Dispersed camping options near Ivanhoe, North Carolina offer alternatives to luxury glamping experiences. Situated in Sampson County with sandy soil and mixed pine forests, the area provides a range of camping sites within a 30-mile radius. Temperature variations between seasons can be significant, with summer highs often reaching above 90°F and high humidity levels making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Swimming and wading access: At Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground, the shallow lake creates ideal conditions for families. According to one camper, "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" (Kathryn W.).
Mountain biking on sandy trails: Trails through the surrounding pine forests offer challenging terrain for cyclists. At Carolina Beach State Park Campground, "There are tons of hiking trails through a really beautiful area. I hear the fishing is also really good within the park, but I've never done it myself" (Sam M.).
Dog-friendly activities: Many campgrounds welcome pets with dedicated spaces. At CarrollWoods RV Park, "It has one of the best dog parks that I have ever been to. It is very spacious, fully shaded by lots of trees and even has a few man-made hills for the pooches to climb" (Nancy C.).
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Campers appreciate the space between sites at certain locations. At Wilmington KOA, "The deluxe tent sites were very nice with a covered sitting area and soft pads for our tent. The sites were well spaced as well" (JoAnne M.).
Convenient beach access: Though not directly on the coast, several campgrounds offer reasonable access to beaches. One visitor noted, "Cherry Grove beach was only 15 minutes or so away and there was a Food Lion less than 10 minutes for grocery shopping needs" (Ramona K.).
Rustic camping with water access: For those seeking alternatives to glamping in Ivanhoe, North Carolina, primitive camping with lake views provides a different experience. At Camp Ipecac Group Camp, "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 from the Walmart or Food Lion in town" (Ellen W.).
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Winter camping can be less crowded with mild temperatures. As one camper at Carolina Beach State Park noted, "I really enjoy camping here in December and January. Less people and the park is so nice" (Ms P.).
Amenities at upscale sites: Unlike traditional camping, luxury accommodations near Ivanhoe offer extensive facilities. At Willow Tree RV Resort, "Amenities included nice swimming pool and hot tub. Volleyball net and basketball hoop on each end of pool. Shuffleboard, corn hole, sand volleyball. Game room had a pool table, ping pong table, air hockey" (Ramona K.).
Insect considerations: Sandy soil conditions create specific challenges. Campers report, "The mosquitos (expectedly) were pretty voracious despite liberal application of repellent" at some sites (Kathryn W.).
Tips for camping with families
Recreation variety: Family-oriented campgrounds offer multiple activities beyond glamping. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, "Laser Tag. Splash pad. Water slides. Indoor and outdoor pool. Playgrounds. Dog parks. Putt-Putt. Ice Cream. Fishing. Basketball. Volleyball. Horse shoes…and our kids did it all" (E G.).
Mixed accommodation groups: Some sites accommodate different camping styles together. One camper noted, "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" (Ellen W.).
Budget-friendly alternatives: Traditional camping provides more economical options than luxury glamping in Ivanhoe. Carolina Beach State Park offers "nice clean bathgrounds. Great prices!!!" with "Great showers and clean campgrounds" (Amanda S.).
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer complete services. At Wilmington KOA, "Level spacious sites, most with a good shade tree, allows for a quick set up. To find the campground you have to pay attention and this is both a blessing and a challenge" (Robert T.).
Seasonal discounts: Off-peak camping can provide value. Several campgrounds offer reduced rates outside summer months, with military discounts available at some locations like Willow Tree RV Resort where "Military get 15% discount" (Tucker M.).
Site positioning: RV site orientation affects privacy and comfort. At some locations, "Along the lake where I camped, they are angled so that you don't really see much of your neighbors" (Rose S.).
