Fort Hamby Park
4.57220 reviews1534 S. RECREATION ROAD, WILKESBORO, NC, 28697, USA
Fort Hamby Park
$30.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary by site type. Standard electric sites cost $30 per night, group shelter electric sites are $50 per night, and group standard electric sites...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$185.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider336-973-0104
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine northern shores of W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, Fort Hamby Park beckons families and outdoor enthusiasts to experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and natural splendor. Here, children's laughter echoes from the sandy beach while parents relax under towering hardwoods, knowing that hot showers and clean facilities await after a day of adventure. Whether you're shooting hoops on the basketball court, exploring winding hiking trails, or simply watching the sunset paint the lake in golden hues, Fort Hamby creates memories that draw visitors back season after season.
Fort Hamby Park caters to various camping preferences, from individual sites with electricity to group camping for up to 100 people.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through these hills, where the nearby Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail tells the stirring tale of mountain patriots who marched to victory during the Revolutionary War. As you explore the area, you're walking in the footsteps of brave colonists who helped shape America's destiny, adding a profound sense of place to your outdoor adventure.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Fort Hamby in a different palette of experiences. Spring awakens the campground with wildflowers and perfect camping weather, while summer invites long days on the water followed by cool, cricket-filled evenings around the campfire. When autumn arrives, the surrounding forests burst into a symphony of reds, oranges, and golds that reflect brilliantly off the reservoir's surface. Even winter has its charm, with crisp air, peaceful solitude, and the occasional magical dusting of snow transforming the landscape into a serene wonderland.
ElevationPerched gracefully in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Fort Hamby offers the best of both worlds—mountain vistas without the steep climbs, and an elevation that provides refreshing breezes and comfortable temperatures throughout the camping season.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Yadkin River Valley cradles Fort Hamby in a natural amphitheater of beauty, where mighty sycamores stretch their mottled bark toward the sky and ancient oaks provide cathedral-like canopies over your campsite. The shimmering expanse of W. Kerr Scott Reservoir serves as the campground's centerpiece, its waters reflecting the surrounding tapestry of poplar and hickory forests. Early risers are often rewarded with misty mornings when deer emerge from the forest edge, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and mallards glide across the glassy lake surface, creating perfect moments of connection with nature.
Geological RegionFort Hamby rests in the enchanting embrace of the Yadkin River Valley, where the eastern Blue Ridge Mountains begin their gentle rise from the Piedmont. This unique geological position creates a landscape of rolling hills clothed in diverse mixed hardwood forests, all centered around the sparkling jewel of W. Kerr Scott Reservoir—a testament to both natural beauty and human ingenuity working in harmony to create an outdoor paradise.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park offers accessible bathrooms and shower facilities. However, steep terrain in parts of the campground may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with many able to accommodate RVs and trailers. Some users noted challenges with larger rigs due to steep or narrow roads.
Sites PrivacyThe park offers a mix of secluded and open sites. Many reviewers appreciated the privacy provided by trees and site spacing, while others mentioned sites being too close together.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the lake offer better views, while those further back are quieter and more secluded. Sites 6 and 25 are recommended for larger rigs.
Best CampsitesSites 16, 17, and 25 are often praised for their spaciousness and privacy. Site 17 is noted for its lake view.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights within any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by site type, group sites can accommodate 100 guests.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 100 guests, making it ideal for large gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized in a loop, with sites spread out to provide privacy. Some sites are located on steep inclines.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from April 15 to October 14 annually. Group facilities may have additional restrictions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, mobile app, or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available for walk-up reservations, but this is not guaranteed. Campground is highly popular and fills quickly during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made online or via the Recreation.gov mobile app. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (individual sites) forfeit the first night's fee in addition to the $10 charge.
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
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a wide range of recreational activities, making it a favorite for many campers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The 1,475-acre reservoir provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing. A disc golf course and trails to waterfalls add to the appeal.
