4.9
Public Campground
Adirondacks
Concord, North Carolina
Campground in North Carolina.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Watauga Lake Area
Water recreation is abundant in this area, featuring Watauga Lake; the Doe, Elk and Watauga rivers; several streams and seven waterfalls.Highly developed recreation areas along Watauga Lake provide facilities for fishing, picnicking, swimming and boat launching. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail runs through the area's backcountry. Camp on the lakeshore at Cardens Bluff or in the backcountry along Laurel Fork Creek at Dennis Cove.Watuaga Lake Area MapWatuaga Lake Area Guide
Nestled in the scenic foothills of North Carolina, Watauga Lake Area offers RV campers an exceptional mountain retreat where pristine waters meet lush forest landscapes. This public campground provides an ideal base for exploring one of the region's most treasured natural destinations, where visitors can immerse themselves in outdoor recreation and genuine mountain hospitality.
The lake itself is the centerpiece of the experience here. Watauga Lake stretches across the Tennessee and North Carolina border, creating a stunning 6,430-acre reservoir surrounded by densely forested mountains. The water is known for its clarity and cool temperatures, making it perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing throughout the warmer months. Whether you're an experienced angler hoping to catch striped bass, smallmouth bass, or catfish, or simply looking to launch a pontoon boat for a leisurely afternoon cruise, the lake provides endless water-based activities. The calm coves and numerous boat access points make it accessible for all skill levels.
Beyond the water, the surrounding landscape is a hiker's paradise. Numerous trails wind through the mountains, ranging from easy walking paths to more challenging backcountry routes. The Appalachian Trail itself passes through this region, and day hikers can access several sections that offer breathtaking ridgeline views and opportunities to spot native wildlife. The forest canopy provides cool shade during summer months, and the changing seasons paint the landscape with vibrant colors that make spring and fall particularly appealing times to visit.
The campground serves as the perfect home base for exploring the broader Watauga County area. The nearby town of Boone, home to Appalachian State University, offers excellent restaurants, local shops, and cultural attractions. Mountain Gateway Museum and other regional points of interest are within reasonable driving distance. For those seeking outdoor adventure, the proximity to multiple state parks and wilderness areas means there's always something new to discover.
This destination appeals to families wanting to combine relaxation with active outdoor pursuits, retirees seeking peaceful mountain scenery, and adventure seekers looking for hiking and water sports opportunities. The consistent 4.8-star rating reflects the genuine quality of the camping experience and the natural beauty that keeps visitors returning year after year.
The lake itself is the centerpiece of the experience here. Watauga Lake stretches across the Tennessee and North Carolina border, creating a stunning 6,430-acre reservoir surrounded by densely forested mountains. The water is known for its clarity and cool temperatures, making it perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing throughout the warmer months. Whether you're an experienced angler hoping to catch striped bass, smallmouth bass, or catfish, or simply looking to launch a pontoon boat for a leisurely afternoon cruise, the lake provides endless water-based activities. The calm coves and numerous boat access points make it accessible for all skill levels.
Beyond the water, the surrounding landscape is a hiker's paradise. Numerous trails wind through the mountains, ranging from easy walking paths to more challenging backcountry routes. The Appalachian Trail itself passes through this region, and day hikers can access several sections that offer breathtaking ridgeline views and opportunities to spot native wildlife. The forest canopy provides cool shade during summer months, and the changing seasons paint the landscape with vibrant colors that make spring and fall particularly appealing times to visit.
The campground serves as the perfect home base for exploring the broader Watauga County area. The nearby town of Boone, home to Appalachian State University, offers excellent restaurants, local shops, and cultural attractions. Mountain Gateway Museum and other regional points of interest are within reasonable driving distance. For those seeking outdoor adventure, the proximity to multiple state parks and wilderness areas means there's always something new to discover.
This destination appeals to families wanting to combine relaxation with active outdoor pursuits, retirees seeking peaceful mountain scenery, and adventure seekers looking for hiking and water sports opportunities. The consistent 4.8-star rating reflects the genuine quality of the camping experience and the natural beauty that keeps visitors returning year after year.
4.8
Rating
895
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Elk Park 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 Elk Park.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Elk Park. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Watauga Lake Area Reviews
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Eric Holmes
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Eric Holmes
Stopped by here in January and even with the water level down, it was absolutely stunning. Skipped a few rocks, soaked in the views, and honestly—one of the most beautiful lakes I’ve ever been to. Sometimes less water just means more shoreline and more memories.
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Syrus Wazir
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Syrus Wazir
We ended up finding this gorgeous place when another Lake recreation area was closed near us. I'm so glad we found it. Been there several times for Kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Watauga Lake has majestic views with mountains all around. Beautiful and peaceful place for day visit, swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, or a picnic. There are several small islands to explore as we... We ended up finding this gorgeous place when another Lake recreation area was closed near us. I'm so glad we found it. Been there several times for Kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Watauga Lake has majestic views with mountains all around. Beautiful and peaceful place for day visit, swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, or a picnic. There are several small islands to explore as well on the lake.
