Upper Falls Backcountry Campground

For North Carolina locals eager to trade city sounds for the symphony of nature, Upper Falls Backcountry Campground in South Mountains State Park offers a pristine and rewarding wilderness experience. This isn't a drive-up site; it's a true backcountry gem that requires a scenic hike to reach, making it an ideal destination for those who value solitude, the challenge of a trail, and the profound beauty of untouched landscapes. If you're ready to embrace a genuine outdoor adventure and spend a night under the expansive North Carolina sky, Upper Falls Backcountry Campground promises an unforgettable escape.

South Mountains State Park, one of North Carolina's largest and most rugged state parks, spans over 20,000 acres of impressive terrain, including steep mountains and crystal-clear streams. It's particularly famous for its spectacular High Shoals Falls, which, as many campers note, can be part of the very enjoyable journey to the campground. Upper Falls Backcountry Campground specifically caters to hikers and backpackers seeking a more remote experience than traditional car camping. Visitors praise the "simple 1.5-mile hike in" and the "good distance between the sites so very quiet," highlighting the peaceful and accessible nature of this incredible local resource right here in North Carolina.

Upper Falls Backcountry Campground is situated within South Mountains State Park, with its access point generally found via S Mountain Park, Connelly Springs, NC 28612, USA. This address directs visitors to the main entrance and visitor center of South Mountains State Park. From there, reaching Upper Falls Backcountry Campground requires a hike, as it is a designated backcountry site.

For North Carolina residents, South Mountains State Park is conveniently located. From Charlotte, the drive typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. From Asheville, it's approximately 1 hour, and from Greensboro, about 2.5 to 3 hours. These manageable driving distances make it an excellent choice for a weekend backpacking trip or even a longer mid-week escape.

Access to the campground is exclusively by foot. Reviewers consistently note a "simple 1.5-mile hike in." There are typically "two trails to get to the campsite (High Shoals Loop)." Many recommend taking the scenic route that "follows the waterfall up," noting "more stairs but the views are better," and that "the stairs were no issue with my pack" with "only short, steep sections." Another reviewer cautioned against an "alternate route" that was described as a "horribly long and steep slog uphill," reinforcing the preference for the High Shoals Falls path. Parking is usually available "about a mile from the visitor center." It is crucial for visitors to check in at the visitor center (which "opens at 8 am," though the "gate opens at 7 am") to "receive vehicle tag" and get up-to-date information on trail conditions and recommended routes. As with all backcountry excursions, public transportation does not serve this rural area, so personal vehicle travel to the park entrance is necessary. Always plan your route, pack appropriately, and inform someone of your itinerary.

Upper Falls Backcountry Campground provides essential, yet primitive, services designed to facilitate a responsible and comfortable backcountry camping experience. As a hike-in site, it focuses on necessities while maintaining the natural integrity of the environment, requiring campers to be largely self-sufficient.

• Designated Backcountry Campsites: The campground features approximately "5 sites in total" or "six sites total," according to different reviews. These are clearly established areas (e.g., "mine was site 5") for setting up tents, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding wilderness. Reviewers note "Good distance between the sites so very quiet."
• Picnic Tables: Each individual campsite is equipped with a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and organizing gear.
• Fire Rings: Every campsite includes a fire pit or fire ring, allowing campers to safely build campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance, provided there are no active fire bans in place by the park.
• Privies/Pit Toilets: The campground has "two pit toilets" or "two privies" available, providing a basic, designated, and more sanitary option for human waste disposal. Reviewers note they "maybe" have "TP and hand sanitizer," so it's always wise to bring your own.
• Bear Locker: A critical service for backcountry camping in areas with bear activity, the campground provides a communal "bear locker" for storing food and scented items securely away from bears and other wildlife, ensuring safety and responsible wildlife interaction.
• Water Access (Creek): Water is available from a nearby creek. Campers are responsible for filtering or purifying this water to make it safe for drinking and cooking, as it is not treated potable water.
• No Potable Water: There are no spigots or treated drinking water sources at the campground. All water acquired from the creek must be purified by the camper.
• No Electricity or Hookups: As a backcountry site, there are no electrical hookups or other utility connections. Campers should rely on battery-powered devices or portable chargers for any power needs.
• No Trash Cans: Campers are required to adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles. All trash and waste generated during the stay must be packed out and carried back out of the park. There are no trash receptacles at the campground.

