North Carolina is a beautiful state with a diverse range of landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Piedmont to the beaches of the Outer Banks and the mountains of the Appalachian range. One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of North Carolina is by camping in a tent. Whether you are a seasoned camper or new to the activity, North Carolina offers a range of tent camping opportunities to suit all needs and preferences.
Here are some of the best places to go tent camping in North Carolina:
- Pisgah National Forest Pisgah National Forest is located in western North Carolina, near the towns of Asheville and Brevard. The forest covers over 500,000 acres and is home to several peaks over 6,000 feet in elevation, as well as hundreds of miles of hiking trails and waterfalls. Tent campers can choose from a range of campgrounds, including the popular Davidson River Campground, which offers 161 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to nearby restrooms and showers.
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore Cape Hatteras National Seashore is located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and encompasses over 70 miles of coastline. The seashore is home to a range of wildlife, including sea turtles and wild horses, as well as a number of historic lighthouses. Tent campers can choose from four campgrounds, each with a range of amenities, including restrooms and showers, and easy access to the beach.
- Stone Mountain State Park Stone Mountain State Park is located in the northwest region of North Carolina, near the town of Roaring Gap. The park is home to Stone Mountain, a massive granite dome that rises over 600 feet above the surrounding landscape, as well as miles of hiking trails and a range of waterfalls. Tent campers can choose from 88 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to nearby restrooms and showers.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in western North Carolina, and encompasses over 500,000 acres of forests, mountains, and streams. The park is home to a range of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and deer, as well as hundreds of miles of hiking trails and waterfalls. Tent campers can choose from a range of campgrounds, including the popular Elkmont Campground, which offers 220 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to nearby restrooms and showers.
- Jordan Lake State Recreation Area Jordan Lake State Recreation Area is located in central North Carolina, near the town of Apex. The recreation area is situated on the shores of Jordan Lake, a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. Tent campers can choose from a range of campgrounds, including the popular Poplar Point Campground, which offers 580 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to nearby restrooms and showers.