Hiking
The park features miles of multi-use trails, including the historic Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. Some trails, like the Bushwhacker Falls Trail, lead to beautiful waterfalls. Users noted issues like overgrown paths and closures, but overall, trails were well-received.Fishing
Fishing at the reservoir is excellent, with species like channel catfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and striped bass available. One user stated, 'We fished and had a great experience at Ft. Hamby.'Swimming
A sandy beach is available for swimming. The area is well-maintained and provides a relaxing environment for families.Biking
Mountain biking is popular, with trails offering varying levels of difficulty. Users appreciated the access to trails around the reservoir.Boating
The reservoir is perfect for boating, kayaking, and canoeing. Access to the lake makes it convenient for water activities.Wildlife viewing
The mixed hardwood forest is home to white-tailed deer, black bears, eastern cottontails, and various bird species like wild turkeys and woodpeckers. Campers reported frequent wildlife sightings.Beach activities
The sandy beach offers sunbathing, swimming, and a family-friendly environment. Users frequently praised the beach's maintenance.Water Sports
Non-motorized activities like kayaking and canoeing are popular. The lake's calm waters are ideal for these sports.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated fire rings only. Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsNarrow and steep roads within the campground can be challenging for navigation, especially for larger vehicles. Wildlife such as black bears and deer are present and require caution.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 92%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are located in nearby Wilkesboro, approximately 5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 to October 14 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available onsite. Specific locations and schedules for trash pickup were not detailed in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, with some sites offering limited lake access.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include narrow roads making navigation for larger rigs difficult, steep inclines at some campsites, and maintenance issues such as potholes and unclean bathhouses during busy periods.
HostThe campground hosts are noted for being friendly and helpful. The staff at the gatehouse are also frequently praised for their professionalism.
Campground Map
1534 S. RECREATION ROAD, WILKESBORO, NC, 28697, USA
Driving directionsFrom Winston-Salem, North Carolina, take Highway 421 North (approximately 61 miles) and turn left onto S. Recreation Road. Continue for approximately 1.5 miles. Campground entrance is located at the end of the road. From Charlotte, North Carolina, take I-77 North (approximately 60 miles) before merging onto Highway 421 North towards Wilkesboro/Boone, continue to S. Recreation Road (approximately 28 miles), turn left onto S. Recreation Road and go approximately 1.5 miles. Campground entrance is located at the end of the road.
Road access is paved but includes narrow roads and steep inclines in certain areas. Navigation can be challenging for larger vehicles such as big rigs. Potholes and erosion issues have been noted in user reviews.Nearby places
Wilkesboro (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Winston-Salem (61 miles, approximately 1 hour), Charlotte (88 miles, approximately 1.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Wilkesboro, just 5 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
220 reviews
Fort Hamby Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Fort Hamby Park are highly positive, with an average sentiment of 4.42. Visitors frequently highlight the park's cleanliness, scenic beauty, and friendly staff. Negative feedback often pertains to maintenance issues, steep terrain, and crowded sites during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 220 reviews
What Campers Love
Common praises include clean bathrooms, spacious and private sites, beautiful surroundings, and friendly staff. Many users appreciated the range of activities, like hiking, fishing, and disc golf.
Based on 220 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints often mention maintenance issues, such as potholes or rotting landscaping timbers. Some users found the narrow, steep roads challenging for large RVs. Crowded sites and limited privacy...
Based on 220 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Many users recommend booking early due to the park's popularity. Bringing extra padding for tents and being cautious with large RVs on narrow roads are common tips.
Based on 220 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and early fall are highly recommended due to pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is busier, with positive feedback on activities but occasional complaints about facility cleanliness...
Based on 220 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The campground is designed in a thoughtful way, allowing for just enough privacy at each site.' - 'Showers were clean and convenient, but a curtain for privacy would help.' - 'The lake access and...
Based on 220 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 17 is frequently praised for its size and views. Site 6 is noted as suitable for large rigs but challenging to level. Site 1 received mixed reviews for its tight backing space.
Based on 220 reviewsAccessibility Features
The park's terrain is steep in places, which may be difficult for individuals with mobility issues. However, accessible bathrooms and showers are available.
Based on 220 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific pet-related reviews were noted in the provided materials.
Based on 220 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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