North Carolina features a variety of state-operated campgrounds stretching across its four regions. From the Atlantic Coast to the Blue Ridge Mountains, a variety of camping is offered for drive-in and walk-in access. North Carolina regulations require all visitors to state parks be at least 18 years old to register as campers.
Carolina Beach State Park, located along the coastal region, features a secluded rustic camping area. There are 83 campsites that accommodate up to six people each; you can either walk or drive to access each area. All sites have a grill and picnic table. There is no electrical or water hook-up. The visitor center has water, showers, restrooms and an RV dump station. Two primitive campsites beside a swamp trail are available for groups, accommodating up to 25 and 35 people. Reservations are required for the group sites, and strongly encouraged for all other camping areas. Sites with a grill and picnic table are $20 per day. Group areas are a minimum of $13 per day with $2 charged per day for each person exceeding the minimum number of campers. Camping is available every day except December 24 and 25, and the RV dump station is free for all campers.
Carolina Beach State Park
1010 State Park Road
P.O. Box 475
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
910-458-8206
ncparks.gov
Located in the state's eastern region, Goose Creek State Park offers 12 primitive camping areas in a mixed forest setting. Sites include tables and a fire pit with a maximum of six campers allowed for each. Water and toilets are available nearby, and one site can accommodate handicapped campers. Sites are open throughout the year, and you are encouraged to make reservations. One location will accommodate a group of up to 30 people and is open mid-March to late November. Reservations are necessary for group camping. Single sites are $13 per day. Group camping is $2 for each person with a minimum charge of $13.
Goose Creek State Park
2190 Camp Leach Road
Washington, NC 27889
252-923-2191
ncparks.gov
Sheer cliffs and elevated views stretching over 25 miles await campers at Crowders Mountain State Park nestled in the center of the state. About a one mile hike will take you to ten campsites featuring a grill, picnic table and a tent pad. Reservations are advised, and each site will accommodate up to six with water and pit toilets nearby. Six group camping areas will hold a maximum of 15 people each, and reservations are required. Camping at the park is offered all year. Daily fees are $13 for single sites, $13 for group areas, with $2 added for each camper over the minimum.
Crowders Mountain State Park
522 Park Office Lane
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
704-853-5375
ncparks.gov
Mount Mitchell is the highest point east of the Mississippi River and offers a spectacular view of the Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina. Nine walk-in campsites are non-electric with no water hook-ups and have a grill and picnic table. Sites can provide shelter for up to six people. Tent set-up areas are 10' x 10' with restrooms nearby. Camping is available all year throughout the park, weather permitting. One area will furnish a group of up to 30 people, while a second site will hold up to 40 campers. Sites with a grill and table are $20 per day. Winter rates are $12 per day and begin Nov. 1.
Mount Mitchell State Park
2388 State Highway 128
Burnsville, NC 28714
828-675-4611
ncparks.gov
