Where to Go Camping in North Carolina

This spectacular landscape is accentuated by the gently flowing Toe River which has trout fishing, kayaking, canoeing and other water activities. There are rolling meadows, endless woods and long-range views of the mountains meaning that biking, hiking and horse riding are well catered for. Green Mountain is known for its mild, temperate climate with more than 200 days of sunshine a year. It’s chilly in winter but who cares about that when you can gather round a roaring campground fire?

Wake to the sound of birdsong and trickling water when staying at this superb nature retreat. Only 20 minutes from Durham and Chapel Hill, it is also close to Hillsborough, which is well known for its farmers’ markets. This wilderness area provides an opportunity to see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, barred owls, red-shouldered hawks and more. Have a dip in the creek before hitting the hiking trails and in the evening enjoy a bonfire or relax under star-filled skies.

With shopping and a selection of restaurants, Lillington is a substantial rural town crossed on its northern end by the impressive Cape Fear River. This is the place for paddle-board yoga, river tubing, whitewater kayaking, canoeing and overnight trips (activities depend on river levels). Nearby is the Lost Paddle Tavern which offers 16 local brews as well as excellent live music. There is also an exceptional one-mile botanical trail which circles the town’s community centre.

Primitive camping is an enchanting, back-to-nature experience and, for those who enjoy roughing it, this is just the spot. Set on the Ivy River, which is where the fire pit is located, this bare-bones experience among beautiful meadows will leave you on a natural high. The camp keepers here provide tents on request and this location is only a few miles from enigmatic Asheville, plus the extensive and beautiful Pisgah National Forest with its many attractions.