New River State Park

PO Box 9, Linville, North Carolina, 28646, United States

Deep within the rugged wilderness of Grandfather Mountain State Park, thirteen secluded backcountry campsites await the adventurous soul. These primitive havens, accessible only by foot along challenging mountain trails, are scattered across dramatic elevations from 3,800 to nearly 6,000 feet, offering an authentic escape into North Carolina's most breathtaking high country.

W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

667 Jess Walsh Road, Wilkesboro, NC 28697-0182, USA

Discover your perfect outdoor escape at Bandits Roost Campground, where 102 thoughtfully designed campsites await your arrival. Choose from 85 sites equipped with water and electric hookups for RV enthusiasts, or embrace a more rustic experience at one of 17 peaceful tent-only sites. Perched along the stunning W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, this hidden gem invites you to cast a line into pristine waters, explore winding mountain bike trails, trek through scenic hiking paths, or launch your boat for a day of aquatic adventure.

1534 S. RECREATION ROAD, WILKESBORO, NC, 28697, USA

Nestled along the pristine northern shores of W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, Fort Hamby Park beckons families and outdoor enthusiasts to experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and natural splendor. Here, children's laughter echoes from the sandy beach while parents relax under towering hardwoods, knowing that hot showers and clean facilities await after a day of adventure. Whether you're shooting hoops on the basketball court, exploring winding hiking trails, or simply watching the sunset paint the lake in golden hues, Fort Hamby creates memories that draw visitors back season after season.

W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Nestled right beside the dam at W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, this ADA-accessible conference room offers the perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor adventure. With tables, seating, and convenient access to restrooms and a water fountain, you'll find everything you need for your gathering, while a fascinating museum, boat ramp, picnic shelters, and scenic trails wait just steps away.

W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir

Perched right beside the impressive W. Kerr Scott Dam, Fish Dam Creek Shelter welcomes visitors with sweeping views across 1,475 acres of shimmering reservoir waters. This well-appointed day-use area combines accessible picnic facilities, vault restrooms, and classic horseshoe pits with direct access to miles of multi-use trails and exceptional lake recreation—making it an ideal basecamp for adventure or a peaceful afternoon by the water.

Milepost 297 Blue Ridge Parkway

Nestled along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, Julian Price Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness charm. This sprawling mountain retreat offers 190 campsites split between 75 reservable spots and 115 first-come-first-served sites, accommodating both tent campers and RV travelers. The jewel of the campground is its proximity to the serene Price Lake, where morning mist dances across the water and countless trails wind through the surrounding forest, creating endless opportunities for wildlife encounters and mountain adventures.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Escape into true backcountry solitude at Old John's River Road, where two primitive campsites await along the legendary Mountains to Sea Trail near Blowing Rock, NC. Accessible via the scenic Boone Fork Trail or directly from Old John's River Road between mileposts 296-297 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, each site accommodates up to 6 campers for a maximum of 3 nights and features a fire ring for evening gatherings under the stars.

1956 Rendezvous Mtn Rd, Purlear, North Carolina, 28665, United States

Discover the hidden gem of Rendezvous Mountain, where adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts find their perfect day-use escape. This captivating park invites you to explore its dramatic landscape of plunging ravines and thundering waterfalls, all connected by exceptional hiking trails that reveal breathtaking vistas at every turn. Whether you're seeking a challenging trek or a peaceful commune with nature, Rendezvous Mountain delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience.

5564 Meat Camp Road, Todd, North Carolina, 28684, United States

Perched high in the North Carolina mountains at 4,000 feet, Elk Knob State Park's remote backcountry campsite offers adventurous souls a true wilderness experience. This primitive group camping area beckons those seeking solitude and simplicity, where modern conveniences give way to essential amenities—a centrally located pit privy and a sturdy bear box to protect your provisions from curious wildlife. Here, camping returns to its roots, offering an authentic connection with the natural world far from the crowds and comforts of traditional campgrounds.

