Explore
/
United States
/
North Carolina
/
National Forests
/
Uwharrie National Forest

The best camping in Uwharrie National Forest, NC

95% (29)

Off-roading with full-size vehicles, hunting, fishing and equestrian are all in this amazing forest!

Popular ways to camp

Camper favorites near Uwharrie National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Kristin

1 week ago

27 ft Class C

With pets

3 nights at Golden Spot

I really enjoyed being at Paul’s. His property is pristine. It’s beautiful, quiet, and secluded. Paul himself is generous and great company! I was only looking for a layover spot but after my stay this will definitely be one of my future stops. Paul even gave a tour of his own home; an old church he restored himself. 12/10 stay!

Jilly

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Ancient Spring Farm

I love this farm space and Rebecca who runs it. I rented the pine run site. Spacious and comfortable. Walks around the farms are beautiful feeding a friendly horse and saying hi to the goats and chickens. Rebecca offers breakfasts st a reasonable fee but i missed that during my second visit here. You cant miss out on visiting here.

Next to Rv site, a place to set up chairs

Lynnda

2 weeks ago

40 ft Class A

With pets

4 nights at The Pint Sized Pasture

We enjoyed the farm so much! Waking up to a rooster crowing and a donkey’s laugh was so fun. 50 amp was consistent!

Danielle

2 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek

My best friend wanted to celebrate her birthday in nature, and this spot has been on my Hipcamp bucket list so we booked it for a girls’ trip, and it did not disappoint! The hosts make you feel welcomed while still giving you complete privacy. I’m honestly surprised this place isn’t listed under the stargazing category because it felt like we were in a dome, we saw so many constellations plus Jupiter and Saturn! The farm is clean, beautiful, and peaceful. The animals were adorable, but Jack was the star of the trip his perfectly timed laugh kept us cracking up all weekend. The greenhouse was awesome, but the outdoor shower was the true winner for all of us. The products were top-tier and the water pressure/temperature were perfect! This is a true hidden gem. We walked the on-site trail to Abbott’s Creek it’s HUGE, definitely kayak ready, and even good for fishing. The massive cypress trees along the water are breathtaking. We’re already planning more trips here because it’s perfect for everyone: families, couples, friend groups, or solo travelers. You don’t have to worry about ice, wood, or charcoal since you can buy them on-site, and if you don’t want to cook, you’re less than 5 miles from food and gas stations. Plus, so many attractions are nearby right now you can even visit the troll less than 20 minutes from the cabin! Highly recommend bringing a telescope. Thank you N & D for hosting us 10/10!

Jacob

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cj’s Suburban Oasis

100% would camp here again, really nice space and Bill provided firewood! Awesome dude with an awesome little campsite!

Dave

2 weeks ago

32 ft Class C

3 nights at Idlewild Farm Stays

The adult wild farm is just a perfect campground unlike many commercial campgrounds. It’s a very homey and cozy place to go. Michel is absolutely wonderful. Can’t say enough about her just a very, very nice lady and if I’m back in North Carolina anytime that’s where I’ll be staying.

Janine

2 weeks ago

17 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Idlewild Farm Stays

Awesome place to camp. The host Michelle was wonderful. Loved all the farm animals!

Steven

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Farm at Long Creek

Second time going and it was just as good as the first. All around a great trip.

John

2 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek

Really great spot! Natalie wheeled us out more firewood for our fire. Cool animals. Nice cozy cabin

Kaleb

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Uwharrie Basecamp -The Overland Co.

Chris was super helpful and check in was easy. Uwharrie trailheads are only a couple minutes away, and the outpost has anything you may have forgotten while packing.

Ashley

3 weeks ago

42 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cj’s Suburban Oasis

The directions were easy to follow and it was a great, quiet stay! We felt safe in the area and it was nice and private.

Lori

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Brookhaven Mill Farm

Beautiful farm to visit with sweet animals to meet! Host was so helpful and informative. We loved shopping in the farm store. Very convenient location not far from the highway. We enjoyed our time there and were the only campers. My daughter and I felt very safe as there was plenty of light around the area for campers at night. Please note you should copy the address and put in whatever map app you use instead of clicking on the map link within Hipcamp because that takes you to the wrong location. The only downside was noise from someone target practicing on a Saturday night a distance away. I don’t think anyone staying in a RV would hear it. It didn’t go on too late but was kinda annoying to us because we were ready to go to sleep pretty early. I would recommend this campsite and paying to feed the animals. Very affordable campsite!

Robert

3 weeks ago

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Campground & Zoo

Absolutely will return to the site in the spring. Amazing and helpful staff onsite.

