Go to State Park campgrounds. State Park campgrounds are for the camper who desires all the fresh air and freedom camping has to offer, without the roughing-it part. They are usually clean and well-maintained and offer a variety of amenities to make your stay as convenient as possible. Carolina Beach State Park is an ideal location to take the family for a coastal camping experience. Fishing, hiking and plenty of tourist attractions make up this camping experience.
Visit National Park campgrounds. National Park campgrounds are a good jumping-off point for a beginner. Even though the parks' popularity means the campsites are sometimes crowded, and out of the way, they generally house all the wonders that wildlife has to offer. In North Carolina, one of the best National Parks is Great Smoky Mountains. It encompasses North Carolina and Tennessee. With over 800 miles of rugged hiking trails, and the most diverse biological area in this part of the world, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park promises to be an all-around quality camping experience.
Camp in National Forests. National Forest Service campgrounds generally provide a decent mixture of surroundings for any level of experience. There are areas for campers who prefer modern conveniences and the protection of staff maintenance as well as areas for the no-frills campers. Badin Lake campground, part of the Uwharrie National Forest, is stocked with tent pads, grills and picnic tables. Other areas of the Uwharrie National Forest remain pristine for campers who would rather rough it. The area itself attracts hunters, horse riders and river paddlers, as well.
Try overflow campgrounds. Many popular state and national parks fill up quickly, therefore, in order to accommodate visitors who can’t reserve a spot, they stake out what is called an overflow area. These areas are designated spots where camping is still allowed and the grounds are usually maintained. Some even have amenities. In some cases, as in Fort Fisher Campground in North Carolina, the views from the overflow camps are far superior to those inside the campgrounds and some people prefer them. They also come with a smaller sticker price.
Give private campgrounds a chance. Private campgrounds are operated at the discretion of their owners so you never know what you are going to get. Some may be just RV-parking areas, while others offer an entire themed camping experience. Located along the North Toe River, Buck Hill Campground is equipped with many convenient extras including hot showers, a laundry facility and a general store.
