Tent camping near Erwin, North Carolina offers several secluded options within a short drive. The region sits at the intersection of the Coastal Plain and Piedmont regions, creating diverse terrain for campers ranging from riverside settings to pine forest environments. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons provide milder 60-75°F daytime temperatures.
What to do
River adventures: At Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park, campers can kayak and fish along the accessible waterway. "The lumber river access is ideal to kayak and fish," notes one visitor, who appreciates that the park is "decently far off the main road so it's quiet."
Hiking trails: Multiple networks of trails accommodate different skill levels. "There is a hiking trail here as well," mentions a Chalk Banks reviewer, while others note the "beautiful hikes around the river right next door." Many trails connect directly to camping areas.
Fishing spots: Local waterways support fishing opportunities, especially at Lumber River where bank fishing and boat access points exist. "Easy parking nice boat ramp for the kayaks," reports one camper, making it convenient for anglers to access fishing spots.
What campers like
Privacy and space: William B. Umstead State Park Campground offers secluded sites that feel removed from urban surroundings. "Primitive camping has drive in, picnic table, fire ring, tent spot, and trails starting at your back door," explains one visitor who appreciates the self-contained camping experience.
Natural setting: Campers value the forested environments. "This campsite doesn't seem to be too popular which is fine. The tent sites are some of the better spread out ones that I've seen," notes a camper at Chalk Banks, while another describes the area as having "beautiful and quiet sites" that are "primitive but well cared for."
Water access: RTP Lakefront Campsite offers direct lake access for paddlers. "Feel free to bring your kayak or canoe to take out onto the water," mentions a reviewer, highlighting the ability to camp with watercraft access.
What you should know
Gate hours: Several campgrounds have restricted entrance times. At Chalk Banks, "the gate is locked from 8 pm to 8 am," with a reviewer noting, "the ranger came by and greeted us and gave us the code for the front gate." Always confirm gate codes upon arrival.
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic amenities only. At San-Lee Park, "the sites have fire pits, grills, tables, and there are a couple of water spigots on the site. There are also bathrooms with showers." Chalk Banks has "one vault toilet and one water source."
Reservation systems: Requirements vary by location. San-Lee Park requires advanced planning as one visitor discovered: "we were told you can only camp there by making reservations 72 hours ahead of time." At Chalk Banks, a ranger mentioned "they seldom get too crowded, and you can almost always get a reservation."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access options: Youth Tent Camp — William B. Umstead State Park provides organized facilities for youth groups with bathrooms and running water. Umstead is described as "a great little campground right inside Raleigh. I've camped there several times with the kids and it's great because it's so close and there are a few good hikes."
Playgrounds nearby: Several parks feature children's recreation areas. At San-Lee Park, "once you park your vehicle at the main parking lot, to the right, you'll see the children's playground," providing an activity option between camping and hiking.
Short trails: Look for beginner-friendly paths for younger hikers. Umstead offers "a wide variety of single track to larger sand/dirt paths," making it suitable for families with children of different hiking abilities.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most tent-focused campgrounds have limited RV capacity. Chalk Banks has a designated area where "the right hand side of the campground is set up for RVs (pull through sites)" while "the left hand side is for tent camping."
Water and electric: Always confirm hookup availability before arrival. Sycamore Rustic Cabins offers electric hookups but requires advance booking as capacity is limited.
Supply locations: No campgrounds offer extensive stores or services. "There is no park store or anything, so bring what you need," advises a Chalk Banks visitor who found "the one place in town that sold firewood, it's the speedway gas station" about 10 minutes from the campground.