Tammara

3 weeks ago

50 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Idlewild Farm Stays

This place is absolutely wonderful. The owner is so sweet and thoughtful. It will be our go to spot anytime we are in town for horse shows. Its quite and well taken care of and if you have an animal lover they will love it here.

Shelby

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Brookhaven Mill Farm

I loved camping on Cheryl’s farm! I was able to get fire wood from her and she had it ready for when I arrived. There was a picnic table and fire pit available in one spot but we were welcome to camp anywhere in the designated field. We weren’t able to see any animals because it rained but we still had a great time!

Robert

November 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Off Grid Living

Amazing place with Amazing people. 10/10 best experience ever with awesome friendly and helpful people hosting.

Christen

November 2025

45 ft toy hauler

Weekend Trip to Golden Spot

Paul was great! The spot was very spacious and level. Highly recommend.

November 2025

25 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Campground & Zoo

Wonderful camping experience! 10/10 will camp here again!

Maria

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hidden Oasis At High Rock Lake

Our campsite was the perfect secluded site and the autumn color around us made it feel cozy. Site three has an opening to the side which allows a great window for stargazing! We loved our short stay!

Ashley

October 2025

42 ft fifth wheel

4 nights at Idlewild Farm Stays

It was a great spot and close to Sedgefield at The Park- perfect for horse shows. She provides you everything you may need firewood, cute little donkeys/ goats and Michelle is very hospitable. Perfect Host!

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Uwharrie National Forest

100%

(9)

Badin Lake Campground

8.6mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 34 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uwharrie National Forest

100%

(10)

Badin Lake Group Campground

8.5mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uwharrie National Forest

100%

(2)

Badin Horse Camp or Old Horse Camp

6.9mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 1 site · in Uwharrie National Forest

88%

(4)

West Morris Mtn. Campground

4.7mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uwharrie National Forest

Canebrake Horse Campground

6.9mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 28 sites · in Uwharrie National Forest

Yates Place Camp

1.4mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uwharrie National Forest

Arrowhead Campground

7.8mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uwharrie National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

The New Forest

100%

(231)

13mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · New London, NC

Located in Uwharrie National Forest, the New Forest features open meadows among stands of pine and mixed hardwoods. Campsites are far apart, each unique and offer the opportunity to commune with nature, and experience camping like it should be, emersed in nature with the opportunity to disconnect from the trappings of our modern, hectic world. This area is one of the richest archeological areas in the entire southeast United States. The location of the first real gold rush, and rich in folklore and bootlegging history, old homesteads and family graveyards are scattered among the hills. Old roadbeds and logging trails abound in the 800 acres of Uwharrrie National Forest directly adjacent to the New Forest Property making for miles of hiking opportunities, wildlife viewing, birdwatching. A 3/4 mile hike to the Taylor Family graveyard is marked with ribbons to guide you to one of the of the many family graveyards. *** A new fun feature for kids is the introduction of our dear friend Debbie Beasley"s art to the trails here in the New Forest. Scattered along the many trails are rocks painted by the one and only Debbie Beasley with cute fluorescent/3-D scenes of nature. Children can keep them as souvenirs from their New Forest camping adventure, or enjoy them while here then re-hide them for other children to find. ❤️ Come see for yourself. If you are looking for a modern, crowded campground this isn't it. However if you want a beautiful, rustic experience in nature, with a few basic amenities and with access to Uwharrie National Forest come see what others have enjoyed so much.

Basecamp_outdoors

100%

(13)

16mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Richfield, NC

Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of this rustic haven. Situated at the heart of North Carolina, cradled in the embrace of the Uwharrie Mountains. This extraordinary off-grid bell tent glamping site promises an unparalleled experience, destined to etch lifelong memories. Explore the Uwharrie National Forest, delve into the wonders of the North Carolina Zoo, and beyond—all within a convenient 25-minute radius. If your heart yearns for adventure and outdoor escapades, look no further. Our haven provides seclusion, yet effortless access to essentials and shopping amenities. Your gateway to serene serendipity awaits.

