Pilot Mountain State Park

About

Located on the lower slopes beneath Pilot Mountain's distinctive quartzite knob, this 42-site campground provides a comfortable base for exploring one of North Carolina's most recognizable landmarks. Sites are dispersed among mature oaks and hickories, offering shade and privacy. Each campsite includes a tent pad, picnic table, and fire grill. Drinking water is available throughout the campground, and two centrally located bathhouses provide hot showers and restrooms. The campground accommodates both tent campers and trailers, though no electrical hookups or dump station facilities are available. Firewood is sold by the campground host at site 36, as gathering wood within the park is prohibited. The maximum occupancy per site is six people with two tents and two vehicles. Beyond the main campground, adventurous paddlers can access two primitive paddle-in campsites at the Ivy Bluffs access point on the Yadkin River, reachable via a 0.75-mile paddle from Shoals Road. These sites are open year-round but have no amenities—campers must bring all water and pack out trash. The park's 14 miles of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and the summit trail to the Little Pinnacle Overlook are all accessible from the campground area.

Directions

From US 52, take the Pilot Mountain State Park exit and follow signs to 1721 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle, NC 27043. The campground is located in the Mountain Section of the park.