taj Mahal for it's luxury! Please do not attempt to enter the palace and do not allow children to climb the ladder or the structure, or play around the propane tank. Dogs may pee on it if desired! For groups or campers who prefer open fields for AMAZING stargazing, or watching the full moon rise, we also have several fields on the land available during dry times, as parking would not be advised when wet and muddy. Parking can be an option next to the grey shed at owner’s discretion. There is a four-person limit for each site, so book sites according to size of group. Dogs are welcome as well as children, as long as they are respectful of others and the dogs non-aggressive. Respect other campers who may also be at the Taj Mahal field and try to pick sites away from others for optimal privacy. There are several wooded areas to tuck into and some pines to provide privacy. A rustic toilet can be rented through Extras for $5 per group and you will be provided with extra bags/pellets, or you can bring your own camp toilet, as we do not want defecation buried on the land per County Health Ordinance. Bags can be taken with trash to the receptacles on Rte 268, which is only a few minutes from Campground. Cooking on cookstoves allowed, but open fires prohibited in the fields. Personal fire pits are allowed with field camping, as long as they are well contained and extinguished with water if you leave the site or before sleeping. Firewood bundles on sale through Extras. Fill water containers at the hose across the A-frame house. Hike the property through the deer trails and explore woods, rock formations, and creek beds. Forage for natural, organic plants. See the new hatchlings of toads by the river in Spring/Summer, or the crayfish in the creeks. We just ask that you leave all creatures in their habitat as Mother Nature intended. A short walk down the dirt road will lead you to the Ararat river. There are two river access sites for swimming or sunbathing. The River is open to all campers. Come enjoy our famous Saturday Night Cookout with Steve and Laura. Regular and vegan meals for only $14. Purchase in Extras.
No campfires
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
No picnic table

RV/tent sites

3 sites
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Instant book

#1 Eagle Nest

100%
(2)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 1 ft
Eagle Nest is our personal favorite spot to camp! For the first time in 2026, we are opening our exclusive owners' site to be available for guests to enjoy. This site's large toilet and shower house is designed for maximum camping comfort. Two separate rooms with real locking doors allow for privacy and cleanliness. Like the rest of the structures, solar shower bags are still a necessity here, but a mirror, floor tiles and drain make for a more homey experience. Eagle Nest is riverfront, a little larger than the rest of the sites, and is fifteen walking steps from River Access 1. There is a reason we kept this one to ourselves for so long! This wonderful sandy area is mostly sunny, but also has some shade trees depending on where you set up. We also have a wooden platform that was previously home to our grilling station for cookouts. This structure may be used as part of your campsite for belongings, cooking, etc. Site 1 also has it’s own hammock, picnic table, trashcan, and rock firepit included. Five gallon water jug for hand washing or dishes onsite. Solar shower bags first come first serve at no additional charge. Protective wood fence along the riverbank ridge helps keep dogs and kids safe on site. Plenty of hiking on property, along with several State Parks with all levels of hiking nearby.
4WD recommended
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
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Instant book

Taj Mahal - Guest Overflow

RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 10 ft
Taj Mahal Field is named after the deer stand erected for use during hunting season. Because it has windows, a seat, and propane heater inside, Steve named it the Taj Mahal for it's luxury! Please do not attempt to enter the palace and do not allow children to climb the ladder or the structure, or play around the propane tank. Dogs may pee on it if desired! For groups or campers who prefer open fields for AMAZING stargazing, or watching the full moon rise, we also have several fields on the land available during dry times, as parking would not be advised when wet and muddy. Parking can be an option next to the grey shed at owner’s discretion. There is a four-person limit for each site, so book sites according to size of group. Dogs are welcome as well as children, as long as they are respectful of others and the dogs non-aggressive. Respect other campers who may also be at the Taj Mahal field and try to pick sites away from others for optimal privacy. There are several wooded areas to tuck into and some pines to provide privacy. A rustic toilet can be rented through Extras for $5 per group and you will be provided with extra bags/pellets, or you can bring your own camp toilet, as we do not want defecation buried on the land per County Health Ordinance. Bags can be taken with trash to the receptacles on Rte 268, which is only a few minutes from Campground. Cooking on cookstoves allowed, but open fires prohibited in the fields. Personal fire pits are allowed with field camping, as long as they are well contained and extinguished with water if you leave the site or before sleeping. Firewood bundles on sale through Extras. Fill water containers at the hose across the A-frame house. Hike the property through the deer trails and explore woods, rock formations, and creek beds. Forage for natural, organic plants. See the new hatchlings of toads by the river in Spring/Summer, or the crayfish in the creeks. We just ask that you leave all creatures in their habitat as Mother Nature intended. A short walk down the dirt road will lead you to the Ararat river. There are two river access sites for swimming or sunbathing. The River is open to all campers. Come enjoy our famous Saturday Night Cookout with Steve and Laura. Regular meal $14 and vegan meals for only $10. Purchase in Extras. Children under 10 eat for free.
No campfires
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
  • Picture of the site
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Instant book