Upper Falls Backcountry Campground, within South Mountains State Park, boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for backcountry enthusiasts in North Carolina:

• Scenic Hike-in Access: A major highlight is the journey itself. The recommended trail to the campground passes "the waterfall up," offering "better views" and the stunning sight of High Shoals Falls. This scenic approach enhances the overall outdoor adventure.
• Secluded and Quiet Environment: Due to its hike-in nature and "good distance between the sites," the campground consistently provides a very "quiet" and peaceful atmosphere. This allows for deep immersion in nature, far from urban noise and crowds.
• Essential Backcountry Amenities: While primitive, the provision of individual picnic tables, fire rings, privies, and crucially, a bear locker, demonstrates thoughtful planning for camper comfort and safety in a remote setting.
• Access to Extensive Park Trails: The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider South Mountains State Park trail network. This includes opportunities for:
  • Hiking: Miles of diverse trails, including the High Shoals Loop, and potential access to longer backpacking routes.
  • Scenic Overlooks: Reviewers specifically recommend "the hike to Chestnut Knob while visiting" for its rewarding views.
  • Nature Observation: The park's varied ecosystems support abundant wildlife, offering great opportunities for birdwatching and observing local fauna.
• Immersive Wilderness Experience: Upper Falls allows campers to truly disconnect and experience the natural environment without the distractions of modern amenities. The reliance on creek water (after purification) adds to this authentic feel.
• Managed Backcountry Site: The requirement for pre-registration and check-in at the visitor center ensures that park staff are aware of campers' presence, contributing to safety and responsible use of the area.

As a backcountry campground within the North Carolina State Parks system, Upper Falls Backcountry Campground operates under a structured fee system rather than offering commercial "promotions" or "special offers." Its inherent appeal lies in its affordable access to a remote, scenic wilderness experience. Here are the key points regarding costs and access:

• Affordable Nightly Fee: Backcountry campsites in North Carolina State Parks typically have a very modest nightly fee. While specific rates should always be confirmed, these fees are designed to be economical, making remote camping accessible.
• Pre-Registration and Reservation Required: To camp at Upper Falls, "pre-registration required and check-in to receive vehicle tag must be done at the visitor center." This process ensures controlled use and safety, and sites are often reservable online or by phone well in advance.
• No Discount Programs (Generally): Unlike some federal parks with interagency passes, North Carolina State Parks generally do not have broad discount programs that apply specifically to backcountry camping fees.
• Vehicle Tag: Upon check-in, campers receive a vehicle tag, which is essential for park personnel to identify registered campers' vehicles, especially for those parking "about a mile from the visitor center."

It is crucial for prospective campers to check the official North Carolina State Parks website for South Mountains State Park or call the park office directly for the most current information on reservation procedures, fees, and any specific rules or alerts (such as fire bans or trail closures) that might impact their trip to Upper Falls Backcountry Campground.

For inquiries, reservations, and up-to-date information regarding Upper Falls Backcountry Campground within South Mountains State Park, please use the following contact details:

• Address (South Mountains State Park Office/Main Entrance): S Mountain Park, Connelly Springs, NC 28612, USA
• Phone: (828) 433-4772

It is highly recommended to contact the park office directly before planning your trip to Upper Falls Backcountry Campground. They can provide essential information on:

• Current trail conditions, including which routes are recommended (e.g., High Shoals Loop vs. alternate).
• Any alerts or closures (e.g., fire bans, trail maintenance, specific trail section closures).
• Reservation procedures and current availability for backcountry sites.
• Specific park rules, Leave No Trace principles, and bear safety guidelines.
• Visitor center hours (e.g., "opens at 8 am") and gate hours (e.g., "gate opens at 7 am").

While the campground is listed at the general park address, remember that it's a hike-in site, and the phone number connects you to the park's main operational office.

Upper Falls Backcountry Campground is an exceptionally suitable and rewarding destination for North Carolina locals who are seeking an authentic, scenic, and deeply immersive wilderness experience. Its prime location within South Mountains State Park, while requiring a moderate hike to access, places it within a very manageable driving distance for many residents across the state. The compelling accounts from past campers, detailing "beautiful views" along the waterfall trail and the campground's "very quiet" atmosphere, perfectly illustrate its appeal as a genuine escape.

For North Carolinians, Upper Falls offers a unique opportunity to push beyond car camping and embrace the rewarding challenge of backpacking. The well-maintained sites, complete with essential amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, privies, and the crucial bear locker, demonstrate thoughtful park management for a primitive setting. The trek itself, particularly via the High Shoals Falls route, becomes an integral part of the adventure, culminating in the serene satisfaction of a secluded campsite. This destination allows locals to fully disconnect, breathe fresh mountain air, and explore the extensive trails of one of North Carolina's most impressive state parks, including recommended side trips like the hike to Chestnut Knob for panoramic vistas.

The requirement for pre-registration and adherence to Leave No Trace principles ensures that Upper Falls remains a pristine and enjoyable backcountry resource for all. For locals yearning for adventure, a deep connection with nature, and a tranquil retreat, Upper Falls Backcountry Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the wild heart of North Carolina, right in their own backyard.