Glamping close to Laurinburg, North Carolina offers outdoor experiences in the Carolina Sandhills region, characterized by sandy soil and longleaf pine forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while winters remain mild with occasional frost. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 200-300 feet above sea level, creating gentle terrain suitable for hiking and water activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Cheraw State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy excellent fishing in Lake Juniper. "I have stayed here multiple times. I really love setting up on the water sites and having my kayak and fishing gear ready to go," notes one regular camper who appreciates the easy lake access.
Hiking trails: The area features several walking paths through pine forests. "There is a nice little walk partially around the lake. It is a small campground with nice spots," reports a Cheraw State Park visitor. Most trails are gentle and suitable for beginners.
Boating and water activities: Many campgrounds offer boat rentals. "When it isn't off season they have cheap boat rentals. Firewood is $6.50 per bundle," shares one winter visitor to Cheraw. Several parks maintain designated swimming areas during summer months.
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystems support abundant birdwatching. "Bird sanctuary so birders will LOVE this campground! There is also a really nice museum type of visitor's center," explains an enthusiastic visitor who discovered the rich avian life.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Pine Lake RV Resort receives praise for its tranquil setting. "This campground is very clean and quiet with lots of things to do, there is a pond to go fishing and the campground has a variety of boats and kayaks that you can use on the pond," notes one camper who appreciated the peaceful environment.
Off-season value: Winter camping offers fewer crowds and budget benefits. "We were lucky enough to catch a great view of Jupiter merging with Saturn last night. Super cheap. We stayed four nights for under $100," reports a December visitor to Cheraw State Park who enjoyed both astronomy opportunities and affordable rates.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent positive feedback. "The bathrooms and showers were amazingly clean and they had a giant heater you can turn on over the showers when it's cold outside!" shares a Cheraw visitor who was impressed with the comfort level of the facilities.
Military-friendly options: Smith Lake Army RV Park caters specifically to Department of Defense personnel. "Great Stay for DOD associated members. Playgrounds were phenomenal for kids. Bike and Hiking trails all throughout the site. Fishing as well - with respective fishing license," explains a military family who enjoyed the specialized amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect campground operations. "Off season gem! Didn't have any expectations of this place since it's in the middle of nowhere and not many photos. We loved it here," shares a winter visitor who found unexpected beauty during the quieter months.
Limited services in remote locations: Some campgrounds have minimal nearby amenities. "There aren't any stores around, so get your food and supplies before you arrive," advises a visitor to Little Pee Dee State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of preparation.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require attention. "Road to campground is horrible! Very narrow, trees hanging over it, dirt, but huge holes! Obviously needs to be graded," warns an RV owner who navigated challenging conditions.
Military sounds: Campgrounds near bases experience aircraft noise. "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," explains a Smith Lake Army RV Park camper who embraced the unique soundscape.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sycamore Lodge offers multiple recreation options. "Beautiful campground, meticulously maintained. Store, restaurant, pool, dog park, kayak on lake, putt putt, cornhole, shuffleboard, horseshoes just to name a few," lists one visitor who found plenty for children to enjoy.
Swimming options: Several locations maintain designated swimming areas. "A cute little beach area with kayak and canoe rentals. Day area open from 8am to sunset," notes a visitor describing recreational possibilities for families with children.
Site selection for privacy: Camping areas vary in spacing between sites. "The regular sites are usually full, and very close, but the lake front sites are gorgeous and worth being close to neighbors," advises a family camper at Cheraw who found the premium locations worthwhile despite proximity to other campers.
Group camping considerations: Some parks accommodate larger family gatherings. "We stayed in the camp juniper group area this time, but have camped in the regular campground in the past," shares a Girl Scout leader who found the group area worked well for their troop despite bathroom limitations.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Sugarloaf Mountain presents some navigation concerns. "Site 7's entryway was washed out and had some large holes that would benefit from higher clearance and 4WD," warns an experienced RVer who assessed the various camping areas.
Hookup availability: Power and water connections vary between sites. "All with water and electric hookups. Per did not work at our site so we had to move from our great lake view site to one next to the bath house," explains an RV camper who encountered utility issues.
Sand management: The sandy soil affects camping comfort. "The interior roads and sites are sand so you will get it in your camper," notes a visitor who experienced the region's characteristic sandy conditions firsthand.
Site sizing: Different campgrounds accommodate varying RV lengths. "We stayed in site 1B and had no issue finding a spot by the water in our 22' travel trailer," shares an RV owner who successfully navigated a primitive camping area typically challenging for larger vehicles.
Ranger
