Pettigrew State Park sits among North Carolina's coastal plain, offering diverse camping options within a rich ecological zone between the Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds. The park's natural setting provides year-round access to Lake Phelps, one of the oldest natural lakes in North Carolina at 16,600 acres. Most campsites around Creswell remain open throughout all four seasons, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F and high humidity levels.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Phelps: At Pettigrew State Park, the shallow waters of Lake Phelps create ideal kayaking conditions for beginners and experienced paddlers. "The water in Lake Phelps is perfectly clear. We didn't get to explore it much without a boat but there are fish. Also, this lake is close to the outer banks so you can plan to go there as well," notes Justin C. about his experience at Pettigrew State Park Campground.
Hiking forest boardwalks: Follow wooden walkways through cypress swamps and forested wetlands. "There is an out and back 1.5 mile trail, for a total of 3 miles, that follows the lake, taking you through the Somerset Place State Historic Site. The walk passes through the swamp with many large cypress and sycamore trees," reports Stirling C. about the trails.
Exploring historic sites: Visit Somerset Place State Historic Site along the lake edge to learn about regional plantation history. "The plantation is a neat part of history and I learned a ton about this area and park though the slave history is pretty sad," explains Kristi D. from her visit to Merchants Millpond State Park.
What campers like
Natural swimming opportunities: Lake Phelps offers unique swimming experiences due to its unusual depth profile. "The deepest part of the lake is 9' so you are able to walk around most of the lake. My kids loved this. The lake is the second largest in NC, so we spent about 6 hours just swimming, fishing and kayaking within eyesight of the dock," shares Justin C.
Wildlife viewing: The wetland ecosystems support diverse wildlife observation opportunities throughout the year. "We traveled through there on the way back from a grocery run and saw a lot of wildlife including a baby black bear," notes one visitor about the roads near Goose Creek State Park Campground, where "several deer" frequently walk by campsites according to Charles G.
Fishing access: Several lakes and waterways provide productive fishing opportunities for multiple species. "I caught 7 large mouth bass and saw a lot of perch. 2 of them were keepers so I want to come back out again just to fish," reports a Pettigrew State Park visitor who fished the lake directly from shore.
What you should know
Limited supplies and services: The nearest full-service towns require driving time from most campgrounds. "Columbia is the closest town that has groceries or anything to eat," explains a camper, highlighting the importance of bringing necessary supplies.
Insect management: Mosquitoes and other insects can be significant, especially in warmer months near water. "Bring bug spray. We had some citronella and mosquito coils but we still had to spray some off," advises a regular camper at Pettigrew State Park.
Water level considerations: Seasonal conditions affect water levels and trail access in this lowland region. "If you walk out to the beach one morning in less than 10 minutes to view the sunrise," mentions Ashlee L. about Oregon Inlet Campground, where beach access paths can flood during wet periods.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Look for shallow water swimming options with gradual entry points for children. "The lake is so shallow," notes Justin C., explaining that despite swimming area closures, "we were able to swim everywhere because the lake is so shallow" during their family trip.
Ranger programs: Many parks offer educational activities for children about local wildlife and ecosystems. "The rangers were very nice. This has a much better swamp experience than the Great Dismal Swamp," explains Kent F. about their family trip to Merchants Millpond State Park.
Pet-friendly trail options: When camping with both children and pets near Creswell, choose appropriate trails for the whole family. "We checked out the campsites," mentions Benjamin C. about Rocky Hock Campground, where camping areas have "spacious and level" sites according to Paul R., making them suitable for families with pets.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer electrical service, but water access varies by location. At Rose Bay Preserve, which offers full hookups, visitors appreciate its strategic location: "Beside state boat ramp, access to anywhere, Next to ferry to Ocracoke too," notes Dan B.
Access road considerations: Some access routes to pet-friendly camping near Creswell have width restrictions or rough surfaces. "Sites #2-9 very private with full shade," notes Wayne B. about Pettigrew State Park, adding that "Site #1 can be tricky and may be best for off-road types."
Weather preparations: The coastal plain experiences significant seasonal temperature variations requiring appropriate RV systems. "We camped here in the winter a few years ago and finally got back out there this last weekend," shares a Pettigrew regular, emphasizing the importance of seasonal preparation for RV camping in this area.
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