The Farm at Long Creek

97%

(59)

21mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Gold Hill, NC

PLEASE NOTE: Due to insurance coverage, fireworks, firearms and ATV's of any kind ARE NOT permitted. Campsite situated on 73 acres of lush privacy at the foothills of the Uwharrie National Forest. Enjoy hiking on the extensive trails or fishing and canoeing in the pond. Crystal clear, large flowing creek gently winds through the property. Abundant wildlife including deer, turkey, opossum, raccoon, skunk - even the occasional bear, coyote, and wild boar have been caught on game cameras. Only 1 hour from Charlotte, Winston-Salem and Greensboro, yet feels like a world away. 30 minutes from the North Carolina Zoo and the Carolina Treetop Challenge at Rock Creek Park. Minutes from Historic Gold Hill, Tuckertown Reservoir, Uwharrie National Forest and Badin Lake. Tents only please; as the road to the campsite is narrow and. AWD or 4WD may be required during wet weather. Cars that are low to the ground are not recommended. We have table and 2 bench seats, fire pit, water, trash bin, toilet, a canoe and noodles to use at the pond site. PLEASE NOTE: Due to insurance coverage, fireworks, firearms and ATV's of any kind ARE NOT permitted.

Golden Spot

100%

(27)

24mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Gold Hill, NC

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.

Hidden Oasis At High Rock Lake

99%

(129)

29mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Lexington, NC

A breathe of fresh air. Hidden Oasis consists at the present 4 campsites safe and secluded in the woods, but close enough to town. Gravel drive into campsites with parking at the site. Shared Water hydrants for fresh water, bathroom with flushable toilet and outdoor shower with hot water. Shared Pavilion with ample seating, charcoal grill , refrigerator and sink with hot water, and a few cooking and eating utensils located within short distance of sites . Firewood available for purchase ..MOTORCYCLES welcome. Stay for one night or a week. Look forward to meeting you!

The Dancing Pig On Abbotts Creek

99%

(289)

31mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Lexington, NC

A small homestead on the bank of Abbotts Creek near where it feeds into High Rock Lake. Peace and solitude , but close to the amenities of town. Less than a five minute drive to the grocery store, and less than a fifteen minute drive to uptown Lexington. Public access for kayaks is less than half a mile away. And the view is unbelievable! We have a corn hole board and bags now available for use, as well as a few other yard games. Please let us know if you are interested in using them. The edible landscape is available for you to enjoy. A list of current available items is posted in our greenhouse, as well as baskets for picking and foraging.

Silk Purse Farm

99%

(210)

39mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Aberdeen, NC

Silk Purse Farm and RV was once part of land owned by the Cole family. This family owned most of Reservation Rd. A family of 9 children were all born in the old farm house that has since burned when struck by lighPitch a tent in the wooded grove or hook up your RV to a shaded site completely covered by a 100 year old Pecan tree. Get farm therapy, ride horses, feed goats, dig in the garden or just hangout! Fresh eggs available in the chicken coop or goat milk based on timing. Bring your own horse, stalls available. We are a short 15 min from riding at the Walthour Moss Foundation and the Sandhills Game Lands We are 10 minutes from the Carolina Horse Park at Five Points, 20 minutes from Pinehurst or Southern Pines. Now a rolling grassy horse, goat, chicken and sheep farm. Come see us and enjoy our slice of heaven. Everyone welcome!!

Tails and Trails

98%

(49)

40mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Landis, NC

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!

Idlewild Farm Stays

99%

(69)

42mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 4 sites · RVs · Raeford, NC

We are a new 25 acre RV farm stay campground located near Fort Bragg, Southern Pines, Raeford, Aberdeen, and Pinehurst Medical Center in the Sandhills Region of NC. We are one mile to Carolina Horse Park, and also welcome exhibitors with LQ trailers. One mile to Plank Rd for a direct Army route to Fort Bragg and Pope AFB, Fayetteville. We have 16 full hook up 35x50 sites with pads that can accommodate any size or type rig in a spacious, clean, quiet, farm setting. Each site has 20/30/50 power. county water, **new** in ground septic connections, trash removal and firewood included! We offer an Appreciation Discount to military/veterans, travel nurses, LEOs and first responders, we appreciate your contributions to our country and our area. Please Use this code RHZPANSH Our campground is private, well off the road, located in a peaceful meadow surrounded by pines. We currently offer a community fire pit with firewood, wood burning pizza oven, picnic tables, playground, outdoor games, friendly farm animals, fruit gardens and walking trails with more amenities coming soon. Please TEXT for more information, availability, and to schedule a tour. We are private, please don't drive in without an appointment or reservation. Idlewild Farm Stays. Nearby world class golf, parachuting, bike routes, fishing, horseback riding, great shopping, restaurants, wineries and breweries in walkable towns, and more. Always something to do here!