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Kim Bovill
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kim Bovill
Great recreation area. Lots of parking. Public rest rooms in season. Clean , friendly and safe.
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Bryan Whitaker
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Bryan Whitaker
Beautiful lake clean area perfect to relax the water was so clear
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Kay Dee
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kay Dee
My happy place! I love this spot! Been here several times, even on Holidays and it's never packed. We always find a parking spot and it's a perfect spot to start off with kayaks or paddleboards. Several benches with grills, restrooms nearby, large grassy areas. Water is great, only lake is Tricities that I get in, very clean.
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Kristen Daniel
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kristen Daniel
One of our favorite places to unplug and unwind. Where else can you camp and catch trout. It's very peaceful and quiet and the staff is friendly and helpful. Lake Watsgua is close by and the Appalachian Trail is close also by. Camp sites are roomy. They have electric , water, fire rings, and picnic tables. There is a dump station. The bathrooms are clean
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Kristen Daniel
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Kristen Daniel
One of our favorite places to unplug and unwind. Where else can you camp and catch trout. It's very peaceful and quiet and the staff is friendly and helpful. Lake Watsgua is close by and the Appalachian Trail is close also by. Camp sites are roomy. They have electric , water, fire rings, and picnic tables. There is a dump station. The bathrooms are clean
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Rebecca VonBromberg
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Rebecca VonBromberg
Campsites very well maintained. Bath houses are clean and well stocked. Staff was friendly and knowledgeable. This is now one of my favorite campgrounds. Watch out for goose poo on the riverbank.
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Rebecca VonBromberg
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Rebecca VonBromberg
Campsites very well maintained. Bath houses are clean and well stocked. Staff was friendly and knowledgeable. This is now one of my favorite campgrounds. Watch out for goose poo on the riverbank.
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Lynn Meyer
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Lynn Meyer
Visited Watauga Dam Campground for the first time. It was truly enjoyable. Very scenic. Very quiet!!! Lots of wildlife to view. We were lucky enough to spot 2 bear cubs, and many birds. Fellow campers were friendly and courteous. Campsite managers were very nice. Bathrooms and shower very clean.
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Lynn Meyer
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Lynn Meyer
Visited Watauga Dam Campground for the first time. It was truly enjoyable. Very scenic. Very quiet!!! Lots of wildlife to view. We were lucky enough to spot 2 bear cubs, and many birds. Fellow campers were friendly and courteous. Campsite managers were very nice. Bathrooms and shower very clean.
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Linda Hofmann
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Linda Hofmann
Serenity and beauty at this campground! Hosts were helpful and kind-came by a couple times a day to pick up our trash. Took the canoe out on the river right from our campsite and enjoyed the ducks and geese that floated by. Beautiful waterfall and even a black bear sighting right across the river. Glad he stayed on his side. Totally off-grid but could drive a couple miles to connect when needed.... Serenity and beauty at this campground! Hosts were helpful and kind-came by a couple times a day to pick up our trash. Took the canoe out on the river right from our campsite and enjoyed the ducks and geese that floated by. Beautiful waterfall and even a black bear sighting right across the river. Glad he stayed on his side. Totally off-grid but could drive a couple miles to connect when needed. Would definitely return here for a peaceful escape.
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Linda Hofmann
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Linda Hofmann
Serenity and beauty at this campground! Hosts were helpful and kind-came by a couple times a day to pick up our trash. Took the canoe out on the river right from our campsite and enjoyed the ducks and geese that floated by. Beautiful waterfall and even a black bear sighting right across the river. Glad he stayed on his side. Totally off-grid but could drive a couple miles to connect when needed.... Serenity and beauty at this campground! Hosts were helpful and kind-came by a couple times a day to pick up our trash. Took the canoe out on the river right from our campsite and enjoyed the ducks and geese that floated by. Beautiful waterfall and even a black bear sighting right across the river. Glad he stayed on his side. Totally off-grid but could drive a couple miles to connect when needed. Would definitely return here for a peaceful escape.
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FFBM
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by FFBM
You will not find a more peaceful and relaxing place that is so isolated yet close to everything. The natural beauty of the area is breath taking. The rv sites are large and easy to get into. The grounds and bathhouse are well maintained. The staff are friendly and have always welcomed me like I'm coming back home. The more I stay, the less I want to leave.
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FFBM
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by FFBM
You will not find a more peaceful and relaxing place that is so isolated yet close to everything. The natural beauty of the area is breath taking. The rv sites are large and easy to get into. The grounds and bathhouse are well maintained. The staff are friendly and have always welcomed me like I'm coming back home. The more I stay, the less I want to leave.
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