Warrior Creek
7659 W. Highway 268
Warrior Creek
$22.00 - $85.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Credit card transactions only for camping and day use fees. Refunds must be processed through Recreation.gov; no on-site refunds are provided....
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$85.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$115.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider336-921-2177
About this campground
Nestled along the southern shores of W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, Warrior Creek Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover western North Carolina's natural playground. This waterfront haven offers 61 thoughtfully designed campsites, from secluded tent-only spots perfect for stargazing to full-service RV sites equipped with electrical and water hookups. Two spacious group sites welcome family reunions and outdoor clubs. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring winding mountain bike trails, or hiking through ancient forests, Warrior Creek serves as your basecamp for adventure. Modern bathhouses, a community amphitheater for evening programs, and a playground for young explorers ensure comfort meets wilderness in perfect harmony.
Warrior Creek accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent, RV, and group camping. Group sites are equipped with amenities such as water spouts and nearby bathrooms.
Historical SignificanceNull
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through October, Warrior Creek transforms into a camper's paradise, with gentle mountain breezes tempering the Carolina sunshine. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and comfortable temperatures, while summer brings warm days perfect for swimming and cool evenings around the campfire. Fall paints the surrounding hardwoods in brilliant golds and crimsons. Though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through the valley, they often leave behind spectacular sunsets over the reservoir. These peak months offer ideal conditions for everything from morning paddle sessions to afternoon hikes.
ElevationElevation details not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched in the heart of the Yadkin River Valley, Warrior Creek offers front-row seats to nature's grand theater. The shimmering waters of the reservoir stretch before you, framed by dense forests where towering sycamores, stately poplars, and ancient oaks create a living cathedral. Morning mists rise from the water as white-tailed deer emerge from the woods to drink. Lucky visitors might glimpse a black bear foraging in the distance or hear the distinctive gobble of wild turkeys echoing through the hills. Overhead, hawks circle on thermals while songbirds fill the canopy with their melodies, creating an ever-changing symphony of wilderness sounds.
Geological RegionWarrior Creek rests in the embrace of the eastern Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, where the ancient Appalachians begin their gentle rise from the Piedmont. The Yadkin River Valley, carved over millennia, creates a unique ecosystem where mountain and river converge. Majestic hardwood forests dominate the landscape—sycamores lean over the water's edge, tulip poplars reach skyward, while oak and hickory trees provide shade and shelter for the valley's abundant wildlife. This transitional zone between mountains and lowlands creates a remarkably diverse habitat, making every hike a journey through different forest communities and every vista a glimpse into North Carolina's wild heart.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAn ADA-accessible fishing pier is available at nearby Keowee Park. Accessibility for other facilities is not documented.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and can accommodate various setups. For instance, site #51 was noted to allow a 23-foot camper and multiple tents with plenty of room.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Site #44 was highlighted as 'outstanding' with exceptional privacy, while other loops like sites #45 and #46 were described as having minimal privacy.
Total Campsites61 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in the twenties for better cell coverage. Tent sites are rated highly for privacy. Avoid sites far from bathrooms if mobility is a concern.
Best CampsitesSite 44 is noted for privacy, while site 46 offers ample space and shade. Other well-reviewed sites include 25, 12, and 55.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights during any visit, and 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Groups
Two group camping areas are available, suitable for large gatherings. User reviews note that amenities such as water spouts are accessible, though swimming access may involve steep climbs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops and distinct sections with spacious sites that offer privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 15 to October 14 for individual and group sites. Closed out-of-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up/first-come-first-served availability; reservations must be completed in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival, but incur a $10 cancellation fee, late cancellations may also forfeit the first night's fees. Changes to reservations also incur a $10 fee if changing stay dates.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Warrior Creek offers extensive recreational activities. Key highlights include hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and boating. The campground's trail system is highly acclaimed by the International Mountain Biking Association and offers 17 miles of single-track trails accessible directly from the campground. Wildlife observation and kayaking are also popular activities.
