Best Campsites in the Carolinas

There are a lot of incredible campsites, some that are famously known, and some that are hidden gems that you’ll find in the Carolinas.

The Blue Ridge Mountains, Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, the Outer Banks, Asheville, Charleston- there’s a lot to love about North and South Carolina. Let’s take a look at some of the best places to pitch your tent in the Carolinas.

1.) Raleigh Oaks – Four Oaks, North Carolina

Everyone has different comfort levels with camping. Some jump at the idea of spending sequestered time in the wilderness, pitching a tent, and having that outdoor experience. Others cringe at the dirt, dried food, and lack of modern appliances, and wish for a compromise between camping and modern living. Raleigh Oaks is the perfect mix of all of these things. You can bring an RV, a tent, or rent a cottage, and outdoor activities include horseback riding, hiking, hunting, fishing, swimming, geocaching, and pickleball. If you’re looking for less adventure, and more relaxation, check our their fitness centers and spas.

2.) Sky Ridge Yurts – Bryson City, North Carolina

Yurts were first developed by the Mongols, constructed in a way that made them both livable and portable. Yurts aren’t commonly seen in the United States, but at Sky Ridge Yurts in Bryson City, North Carolina, visitors can actually camp in them. These yurts, however, have undergone many modern developments since the yurts of the Mongols, furnished with bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens, living areas, and WiFi. There are a variety of sizes as well, so your party can always find one. Located in the Smoky Mountains, Sky Ridge Yurts has a stunning natural setting, and is close to the Nantahala Outdoor Center, which allows guests to go river rafting, hiking, and so much more. This is an excellent place for a unique camping experience.

3.) Carolina Beach State Park – Carolina Beach, North Carolina

What if you could combine two of the most popular vacation activities- the beach and camping? At Carolina Beach State Park, located in the southeast of the state, you can do just that. This park has almost 80 campsites, with a few cabins, and one of their claims to fame is the Venus flytraps prevalent in the park, particularly on the half-mile long Flytrap Trail. There are nine miles of trail in total, but if you’re looking to get out on the water, take advantage of the rivers, sounds, and the ocean that are all accessible from the park, and kayak, boat, or paddle-board. Carolina Beach State Park also has some amazing fishing spots.

4.) Tsali Recreation Area – Robbinsville, North Carolina

Like Sky Ridge Yurts, Tsali Recreation Area is nestled in the Smoky Mountains, so be prepared for some breathtaking views. It is right by the beautiful Fontana Lake, and there are 42 campsites for prospective visitors, compatible with tents, trailers, and RVs. There is so much to do here, including horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, motor boating, kayaking, and of course, camping. Tsali Recreation Area also claims to have some of the best walleye in the country, so don’t forget your fishing pole!

5.) Devils Fork State Park – Salem, South Carolina

Who can resist a beautiful, cascading waterfall? Devils Fork State Park, right on the border of the Carolinas, is home to several. It is a gorgeous campsite, filled with incredible views and many activities. The park is situated on Lake Jocassee, a crystal clear, blue-green lake perfect for trout fishing, swimming, boating, and another activity not found anywhere else on this list- scuba diving! Between villas and campsites, there are over one hundred spots for campers. As mentioned, Devils Fork has waterfalls, as well as nature trails. It is one of South Carolina’s most popular campsites, and definitely worth a visit.

6.) Edisto Island State Park – Edisto Island, South Carolina

Edisto Island State Park is found in southern South Carolina, on the coast between Charleston and Hilton Head Island. It is described as natural, raw, and one of the purest beach experiences in the country, a heavenly description for adventure and nature lovers. Edisto Island State Park combines history and education with camping, with its island museum, a serpentarium, and its abundance of Native American history. There are also bike paths, and opportunities for hiking.

7.) Andrew Jackson State Park – Lancaster, South Carolina

With a name like Andrew Jackson State Park, it’s no wonder that this South Carolina park is filled with history. There is a museum with Revolutionary War artifacts, mementos from the life of Andrew Jackson, and space for walking, hiking, biking, and a large lake for boating, and fishing. Take your tent or RV down to one of the 25 camping sites to enjoy this beautiful and historical setting.

8.) Cheraw State Park – Cheraw, South Carolina

Cheraw State Park is home to not only campsites, a lake, picnic shelters, and parkland, but an 18-hole golf course, so avid golfers can continue their hobby while camping. The golf course is a Tom Jackson design, and a unique experience for golfers, as it is in a very natural setting. If golf isn’t your thing, don’t worry- Cheraw State Park still has plenty to offer. You can fish, canoe, kayak, or pedal boat, and you can also birdwatch. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive red-cockaded woodpecker!

North and South Carolina have stunning mountain ranges, beautiful lakes, and countless amazing campsites. Pack up your supplies, hop in the car, and check them out!