Campgrounds near Ivanhoe, North Carolina sit within the coastal plain region, approximately 30-50 feet above sea level. The area features sandy soils and blackwater rivers that flow through lowland forests of pine, cypress, and hardwood trees. Camping season runs year-round, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity from June through September.
What to do
Hiking through diverse ecosystems: Jones Lake State Park Campground offers four miles of trails through unique bay forest habitats. "The four-mile Bay Trail... weaved back and forth from the gravel road. We were disappointed that there were not many views of the lake (there are three overlooks, but access to them was restricted due to flooding)," notes one visitor.
Fishing in tea-colored waters: Black River Camping Ventures provides access to productive fishing spots. "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," according to one camper.
Boating and water recreation: White Lake offers clear water ideal for swimming and water sports. "The sites are laid out well and like most privately owned campgrounds are very close together... Great swimming area and beach. This is the perfect location for kids as the water is very clear and the change in water depth is gradual," writes a visitor to Camp Clearwater.
What campers like
Secluded natural settings: Black River Camping Ventures offers primitive camping in a tranquil environment. "You cannot understand how peaceful, quiet and tucked away this campground is until you arrive. 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."
Lake swimming access: Many campers appreciate the unique swimming opportunities in White Lake. At Camp Clearwater, "The swimming beach wasn't clean, but it was a fun place for kids to play," and "Great areas for kids to play. Activities were subdued this year due to COVID-19 but the campground usually has many activities."
Family-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to families with children. "This campground is an excellent place for young family campers. All the activities are set up for younger family entertainment. All businesses in the immediate surrounding areas are set up for the same young families," notes a camper about Camp Clearwater.
What you should know
Insect protection necessity: Bring plenty of bug spray for camping in warmer months. "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," warns a camper at Black River.
Variable site privacy: Jones Lake State Park Campground offers moderate separation between sites. "The campsites are not very private, we went in February so there was not many people around us, which was nice. Keep in mind during busy months you will definitely be able to see fellow campers around you."
Seasonal facilities: Facility maintenance varies throughout the year. "The bath house is also heated during the winter months and there are quite a few outlets available which we used to charge our phones," notes a reviewer about facilities at a local campground.
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities for kids: Camp Clearwater offers organized activities. "Great family campground! Lots to do for all ages! Every weekend bingo, dj with dance, Arcade with lots of games, gift shop and ice cream!! Food vendors and places to eat in walking distance."
Beach swimming options: White Lake provides ideal swimming for children. "The water is very clear and the change in water depth is gradual," making it safer for inexperienced swimmers.
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Ivanhoe feature play areas. At Wilmington KOA, "The playground was awesome and included a cool wooden pirate ship. The grandkids loved it!" Another reviewer noted, "Our kids were very happy with the little pool."
Tips from RVers
RV site configurations: Jones Lake State Park Campground provides varied site options. "Camper driveways are very generous in size and level. Sites are spaced far enough apart to provide reasonable privacy/separation. Sites vary. Two ADA-accessible sites have a concrete pad; most others have gravel pads, but two are just open grassy sites."
Hook-up availability: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Ivanhoe offer full hookup sites. "Six of the CG's back-in sites are FHUs with both 30 & 50 AMP. However, there are very spacious pull thru sites, but no hook ups, not even electric," notes an RVer about Jones Lake State Park.
Road conditions: Access roads and site driveways vary across campgrounds. "The roads were narrow but one way. Our back-in was a little challenging with our 39' 5th wheel due to brush across the road, but very doable," shares an RV camper describing their experience.
