Moccasin Branch Campground at Raven Rock State Park offers secluded tent and RV camping options approximately 30 miles from Erwin. The campground sits along the Cape Fear River with multiple trails connecting camping areas to scenic spots and swimming locations. Winter temperatures average 40-55°F during the day, while summer months can reach 85-95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Hiking trails: Moccasin Branch Campground features several trails of varying difficulty connecting to the Cape Fear River. "We hiked in from the parking lot too one of the canoe in sites on the river. I loved all the trails, mainly the one that goes from the campsite I was on to the river where there is natural waterslide," notes one visitor who camped with children.
River activities: The Cape Fear River provides natural swimming spots and fishing opportunities. A camper described the experience: "Best advice is there are some big rocks in the river at various locations that you can lay on and take a nap. Super comfy and the water is also pretty shallow. Great place to get wet."
Creek exploration: Moonshine Creek Campground features tent sites right along a flowing creek. "There are spots to get into the creek. The landscaping is beautiful, but still natural. Benches throughout even in the creek to put your feet in," explains a recent visitor. The creek provides a cool respite during hot summer days.
What campers like
Natural waterways: Most glamping sites near Erwin, North Carolina provide access to bodies of water. At Crosswinds Campground, campers appreciate the lakefront sites. "Loved having a double site with my parents. Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy," shares one visitor who enjoyed the lake access.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around campsites offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At B.W. Wells Campground, "Located on a semi rural area, the sites are very wooded and quiet. There was a lake nearby with an open sky where you could see hundreds of stars at night," reports a camper who enjoyed the natural setting and stargazing.
Fishing access: Fishing opportunities abound at multiple locations, particularly at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park. "Offers some short trails to hike but nothing crazy. Awesome fishing spots throughout. Definitely worth a visit," notes a fisherman who camped at this location with friends.
What you should know
Site access considerations: Some roads and sites may present challenges for larger vehicles. At Pine Lake RV Resort, "The road to is dirt with sand mix, they good a job of keeping it graded... The only down sides are that the sites are pretty packed close together." This information helps RVers prepare for access conditions.
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary considerably between campgrounds. B.W. Wells Campground offers modern facilities: "Bathroom facilities with hot showers located near every loop. Swimming areas at certain places around the lake. Kayaking and boat access also. Great restaurants and gas stations near by."
Weather variations: The area experiences seasonal temperature swings. For winter camping, one visitor noted: "The bathhouse wasn't quite warm enough for showers in November temps, when we tented. January was just as cold, but we rented a camper." Plan accordingly with appropriate gear or accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming locations: Families should research swimming options ahead of time. "There is a small swimming lake, views of the Neuse River, 3 levels of hiking trails with a welcome center and campground," explains a camper at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, highlighting kid-friendly water activities.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground facilities. Smith Lake Army RV Park receives praise from families: "Playgrounds were phenomenal for kids. Bike and Hiking trails all through out the site. Fishing as well - with respective fishing license."
Safety considerations: Parents should assess trail difficulty before hiking with children. A Moccasin Branch visitor shared: "We do a lot of primitive camping. So we are used to different terrain, and no bathrooms," indicating that families should consider their children's experience level when selecting trails and campsites.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RVers should confirm site sizes before booking. At Moonshine Creek Campground, "The campground road is sort of narrow and the sites can be a little tight, making it awkward to back in if you have a large TV and full-size camper - but once you're in it's all good."
Utility connections: Most luxury glamping spots near Erwin offer full hookups, but connections vary by site. "Starting at $30/night for a camping lot. I came here with a 25 foot shuttle bus. There are people here with deluxe buses, car+tent campers and everything in between," reports a B.W. Wells Campground visitor describing the variety of RV accommodations available.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "This is a wonderful place, above 3000 ft convenient to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, Waynesville, Cherokee Casino," shares a Moonshine Creek camper who noted the campground closes during winter months.
