Summer Camping in North Carolina
Discover the best summer camping across North Carolina. Experience the best of outdoor camping during the warmest months. Long days, starry nights, and endless adventure await.
Summer Camping in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Standing Indian Campground
Summer transforms the Nantahala River into a natural water playground where campers swim and tube through crystal-clear mountain waters between trail adventures.
Tsali Recreation Area
Summer brings the Appalachian forest to life with sun-dappled trails where mountain bikers and horseback riders weave through four distinct loops, then cool off with a splash in nearby Fontana Lake.
Long Point Cabin Camp
Summer transforms these boat-access cabins into a launching pad for endless Atlantic surf swimming, surf fishing right off the beach, and kayaking through crystal-clear coastal waters.
About Summer Camping in North Carolina
Summer camping in North Carolina offers an extraordinary diversity of experiences, from the cool mountain elevations of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains to the sun-drenched beaches of the Atlantic coast. The state's geographic variety means campers can escape to high-altitude forests where temperatures remain comfortable even during peak summer months, or embrace coastal breezes while camping steps from the ocean.
Best Time
The prime summer camping season in North Carolina runs from late May through early September, with peak demand occurring from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Mountain campgrounds offer the most comfortable temperatures during July and August, when elevations above 3,000 feet provide natural air conditioning with daytime highs in the 70s and 80s while lower elevations swelter.
Season Highlights
- Warm weather and long days
- Swimming and water activities
- Full amenities and services
- Family-friendly activities
Explore Summer Camping in North Carolina
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve summer campsites as early as possible through Recreation.gov for national forest campgrounds and the North Carolina State Parks reservation system, ideally six months ahead for peak dates.
- 2Mountain camping requires layered clothing as temperatures drop significantly after sunset even in summer, with nighttime lows often in the 50s at higher elevations.
- 3Pack insect repellent for all regions, as mosquitoes and ticks are active throughout summer, particularly near water sources.
- 4For coastal camping, bring plenty of sunscreen, shade structures, and secure all items against wind, which can be strong on barrier islands.
Summer Camping in North Carolina FAQ
We've ranked 20+ summer campgrounds in North Carolina based on weather, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds with shade, water access, and good summer conditions.
June through August is prime summer camping season in North Carolina. June and September offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while July and August are peak season.
For summer camping in North Carolina, bring sun protection, plenty of water, cooling gear, and light layers for cooler evenings. Bug spray is essential in many areas.
Popular North Carolina Campgrounds Book Fast
The best summer camping in North Carolina book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Standing Indian Campground
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- Search 20+ summer camping in North Carolina
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