Butner Lake Wildlife Management Area offers dispersed camping near Chapel Hill, North Carolina during restricted seasons. The area features 10 different primitive campsites positioned along a narrow access road. Cellular service is available throughout the camping area, with Boost Mobile customers reporting reliable connectivity. Two lakes are located within minutes of the camping area, providing fishing opportunities for license holders.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Both lakes near Butner Lake WMA are easily accessible, with one just 2 minutes away and another 7 minutes in the opposite direction. A camper noted, "My fiance and I camped out a little longer than the actually extension period for individuals, but never had a problem... There is a lake 2 mins away one way and another 7 mins away the other way."
Wildlife observation: The surrounding forest hosts diverse wildlife including coyotes, elk, owls, and foxes. According to one visitor, "I heard many coyotes elks and a an owl but nothing never stumbled to our campsite close enough to get a look at it other than one young fox which was running away when we pulled in one late night."
Hiking the Mountains to Sea Trail: Shallow Ford Natural Area offers access to the Mountains to Sea Trail with shaded campsites and river sounds. A hiker shared, "This campsite is on the Mountains to Sea Trail for those that are doing that. There's lots of shade and it is very peaceful. It is pretty flat for your tent and there are fire rings."
What campers like
Convenience to amenities: The camping area's proximity to town resources appeals to many dispersed campers. A regular visitor stated, "The city dump is also 2 mins away. And town is 5 mins away." This makes supply runs quick and manageable.
Quiet weekday experiences: Midweek camping typically offers more solitude for those seeking tranquility. One camper observed, "Most campers are here to hunt so are gone most of the day. It was not crowded when I was there during the week."
Easy overnight access: Anderson Creek County Park provides a strategic stopover for travelers passing through the Chapel Hill region. Multiple reviewers appreciate the accessibility, with one noting it "Works perfectly, especially in a pinch."
What you should know
License requirements: All campers at Butner Lake WMA must possess a valid hunting or fishing license regardless of their planned activities. According to one camper, "All Campers MUST have a fishers/hunters license. Rangers wrote us a warning ticket for not having our own, but we are headed to Walmart to get one for about $30."
Gate closure schedule: Gates to the camping area close at specific times. A frequent visitor noted this limitation: "I wish the gates never closed because we would still be there." Plan arrivals and departures accordingly.
Seasonal availability: Camping is only permitted during specific dates tied to hunting seasons. One camper warned, "Only open Sept 1 to Feb 28th and March 31 to May 14." Attempting to camp outside these periods will result in access restrictions.
Tips for camping with families
Pack for primitive conditions: No facilities exist beyond basic fire rings and hanging lines. Prepare accordingly with portable toilets or waste management solutions. As one camper advised, "You have a fire ring and a line to hang things from thats about it here, really nice place to camp if youre comfortable not having a toilet."
Navigate site selection carefully: Sites are small and best for single-vehicle camping. A visitor recommended, "Look for the signs, with lil sites to pull my car up to deeper in the woods, though you can still see the headlights coming from the road."
Consider timing with hunting seasons: The campground primarily serves hunters during open seasons. One camper reported, "I'm not a hunter but no one else was there and I pulled up at 10pm and left 6am on the first day of open season."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for trailers: While primarily a tent camping area, small trailers can access certain sites with careful navigation. A camper noted, "Saw one other person here come in with a 30 foot trailer, didnt think he would fit but found a spot just fine."
Car camping alternatives: For those with larger RVs unable to navigate the narrow roads, car camping is a practical alternative. One reviewer suggested, "This is a place to pitch a tent or to Car Camp," noting the turning limitations for larger vehicles.
