Tent Campgrounds in North Carolina

About This Region

North Carolina offers some of the most diverse tent camping in the eastern United States, from the windswept barrier islands of the Outer Banks to the mist-shrouded peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains. Whether you're seeking a riverside site along Pisgah National Forest's rushing trout streams or a primitive beach camp where Atlantic waves lull you to sleep, the Tar Heel State delivers authentic outdoor experiences across dramatically different landscapes. The state's tent-friendly campgrounds span elevations from sea level to over 5,000 feet, creating opportunities for year-round camping adventures. The crown jewels include iconic destinations like North Mills River in Pisgah National Forest, where 373 campers have praised its creek-side tent sites and proximity to waterfall hikes. Further west, Standing Indian Campground serves as a gateway to the Appalachian Trail with tent sites nestled along mountain streams. For coastal enthusiasts, South Core Banks offers true wilderness beach camping on a pristine barrier island accessible only by ferry. The Great Smoky Mountains contribute beloved tent camps like Cataloochee, where elk grazing in misty valleys create unforgettable morning views from your tent. From glamping platforms at Lake Powhatan near Asheville to backcountry horse camps in the Nantahala wilderness, North Carolina's tent camping scene caters to every style. The state's extensive national forests, national parks, and recreation areas provide well-maintained facilities while preserving the natural beauty that makes tent camping here so special.

North Carolina's tent campgrounds range from developed sites with flush toilets and hot showers to primitive dispersed camping on remote beaches. Most forest service campgrounds in the mountains offer individual tent pads with picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby vault or flush restrooms. Popular areas like Lake Powhatan and North Mills River feature designated tent loops separated from RV sections, providing a quieter experience. Many sites accommodate both tent and RV camping but prioritize tent-specific amenities. Terrain varies dramatically by region. Mountain campgrounds typically sit along creeks or rivers in shaded forest settings, with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,500 feet. Coastal options include developed campgrounds with tent pads at Cape Hatteras or truly primitive beach camping at South Core Banks, where you pitch directly on sand dunes. Piedmont lake campgrounds offer a middle ground with easier access and moderate terrain. Expect well-maintained facilities at recreation.gov sites, though amenities decrease at more remote USFS locations. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at mountain camps. Reservation windows typically open 6 months ahead for popular sites, though first-come-first-served options exist at smaller campgrounds. Group camps are widely available for larger gatherings.