Hiking
The Warrior Creek trail system spans 17 miles of single-track trails encircling the campground. It is highly rated for mountain biking but is also used by hikers and trail runners. Reviews describe the trails as challenging but fun, with scenic views and varied terrain.Fishing
Fishing opportunities at the W. Kerr Scott Reservoir include species such as channel catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, threadfin shad, spotted bass, striped bass, and hybrid striped bass. Several reviewers expressed satisfaction with the fishing experience.Swimming
Swimming facilities are present but have received negative feedback due to muddy conditions and unpleasant lake bottoms. User reviews suggest the swim area needs dredging and repairs to improve usability.Biking
Biking is a standout activity at Warrior Creek. The trail system is internationally recognized, offering challenging single-track trails with scenic views. Reviewers frequently highlight the trails as a primary reason for visiting the campground.Boating
Boating activities are supported at the reservoir with a boat ramp available at Keowee Park. Kayaking is particularly popular among visitors.Wildlife viewing
The Yadkin River Valley's abundant wildlife includes species such as white-tailed deer, black bears, and eastern cottontails. Birdwatchers can spot wild turkeys, woodpeckers, and mallards, among others. Several reviews mentioned sightings of deer near campsites.Beach activities
The swim beach has been criticized for its muddy conditions and clay-like lake bottom. Limited depth and missing barriers further detract from the experience. Sand is present but unevenly distributed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically documented for Warrior Creek.Water Sports
Popular water sports include kayaking and canoeing, supported by the reservoir's calm waters.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted within designated fire rings. Green firewood sold on-site may not burn effectively.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include poison ivy, wildlife such as black bears, and a muddy swim beach with clay-like muck. Some reviews mention poor water quality at the swim area.
Active alertsSwim beach currently closed until further notice.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 92%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Wilkesboro offers emergency services including hospitals and police stations. The closest ranger station is unspecified.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 - October 14
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is centralized at dumpsters; no individual trash cans are available at campsites. Several users found hauling trash cumbersome.
Proximity to water featuresAccess to W. Kerr Scott Reservoir for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming. Boat ramps and fishing piers available.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention inadequate restroom facilities relative to the number of campsites, muddy swim beach, and poor cell service. Complaints also include green firewood sold on site and distance to bathrooms from certain campsites.
HostCamp hosts are noted as friendly and efficient in cleaning up sites after campers leave.
Campground Map
7659 W. Highway 268
Driving directionsFrom Winston-Salem, North Carolina, take Highway 421 North (approximately 55 miles) to Exit 286B, turn left onto Highway 268 and continue for approximately 8 miles. Turn right immediately after crossing the bridge and follow signs to the campground. From Charlotte, North Carolina, take I-77 North (approximately 60 miles) before merging onto Highway 421 North towards Wilkesboro/Boone, continue to Exit 286B (approximately 20 miles), turn left onto Highway 268 and continue for approximately 8 miles. Turn right immediately after crossing the bridge and follow signs to the campground.
Road access is via Highway 268, which is a busy country road. Some reviews caution against riding bikes on the road due to heavy traffic. Roads within the campground are well-maintained.Nearby places
Winston-Salem (55 miles, approximately 1 hour drive), Charlotte (approximately 60 miles, 1.5-hour drive), Wilkesboro (close by, distance unspecified)
Nearby supplies
Wilkesboro is nearby and offers restaurants, breweries, grocery stores, camping supplies, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.5
91 reviews
Warrior Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise Warrior Creek's spacious campsites, cleanliness, and recreational opportunities, especially mountain biking and hiking. However, issues with swim areas, vault toilets, and cell phone service are frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 91 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects highlighted by users include spacious and scenic campsites like #44 and #51, clean and well-maintained facilities, quiet environment, and proximity to hiking and biking trails. Users...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include muddy and poorly maintained swim areas, limited bathroom facilities relative to the number of campsites, inconsistent cell phone service, and issues with green firewood...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend choosing campsites for privacy, such as #44 and #51. Bringing padding for tents and avoiding green firewood sold on-site are also suggested. Visitors are advised to prepare for...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the campground's suitability for family trips and outdoor activities, though issues with muddy swim areas and heat are noted. Fall is preferred for cooler weather and biking...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'The sites are spacious and not crowded on top of each other.' 'The Warrior Creek trail system is recognized as one of the top bike trails in the world.' 'The vault toilet was...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes: Site #44 is praised for privacy and spaciousness. Site #51 accommodates large setups with ample room. Site #01 is noted for privacy and proximity to vault toilets....
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility-related reviews highlight the ADA-compliant fishing pier at Keowee Park. Vault toilets and steep climbs may pose challenges for some visitors.
Based on 91 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no specific issues were raised related to pet policies. Wildlife sightings, including deer, might interest pet owners.
Based on 91 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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