Off Grid Living

100%

(13)

43mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Pleasant Garden, NC

Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent on our Private Small Farm in a residential area. Off grid life is great for people who love a rustic natural feel. We are family oriented and we live on the property. Our goal is to welcome people that have a love for community, nature, and plant based living. We run a small farm on the property and we have young urban farmers that help maintain the property as a means to learn more about the environment. Our non profit garden is the means to feed communities in the surrounding areas. We are thankful to provide a safe space for you to explore yourself naturally. Choose Add one with the owner Earth Feathur for guided yoga& meditation, natural medicine, and raw vegan food prep. Or join Our garden manager for an herbal identification class. We welcome you with open arms of love and light.

Evergreen Acres

98%

(25)

44mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 1 site · Tent · Monroe, NC

Learn more about this land: Escape from modern society, and relax on 20+ acres. Gentle flowing creek, trails to explore, along with some peace and quiet. Picnic table, fire ring and firewood provided for your enjoyment. Space for 3 tents and plenty of room for hammocks. Please be aware: the site may not be ready if less then a 24 hour notice is given upon arrival.

The Pint Sized Pasture

100%

(17)

44mi from Uwharrie National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Sanford, NC

Welcome to our 6th generation farm, dedicated to miniature livestock and memorable events. Enjoy a range of activities, including a petting zoo, goat yoga, field trips, on-farm events, and camping. We often have fresh eggs, fruits, and vegetables available for purchase. Conveniently located near downtown Sanford, you'll find plenty of dining options and three breweries to explore. If you wish to extend your stay beyond one night, please let us know. Check out the video below for a glimpse into the unique experiences our guests enjoy here with us.

The best camping in Uwharrie National Forest, NC guide

Overview

About

Bring your ATV, dirt bike or off-road vehicle for fun in this small national forest. Trails are clearly marked, and watching off-roaders climb the rocks on the 390 trail is a religious experience.

If you rather rely on human power, there are plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails. You can also bring your horse. (Some equestrian and ATV trails overlap, so be careful!)

Badin Lake features catfish, bass, and crappie. Fish from your boat or a fishing pier—Or come on weekends from March through October for bass-fishing tournaments. Deer, turkey and squirrel hunting are also available during their seasons—Don't forget your license!

At the Arrowhead Campground, 33 of the 50 sites have electrical hookups for RVs. The Canebrake horse camp and Uwharrie hunting camp are open year-round for specialized camping. You'll have to hike in with your tent for the hunt camp. At Badin Lake, try for a lakeside spot!

95%

29 ratings · 9 reviews

Recommends

· October 2025

Worth it!

Tent ·

Badin Lake Campground

This is a wonderful place to do both scheduled and primitive camping. Lots of things to explore and water provided for restrooms, drinking, and showers. They even have rec areas in walking distance with a surplus of restrooms and fishing.

Kimberly R.

2 reviews

Not recommend

· October 2025

More options in the area

Tent ·

Yates Place Camp

There were a lot of homeless people living there which made me and my partner uncomfortable. We ended up staying a few miles down the road doing primitive camping at Baden Lake which even provided free drinking water, and showers for a small fee.

Kimberly R.

2 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Tent ·

Badin Lake Campground

It was quiet, relaxing with adequate shades and the clean river was so nice.

Mary K.

2 reviews

Recommends

· March 2025

Badin Lake Campground

Great place to camp!!

Gillian P.

4 reviews

January 2021

West Morris Mtn. Campground

Have not camped there but the photo with this listing is deceptive. There is no lake view, or lake, near this campground. Seems decent for a site with minimal amenities. i.e. just vault toliets, picnic tables and fire rings.

Robert C.

34 reviews

Recommends

· September 2018

Badin Lake Campground

Baden has it all. Lake, off road trails for Horses, atv and 4x4. Low cost and no entrance fee. Books up months ahead. Weekdays the best sites are usually. available.

Donald B.

7 years on Hipcamp

December 2017

Badin Lake Campground

A few of us stayed here in early December. Beautiful location! We stayed in site 29 and it had a view of the lake through the trees. It faces west, so we got a sunset over the water. Easily accessed trial from the campsite. We appreciated the well maintained restrooms and showers (though we didn’t use the showers). It’s a nice hike around the lake - flat but pretty. Many of the sites have a good view of the lake. Two poles to hang gear. Fire ring as well as a charcoal grill at each site.

Kaitlyn K.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2017

West Morris Mtn. Campground

Bring plenty of water for drinking, cooking and rinsing dishes because there's no running water.

Jocelyn T.

8 years on Hipcamp

January 2017

Yates Place Camp

I camped at Yates as part of the Uwharrie Thru-hike, a yearly event hosted by the Central Carolina Land Trust. It is beautiful, remote, and surrounded by tons of hiking and nature.