Taj Mahal - Guest Overflow 2

Booked 1 time
RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 10 ft
Taj Mahal Field is named after the deer stand erected for use during hunting season. Because it has windows, a seat, and propane heater inside, Steve named it the Taj Mahal for it's luxury! Please do not attempt to enter the palace and do not allow children to climb the ladder or the structure, or play around the propane tank. Dogs may pee on it if desired! For groups or campers who prefer open fields for AMAZING stargazing, or watching the full moon rise, we also have several fields on the land available during dry times, as parking would not be advised when wet and muddy. Parking can be an option next to the grey shed at owner’s discretion. There is a four-person limit for each site, so book sites according to size of group. Dogs are welcome as well as children, as long as they are respectful of others and the dogs non-aggressive. Respect other campers who may also be at the Taj Mahal field and try to pick sites away from others for optimal privacy. There are several wooded areas to tuck into and some pines to provide privacy. A rustic toilet can be rented through Extras for $5 per group and you will be provided with extra bags/pellets, or you can bring your own camp toilet, as we do not want defecation buried on the land per County Health Ordinance. Bags can be taken with trash to the receptacles on Rte 268, which is only a few minutes from Campground. Cooking on cookstoves allowed, but open fires prohibited in the fields. Personal fire pits are allowed with field camping, as long as they are well contained and extinguished with water if you leave the site or before sleeping. Firewood bundles on sale through Extras. Fill water containers at the hose across the A-frame house. Hike the property through the deer trails and explore woods, rock formations, and creek beds. Forage for natural, organic plants. See the new hatchlings of toads by the river in Spring/Summer, or the crayfish in the creeks. We just ask that you leave all creatures in their habitat as Mother Nature intended. A short walk down the dirt road will lead you to the Ararat river. There are two river access sites for swimming or sunbathing. The River is open to all campers. Come enjoy our famous Saturday Night Cookout with Steve and Laura. Regular meal $14 and vegan meals for only $10. Purchase in Extras. Children under 10 eat for free.
Campfires allowed
No toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No water hookup

