The 6 Best Campgrounds Near Raleigh, NC
Raleigh, North Carolina, offers a wealth of camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From primitive backcountry campsites to modern RV parks, there are plenty of options available to those who want to explore the Tar Heel State by camping. Whether you are looking for an adventure or simply want a place to relax in the outdoors, check out these campgrounds near Raleigh, NC—a few that are within a short drive’s distance, and a few alongside some further getaway destinations from Raleigh.
3 Campgrounds Near Raleigh, NC
Triangle RV Park
Triangle RV Park is an ideal North Carolina campground for travelers and families looking for a long-term stay. Requiring a one-month minimum, this campground provides spacious lots situated under striking shade trees and amenities like full hookups, access to laundry services, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The offerings make this an attractive option for those looking for campgrounds near Raleigh, NC as longer term residences.
The location is hard to beat—just a short drive from Duke Hospital, downtown Durham, downtown Chapel Hill, Research Triangle Park, and, of course, Raleigh! With so much fun nearby, there’s no shortage of activities for adults or kids, from outdoor recreation sites and museums to shopping centers and local eateries.
North Pointe RV Resort
North Pointe RV Resort is a picturesque campground nestled in the quaint town of Selma, NC. The campsite offers lush and shady spaces for RVs and trailers, with breathtaking views of the nearby pond. With its convenient location along the I-95 corridor, North Pointe is less than an hour away from Raleigh.
Numerous amenities make this one of the most comfortable campgrounds near Raleigh, NC. After a day of adventure, you can head to the clubhouse where you can relax in the full kitchen or take a dip in the swimming pool. Bonding activities such as catch-and-release fishing or basketball are available for families, while a two-sided dog park gives dogs plenty of space to run around together. You’ll also find 24-hour laundry facilities. All these features make North Pointe RV Resort an ideal place for a memorable vacation with family or friends.
Hidden Haven RV Park
If you’re looking for quiet campgrounds near Raleigh, Hidden Haven RV Park is a great choice. A quiet, secluded facility located in Smithfield, North Carolina, this campground is well-maintained and provides a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. With 120 pull-thru sites and 40 additional back-in areas, there is plenty of room for camping fans to set up their tent or park their recreational vehicle for the night or longer. All locations include full hookups to power with access to water, sewer, and 50/30 amp electrical services; complimentary Wi-Fi is also provided.
The park features a new and clean air-conditioned bathhouse, as well as a cabana ideal for relaxing activities like picnicking and grilling. There are also plans in the works for more amenities! Guests can choose between nightly, weekly, or monthly stays at Hidden Haven RV Park, an ideal location that promises restful nights in the great outdoors.
3 Getaway Destinations From Raleigh (and Campgrounds)
Raven Rock State Park
(1 hour and 4 minutes from Raleigh, NC)
Raven Rock State Park is a stunning oasis located in Harnett County, North Carolina, just 40 miles southwest of Raleigh. The park is best known for its awe-inspiring, 150-foot crystalline structure, aptly named Raven Rock, that towers above the Cape Fear River. Along the trails that lead to this majestic rock formation, visitors can enjoy beautiful blooms of wildflowers like mountain laurel and catch glimpses of various landmarks such as Lanier Falls Rapids, Fish Traps Rapids, and even remnants of the Northington Lock and Dam.
In addition to these breathtaking hikes, the park also offers bridle trails for horseback riding and bike trails for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking to experience the breathtaking beauty of the natural landscape, or a family seeking reconnection within nature’s embrace, there’s something here for everyone.
Where to Stay: Spacious Skies Sandy Run Campground
Spacious Skies Sandy Run Campground is a stunningly beautiful and tranquil spot located in the Carolina Sandhills region of Cumberland County. With its rustic charm, this campground is just minutes away from I-95 with an abundance of natural attractions and activities to enjoy nearby, making it a great choice among campgrounds near Raleigh, NC.
