North Carolina State Park Camping: A Guide to the Best Campgrounds
Greetings, readers!
North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse state parks in the country, making it a top destination for campers of all levels. With over 40 state parks to choose from, there’s something for everyone, from primitive backcountry camping to RV hookups with all the amenities.
This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about north carolina state park camping, including the best campgrounds, what to expect, and how to make reservations. So grab your tent or RV and get ready to explore the wonders of North Carolina’s great outdoors!
Choosing the Perfect Campsite
The first step in planning your north carolina state park camping trip is choosing the perfect campsite. There are a few things to consider when making your selection:
Level of Comfort
Some campsites offer basic amenities, such as a fire pit and picnic table, while others have more modern conveniences, such as electricity and water hookups. Decide what level of comfort you’re looking for before you start your search.
Location
Do you want to be close to the beach, the mountains, or a lake? North Carolina state parks are located in all corners of the state, so you’re sure to find one that’s close to your desired destination.
Activities
What activities are you interested in? Some campgrounds offer hiking, fishing, swimming, and other recreational opportunities. Choose a campground that has something to keep you entertained.
Top Campgrounds in North Carolina State Parks
Now that you know what to look for, here are a few of the top campgrounds in North Carolina state parks:
Cape Lookout National Seashore
Cape Lookout is a barrier island located on the Outer Banks. The campground offers primitive campsites with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the eastern United States. The campground offers a variety of campsites, from primitive backcountry sites to RV hookups.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Jockey’s Ridge is a sand dune located on the Outer Banks. The campground offers campsites with views of the Atlantic Ocean and the sand dunes.
Mount Mitchell State Park
Mount Mitchell is the highest point in the eastern United States. The campground offers campsites with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
What to Expect When Camping in North Carolina State Parks
When you go north carolina state park camping, you can expect to experience a variety of activities and amenities, including:
Hiking
North Carolina state parks offer some of the best hiking trails in the country. There are trails for all levels of hikers, from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks.
Fishing
North Carolina state parks are home to a variety of fish, including bass, trout, and catfish. There are fishing opportunities available in both lakes and rivers.
Swimming
Many North Carolina state parks have swimming pools or beaches. You can also swim in the lakes and rivers in the parks.
Other Activities
Other activities that you may find at North Carolina state parks include camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
How to Make Reservations
To make reservations for north carolina state park camping, you can visit the North Carolina State Parks website or call the reservation center at 1-800-734-3861.
Campground Fees
The fees for camping in North Carolina state parks vary depending on the campground and the time of year. You can find a complete list of fees on the North Carolina State Parks website.
| Campground | Site Type | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Cape Lookout National Seashore | Primitive | $20 per night |
| Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Backcountry | $10 per night |
| Jockey’s Ridge State Park | RV Hookup | $30 per night |
| Mount Mitchell State Park | Primitive | $15 per night |
Other articles you may enjoy
- North Carolina State Park Hiking Trails
- North Carolina State Park Fishing
- North Carolina State Park Swimming
Conclusion
North carolina state park camping is a great way to experience the beauty of the outdoors. With over 40 state parks to choose from, there’s something for everyone. So grab your tent or RV and get ready to explore the wonders of North Carolina’s great outdoors!
FAQ about North Carolina State Park Camping
What are the camping fees?
- Varies depending on the park and type of campsite. Check individual park websites for specific fees.
What types of campsites are available?
- Primitive, tent-only, RV, and group campsites are common.
Do I need to make reservations?
- Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. You can reserve online or by phone.
What amenities are available at the campgrounds?
- Varies by park, but may include restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings, and water.
Can I bring pets?
- Pets are generally allowed at campgrounds, but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
What are the quiet hours?
- Usually from 10 pm to 6 am.
What is the check-in and check-out time?
- Check-in is typically after 2 pm and check-out is before 11 am.
Are campfires allowed?
- Campfires are usually permitted, but check individual park regulations and obtain a permit if required.
What is the cancellation policy?
- Cancellation policies vary by park. Check the campground website for details.
Are there any restrictions on alcohol or smoking?
- Alcohol and smoking may be restricted in certain areas. Check park regulations for details.