Reviews

98% Recommend97 ratings · 80 reviews
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent · With kids ·
#1 Eagle Nest
Very spacious and had a lot of great amenities. Eagles nest campsite is right next to the river and provides access near by. You will need to scramble to get up and down to the river but there is a rope to help. Definitely love the area, this was my second time coming back.
M
Mathew P.
2 reviews
Recommends
· June 2026
Loved it!
Tent ·
#6 - River Rest
Carl's campsites were awesome. Had some rain but still had a blast and will definitely be returning. Awesome spot!!
D
D K.
5 reviews
Recommends
· June 2026
Tent · With pets ·
#6 - River Rest
Great campsite! You can hear the river and see it from camp #6. Kids had a blast playing in the river and on the rocks. My dog also loved the river. We would definitely go to this campsite again.
G
Greg D.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2026
Great stay!
Tent ·
#6 - River Rest
Laura and Steve were delightful hosts. The campsites are on family property (100+ years) and both of them take great pride in their work, providing a safe, clean, family-friendly environment that will appeal to people of all ages. I was on #6, which has a beautiful view of the Ararat River - I could hear the pleasant, bubbling river from my site. The hosts were very generous, suggesting a different site if that would provide me more room for my truck. In the end, I actually asked to camp up on a knoll with a view of the surrounding hills - Laura and Steve said it was totally fine. This is a great location to spend a long weekend, or to stay for a night like me if you’re just passing through. Bring a swimsuit, kayak, or an inner tube and enjoy the river!
J
Joel B.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2026
Tent · With pets ·
#6 - River Rest
It was an incredible experience camping at this spot! Lot 6 is at the very end of the camp site, making it super private and peaceful. They had a water container with hand soap set up and the private bathroom was cleaned and stocked for us prior to arriving at the site. The highlight for me was the creek providing the soothing sounds of water, which really put a cherry on top to this peaceful experience! Overall, we loved our time out here and would love to plan another trip in the future. This spot will most definitely be added to our camp site rotation!
A
Alison P.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2026
Tent · With pets ·
#6 - River Rest
The property is gorgeous; the sounds of & easy access to the river were everything we typically want in a campsite! The site accommodations are very well thought of— an outhouse, an outdoor shower, a picnic table, water for handwashing & drinking, etc. We especially loved the hammock & the free-roaming dog policy. We both wanted to stay longer & certainly would have had we had the time on this trip.
Avatar
Brittany P.
16 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
River Rest
Tent · Group trip ·
#6 - River Rest
I would recommend this campground over and over again! Not only was the site absolutely gorgeous, but the cleanliness of the entire location was truly impressive. Laura and Steve went above and beyond to ensure a safe and beautiful space to retreat. This was my birthday camping trip with my wife, best friend, and fur baby. After the success of our adventure, we plan to make this trip annually.
M
Monica B.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Toad Hollow
Tent · With kids ·
#3 - Toad Hollow
We loved everything about Carl’s Campsite! We stayed on Site 3, Toad Hollow and had tons of room for 2 tents and 2 canopies. The playground area was a favorite for my grand daughters (age 4 and 6) and my boyfriend and son also played horseshoes. The river was beautiful. The leaves falling, cool nights and warm days made for a rejuvenating, soul healing weekend! Did not want to leave!!!! Will definitely revisit.
T
Tina M.
5 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent · With kids ·
#2 - Bear Den
Peaceful and family oriented. Right on the river. Easy to setup camp and enjoy a fire. Bathroom outside was nice and clean. My 10-year old and I will come again!
D
Daniel H.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Gem near Pilot Mtn
Tent · With pets ·
#6 - River Rest
This site is beautiful, clean, well-maintained and well provisioned. The hosts don’t leave you wanting for anything. Our dogs loved being off-leash and playing in the river. Every site having its own camp toilet and shower was a truly nice touch. We will definitely be back!
J
Jennifer W.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Great stay
Tent ·
#2 - Bear Den
We had a great night at Bear Den #2! The location is peaceful and perfect if you like to fish. This camp ground is very dog friendly.
J
Jessie B.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Great campsite with wonderful hosts
Tent · With pets ·
#10 - Owl Hoot
The location was amazing! Laura and Steve were wonderful hosts and made sure I had everything I needed. Firewood was onsite for purchase, they had water stations for each campsite. The rustic toilet and shower set up were great to have. Lots of land to explore and let your dog off-leash. Will def be coming back!
R
Rachel L.
2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent ·
#2 - Bear Den
A beautiful experience, time of disconnection and a good rest, I bathed in the river and it is one of the best since it is the current is very calm to bathe with children 5 star ✨
A
Alejandro B.
3 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent ·
#3 - Toad Hollow
Had such a wonderful stay this past weekend! The campsite was adjacent to a calm river and had lots of rocky spaces to sit and enjoy the scenery.
E
Eliza H.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent ·
Hike-In Primitive Sites
Amazing campsite! The hosts are very friendly and helpful! They did make us feel comfortable. Would definitely go back and recommend this place to others!
V
Vaishnavi R.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Tent · With pets ·
#2 - Bear Den
We enjoyed our time on Laura’s land. The river was beautiful and just steps away. The individual shower and potty were new and private the fire pits and hammocks are both nice to have. Our dog loved the other dogs and places to roam.
G
Gina H.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
