4.9
Public Campground
Adirondacks
Concord, North Carolina
Campground in North Carolina.
Public Campground
Paddy's Creek Drive-In Campground At Lake James
Nebo, North Carolina
4.6
(110 reviews)
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Paddy's Creek Drive-In Campground At Lake James
Campground in North Carolina.
Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake James in the North Carolina mountains, Paddy's Creek Drive-In Campground offers a peaceful retreat for RV enthusiasts seeking authentic outdoor experiences. This public campground provides an ideal base for exploring one of the region's most beautiful natural settings, where mountain views meet pristine waterfront landscapes.
Lake James itself is a stunning 6,800-acre reservoir created by a dam on the Catawba River, making it a centerpiece for recreation and relaxation. The crystal-clear waters invite fishing enthusiasts to pursue smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and catfish throughout the seasons. Whether you're an experienced angler or simply enjoy casting a line from the shore, the lake provides excellent opportunities to unwind and connect with nature. Beyond fishing, the calm waters are perfect for boating, swimming, and paddling, giving you plenty of ways to enjoy aquatic adventures.
The surrounding landscape reveals why this region has captivated visitors for generations. The Blue Ridge Mountains create a dramatic backdrop, and the area's elevation provides comfortable temperatures even during warm months. Hiking trails wind through nearby forests, offering everything from leisurely walks to more challenging treks that reward you with panoramic vistas. The Burke County area near the campground features numerous outdoor attractions and small-town charm that makes exploring beyond your RV genuinely worthwhile.
This location appeals to a broad spectrum of travelers. Families appreciate the safe, accessible environment and variety of activities suitable for all ages. Fishing enthusiasts find themselves in angler's paradise. Retirees enjoy the relaxed pace and natural beauty, while outdoor adventurers appreciate proximity to hiking and water recreation. The campground serves as a perfect launching point for discovering the broader Burke County region, including charming mountain towns and scenic byways.
The experience of staying here captures the essence of North Carolina mountain camping, where you can enjoy genuine relaxation, outdoor pursuits, and the restorative power of natural surroundings, all within easy reach from your RV site.
Lake James itself is a stunning 6,800-acre reservoir created by a dam on the Catawba River, making it a centerpiece for recreation and relaxation. The crystal-clear waters invite fishing enthusiasts to pursue smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and catfish throughout the seasons. Whether you're an experienced angler or simply enjoy casting a line from the shore, the lake provides excellent opportunities to unwind and connect with nature. Beyond fishing, the calm waters are perfect for boating, swimming, and paddling, giving you plenty of ways to enjoy aquatic adventures.
The surrounding landscape reveals why this region has captivated visitors for generations. The Blue Ridge Mountains create a dramatic backdrop, and the area's elevation provides comfortable temperatures even during warm months. Hiking trails wind through nearby forests, offering everything from leisurely walks to more challenging treks that reward you with panoramic vistas. The Burke County area near the campground features numerous outdoor attractions and small-town charm that makes exploring beyond your RV genuinely worthwhile.
This location appeals to a broad spectrum of travelers. Families appreciate the safe, accessible environment and variety of activities suitable for all ages. Fishing enthusiasts find themselves in angler's paradise. Retirees enjoy the relaxed pace and natural beauty, while outdoor adventurers appreciate proximity to hiking and water recreation. The campground serves as a perfect launching point for discovering the broader Burke County region, including charming mountain towns and scenic byways.
The experience of staying here captures the essence of North Carolina mountain camping, where you can enjoy genuine relaxation, outdoor pursuits, and the restorative power of natural surroundings, all within easy reach from your RV site.
4.6
Rating
110
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Nebo is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
North Carolina weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Nebo.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Nebo. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Paddy's Creek Drive-In Campground At Lake James Reviews
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G
Babita
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Babita
Great location near the lake. The campsites which we thought would be sunny was party in shades due to lots of tress around. Campgrounds were clean and only issue was the ladies restroom door would not close completely and that lead a garden snake to the hole at the door. Camp host put some tape for night and next morning park ranger came to let the snake go its way. They have 2 car parking space... Great location near the lake. The campsites which we thought would be sunny was party in shades due to lots of tress around. Campgrounds were clean and only issue was the ladies restroom door would not close completely and that lead a garden snake to the hole at the door. Camp host put some tape for night and next morning park ranger came to let the snake go its way. They have 2 car parking space available in each camp sites. We could even put 2 big tents and one tiny day tent for the kids. They had grill and we made bone fire for s’mores. Overall enjoyed our stay.
G
Sally Buck
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sally Buck
Our go to place, to recharge and connect back with nature. Clean campsites,helpful and friendly staff. Hiking,biking, paddleing, it's all there.
G
Sally Buck
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sally Buck
Our go to place, to recharge and connect back with nature. Clean campsites,helpful and friendly staff. Hiking,biking, paddleing, it's all there.
G
Sean Budgin
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sean Budgin
Nice area, spot #5, good pad to pop down to the lake. We did just the canoe and had a blast with our three young kids paddling and swimming near the shorelines. Crossing the lake by canoe with power boats going by is a little harrowing. We brought bikes to do bathroom and garbage runs. Glad there was firewood for sale, very convienent.
G
Kelly Jaquish
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Kelly Jaquish
Great facilities in the paddy creek camping area. Showers could be cleaned more often. No trash cans in the bathrooms either. Very nice trails and beach/lake access. Be ready for big black ants everywhere on everything.
G
Kelly Jaquish
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Kelly Jaquish
Great facilities in the paddy creek camping area. Showers could be cleaned more often. No trash cans in the bathrooms either. Very nice trails and beach/lake access. Be ready for big black ants everywhere on everything.
G
Stacie Mounts
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Stacie Mounts
Very nice campground! Sites are not close together, lots of privacy. Camp host keeps everything super clean from the bathrooms/showers and campsites. Campsite comes with level pad for tents, nice fire pit for fires and cooking, picnic table, pole for hanging a lantern, and nice sized bear box to store food boxes and cooler. Camp host will also deliver firewood at $5 a bundle, cash only. We will co... Very nice campground! Sites are not close together, lots of privacy. Camp host keeps everything super clean from the bathrooms/showers and campsites. Campsite comes with level pad for tents, nice fire pit for fires and cooking, picnic table, pole for hanging a lantern, and nice sized bear box to store food boxes and cooler. Camp host will also deliver firewood at $5 a bundle, cash only. We will come back!
G
Stacie Mounts
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Stacie Mounts
Very nice campground! Sites are not close together, lots of privacy. Camp host keeps everything super clean from the bathrooms/showers and campsites. Campsite comes with level pad for tents, nice fire pit for fires and cooking, picnic table, pole for hanging a lantern, and nice sized bear box to store food boxes and cooler. Camp host will also deliver firewood at $5 a bundle, cash only. We will co... Very nice campground! Sites are not close together, lots of privacy. Camp host keeps everything super clean from the bathrooms/showers and campsites. Campsite comes with level pad for tents, nice fire pit for fires and cooking, picnic table, pole for hanging a lantern, and nice sized bear box to store food boxes and cooler. Camp host will also deliver firewood at $5 a bundle, cash only. We will come back!
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