North Carolina is a haven for camping enthusiasts, with its diverse landscape that includes the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in the west and the pristine beaches in the east. The state boasts numerous national parks, national forests, national seashores, and state parks, offering endless options for tent camping. In this comprehensive guide, we have compiled a list of the top 10 tent camping destinations in North Carolina, along with their key features and highlights. So, pack your tent and gear, and get ready to explore the best of what the Tarheel State has to offer.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Balsam Mountain Campground

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year. The park offers a variety of attractions and activities, including hiking, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, fly fishing, horseback riding, historical sites, and of course, tent camping.

Balsam Mountain Campground, located on the North Carolina side of the park, offers 42 tent-only sites during its camping season that runs from May through October. Reservations are required, and the cost is $17.50 per night. The campground is situated in one of the park’s more remote areas, providing easy access to the picturesque mountain ranges and other recreational activities.

Cataloochee Campground

Cataloochee Campground is home to 27 tent sites in the historic Cataloochee Valley, which is known for elk sightings during the spring and fall seasons. The campground offers a serene setting and is ideal for nature lovers looking to explore the surrounding trails and wildlife.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Crabtree Falls Campground

Located along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Crabtree Falls Campground offers a picturesque setting for tent campers. The campground features a mix of 81 reservable and first-come, first-served sites, accommodating both tents and RVs. Crabtree Falls, the campground’s namesake, is a beautiful cascade that can be accessed via a moderate 2.5-mile loop trail, making it a must-visit spot for campers.

Linville Falls Campground

Another gem along the Blue Ridge Parkway is the Linville Falls Campground. With 50 tent sites and 20 RV sites, this campground offers a peaceful retreat amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area. The campground provides easy access to the Linville Falls, which features multiple cascades and can be viewed from various overlooks along the trails.

Pisgah National Forest

Davidson River Campground

Nestled in the Pisgah National Forest, Davidson River Campground is a popular destination for tent camping. The campground offers 144 campsites, accommodating both tents and RVs. It is located next to the Davidson River, making it an ideal spot for swimming, tubing, and trout fishing. The campground is also just 3 miles from the charming town of Brevard, which offers numerous restaurants, breweries, and shops for visitors to explore.

Lake Powhatan Recreation Area

Lake Powhatan Recreation Area is another excellent option for tent camping in Pisgah National Forest. The campground features 97 mostly shaded campsites, hot showers, flush toilets, and is situated on the banks of Lake Powhatan. In addition to the on-site amenities, campers can also enjoy nearby attractions such as the North Carolina Arboretum and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Nantahala National Forest

Panthertown Valley

Panthertown Valley, located in the Nantahala National Forest, offers a tranquil wilderness experience for tent campers. This 6,300-acre recreation area features over 25 miles of trails, numerous waterfalls, and abundant solitude. Panthertown Valley is perfect for hikers, backpackers, and equestrian enthusiasts seeking a primitive camping experience in the heart of the forest.

Cheoah Point Campground

Perched on cliffs above Lake Santeetlah in the Nantahala National Forest, Cheoah Point Campground provides a remote and serene camping experience. The campground offers easy access to the lake for boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as the nearby Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, one of the last remaining stands of old-growth forest on the East Coast.

Hanging Rock State Park

Hanging Rock State Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering a wide range of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and river access for canoeing and kayaking. The park features 73 campsites that can accommodate tents and RVs, as well as five group campsites. The park’s numerous trails lead to stunning summit views, waterfalls, and a scenic lake, making it an ideal destination for tent campers seeking adventure.

Lake James State Park

Lake James State Park offers 30 boat-in campsites, providing a unique and unforgettable camping experience. Campers can spend their days hiking or mountain biking on the park’s trails before loading up their kayaks or canoes and heading to their campsite on the Long Arm Peninsula. The campsites offer stunning views of Lake James, making for a serene and picturesque sunset.

Asheville Glamping

For those seeking a more luxurious tent camping experience, Asheville Glamping offers a variety of unique accommodations, including treehouses, tents, vintage trailers, and domes. These upscale camping options come equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, running water, electricity, and even hot tubs. Asheville Glamping provides the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and comfort, making it an ideal choice for those looking to experience the beauty of North Carolina in style.

Conclusion

North Carolina offers an abundance of tent camping opportunities for every type of camper. From the remote wilderness of Panthertown Valley to the luxurious Asheville Glamping, there is a camping destination to suit every preference. So, whether you’re an experienced camper or a first-time adventurer, pack your tent and gear, and get ready to explore the diverse natural beauty of the Tarheel State.