National and State Parks in the US are protected by Law to preserve wildlife and the natural environment. People in the US are very fond of visiting and camping in nature. The figures speak themselves. The market size of the United State’s national and state parks in 2022 is estimated at $940 million. The sector also employs more than 7,500 people in the US.
North Carolina is one of the most amazing destinations in the United States. It has a lot to offer, from its beaches to the mountains. However, if you plan to spend your weekends camping there, you need to know the best places for that experience. Here we have covered some of them so that you can have an awesome time camping.
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Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock is a beautiful state park located in Macon County. The area offers many activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and fishing.
Camping at Chimney Rock is also an incredible experience if you love nature or want to experience the night sky in its full glory. The state park stretches over 8,000 acres and is 25 miles from Asheville. You can find excellent campgrounds with plenty of space for your RV or tent, restrooms, and showers to enjoy.
Smoky Mountain National Park
The Smoky Mountains are the oldest mountain range in the world, stretching over 1,600 miles from Georgia to New York. Therefore, it’s not surprising that you’ll find some of the best camping sites in North Carolina. Located in Tennessee, it stretches over more than 2000sq km of area. This national park is home to some of the most breathtaking views on Earth.
Camping in the Smokies is one of the best ways to experience the area. Whether you’re looking for a secluded getaway or want to be close enough to civilization that you can run out of supplies, there are plenty of options for camping in the Smoky Mountains.
Suppose you’re looking for something different than just a standard tent while camping; consider renting a cabin in the Smoky Mountains. With cabins available in many locations throughout the park, you’ll find something perfect for your needs. In addition, you will enjoy a completely different experience while staying at any Smoky Mountain cabins.
Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest is located in western North Carolina, not far from Asheville. It’s the largest protected area in the state and has plenty of activities to enjoy.
The forest offers a variety of camping opportunities. It covers more than 500,000 acres of mountainous terrains. The most popular campsites are located at the Cradle of Forestry. The Appalachian Mountains include part of the Great Balsam Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains, which rose to over 1,800 meters.
Lake James State Park
Lake James State Park is a family-friendly camping destination with many opportunities for outdoor adventure. Lake James, located in the mountains of western North Carolina, offers lakeside camping and activities like fishing, hiking, and biking. The park also features rugged trails that are great for experienced campers who want to test their skills.
Lake James is a short drive from Asheville or Charlotte and is within an hour’s drive of several other state parks. You can easily spend multiple days exploring all North Carolina offers while staying near your campsite.
Linville Gorge and Falls Recreation Area
If you’re looking for a great place to hike, fish, and camp, Linville Gorge and Falls Recreation Area is the place for you. Located in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area of North Carolina, this national recreation area has several different trails. There are over 70 miles worth of trails within the park.
One trail leads visitors to Linville Falls, a waterfall that drops 1,200 feet into a gorge carved by the Linville River over thousands of years.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic road that runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia and North Carolina. While it is only 469 miles in total length, it spans almost the whole state of North Carolina, making it one of the most popular tourist sites for residents and visitors alike.
Since its opening in 1936, this National Park Service has been attracting millions of visitors yearly.
Crowders Mountain State Park
Crowders Mountain State Park is in Gaston, North Carolina. It is an excellent place to camp if you have children and want to take them hiking or biking in the woods. The park has four miles of trails, and several different camping options, including 50 tent sites.
Crowders Mountain is in the northeastern part of Crowders Mountain State Park and has an elevation of approximately 1600 feet.
Pettijohn’s Creek Campground and RV Park
Pettijohn’s Creek Campground and RV Park are located in the Pisgah National Forest. It offers great amenities for you and your family to enjoy a weekend or camping trip. The campground has tent sites, cabins, RV sites, swimming pools, playgrounds, and hiking trails. There are also fishing ponds and canoeing available on site. It is ideal for those who like to explore nature while camping but don’t want to go too far from home. Pettijohn’s Creek Campground and RV Park are only about an hour’s drive from Charlotte.
Eno River State Park
If you’re looking to camp in a location that’s great for families, Eno River State Park is a wonderful option. There are four different campgrounds at the park. Each offers sites that can accommodate tents and RV trailers. In addition, each campsite has access to restrooms and showers. Several rental companies offer equipment rentals at this location if you don’t have your camping gear.
Eno River State Park is located in Durham County in North Carolina. It’s only about 20 minutes away from Duke University Campus if you want some college campus fun mixed into your weekend away from work. The park is also close enough that you can drive 45 minutes south down Highway 85 until reaching US-1 South, where there’s an outlet mall for those who like shopping during their outdoor adventures.
Roan Mountain State Park
The Roan Mountain State Park, located in Roan Mountain, TN, is a popular destination for mountain biking and hiking. But, if you’re looking to get away from it and enjoy nature on your terms, this is the place to go. Over 100 miles of trails within the park feature breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The campground provides RV hookups and tent sites for travelers who want a less rustic experience. The campsites can accommodate up to eight people each in an area with electricity and running water nearby. There’s also an outdoor pool open during the summer months for guests who want something different than swimming in a lake or stream.
North Carolina Has a Lot of Great Sites for Camping
North Carolina is well known for its mountains, rivers, and creeks. The state park system is also very well developed; you’ll find plenty of places to camp in North Carolina with easy access to nature. The weather varies widely from place to place in the state, so there are many options when planning your trip.
If you’re looking to get away from it with your family and friends, North Carolina is the place for you. From campsites that offer many modern amenities to primitive campsites where you can enjoy nature at its best. There are many options when it comes time to explore this beautiful state.