Cabin camping near Harrells, North Carolina provides access to a mix of coastal plain ecosystems with sandy soils typical of southeastern North Carolina. Located in Sampson County, Harrells sits in a region characterized by longleaf pine forests, pocosins, and blackwater creeks that feed into the Cape Fear River system. Winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing for extended periods, making year-round cabin camping viable though summer humidity brings substantial mosquito activity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Leamon Family Campground offers a small lake stocked with fish where campers can enjoy recreational fishing. One visitor mentioned, "The small lake is beautiful and full of fish" and that the campground is "near a small bustling town with everything you need."
Trail exploration: Cliffs of the Neuse State Park Campground provides several hiking trails through hardwood forests with views overlooking the Neuse River. A camper reported, "There are about 3-4 miles of hiking trails, one that takes you beside the 90-foot cliffs overlooking the Neuse River." Another noted, "View was gorgeous and hikes were beautiful in hard wood forest."
Water recreation: Seasonal swimming and boating activities are available at several nearby parks. One visitor to Cliffs of the Neuse State Park Campground stated, "During the summer, you can swim or rent canoes and paddle boats. You can fish at the river or in the lake."
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Campers appreciate the relative quiet of smaller campgrounds in the region. A visitor to Whipoorwill Campground noted it's "Well off the main road as well so you hardly hear any traffic" and has "Plenty of paths and areas to walk around and stretch your legs, along side multiple ponds with catch and release only fishing."
Swimming facilities: Many campgrounds maintain swimming areas that provide relief during hot summer months. At Carolina Beach State Park Campground, a visitor explained, "In July, the water temperature is perfect, the waves are nice, and it's great all around."
Winter camping options: Unlike some seasonal facilities, several campgrounds remain open year-round. One camper at Carolina Beach State Park Campground shared, "I've been here at different times of the year. I really enjoy camping here in December and January. Less people and the park is so nice."
What you should know
Facility conditions vary widely: Some cabin camping locations have dated facilities. A recent visitor to Lake Leamon Family Campground reported, "The only drawback is that the camp itself is outdated. The so-called bathhouses need a severe update... There's one male toilet and one female toilet for the entire camp."
Advance planning required: Most cabin accommodations book quickly, especially during peak seasons. Campers should reserve well ahead, particularly for weekends.
Limited hiking at some parks: While scenic, not all parks offer extensive trail systems. One camper at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park Campground observed, "If I am not mistaken, the total length of trails is fewer three miles. However, the main attraction is the view over the Neuse River."
Tips for camping with families
Group accommodations: Camp Ipecac Group Camp at Singletary Lake State Park offers facilities for family reunions or larger gatherings. A visitor explained, "This is a spacious group camping area; You can rent some cabins and/or rent RV spots so if you have a mixed camping family, so came come in their rvs/trailers and others can rent a cabin and y'all will still be next to each other."
Recreational facilities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and activities. The Wilmington KOA features "Two pools, hot tub, mini golf, basketball court, horseshoes and playground all included in your price," according to a recent guest.
Proximity to supplies: Families should consider cabin locations relative to stores for restocking essentials. A camper at Camp Ipecac noted the park is "just away from White lake and Elizabethtown to be secluded and private but close enough to get what you need from the Walmart or Food Lion in town!"
Tips from RVers
Extended stay options: Some campgrounds accommodate longer-term arrangements. A guest at Fayetteville RV Resort & Cottages reported, "600 a month is more than reasonable for the area. The staff is super and they keep the camp ground top notch."
Site conditions: Many RV sites near Harrells feature gravel pads rather than concrete or paved surfaces. A visitor to Fayetteville RV Resort & Cottages described, "All sites seem to be gravel pads, nice, level, average length and width. Full hook up's. I would guess half of the sites are pull though."
Sand management: The sandy soil common to the region requires additional preparation. As one experienced camper advised, "This park is sandy, so when you are camping, you will probably want to put some kind of rug in front of your tent or RV to minimize the amount of sand that you track in."
