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Are you planning the trip of a lifetime through the Tar Heel State?
If that is the case, you better know the best van and RV campgrounds in NC!
Regardless of where you travel in an RV, you are en route for a thrilling adventure. However, North Carolina is the jewel in the crown for any RV or travel enthusiast. Over 1 million Americans live in a van or an RV, and this picture-perfect state is at the top of their travel bucket list.
The endless opportunities and countless benefits are why many RV owners set up camp on the coast. If you’re in your vehicle, admire the rolling hills along America’s most scenic trails. And when it is time to stop, there is no shortage of van campgrounds at affordable prices.
We could write an entire article on the benefits of RVing in the state. But today, you came here to learn about the best van camping spots in NC.
So, sit back, relax, pour yourself a drink, and get ready to uncover the best grounds you can’t afford to miss this year!
Lake Myers Campground, Mocksville, NC
It does not matter if it is summer, winter, spring, or fall. Lake Myers Campground is always a reliable spot.
Nestled in the charming woodlands surrounded by nature, the park is only 7 miles or a 10-15 minute journey from Mocksville. It is also a smooth 30-minute drive from the bustling downtown area of Winston-Salem.
However, it feels like a separate universe from the busy streets, highrise buildings, modern cafes, and trendy eateries.
Inside the park, there is a wide range of amenities and activities. Some of the most practical features that might interest you the most are:
- Wifi
- Full hookups
- Restroom facilities
- Local store
- Laundry facilities
- Picnic tables and benches
- BBQ facilities
These needed facilities offer all the home comforts while in the NC countryside. But they do not stop there. You will find plenty of recreational activities here to keep you happy, especially if you have kids.
During the day, you can rent kayaks for the beautiful lake or have a round of mini golf. When the sun goes down, you can continue the action in the games room over a match of billiards.
Camp Hatteras RV Resort & Campground, Rodanthe, NC
If you are ever lost or are looking for directions to the RV ground, drive right towards the Atlantic Ocean. The site sits on a unique trip of land off the coast of the mainland, connected by a series of bridges. Therefore you can imagine how painstakingly beautiful the drive is to get here.
The RV campground was family run since 1991. Since then, the family went through years of hard work to turn it into the 400-site establishment it is today. The campground still holds the honor of being the only oceanfront to sound front camping spot in NC.
The campground is a paradise for those looking for some time to relax and unwind. You will discover an outdoor, heated indoor, and a kid’s swimming pool dotted around the park. If that is not enough, don’t worry, because there is also a calming hot tub.
There is a selection of things to see and do nearby. Yet one attraction you must visit while you are in town is Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge.
The wildlife service founded the area in 1938 as a spot for nesting and resting for birds. So don’t forget to bring your camera to snap up some wildlife in this sandy stretch of land.
Lake Powhatan Recreation Area & Campground, Asheville, NC
This van camping station is for those seeking adventure and who love the outdoors. It cuts back on some of the luxury facilities of the 21st century. However, you still have hot water for showers, flushing toilets, and water-filling stations.
It isn’t the facilities that make this camp so extraordinary. It is nature and activities.
People know the area for the glimmering lake. In the warmer months of the year, locals and tourists come to enjoy this slice of heaven.
Trees circle the area, which makes you feel like you are deep in the wilderness. And there is a small sandy beach where you can unwind and soak up the sun’s rays.
It is also a popular destination for hikers and dog walkers. Several walking trails range from beginner tracks up to advanced. If you are an experienced hiker, Sleepy Gap View point is an unmissable sight to experience.
Raleigh Oaks RV Resort & Cottages, Raleigh, NC
If you want the vacation spirit more than anything else, look no further than Raleigh Oaks RV Resort. From the atmosphere to the amenities, it has everything you need for a well-earned getaway!
The standout feature in the campground must be the cozy cottages. All come with a rustic interior, a full kitchen, and comfortable bedding to enjoy a good night’s rest. If you fancy a break from sleeping in your van or RV, you can rent the accommodation for daily or monthly use.
The campground is pet friendly, but bare in mind they are not allowed in the cottages.
It is one of the best locations in the nation for an extended stay. It has all the top-quality amenities you need, and you will never get bored.
Mini golf and playgrounds will keep the kids entertained. Meanwhile, the adults can enjoy the spa, billiard tables, or fitness zone. Yet, everyone can join in the fun at their events, which include a poolside DJ and delicious food trucks.
If you wish to live here for a month or longer, you will be glad to know Raleigh, the capital city, is only 40 minutes away by car.
Hanging Rock State Park Camping, NC
As of 2023, 41 state parks litter the North Carolina countryside. Yet Hanging Rock State Park is the prettiest of the lot.