3042 Frank Parkway, Roaring Gap, North Carolina, 28668, United States

Nestled in the heart of the West District, this wilderness campground offers an authentic backcountry experience where adventurers can disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. The expansive open-space tent sites provide a true camping experience under star-filled skies, perfect for those seeking solitude and outdoor adventure.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Tucked away in the historic Basin Cove within Doughton Park, this primitive backcountry retreat offers eight secluded campsites accessible only by trails that wind 1,500 feet down from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring, lantern post, and food storage box, inviting you to experience true wilderness camping year-round in a landscape steeped in Appalachian history.

1481 Mt. Jefferson State Park Rd, West Jefferson, North Carolina, 28694, United States

Perched high in the North Carolina mountains, Mount Jefferson State Natural Area beckons adventurers with its breathtaking vistas and pristine wilderness. This hidden gem welcomes visitors free of charge, offering a perfect blend of accessibility and untamed beauty. Well-appointed picnic shelters and grills dot the landscape, providing comfortable spots to savor a meal while soaking in the spectacular mountain views. Miles of winding trails lead through ancient forests, revealing scenic overlooks that will leave you breathless.

Milepost 239 Blue Ridge Parkway

Perched at milepost 239 along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, Doughton Park Campground offers a serene escape beneath a cathedral of towering trees. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite comes alive with the gentle flicker of lantern light and the warm glow of evening campfires, while modern amenities like flush toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort meets wilderness. For those seeking a more rustic experience, primitive camping beckons with the simple requirement of a free permit and the promise of unspoiled solitude.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Near Virginia's two highest mountains, the park offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks, waterfalls, camping, a visitor center and miles of hiking trails.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Near Virginia's two highest mountains, the park offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks, waterfalls, camping, a visitor center and miles of hiking trails.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Near Virginia's two highest mountains, the park offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks, waterfalls, camping, a visitor center and miles of hiking trails.

Grayson Highlands State Park

The park is home to plenty of wildlife and offers camping, picnic shelters, lodging, boat launches and numerous types of trails. Canoeing is popular here.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Near Virginia's two highest mountains, the park offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks, waterfalls, camping, a visitor center and miles of hiking trails.

Grayson Highlands State Park

The park is home to plenty of wildlife and offers camping, picnic shelters, lodging, boat launches and numerous types of trails. Canoeing is popular here.

Grayson Highlands State Park

Grayson Highlands Campground sits at over 4,500 feet elevation within Grayson Highlands State Park, offering a peaceful high-mountain camping experience in southwestern Virginia. The campground provides access to the park's famous wild ponies that roam freely near the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the park. With approximately 135 sites including pull-through spaces, campers enjoy well-spaced, quiet sites surrounded by stunning ridge scenery. The area is known for its cooler temperatures even in summer, making it an ideal escape from the heat. Popular activities include hiking the Twin Pinnacle and Wilburn Ridge trails, wildlife viewing, and stargazing in the clear mountain air.

20993 Beartree Gap Road, Damascus, VA

Tucked away in the heart of Jefferson National Forest, Beartree Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its enchanting blend of mountain serenity and natural splendor. Here, where Beartree Lake mirrors the surrounding peaks, you'll discover a campground that feels like a secret garden in the clouds. Choose your perfect basecamp in either Chipmunk Circle or Beaver Flat, where each thoughtfully designed site nestles beneath a canopy of ancient trees and flowering rhododendron tunnels. Whether you're pitching a tent on soft forest floor or parking your RV in a spacious pull-through, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where privacy meets paradise.

20993 Beartree Gap Road

Nestled within the enchanting Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Beartree Campground offers an intimate escape where families can reconnect with nature and each other. Here, individual and group campsites are thoughtfully tucked among towering rhododendrons and a canopy of dense forest, creating private sanctuaries for every camping style. Each site comes equipped with picnic tables and grills, while fresh drinking water flows throughout the grounds. Adventure beckons just beyond your tent flap, with pristine hiking trails winding through ancient forests, crystal-clear streams perfect for fishing, and scenic biking routes that showcase the best of Virginia's high country.

