This review is of the Campground at McDowell. We did not go to the lake or hike. We found a site without a reservation in August and stayed here for about a week. The tent sites do not have grass and you are required to set up in a specific gravel area so bring plenty of padding. The areas are level and will allow at least two tents, depending on which site you choose. There are individual, lockable bathroom/showers which is convenient and they are right next to a small laundry which is open only 8a to 4p. Definitely a good and secluded place to camp, with easy access to Charlotte. No Alcohol which is bad but no out of state fees, which is good. Also, the campground seemed to be at least 10 degrees cooler than other areas of NC and the bugs are minimal. All in all a good place to be.