Merchants Millpond State Park offers tent camping near Gatesville, North Carolina within a unique wetland ecosystem that requires specific preparation. The park's primitive campsites span multiple camping areas, each demanding different navigation skills and equipment. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting navigation routes and exposing underwater hazards that can damage watercraft.
What to do
Fishing with caution: Bennett's Creek Canoe-In Campground provides fishing opportunities, though anglers should carefully consider equipment. "My group and I stayed at the Bennett's creek high ground primitive camp sites 1-3. It was a 4.5 mile paddle to the site, then roughly 1.5 down to the dock with a staged vehicle," notes Todd B. at Bennetts Creek Canoe In Campground.
Navigation preparation: Mark N. advises visitors to "bring your 3rd party map/GPS. The maps they provide are almost useless because it outlines the terrain but because it's a swamp the terrain changes with the water level. Islands can appear out of nowhere." Proper navigation tools prevent disorientation in the Merchants Millpond Canoe-In Campground area.
Motorized restrictions: Edward H. cautions against bringing motorized watercraft: "If you don't plan on paddling with a kayak or maybe a canoe don't risk it. I was going to take a Jon boat with a trolling motor and there are countless limbs and the overgrowth is terrible you will not make it through."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The park's ecosystem supports diverse animal sightings year-round. Visitors at Merchants Millpond Backpack Campground appreciate the park staff knowledge about local wildlife. "The staff were very nice and very knowledgeable," reports Smol W.
Marked water routes: Heather R. explains, "Buoys marked the different routes to the different areas of the park. Easy to follow. Sites are well maintained and not right on top of each other. All had firepits, grills, and a picnic table."
Self-service canoe rentals: Visitors can access watercraft through the park's self-service system. "Canoes are self service (you have to get them off the rack, get paddles and lifejackets yourself). Put in is easy, and they use a buoy system to help navigate to the canoe-in campsites," explains one camper.
What you should know
Water safety concerns: Mark N. emphasizes water quality issues: "The water there does not move therefore is not recommended for filtering for consumption. The campsights are pretty close together so don't expect privacy on a busy weekend. The scenery is TOP KNOTCH! Absolutely beautiful in the lake which is not well marked due to limited visibility in the swampy environment."
Underwater obstacles: Multiple campers report challenges with submerged hazards. "We brought out Hobie kayaks (beware if you bring them our mirage drive seemed to find every downed tree or cypress knob under the water)," notes one visitor. These obstacles can damage watercraft or cause capsizing.
Site selection strategy: The interior sites away from water sometimes offer advantages. Becky E. shared, "Our campsites were not directly on the water. At first we were a little bummed the waterfront weren't available but it worked out for the best. Our sites were more private, a shorter walk to the pit toilet, and the trees provided a slight buffer from the tremendous sounds of the frogs at night!"
Tips for camping with families
Navigation timing: Allow sufficient travel time when bringing children to campsites. "We arrived pretty late. Around 7pm because we had a late start. Unfortunately we didn't stay because our site was hike in and I thought I did drive in," reports Smol W., highlighting the importance of early arrivals when camping with kids.
Regional alternative: For families seeking an easier camping experience near Gatesville, Sandy Bottom Nature Park in Hampton, Virginia offers walk-in tent sites with modern amenities. "The sites were located about 1/4 mile from the parking lot down a trail. They were spaced nicely apart and had nice sand tent platforms with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate," reports Liz J.
Seasonal planning: Plan family trips during spring or fall to minimize insect encounters. Summer camping brings increased bug activity in the swampy terrain that can overwhelm younger campers. The shoulder seasons provide more comfortable temperatures and less intense insect pressure.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: RV camping is not supported at the primitive sites within Merchants Millpond State Park. The canoe-in and backpack sites accommodate tent camping exclusively, requiring paddling or hiking to reach destinations. RV campers looking for sites near Gatesville should consider alternative campgrounds with drive-in access.
