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Best camping hikes in North Carolina
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Best camping hikes in North Carolina

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in North Carolina.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra Difficult

Art Loeb Trail

Transylvania County, North Carolina · star 4.8 (11) · 46.5 km · Est. 3 days

2

Difficult

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Graham County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (8) · 116.6 km · Est. 8 days

3

Easy

Neusiok Trail

Craven County, North Carolina · star 4.6 (9) · 31.5 km · Est. 2 days

4

Difficult

Appalachian Trail - Tennessee

Avery County, North Carolina · star 4.3 (7) · 98.6 km · Est. 7 days

5

Easy

Falls Lake Trail

Wake County, North Carolina · star 4.8 (10) · 39.3 km · Est. 3 days

6

Medium

Standing Indian Mountain Loop

Macon County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (12) · 37.6 km · Est. 3 days

7

Extra Difficult

Linville Gorge Loop

Burke County, North Carolina · star 4.6 (10) · 41.4 km · Est. 3 days

8

Medium

Jacob Fork Rim Trail

Burke County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (8) · 21.6 km · Est. 2 days

9

Difficult

Mt Cammerer and Big Creek Loop

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 4.7 (13) · 25.1 km · Est. 2 days

10

Easy

Uwharrie, Dennis Mountain and Dutchman's Creek Loop Trail

Montgomery County, North Carolina · star 4.3 (19) · 18.3 km · Est. 4 hrs 26 min

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Reviews for camping hikes in North Carolina

Matthew Larkin avatar

Art Loeb Trail

matthewavl 路 reviewed 8 months ago

star star star star star

Did the trail northbound late-April 2025. Had plenty of water, especially along the southern parts, after a rainy week prior. Pilot Mountain ascent was brutal but made later ascents, even the one to the parkway and Black Balsam feel like a walk in the park. The Narrows was my favorite part (did it at sunrise), reminiscent of the Chimneys at Linville Gorge. And there's an exceptionally lone Rhododendron that stands atop a distinctive pile of boulders near the top of Sassafras Mountain -- an interesting sight!

Carmen OMO Williams avatar

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Carmen OMO Williams 路 reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

I have always loved this section of the AT. So, I came back and did it again. Be ready for some serious uphill whether you start at Fontana Dam or Davenport Gap.

alo茂s moulin avatar

Neusiok Trail

alo茂s moulin 路 reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Lena Bailey avatar

Appalachian Trail - Tennessee

Lenadean 路 reviewed 11 months ago

star star star star star

Femia Pruijssers avatar

Falls Lake Trail

Femia Pruijssers 路 reviewed about 5 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in North Carolina

What is the climate like for hiking in North Carolina?

North Carolina's climate varies greatly from the coastal plains to the mountainous regions. Coastal and Piedmont areas experience hot summers and mild winters, while the mountains can be significantly cooler. However, extreme temperatures can make summer hiking challenging and winter hiking risky due to icy trails and potential snowfall.
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking conditions, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity. Fall is particularly attractive as the forests explode with autumn colors.
The best time to hike in North Carolina generally spans from March to May and September to November. Regardless of the season, check weather forecasts before setting out, and visit the North Carolina State Parks website (https://www.ncparks.gov/) for trail conditions and closures.

Do I need a permit to hike in North Carolina?

Most hiking trails in North Carolina are free and open to the public without a permit. Certain areas, like state parks or wildlife refuges, might require entrance fees or permits. Contact North Carolina State Parks (https://www.ncparks.gov/) for specific information.

Is wild camping allowed in North Carolina?

Wild camping in North Carolina is allowed in many national forest areas, though restrictions apply, such as maintaining distance from water sources. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. For specifics, consult the U.S. Forest Service's website for the region (https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/nfsnc/home).

Are there mountain rescue services in North Carolina?

In case of emergencies while hiking in North Carolina, dial 911. Local law enforcement coordinates with voluntary organizations for Search and Rescue operations. For safety tips and emergency information, consult the North Carolina State Parks website (https://www.ncparks.gov/).

Are there dangerous plants in North Carolina?

North Carolina's flora is richly diverse, from coastal pines to mountain rhododendrons. While hiking, you might encounter blooming dogwoods in spring or fiery maples in fall. For a deeper understanding of the region's flora, visit the North Carolina Botanical Garden's website (https://ncbg.unc.edu/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, hikers may encounter wildlife ranging from deer and squirrels to black bears, especially in the mountains. Insects like ticks and mosquitoes are common in warmer months. Always respect wildlife and consider insect repellent. For more information, consult the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission https://a-z-animals.com/animals/location/north-america/united-states/north-carolina/

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