1946 Laurel Valley Road, Troutdale, VA 24378, USA

Tucked away at 3,800 feet in Virginia's highlands, Grindstone Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its cathedral-like canopy of mixed hardwoods and native rhododendrons. This mountain sanctuary serves as your gateway to the legendary Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, where ancient trails wind through misty forests, crystalline streams teem with native trout, and mountain biking routes challenge riders with their rugged beauty. Here, mornings begin with birdsong echoing through the trees and evenings end with the gentle rustle of leaves in the mountain breeze.

3714 Highway 16, Marion, VA, 24354, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Old Virginia Group Horse Camp beckons equestrian adventurers to experience the magic of trail riding through Virginia's stunning high country. Here, your group can wake to misty mountain mornings, saddle up for days exploring endless trail networks, and gather around the campfire as horses graze peacefully nearby. The gentle murmur of a nearby stream provides nature's soundtrack to your basecamp, where picturesque mountain vistas frame every sunset and create memories that last long after the dust settles from your last ride.

3714 Hwy 16, Marion, VA, 24354, USA

Perched at nearly 4,000 feet in the heart of Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Fox Creek Horse Camp beckons equestrian adventurers with its promise of boundless exploration. This high-altitude haven serves as your gateway to hundreds of miles of pristine trails, where you and your horse can embark on unforgettable journeys straight from your campsite. The expansive open fields along babbling Fox Creek create an idyllic basecamp for riders seeking both summer adventures and the camaraderie of fellow horse enthusiasts.

2021 Hurricane Camp Road, Sugar Grove, VA, 24375, USA

Tucked away in the rolling mountains of southwest Virginia, Hurricane Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine creeks and towering forest canopy. Here, where Hurricane Branch meets Comers Creek, campsites nestle beneath a cathedral of mixed oak and hemlock trees, their branches creating natural shade pavilions over soft, grassy clearings. Adventure awaits just beyond your tent flap, with direct access to the legendary Appalachian Trail and the scenic Hurricane Knob Trail winding through the surrounding wilderness.

6416 Sugar Grove Highway, Sugar Grove, VA 24375, USA

Perched in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Raccoon Branch Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning mountain vistas and direct access to pristine hiking trails. Here, where Dickey Creek meets Raccoon Branch, campers discover a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. Choose from primitive sites for a back-to-basics experience or electric hookups for modern convenience. Well-maintained flush toilets, fresh drinking water, and a convenient dump station ensure a comfortable stay, while the absence of showers keeps you connected to the authentic camping experience. Towering pines and hardwoods create a natural canopy overhead, while vibrant rhododendrons and rolling grassy meadows paint the landscape in seasonal colors.

3158 Blue Spring Road, Rural Retreat, VA, 24368, USA

Perched high atop a secluded mountain peak, Blue Springs Gap Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness retreat. This charming rustic cabin combines the solitude of mountaintop living with essential modern conveniences—electricity illuminates your evenings while flush toilets (available seasonally) provide comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Though you'll need to bring your own water and handle your own housekeeping, the cabin's basic furnishings and spectacular isolation create the perfect basecamp for those ready to disconnect from the world below and reconnect with nature's grandeur.

3714 Highway 16, Marion, VA 24354, USA

Tucked away in the serene wilderness of Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Comer's Rock Recreation Area offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. This hidden gem features primitive campsites where you can truly disconnect, a charming historic log picnic shelter crafted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, and miles of hiking trails that wind through untouched forest. Whether you're casting a line in the nearby waters or seeking out panoramic vistas from scenic overlooks, Comer's Rock provides an authentic backcountry experience for those who prefer their adventures off the beaten path.

