Where is a more perfect place to pitch a tent beneath the stars than in North Carolina? If you’re craving cool mountain air, the sound of a rushing river, total solitude or even waking up next to the ocean, there’s a campground for you. Wanting to know where to get primitive on your next North Carolina camping trip? These ten campgrounds in North Carolina are amazing. For all of the up-to-date information, be sure to check out recreation.gov NC.

1. Balsam Mountain Campground
Balsam Mountain Campground, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
Trip Advisor / Noufal A
As the highest camping spot in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you won't only get stunning views (at 5,400 feet elevation), but also total remoteness. Pack a jacket, because the high elevation means the nights can get a bit chilly.

Address: Cherokee, NC, 28719. If you're looking for another place to stay as an alternate to camping, check out the nearby Balsam Mountain Inn.
2. Big Creek Campground
Big Creek Campground Loop Road, Big Creek Campground Loop Rd, North Carolina 37821, USA
Flickr / Will McElwain
This first-come first-serve campground is prime real estate for a getaway in the Smokies. With 12 walk-in camping spots, you'll have to sweat a bit to secure a spot but the reward is worth it. You're in close proximity to jaw dropping waterfalls and miles of hiking trails at Big Creek Campground. Note: the address may be in Tennessee (the nearest post office), but the campground is located in North Carolina.

Address: Big Creek Entrance Road, Newport, TN, 37821
3. Frisco Beach
Frisco Beach, Frisco, NC 27936, USA
Will Reisig / Google
On the other end of the spectrum, if you've dreamed of falling asleep to the sound of waves and waking up to a beach sunrise, Frisco Beach is the perfect place to pitch a tent and spend the night. It's great for stargazing or a weekend away during a full moon.

Address: 53415 Billy Mitchell Road, Frisco, NC, 27936

4. Jordan Lake
Flickr / Jeremy Taylor
Those in the Piedmont and Eastern region of the state can escape to solitude at Jordan Lake in Apex. With miles of hiking trails circling the lake and camping spots as primitive as a mountain counterpart, it's a great 'staycation' for Triangle residents.

Address: 558 Beaver Creek Road, Apex, NC, 27502

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5. Ocracoke Campground
Ocracoke Campground, 4352 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, USA
Flickr / PunkToad
Making the accessibility a bit more exclusive, take the ferry to camp at Ocracoke Campground. The campsite is the perfect mix of remote vibes with the quaint town of Ocracoke not far away and great for spending a night or two during a beach vacation to add a little adventure. Side note: you will have to register prior to camping here.

Address: 4352 Irvin Garrish Highway, Ocracoke, NC, 27960

7. Mount Pisgah Campground
Mount Pisgah Campgrounds, 408 Blue Rdg Pkwy #8, Canton, NC 28716, USA
Doug & Annie Wall / Google
The ideally-located Mount Pisgah Campground places you at 5,000 feet elevation, one of the highest camping spots in the Blue Ridge. While you might want to stay, exploring is necessary since you'll be in close proximity to waterfalls, hiking trails, and all the wonders the sprawling Pisgah Forest has to offer.

Address: 408 Blue Ridge Parkway, Canton, NC, 28716
8. Goose Creek State Park
Goose Creek State Park, 2190 Camp Leach Rd, Washington, NC 27889, USA
Flickr / Mark A Neal
For those seeking an RV option, opting for state park camping at Goose Creek State Park near Washington offers a great RV Resort. You can take in coastal vibes and explore hiking trails while retreating back to the comfort of your 'glampmobile.'

Address: 2190 Camp Leach Road, Washington, NC, 27889
9. Lake James State Park
John Gray / Google
Located on the rolling base of the Linville Gorge, Lake James offers stunning views and gorgeous clear water. Various campgrounds lend different vibes; waterside, tucked into the woods, or even remote yet close to hiking trails. Read why we named Lake James one of North Carolina's most gorgeous campgrounds.

Address: 7321 NC-126, Nebo, NC, 28761
10. Linville Gorge
Only In North Carolina / Danny Richard Buxton
With North Carolina campgrounds located near Table Rock and Hawksbill Mountain, it's essential to find a place to rest your head while conquering the difficult yet worthwhile hiking trails found here. Deemed the "Grand Canyon of the East," Linville Gorge is so much more than the stunning vista from Wiseman's View, but a true outdoor and adventure lover's paradise. If you're not sure where to start when it comes to hikes, read our guide to Linville Gorge.

These are some seriously beautiful options for camping across the Tar Heel state. What are some of your favorite campgrounds in North Carolina?

When vacation season is in full swing, take things up a notch and opt out of the luxurious beach house and choose to camp right beside the waves at these beachfront campgrounds in North Carolina.

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More to Explore

Campgrounds in North Carolina

Robin Jarvis | June 17, 2019

What are some of the best campgrounds in North Carolina?

The best North Carolina campgrounds can be found scattered throughout the state, from the beaches of the Outer Banks all the way to the mountains of Western North Carolina. Whether you prefer camping on the beach at sea level or in the state's highest campground located a mile high in elevation - or any point in between - you're sure to find a wealth of camping options from rustic and primitive to glampgrounds that provide resort-like amenities. Additionally, North Carolina campgrounds found along the Blue Ridge Parkway are operated by the National Park Service and usually have a variety of nature trails to explore.

Are you allowed to camp in state parks?

Yes! By all means! Explore the many state park campgrounds in North Carolina. You'll discover a different and amazing state park camping experience at each one - from primitive sites on the beach and in the mountains to camping spots located under a canopy of trees in a forest. More information can be found at this link on the North Carolina State Parks' official website.

What are some of the things I need to take on a camping trip?

Proper preparation for any camping trip is essential to the success and enjoyment of everyone. When deciding what clothing to pack, it's always better to err on the side of caution. In other words, prepare for rain and bring a dry pair of shoes as well as rain gear and even a tarp to cover the main gathering area. As for other necessities, you'll want to be sure to pack a flashlight (one per person is advised), a lighter, garbage bags, eating and cooking utensils, soap for washing dishes, and personal items. Most non-primitive campgrounds in North Carolina will have a camp store for purchasing small items you may have overlooked when packing.

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