The park and campground lie just south of the Virginia border. It is easily accessible from Greensboro and Winston-Salem.
Endless trees, sprawling skies, and the sound of birds chirping wait to greet you upon arrival. It feels like the plot for Avatar or Jessercic Park, without fear of being chased by a dinosaur or Na’vi.
Inside the state park, you will uncover the best of Mother Nature. Gushing waterfalls, majestic lookout spots, and rugged hills are all within its boundaries.
Outdoor lovers can witness all its charisma by roaming through its 3,647 hectares of land. Or, if you fancy a more action-packed day out, there are dedicated areas for rock climbing. In the high season, you can also rent a boat and appreciate the lake.
The 73 campsites here offer spaces for RVs, vans, and tents. However, there are some rules below for booking a spot during the holiday season, such as the 4th of July.
- Minimum of two-night stay on the holiday weekend
- Minimum of one night stay on a holiday weekend if the booking date is within seven days of arrival
Creekwood Farm RV Park, Waynesville, NC
Creekwood Farm RV Park is one of the most highly-rated campsites in the state. Hundreds of RVs flock to the site to sample the best of the ground and the surrounding areas annually.
It is in west North Caroline, only a few miles from its border. It is a gateway to explore Tennessee and venture further into the nation.
The RV campground is ideal if you are traveling on a budget. They offer budget prices and come with everything you need for an enjoyable stay. You will find restrooms, shower facilities, wifi, a camp store, and many others.
If you are looking for a hot tub, you are out of luck. But the price and location more than make up for not having one.
Some things to acknowledge are that the park is only open from March to December. And due to its narrow passages and partly off-track road, it is popular with van conversions. Some large RVs may struggle with the journey.
Waters Edge RV Park, Newport, NC
As you are not visiting Texas, size is not everything. Water Edge RV Park may be one of the smaller sites on this list, but it packs a punch.
It sits along the southeast coast of North Carolina. About 45 minutes from Jacksonville. Route 70 and Highway 24 are nearby, giving you access to the rest of the state.
Due to its location along the shores, you will often feel the fresh sea breezing from the Atlantic Ocean. To take advantage of it, take a trip across Bouge Sound, and you can relax at one of the many beaches.
The campsite is open all year round, so guests will find shaded and sunny areas to relax in. It focuses mainly on those who want a break from the stresses of life. There is a peaceful atmosphere and several walks nearby.
You can even find a small pier to watch the sunset with your loved ones.
Another way the campground helps guests relax is by allowing the use of fishing boats. You can spend a peaceful day on the water while admiring the scenery.
Wilmington KOA Holiday Campground, Wilmington, NC
Wilmington KOA Holiday Campground is one of the best RV campgrounds for families. You can reach Wilmington is under a 20-minute drive. And even though it is close to a city, it still has a private and rural feel.
Staying here means you get the best of both worlds. You have a lively city with all your needs on the left and a group of the best beaches in the state on your right.
Wrightsville Beach is the most in-demand in the region. During spring break, crowds of young adults come to enjoy the weather and have fun on the sunkissed beach.
If you come during this period, expect a lively scene. However, if you want a laidback experience, there is more than enough space to find a quiet spot for yourself.
Once you return to the park, you’ll find enough things to do to keep you entertained for weeks. There’s a golf course, bike rentals, and even a miniature train ride around the campground.
At night, you can recharge in your RV or a stylish, cozy cabin. Most of the lodging can sleep up to 6 people.
Carolina Beach State Park Camping, NC
If there is only one place you can stop on your journey, take it at the Carolina Beach State Park. It is arguably the best overall campsite in the state.
The picturesque site spans around 761 acres of natural beauty. There is enough space for peace and tranquility at one end. But also a vibrant, lively setting at the other.
In between is a densely wooded area filled with colorful plants towering trees, and fresh air. Although with the occasional puff of smoke from visitors using a BBQ in the area.
While you are here, you must explore the miles of hiking trails. With each one, you will come across leafy walkways and wooded boardwalks. And all are in flatland, so it is suitable for all the family.
Another not to miss attraction is the golden sandy beach. Many locals come here to relax under the sun with a good book and their favorite drinks. When the temperature gets too hot, they can cool off with a refreshing dip in the lake.
As with every campground you visit, you should leave no trace. It is no exception here, and there are a few things to know before you exit the park.
Experience the Best RV Campgrounds in NC
There are hundreds of top-class RV campgrounds in NC. Therefore, choosing where to spend the night can be challenging.
After reading our guide, you know the pick up the bunch. If you still don’t know what route to take, why not connect the dots and stay at each one on the list? Afterward, you can decide which one deserves the number 1 spot!
If you enjoyed this guide, keep reading our blog. And you will uncover some of the best travel tips for traveling on the road!
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