Tent campsites near Harrells, North Carolina are predominantly situated on sandy coastal plain terrain with elevations typically under 100 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid subtropical conditions with average summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below freezing. Campgrounds in this area often contend with seasonal flooding issues, particularly those situated along the Black River watershed where water levels can fluctuate significantly after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Kayaking on tea-colored waters: Black River Camping Ventures provides direct access to one of North Carolina's most distinctive blackwater rivers. "The tea-colored water provides excellent fishing, exploration by kayak or paddleboard, or it can be your next favorite swimming hole. Miles down river you can find the oldest cypress trees east of the Rocky Mountains," notes a visitor who rated their experience 5 stars.
Fishing opportunities: Local waters support diverse fishing opportunities in multiple environments. At Freeman Park, "Others in tents had a bit more of an adventure. Bear in mind that we come here for nature and Mother Nature can make herself known on the oceanfront!" reports one camper who successfully fished despite challenging beach conditions.
Night sky observation: The rural setting around Harrells offers reduced light pollution compared to nearby urban areas. At Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground, one visitor noted, "Bullfrogs, peepers, and owls called all night. Dragonflies galore flew about. It's rustic, but relaxing."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground offers well-separated camping areas. "The sites are all a far distance from one another so there's no chance of bothering one another at night. We had two neighbors during our stay but never heard or saw them, except when coming and going from the site to the parking area," reports one camper.
Beach camping experience: For those willing to travel slightly farther, Freeman Park provides oceanfront camping. "Very nice to fall asleep to the sound of the crashing ocean waves and to wake up to the same. The sites were actually a bit larger than they sound online. Plenty of room for a couple vehicles and tents as well as a canopy," shares a tent camper.
Shade coverage: Black River Camping Ventures offers natural protection from summer heat. A camper described the setting: "Be ready to be greeted by large oaks and pines that provide massive shade in the warmer months and beautiful, colorful foliage in the fall."
What you should know
Seasonal fluctuations: Visitor experiences vary dramatically between seasons. For Freeman Park, one reviewer advises: "Better to camp here during the cooler weather. I would recommend only during the cooler months. Feb-March, Sept-Nov. That's about the only time you can hope to avoid a chaotic, party scene."
Limited amenities: Most campgrounds in the Harrells region provide minimal facilities. At Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground, "The pit toilet had a healthy population of spiders, but the campsite was an easy walk to flush toilets and water fountains."
Insect considerations: The warm, humid environment supports significant insect activity. One visitor to Black River Camping Ventures warned: "This was not our ideal spot because it was very close spots to other campers. And so many bugs. Not just mosquitoes, but knats, horse flies, flies, etc. They were terrible."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety awareness: The shallow water features are both an attraction and safety consideration. At Lake Waccamaw, a family camper observed: "The lake is super shallow for at least a hundred yards in all directions from the dock. Where shoes when walking on the dock, lots of nail heads and splinters."
Campsite distances: Consider walking distances when selecting sites with children. "The only warning I'd give is you are permitted to drive to your campsite to set up, but sites 2-5 are a quarter mile plus from the parking area... especially sites 4 and 5 (we were in 4) are very far from the bathroom. Don't forget anything in the car," advises one Lake Waccamaw camper.
Long-term options: For extended family stays, some campgrounds accommodate longer visits. "We stayed in site 5 for 11 days. The Yurt had been removed but the platform stayed. We were able to get up our large tent on the platform and have enough space for our chairs," reported one family at Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Vehicle access to water-adjacent sites often presents challenges. At Freeman Park, a camper warns: "First and foremost, make sure you know how to drive in the sand and what to do when your car gets stuck. It happened to us, as well as to many vehicles on the beach."
Seasonal availability: Camping permissions vary seasonally at some locations. A Freeman Park visitor explains: "The camping is allowed on the beach Labor Day through Memorial Day, but might require a permit, check the rules before you go. In the past, the permit was required only after April 1."
Utility connections: Most sites near Harrells offer limited or no hookups. An RV visitor recommends bringing portable water containers and battery-powered amenities for stays at these more primitive locations.