1195 CC Camp Road, Speedwell, VA

Nestled in the heart of equestrian country, Hussy Mountain Horse Camp beckons riders and their four-legged companions to experience the freedom of primitive camping at its finest. Three thoughtfully designed group camping loops await, each equipped with sturdy hitching rails where horses can rest after a day on the trails. Around weathered wooden picnic tables, riders gather to share stories while flames dance in stone fire rings under starlit skies. The gentle murmur of East Fork Dry Run Creek provides a natural soundtrack and fresh water source for thirsty horses. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the rustic setting, including potable water stations and well-maintained vault toilets. Before saddling up for adventure, riders simply need to present their negative Coggins certificate—then the vast network of horse trails becomes their playground.

576 Cha Cha Ridge Road, Ivanhoe, VA, USA, 24350

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Highlands, Sunrise Cabin beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of wilderness charm and modern comfort. This thoughtfully appointed retreat features four cozy bedrooms and two full bathrooms, where rustic mountain character meets contemporary convenience. Picture yourself sipping morning coffee on the scenic front porch, electricity-powered amenities humming quietly inside, while panoramic views of rolling highland peaks stretch endlessly before you. With a fully equipped kitchen, hot water on demand, and all the comforts of home, this cabin serves as your gateway to mountain adventures without sacrificing the luxuries that make a getaway truly relaxing.

1946 Laurel Valley Road, Troutdale, VA 24378, USA

667 Jess Walsh Road, Wilkesboro, NC 28697-0182, USA

6416 Sugar Grove Highway, Sugar Grove, VA 24375, USA

20993 Beartree Gap Road

20993 Beartree Gap Road, Damascus, VA

1534 S. RECREATION ROAD, WILKESBORO, NC, 28697, USA

Milepost 239 Blue Ridge Parkway

3714 Hwy 16, Marion, VA, 24354, USA

5564 Meat Camp Road, Todd, North Carolina, 28684, United States

3714 Highway 16, Marion, VA 24354, USA

2021 Hurricane Camp Road, Sugar Grove, VA, 24375, USA

1481 Mt. Jefferson State Park Rd, West Jefferson, North Carolina, 28694, United States

Grayson Highlands State Park

1195 CC Camp Road, Speedwell, VA

3042 Frank Parkway, Roaring Gap, North Carolina, 28668, United States

3158 Blue Spring Road, Rural Retreat, VA, 24368, USA

1956 Rendezvous Mtn Rd, Purlear, North Carolina, 28665, United States

3714 Highway 16, Marion, VA, 24354, USA

Grayson Highlands State Park

Grayson Highlands State Park

National Forests in North Carolina

Escape to Hurricane Creek Horse & Primitive Campground, where the rhythm of hoofbeats and the whisper of forest trails create an authentic backcountry experience. This rustic retreat beckons equestrians and adventurers alike with its network of winding trails, well-appointed horse stalls, and essential amenities including fire rings and vault toilets. Whether you arrive on horseback or hiking boots, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape where outdoor traditions thrive and hunters pursue both big and small game through the surrounding wilderness.

176 Millpond Road, Gatesville, North Carolina, 27938, United States

Tucked away in northeastern North Carolina's pristine wilderness, Merchants Millpond State Park Family Campground beckons those seeking refuge from the everyday hustle. This hidden gem wraps visitors in a cocoon of towering trees and tranquil solitude, where wooded campsites offer generous privacy and the outside world fades to a whisper. Seasoned campers consistently praise the park's ability to deliver that elusive combination of seclusion and serenity, making it a cherished secret among those who've discovered its charms.

OFF FOREST DEVELOPMENT RD 67, FRANKLIN, NC, 28734, USA

Nestled deep within the Nantahala National Forest, Standing Indian Campground beckons adventurers with its four distinct camping loops that wind through ancient mountain terrain. Whether you arrive with an RV or pitch a tent beneath towering evergreens, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where modern comforts meet wilderness wonder. Each site comes thoughtfully appointed with campfire rings for evening storytelling, grills for mountaintop meals, and lantern posts that cast a warm glow as dusk settles over the peaks. Fresh mountain water flows from spigots throughout the grounds, while clean flush toilets and hot showers ensure comfort after days spent exploring miles of hiking trails, playing in the crystal-clear Nantahala River, or pursuing game through misty hollows.

