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Camping North Carolina : Suggested Parks and ideas

Camping North Carolina has a lot to offer; with the ocean nearby, it’s southern  location (at least compared to Canada where I’m from) and varied landscape, there are lots of beautiful camping places to discover.  North Carolina has many parks  - from National to State, wildlife refuges and even smaller parks.

If you’ve never been to North Carolina, then keep reading for inspiration to visit., and if you have, feel free to share your favourite camping places in North Carolina at the bottom of this page.

 

I have the great pleasure to interview Maria from http://www.north-carolina-travel-guide.com(opens new window to her page on lakes) to answer several questions about Outdoor adventuring and camping in North Carolina.  Since North Carolina is one of her favourite vacation spots she has a lot of first-hand experience there.  Thank-you Maria for taking the time to answer my questions.

Lets get started!  

Camping North Carolina - Questions by Camping Expert.com 

  

1)   What makes camping North Carolina great?

 

The best thing about camping in North Carolina is that there are so many choices on where to set up camp. Between the beautiful mountains to the relaxing coast and everywhere in between, everyone can have the camping experience that is best for them.

 

2)   Could you please describe the various landscapes of North Carolina?

 

North Carolina has a wide range of landscapes. The state is made up of three geographic sections that include the coastal plain, the piedmont and of course the mountains. Each area offers something different but the one thing that they all have in common is the sheer beauty.

 

 

3)   What National Parks are in North Carolina and what makes each one unique?

 

There are about nine national parks in North Carolina and they each have something different to offer. The parks are located all across the state from the outer banks to the mountains. Their uniqueness lies in the activities that are available in each park as well as the natural beauty. Streams, lakes, hiking, mountain views and recreation are all what makes camping in North Carolina an amazing experience.

 

Added by Camping-Expert.com: 

The Ten National sites in North Carolina are: Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Cape Lookout National Seashore, Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, Moores Creek National Battlefield, Wright Brothers National Memorial.

 

4)   Smokey Mountain National Park is in North Carolina.  What would you recommend when visiting this famous park?

 

This park is so amazing! If you love hiking, horseback riding and touring, this is a great place to do it. There is an amazing opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat, some beautiful waterfalls, and a lot of varied plant life.

 

5)   Are there any State or wildlife refuges that you’d recommend visiting when Camping North Carolina?

 

The Alligator River National Wildlife Reserve is really cool. If you’re lucky you might see a black bear or other wild animals and you can take tours as well. There is also an opportunity to bird watch, as there are a large variety to see.

 

6)   What is the main type of camping that is done in North Carolina parks? – Drive–in (car camping), Backpacking (such as Appalachian Trail), Canoe or Kayak?

 

I’m not sure about the main type but backpacking is very popular. Most of us who enjoy it also love to take part in some of the recreation activities we can find like canoeing and hiking as well.

 

7)   What are your favourite hiking trails in North Carolina?

 

I enjoy hiking the coastal trails. I love the lighthouses and the beach so right now that’s my favorite.

 

 

Added by Camping-Expert.com: 

Cape Lookout National Seashore is 55 miles long and travels through dunes, beaches, and even the famous Cape Lookout lighthouse!

Also, The Appalachian National Scenic trail also runs through North Carolaina. It is a whopping 2158 miles long and goes through 14 states.  It starts in Mount Katahdin in Maine and ends in Springer Mountain in Georgia.

 

8)   If you were to recommend one park and hiking trail in North Carolina what would it be and what time of year would you recommend going?

 

It’s too hard to choose just one because it a personal choice of what people prefer. If you love the coast, you may not enjoy being on the mountain trails. But I will say that fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains is unbelievable!

 

9)   Do you have any secret or less well known favourite outdoor places to visit?

 

Not yet. I am still exploring the different areas myself and unlike you, I am not an expert camper, I just get out there for fun. I can say that there are so many camping opportunities available that everyone will find something they enjoy.

 

10)      Any last tips or advice for camping North Carolina?

 

I would say to first think about what you enjoy and then do your research. There are so many campsites and recreational activities all over North Carolina that if you do this, I know you will have an amazing time. There are some great resources available to find information on the various camp sites so utilize those the guarantee the best camping experience.

 

 

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