Top 10 Camping Hidden Gems in North Carolina

Camping Gems - North Carolina Cape Hatteras National Seashore A haven for recreation and reflection, the islands of Cape Hatteras National Seashore are constantly changing by tide, storm, current, and wind. The plants, wildlife and people who live here adapt continually. Birding, swimming, fishing, and water sports of all kinds are popular here. Pinehurst One of America's greatest golf courses and premier resorts, Pinehurst has more than just golfing on an amazing championship course.  Set in the North Carolina Sandhills, this resort offers activities like tennis, lawn bowling, swimming in the pool, and beach sports like boating, fishing, and sun-bathing. For golfers, this is a unique chance to play on the same course where Jack Nicklaus and Payne Stewart once hit the ball. Jacksonville This beach town in Onslow County is filled with maritime history and a thriving culture.  Named in 1842 for President Andrew Jackson, this vibrant city is home to the largest Marine force in the world. In the nearby area you'll find farms, golf courses, excellent restaurants, antique shops, and opportunities for scuba diving, fishing, kayaking, and more. Appalachian National Scenic Trail The Appalachian Trail is a more than 2,175-mile long footpath stretching through 14 eastern states from Maine to Georgia. Conceived in 1921 and first completed in 1937, it traverses the wild, scenic, wooded, pastoral, and culturally significant lands of the Appalachian Mountains. In North Carolina, the trail winds through deep forests, offering breathtaking views. Mooresville Also known as "Race City, USA," Mooresville is the home of auto racing's top programs as well as race museums and race shops.  Set on the shores of Lake Norman, this is a great place to enjoy Mississippi paddleboat cruises, swimming, fishing, boating, or jet skiing. You can head to Lake Norman State Park for a day of hiking the trails or visit the Lazy 5 Ranch for animal viewing, taking in the over 750 exotic animals from six different continents.  Cape Lookout National Seashore Take a boat trip three miles off-shore to the islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore and enjoy remote beaches, watch wild horses and other wildlife, or visit one of the historic districts. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch for the day and don't miss the lighthouse! Camp Lejeune For the past 65 years, this historic camp has served as the home for the II Marine Expeditionary Force, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Logistics Group and other combat units and support commands. The 156,000-acre camp includes eleven miles of beach, 78 live fire ranges, and 98 maneuver areas.  This is the home to nearly 150,000 people, so the camp also includes shopping areas, childcare, recreational areas, restaurants, a theater, and more. Morehead Planetarium, Chapel Hill Once used for NASA astronaut training, this planetarium has a Zeiss Model VI projector capable of showing approximately 8,900 stars. The Planetarium offers shows each evening and matinees on weekends, as well as exhibits, art galleries, rose gardens, a massive sundial, and a science shop. (East Franklin Street, University of North Carolina, 919-962-1247) Guilford Courthouse National Military Park The largest, most hotly-contested battle of the Revolutionary War's Southern Campaign was fought at the small North Carolina backcounty hamlet of Guilford Courthouse. This battle proved to be the highwater mark of British military operations in the Revolutionary War. Historic Oakwood This 20-block Victorian neighborhood, built in the late 19th century, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features restored homes that were built between 1870 and 1912. Self guided walking tour brochures are available at the Capital Area Visitor Center. In addition, you can see private homes and gardens during the December Candlelight Tour and the Garden Tour. (Franklin, Watauga, Linden, Jones & Person Streets, 919-834-0887)