It’s fall, and I’m planning a long weekend camping trip with my family. Now, I’ll admit—we’ve never camped in the Carolinas before, so I dove into research mode to find the best campsites for us, especially with a bunch of teenagers in tow. We’re a mix of adventure-seeking adults and tech-obsessed teens, so I knew I had to find places that would appeal to everyone. Plus, safety is a big factor for me, so I wanted to make sure these spots were secure and family-friendly.
After lots of digging, I’ve narrowed down the top 7 campsites in the Carolinas for families like ours, focusing on campsites with activities, beautiful views, and that important feeling of safety. Here are 7 family-friendly fall campsites in the Carolinas you need to check out!
1. Pisgah National Forest, NC – Davidson River Campground
Why We Love It: Pisgah National Forest is a dream for any family that enjoys outdoor activities. The Davidson River Campground is one of the most popular spots, located right along—you guessed it—the Davidson River. This means tubing, swimming, and even fishing are just steps away from your tent.
Teen-Friendly Activities: For the teens, Pisgah has miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, including easy ones to get them started and more challenging ones for the adventurous. Sliding Rock is another favorite. It’s a natural water slide, and who wouldn’t want to spend the day sliding down a waterfall? Just make sure to bring water shoes—it gets slippery!
Safety Check: Since this is a busy spot, there are park rangers around, and there are well-marked trails, so you won’t get lost. Plus, you’re not too far from nearby towns in case you need supplies (or, you know, a real bathroom).
2. Cape Hatteras National Seashore, NC – Frisco Campground
Why We Love It: If your family loves the beach, Frisco Campground along Cape Hatteras is a perfect pick. Fall camping here means avoiding the summer crowds while still enjoying the beautiful shoreline.
Teen-Friendly Activities: Teens will love the windsurfing and kite flying (Hatteras is one of the best spots for that!). If they’re into history, you can take a short trip to see the famous Cape Hatteras Lighthouse or visit the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum.
Safety Check: There are campgrounds with safe access to the beach, and the rangers patrol the area regularly. Plus, having the ocean right there means lots of space to spread out, so you’re not cramped next to other campers.
3. Linville Gorge Wilderness, NC – Wiseman’s View Campground
Why We Love It: Linville Gorge is known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” and Wiseman’s View gives you front-row seats to jaw-dropping views. This site is more remote, so if you’re looking for peace and quiet (along with epic scenery), it’s a great option.
Teen-Friendly Activities: This place is all about hiking! There are some serious trails around here for more adventurous teens, and for the rest of us, easier scenic spots like Linville Falls are just a short drive away.
Safety Check: Because it’s remote, it feels a little more “wild,” so it’s perfect for families with older teens who love the outdoors. Just be prepared and follow the safety rules, as there’s a lot of uneven terrain. That being said, the area is well-known, so you won’t feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere.
4. Lake Jocassee, SC – Devils Fork State Park
Why We Love It: Lake Jocassee has some of the clearest water in the Carolinas, and camping at Devils Fork State Park means waking up to stunning lake views every morning. The park is beautifully maintained, and it’s great for families looking for water-based activities.
Teen-Friendly Activities: Paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating are the main draws here. You can rent gear at the park, so there’s no need to haul equipment from home. For teens who enjoy fishing, this lake is known for its trout.
Safety Check: This is a well-organized state park with lots of staff and amenities. The campsites are spacious, and many are right by the water, so you don’t have to worry about being too isolated.
5. Table Rock State Park, SC
Why We Love It: If you’re in the mood for mountain views and serene lakes, Table Rock State Park is a great choice. It’s known for its gorgeous scenery and excellent hiking trails.
Teen-Friendly Activities: The trails here are a mix of moderate to challenging, which is great for keeping teens entertained. They’ll love hiking up to the top of Table Rock Mountain, where the views are totally worth the effort. The park also offers a variety of ranger-led programs that can keep them learning and engaged.
Safety Check: As a state park, Table Rock has a strong ranger presence, clear signage, and well-maintained facilities. It’s a safe and secure place for families, especially those with kids who want to explore.
6. Hunting Island State Park, SC
Why We Love It: This is one of the most popular state parks in South Carolina for good reason. It’s the perfect combo of beach and forest. Plus, it’s not too far from Beaufort, SC, a charming Southern town that’s fun to explore.
Teen-Friendly Activities: Aside from the obvious beach fun (swimming, shelling, and beach volleyball), teens will love the nature center and the chance to climb the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse.
Safety Check: The park is well-monitored, and the beach area has lifeguards during busier times. The campgrounds are family-friendly and well-maintained.
7. Cherokee, NC – Smokemont Campground, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Why We Love It: If you want to combine camping with a bit of culture, Smokemont Campground near Cherokee, NC, is a fantastic option. The park is close to the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee Indian Reservation, offering a unique mix of nature and history.
Teen-Friendly Activities: Hiking, fishing, and horseback riding are big draws here. Teens will also love learning about the local Cherokee culture, with museums and historical sites nearby.
Safety Check: The Smokemont Campground is well-staffed, and there’s plenty of signage to keep you on track. The park itself is huge, but with a little planning, it’s easy to stay safe and secure.
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Final Thoughts
Planning a family camping trip, especially with teens, is always an adventure in itself. You want to keep everyone entertained and safe while still getting some relaxation for the adults. These campsites in the Carolinas offer the perfect balance of outdoor fun and security, with activities that’ll keep both the kids and adults happy. Now, all that’s left is to pack up the tent, grab some snacks, and hit the road for a fall camping weekend we’ll all remember!