465 JACKRABBIT ROAD

Perched on a scenic peninsula where forest meets water, Jackrabbit Mountain campground invites adventurers to experience the best of the Nantahala National Forest. Here, morning mist rises from Lake Chatuge as campers wake to the calls of woodland birds, ready for days filled with hiking mountain trails, casting fishing lines into pristine waters, or exploring the shoreline by kayak. The campground's three distinct loops offer flexibility for your stay - Loop A welcomes visitors from May through September, while Loops B and C extend the season into October's spectacular autumn colors.

5564 Meat Camp Road, Todd, North Carolina, 28684, United States

Perched high in the North Carolina mountains at 4,000 feet, Elk Knob State Park's remote backcountry campsite offers adventurous souls a true wilderness experience. This primitive group camping area beckons those seeking solitude and simplicity, where modern conveniences give way to essential amenities—a centrally located pit privy and a sturdy bear box to protect your provisions from curious wildlife. Here, camping returns to its roots, offering an authentic connection with the natural world far from the crowds and comforts of traditional campgrounds.

1070 Massey Branch Road, Robbinsville, NC 28771

Nestled within the renowned Tsali Recreation Area, this 42-site forested haven beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its seamless blend of comfort and adventure. Mountain bikers and equestrians find their paradise here, with direct access to an extensive four-loop trail system that winds through the Appalachian wilderness. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the canopy or settling in with a small RV, you'll enjoy thoughtful amenities including fresh drinking water, modern flush toilets, and revitalizing hot showers after a day on the trails.

5289 N. MILLS RIVER ROAD

Nestled deep within the enchanting Pisgah National Forest, North Mills River Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain tranquility and adventure. This rustic hideaway invites you to wake up to the gentle sounds of the Mills River, spend your days exploring endless trails by foot or bike, and cast a line for native trout in crystal-clear mountain waters. Two thoughtfully designed camping loops offer shaded sites beneath a canopy of ancient hardwoods, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for those memorable evening gatherings. Modern comforts haven't been forgotten—clean restrooms with hot showers and flush toilets ensure you can refresh after a day of mountain exploration.

50 Black Mountain Campground Road, Burnsville, NC 28714, USA

Nestled along the crystal-clear waters of the South Toe River, Black Mountain Campground beckons adventurers to experience the raw beauty of North Carolina's high country. Whether you prefer the simplicity of primitive camping or the convenience of electric hookups, this beloved basecamp puts you at the doorstep of Mount Mitchell—the crown jewel of the eastern United States. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line for native trout in the rushing river, explore mountain trails that lead to breathtaking vistas, or simply lose yourself in the winding scenic drives that reveal the Appalachians' ancient secrets.

976 Grassy Ridge RD, Sapphire, North Carolina, 28774, United States

Nestled in North Carolina's rugged mountain wilderness, Gorges State Park welcomes adventurers with pristine camping facilities that blend modern comfort with untamed nature. Choose from traditional tent sites beneath towering hardwoods, fully-equipped RV sites with all the amenities, or cozy rental cabins perfect for those seeking a rustic retreat. The park's crown jewels—the thundering Rainbow Falls and the mesmerizing Turtleback Falls—await discovery along meticulously maintained trails that wind through this spectacular landscape.

131 Charles Street

Escape to the remote paradise of Long Point Cabin Camp, where ten charming wooden duplex cabins stand as your gateway to unspoiled coastal wilderness on North Core Banks. Each rustic retreat comes equipped with electricity and can accommodate either six guests in a half-duplex or twelve in a full unit, perfect for families or fishing buddies seeking adventure. Accessible only by boat, this hidden gem within Cape Lookout National Seashore has drawn generations of anglers and beach lovers who cherish its pristine isolation and world-class fishing opportunities.