Visitors have access to a catch-and-release fishing hole, nature trails perfect for walking or biking, and even 750 miles of themed cultural heritage trails. Guests can also take advantage of many river adventures on branches of the Cape Fear River close by, as well as countless recreational opportunities provided by Fayetteville and its surrounding area. In fact, those visiting family stationed at nearby Fort Bragg will find this campground perfectly placed for both visiting loved ones.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
(3 hours and 10 minutes from Raleigh, NC)
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is located in Dare County and is home to the tallest living sand dune system along the Atlantic coast. The sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge are up to 90 feet tall, providing a stunning backdrop for activities like kite flying, sunset watching, and hang gliding. The park offers private concessionaire lessons to teach visitors how to hang glide, as well as an access area with a wetland habitat perfect for swimming, paddling, kiteboarding, and windsurfing on the Roanoke Sound. Furthermore, Jockey’s Ridge State Park is also the eastern terminus of the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail.
The park encourages visitors to explore the various habitats that can be found around the area, such as maritime forests and other wetlands. Aside from engaging in water sports, visitors can take part in cultural programs offered at the park throughout summer months while learning about local wildlife and plants.
Where to Stay: Rodanthe Watersports and Campground
As the name suggests, Rodanthe Watersports and Campground is one of the top campgrounds near Raleigh, NC for water sports lovers. Situated on the scenic Pamlico Sound, guests can enjoy a waterfront camping experience while taking in diverse sights and activities. Swimming, kayaking, fishing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, surfing, paddleboarding or beachcombing—participate in all the water-based activities to explore the area and create a memorable adventure.
Visitors have the choice of pitching their tent or bringing along an RV for sound front or sound side camping. There are electricity/water hook-ups and a bathhouse with hot showers. In addition to the great outdoors, guests can also take advantage of nearby attractions like the beach, fishing pier, skate park, restaurants, and shopping—all within walking distance from the campground!
Mount Mitchell State Park
(4 hours and 11 minutes from Raleigh, NC)
Mount Mitchell State Park is a special place in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Located 30 miles northeast of Asheville, the park’s mountain, rising to 6684 feet, is the highest point east of the Mississippi River.
This remarkable park draws visitors from near and far who come to experience its stunning natural beauty. The summit provides an observation deck with breathtaking views on clear days, while easy trails explore the Fraser fir forest and a vast network of more challenging trails offer opportunities for backpacking within Pisgah National Forest. In addition, the nearby Mountains-to-Sea State Trail allows travelers to go further afield and explore other areas of the park.
With its rich biodiversity and abundance of recreational activities, Mount Mitchell State Park offers something for everyone – from hikers seeking a day trip to overnight backcountry adventurers looking for an unforgettable experience in nature.
Where to Stay: Catawba Falls Campground
Among campgrounds near Raleigh, NC, this is a fantastic basecamp if you’re looking to hit up Mount Mitchell State Park. Catawba Falls Campground is a picturesque destination situated in the town of Old Fort, among the scenic mountains of Western North Carolina. This serene setting is equipped with a range of amenities, from an on-site playground and bathhouse to a camp store offering coffee and snacks. There’s also free Wi-Fi in the main campground area, though cellular service may be spotty in some areas.
Surrounded by natural beauty, Catawba Falls Campground offers RV sites, tent camping, and cabin rentals. Guests can cool off in the nearby river or go fishing and enjoy a unique outdoor experience. Those looking to further explore the area are also close to major attractions like Little Switzerland, Linville Caverns, Lake James Park, Mountain Gateway Museum, Davidson’s Fort, and Mountain Mitchell State Park.
Hit Up These Campgrounds Near Raleigh, NC
Raleigh, North Carolina, provides some of the best camping opportunities in the United States. There are numerous campgrounds and parks located within a short drive of the city, providing scenic views and outdoor activities for families and adventurers alike. No matter what type of camping experience you’re looking for, these Campspot campgrounds near Raleigh, NC, are sure to have something that fits your needs!
Image Credit: Adobe Stock user Chansak Joe A., Triangle RV Park, North Pointe RV Resort, Hidden Haven RV Park, Adobe Stock user Penny Britt, Spacious Skies Sandy Run Campground, Adobe Stock user Jamie Wilson, Rodanthe Watersports and Campground, Adobe Stock user Carrie, Catawba Falls Campground