Best Backpacking Destinations in Charlotte, United States

1. Uwharrie National Forest

A vast wilderness area perfect for backpacking, with over 50 miles of hiking trails and numerous campsites.

Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to spot deer, wild turkey, and black bear.
Backcountry Camping: Permits required for backcountry camping; reservations recommended.
Difficulty Level: Trails vary in difficulty, offering options for both beginners and experienced backpackers.

Beautiful park with numerous hiking trails, including the famous Mt. Mitchell trail.

Peak Hiking: Mt. Mitchell is the highest peak in Eastern United States.
Campground Availability: Modern campground with RV hookups and tent sites available.
Seasonal Considerations: Colder weather during winter months; best time to visit is spring or fall.

A massive forest with scenic waterfalls and hiking trails.

Waterfall Viewing: Multiple waterfalls accessible via hiking trails.
Horseback Riding: In addition to hiking, horseback riding is allowed on some trails.
Film Location: Popular filming location for movies like The Hunger Games.

A lush forest featuring the tallest white oak trees east of the Mississippi River.

Tall Trees: The Sasseafras Gap Loop Trail offers views of exceptionally tall white oak trees.
Pet-Friendly: Dogs on leashes are allowed on most trails.
Day Use Only: No overnight camping is permitted within the forest.

Beautiful park with stunning views, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Hangnail Mountain: Summit Hangnail Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Swimming Opportunities: Cool off in Moore's Knob Pool or Cascade Falls.
Wildflowers: Variety of wildflowers bloom throughout the park, especially during spring.

Remote and untouched wilderness area with numerous hiking trails.

Secluded Trails: Trails are less crowded, offering a more secluded backpacking experience.
Difficulty Level: Some trails may be challenging for beginners; map and navigation skills are essential.
Backcountry Camping: Backcountry camping is allowed with a permit; reservations required.

Island paradise with beautiful beaches and excellent backpacking opportunities.

Beautiful Beaches: Relax on secluded beaches, away from the crowds.
Campground Availability: Ocracoke Campground offers tent and RV sites.
Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and various bird species.

A park with scenic views, hiking trails, and opportunities for rock climbing.

Summit Views: Climb Crowders Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views.
Rock Climbing: The park offers several rock climbing routes, suitable for all skill levels.
Campground Availability: Modern campground with RV hookups and tent sites available.

Urban park offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and a dog park.

Dog-Friendly Trails: Designated trails for hikers and their dogs.
Urban Setting: Enjoy the convenience of an urban park while still getting your nature fix.
Picnic Areas: Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic after your hike.

Beautiful nature preserve with hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and a nature center.

Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to spot deer, turkey, beavers, and various bird species.
Nature Center: Visit the nature center for educational exhibits and programs.
Hiking Trails: Multiple trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.

Riverfront park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a charming village.

Riverfront Setting: Enjoy beautiful river views during your hike.
Village Atmosphere: Explore the quaint village of Saxapahaw after your hike.
Community Events: Check out local events, like farmer's markets and concerts.

Remote wilderness area with challenging hiking trails and beautiful scenery.

Secluded Trails: Trails are less crowded, offering a more secluded backpacking experience.
Difficulty Level: Some trails may be challenging for beginners; map and navigation skills are essential.
Backcountry Camping: Backcountry camping is allowed with a permit; reservations required.

Beautiful natural area with diverse wildlife and challenging hiking trails.

Diverse Wildlife: Opportunities to spot bears, bobcats, and various bird species.
Hiking Trails: Multiple trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.
Difficulty Level: Some trails may be challenging for beginners; map and navigation skills are essential.

Recreational area with hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and camping facilities.

Fishing Opportunities: Cast a line at the on-site lake or nearby river.
Campground Availability: Modern campground with RV hookups and tent sites available.
Hiking Trails: Multiple trails cater to hikers of all skill levels.

Beautiful park with hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and a sandy beach.

Sandy Beach: Relax on the sandy beach after your hike.
Fishing Opportunities: Cast a line at the on-site lake.
Campground Availability: Modern campground with RV hookups and tent sites available.