Camping at Pilot Mountain State Park
2-4 hours
Moderate
Pilot Mountain State Park offers some of the best camping opportunities in Pinnacle, North Carolina, with scenic landscapes, well-maintained campsites, and convenient access to outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or a family-friendly getaway, this park provides a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the region.
Inside Pilot Mountain State Park, near the visitor center.
This campground features 42 tent and trailer sites that accommodate both RV and tent campers. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring, providing a comfortable camping setup for families and friends.
Shower and restroom facilities, drinking water, and nearby hiking trails.
Sites fill up fast during peak months, so reserve well in advance.
Stokes County side of Pilot Mountain State Park.
This section of the park features sites designed for horseback riders, allowing campers to bring their horses and explore over 15 miles of riding trails.
Horse trailer parking, access to horse-friendly trails, water spigots for animals.
Stay during fall for stunning fall foliage views along the Bridle Trail.
Remote area along the Yadkin River section of the park.
For a primitive camping experience, these sites provide a quiet, remote atmosphere accessible only by foot or canoe.
Fire rings, limited facilities (no water or restrooms).
Arrive early to secure your ideal camping spot. Bring all necessities, as no services are available.
Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and scenic landscapes with blooming wildflowers or autumn colors.
Firewood (gathering is prohibited), flashlights, extra water, and sturdy shoes for park trails.
Located about 30 miles north of Winston-Salem, Pilot Mountain State Park is accessible via US-52, taking around 40 minutes by car.
Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.
It's such a beautiful hike! We hiked part of the Grindstone trail, and we then hiked part of the Ledge Springs trails. After that, we hiked around the pinnacle. It isn't a super hard hike, but it is moderate. Take your time, take breaks, and take in the beautiful views! So worth it!
Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.
Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.
Easy
7.80 miPilot Mountain State Park, about 30 miles north of Winston-Salem, offers various camping options with easy drive-in access. Perfect for family camps with amenities and scenic views, it also includes remote backcountry sites. Explore hiking trails or enjoy horseback riding on designated paths.
7.50 miA prominent knob near Pinnacle creates two distinct experiences: drive-up overlooks for short visits and a tight network of rocky, rooty trails—most notably a 7.2-mile Mountain–Grindstone–Grassy Ridge loop and the 6.6-mile Corridor Horse Trail—for disciplined training and longer distance runs.
8.20 miModerateExplore Pilot Mountain State Park with its iconic Big Pinnacle. The moderate trails offer stunning views and diverse wildlife. Family-friendly and perfect for photography, this spot is a hit in the warmer months. Enjoy a picnic and the natural beauty.
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