I'll be back.
Tent ·
#6 - River Rest
Very clean and accommodating. Will definitely return. Steve is great!
J
Justin G.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Our new favorite spot 🩷
Tent · With pets ·
#6 - River Rest
We had the best time! Well kept campground, nice people, lots to explore! Makes for a great “primitive” experience. Will definitely be back!
C
Christina G.
3 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent · With kids ·
#3 - Toad Hollow
My family and I truly enjoyed our weekends spent here. It was super close to home, but felt world's away. Very private and loved Tully the dog 🐕 we will definitely be back. Thanks again Steve and Laura
A
Amber H.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent · With kids ·
#2 - Bear Den
Amazing campsite, amazing hosts. The campground has three access point to Ararat river. River isn’t deep but has strong current after rain. Bring water shoes. It was enough space for small trailer, pick up truck and suv. Campsite is sandy so doesn’t get muddy if rains / dryers pretty quick. I wasn’t able to get my star-link work because of a lot trees. No reception at site but if walk up hill about 3-5 minutes then you can make a phone call and quick search.
I
Ivan G.
4 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Hidden Gem Along the Ararat
Tent ·
#6 - River Rest
The most beautiful riverside camping we’ve done. The location is perfect for one of the most scenic parts of the Ararat River. The campsite is primitive, but Carl’s supply all the necessities! It’s super clean, well groomed and maintained. Steve and Laura, the owners, are immediate friends! They are very nice and generous in heart. Steve is a grill master, so you’ll be in luck if he’s grilling! We are kayakers and kayaked from 268 access, and paddled around 2 1/2 hours to Carl’s private access. It was a perfect trip! We definitely recommend Carl’s Campsites!
M
Melanie B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Tent · With pets ·
#6 - River Rest
We absolutely loved our stay at site #6! The whole property was gorgeous and having such easy access to the river was perfect for us. Our dog absolutely loved being able to run free and we played in the river a good bit . We were the only campers there so it was incredibly peaceful . Definitely a 10/10 experience
B
Becca H.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2025
Update
Tent · With kids ·
#3 - Toad Hollow
I have been coming here a couple times a year for three years now. Every time is a great experience. I can’t say enough about the beach, the new play ground, the friendly owners. While I still go to other places, I will make sure we still have this on our list a couple times a year. Oh, and the address is now in Waze as the name of the campsite.
E
Ethan T.
10 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Epic way to wake up
Tent ·
Stargazing Field - Guest Overflow
Woke up to tully running up to us for pets, he even got us up one morning when we slept in, epic way to wake up, 5 stars. Such a good boy 🐕
B
Brendan E.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Will be back!
Tent ·
#6 - River Rest
This was such a cool campsite and we wish we had more time to enjoy it. It is about 15 minutes from Pilot Mountain visitor center. We stayed at #6 River Rest and the river access was fantastic. Be prepared for other campers to use your site as the access point, as that was a little unclear for us. Hearing the water at night and enjoying it during the evening was fantastic. Not buggy at all for end of May.
B
Brandi T.
3 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent ·
#10 - Owl Hoot
Stephen Laura are fantastic hosts. The property is amazing with lots of activities in the area.
J
Justin D.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Highly recommend
Tent ·
#8 - Rock Ridge
I had an incredible time at Camp 8! The shaded area was absolutely fantastic, providing the perfect escape from the heat. Plus, the river was a stunning sight, with its crystal-clear water flowing gently—it was the ideal spot to relax and soak in the beauty of nature!
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Liana L.
6 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Definitely coming back!
Tent ·
#10 - Owl Hoot
Great camp site everyone was super nice and the owners are amazing! 10 out of 10 would recommend there is multiple ways to enter the river for fishing, swimming or just enjoying the beautiful views that the river has to offer. Dogs are welcome as long as they are friendly and get along well with others and it was a joy getting to spend time with my two dogs and other peoples dogs as well. You can bring your kayaks and Steve will drive you up the river and drop you off for a nice float down the river back to the camp sites. If you don’t have kayaks don’t worry they have some you can rent and do the same thing. If you like hiking it’s a short 10-15 minute drive to Pilot Mt that has beautiful trails and views of the area with great opportunities to see different rare and endangered wildlife like bald Eagles.
R
Raymond H.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent · With pets ·
#6 - River Rest
We love camping here! This is our 4th time in the last few seasons and it’s always wonderful to Laura and Steve are kind and awesome camp hosts. We look forward to coming back again soon! Bring your kids and dogs. This is a whole family getaway 😊
D
Don O.
11 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Home Away From Home
Tent · With pets ·
#5 - Big Birch
I was not sure what I was getting into when booking this reservation. The area had wonderful signage, you definitely cannot miss the camp store. Definitely a doozy getting in and out so most definitely be prepared. But Laura was the perfect hostess with the mostess. She was there upon arrival to greet you with the welcoming committee. She made sure that you were well stock and included in the activities going on. Her and husband were so sweet with the conversations. We had to cut the trip short due to weather but Laura made sure that everyone was aware and her husband even offered to help if we needed it. Will be back for more fun this summer
T
Triona F.
10 reviews

Location

Pilot Mountain, Surry, North Carolina, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Laura B.

Joined in January 2023

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