Glamping near Hope Mills, North Carolina offers outdoor accommodations surrounded by Carolina pines and waterways. The area sits at approximately 108 feet above sea level, with warm summers reaching into the 90s and mild winters rarely dropping below freezing. Seasonal changes affect water levels in nearby lakes and rivers, impacting fishing and boating opportunities throughout the year.
What to do
Hiking trails: Raven Rock State Park in Lillington maintains several loop trails along the Cape Fear River. One visitor noted, "There are quite a few different campsites to choose from. The trails are great for day hikes also. You can also swim in the Fish Traps, which is a unique cluster of rocks on the river."
Fishing opportunities: Smith Lake Army RV Park features a lake where military families can fish with proper licensing. According to a review, "Lots of recreational activities with lake access. Staff was very friendly. Concrete pads are level and sites are spacious with a picnic table and fire pit."
Waterfront activities: Cozy Heron Glamping provides direct access to water recreation. "We stayed 3 nights in June. Two days on the water, tubing and kayaks. Cooked out, had a great time," reports one visitor who enjoyed the waterfront location.
Putt-putt and games: Sycamore Lodge offers additional recreational activities beyond swimming. As one camper described, "Beautiful campground, meticulously maintained. Store, restaurant, pool, dog park, kayak on lake, putt putt, cornhole, shuffleboard, horseshoes just to name a few."
What campers like
Peaceful environments: Moonshine Creek Campground receives praise for its tranquil setting. One camper stated, "This was the prettiest, friendliest, most peaceful campground I've ever stayed. I cannot talk about it enough! Landscaping is beautiful, but still natural. Benches throughout even in the creek to put your feet in."
Military community: Smith Lake Army RV Park creates a supportive environment for service members. A visitor mentioned, "Great Stay for DOD associated members. Playgrounds were phenomenal for kids. Bike and Hiking trails all throughout the site. Overall great experience - and highly recommended for military families."
Natural water features: Many campgrounds incorporate creeks or lakes. At Moonshine Creek, "We camped with our patio hanging out over the creek. It was fantastic. We loved it so much that we are going back next summer for three months."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently note the cleanliness of bathhouses and common areas. "The BEST and cleanest bathhouse I've ever seen," wrote one Moonshine Creek visitor, while another praised the "Good clean bathhouse with newer washers/dryers and a covered porch where you can hang out waiting for your laundry."
What you should know
Limited services: Some campgrounds have minimal amenities. At Little Pee Dee State Park, "There aren't any stores around, so get your food and supplies before you arrive. Each one also has a picnic table and campfire ring that you can cook on."
Military noise: Smith Lake Army RV Park sits near active training areas. A reviewer noted, "Next to Simmons Army Air Field so, expect whirlybirds at all hours buzzing the CG. All the sounds of freedom are to be expected and enjoyed."
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. Campgrounds with swimming access become especially important during these months. "The lake is absolutely beautiful, and one of my favorite things about this park," reported one Little Pee Dee visitor.
Seasonal closures: Some facilities operate seasonally. One camper at Moonshine Creek mentioned, "No full-timers, as the park is closed during the winter." Always check operating schedules before planning winter visits.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: White Lake Motel & Campground offers family-friendly amenities. A visitor reported, "Has its own beach access and pier, great playground at the beach for the kids and swings on the beach which is awesome!"
Consider group camping options: Singletary Lake State Park provides spaces for larger family gatherings. "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," one visitor explained.
Choose campgrounds with organized activities: Some locations coordinate regular events for children. At Sycamore Lodge, reviewers appreciate the diverse options: "So much to do!! Fun activities all the time! The atmosphere is friendly and fun! The pool, the hot tub, volleyball, game room and well-stocked store!"
Bring water toys: Lakes and creeks provide natural entertainment. Campers at Singletary Lake enjoy "The lake is awesome, great kayaking and fishing! The area is just away from White Lake and Elizabethtown to be secluded and private but close enough to get what you need."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entrances. At Pine Lake RV Resort, "The road to is dirt with sand mix, they good a good job of keeping it graded. The only down sides are that the sites are pretty packed close together."
Site conditions: Pay attention to pad materials and sizes. "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 through. They have sites that can handle long rigs," reported one camper at Fayetteville RV Resort.
Connectivity considerations: Despite remote locations, some campgrounds maintain decent service. At Moonshine Creek, "Surprisingly good cell reception for being in the mountains and having lots of tree cover. Got 1-3 bars ATT depending on where I was within the campground."
Maneuverability: Larger rigs may face challenges. One Pine Lake visitor noted, "The only down side is it can be hard to get larger trailers in and out of the park and into and out of some of the sits."
