Indian Creek Recreation Area spans 2,500 acres with several campground options in dense pine forest just outside Pineville. The area receives around 58 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush vegetation and supporting diverse wildlife. Camping options range from full hookup sites with concrete pads to primitive camping areas along the shoreline of the 750-acre lake.
What to do
Fishing and boating access: Indian Creek Recreation Area offers excellent fishing from both the shore and boats, particularly along the primitive camping areas. "Beautiful lake, so quiet and peaceful... Lots of pull thrus with views of the lake. Great trails and fishing. Would definitely come back!" notes Michelle M. about Indian Creek Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports various wildlife species including deer, raccoons, and waterfowl. "We were visited by raccoons one night, but they were easily & quickly scared away. Campers should definitely be aware & cautious of wildlife in the area," reports Kayla H. about the primitive camping areas at Indian Creek.
Hiking nearby trails: Valentine Lake Northshore Campground provides direct access to multiple trail systems. "Small (about 16 sites) and quiet. Nice small lake, walking trail around the lake and very close to the Wild Azalia 26-mile hiking trail," shares Bruce L. The Wild Azalea Trail offers longer hikes with primitive camping options along the route.
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Many campers appreciate the lakefront access from both developed and primitive sites. "We camped near the lake, watched fishermen and boaters during the day. We had a very nice time and would definitely go back!" writes Rocky F. about his tent camping experience at Indian Creek Recreation Area Best Camping Spot.
Clean primitive camping options: Primitive camping areas maintain good standards despite minimal facilities. "The cleanliness of the primitive camp sites is unsurpassed. Beautiful views of the lake can be seen from almost all primitive sites," says Kayla H. about Indian Creek's primitive camping areas.
Privacy between campsites: Several campgrounds offer good separation between sites. "Sites have decent buffer between them. Nestled amongst the pine trees, you really feel like you're in the forest," notes Fabein D. about Loran Site Complex, adding that "Bathrooms very clean."
What you should know
Busy weekends with varied atmosphere: Indian Creek becomes crowded and livelier on weekends. "I would like to start by saying this is a campground that is designed for young families, from the multiple sandy beach areas to the playgrounds," writes Sarah L. However, she notes challenges with "kids running around unsupervised" and "golf carts riding around with loud music until 1:30 am both nights."
Hurricane damage at some sites: Several campgrounds experienced hurricane damage in recent years. "The forest received serious impact from Hurricanes Laura and Delta in the fall of 2020. The campground has been closed since... projecting it to reopen in 2025," reports Dion B. about Kincaid Lake Recreation Area.
Variable site levelness: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring equipment for leveling. "Senior discount got 10% off. Only stayed one night for about $26.00. We lucked into the primo spot on the lake point and super level," shares Gary P. at Indian Creek, while others mention needing blocks for leveling RVs.
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection for kids: Choose campgrounds with dedicated family amenities. "This is a campground that is designed for young families, from the multiple sandy beach areas to the playgrounds, there was lot for my elementary age children to do," explains Sarah L. about Indian Creek Recreation Area.
Wildlife education opportunities: Use wildlife encounters as learning experiences. At Valentine Lake, Taylor C. advises, "Watch for the alligators if you're near the water! They are not shy and I do not recommend feeding them unless you want them coming to visit you."
Weekday camping for quieter experience: For families seeking a calmer atmosphere, consider non-peak times. "We went during the week, so it was quiet. So pretty," shares Cat R. about Cotile Recreation Area. Several reviewers noted weekdays offer more peaceful camping conditions than busy weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites carefully based on size and levelness. "We have a 21' travel trailer and barely fit it and our Toyota Tundra in site 52," shares Layla D. about Indian Creek, adding "After exploring the campground on this first trip, we decided that site 56 would be perfect for us... Site 56 had a HUGE backyard leading down to the lake."
Hookup availability varies: RVers should confirm hookup options before arrival. "Electric & water at sites, but no sewer. Full hook up sites are being built," notes Gary P. about Indian Creek, while other campgrounds like Hidden Treasure RV Resort offer full hookups but require leveling: "Site 19 was quite unlevel, but nothing a few leveling blocks couldn't handle."
Dump station access: Plan for dumping needs based on facility availability. "Sites 1-7 have full hook-ups and others have water and electric. There is a dump station," reports Denise B. about Cotile Recreation Area, providing important information for planning longer stays.
