Camping spots near Lumberton, North Carolina feature a mix of state parks, family farms, and private campgrounds throughout the coastal plain region. The area sits at approximately 130 feet above sea level with sandy soil that drains quickly after the frequent summer thunderstorms. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing between December and February, requiring campers to disconnect water hoses.
What to do
River paddling: The Lumber River offers excellent kayaking opportunities at Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park, located about 30 minutes northwest of Lumberton. "The river is about half a mile from the campground and has a put in for kayaks," notes camper Cody T. The park features "beautiful hikes around the river right next door" according to another visitor.
Farm animal interactions: At Double L Farms Campground, campers can spend time with various farm animals. "A working farm that even had the dog smiling at the end of the day," writes Marty. Another camper mentions, "If you have a family with small children, they will love the horses, chickens, guinea hens, and the couple of friendly cats and dogs that they own."
Lake activities: Jones Lake State Park provides swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating from late spring through early fall. "There is a lake on site for swimming, canoeing, paddle boat, and also fishing," writes one visitor. The sandy-bottom lake is tea-colored from natural tannins, and the park rents canoes and paddle boats during summer months.
What campers like
Cleanliness and maintenance: Campers frequently praise the well-maintained facilities at Spacious Skies Sandy Run. "Very neat and clean. The sites were hard packed sand and you have a very nice patio and fire pit," writes one camper. Another mentions that "the restroom/shower/laundry facilities are exceptional."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. At Princess Ann — Lumber River State Park, "Sites 7 & 8 would be perfect for two families to camp together, because they'd have the whole trail area to themselves," notes Courtney B. The park also offers tent camping with "a cacophony of juvenile barred owls directly above us."
Farm-fresh experiences: Several campers enjoy the unique farming atmosphere at Legacy Farms Roughing It. "Beautiful Arabian horses. Also goats, ducks, turkeys, chickens, roosters, Guineas, etc. Cats and dogs add to the fun," writes Evan S. The farm offers both primitive tent sites and limited RV hookups.
What you should know
Limited shower facilities: Some campgrounds have minimal bathroom facilities. At Chalk Banks, there is "only one toilet for the entire campground however it was very clean." Campers should check amenities before booking, as some locations have vault toilets rather than flush facilities.
Gate closing times: State parks enforce strict gate closing hours. "Word to the wise, when the website says the park closes at 'posted times', they mean 9pm," writes Jay B. about camping at Chalk Banks. Rangers typically provide gate codes to registered campers who need to enter after hours.
Distance from stores: Most campgrounds are located away from commercial areas. "There is no park store or anything, so bring what you need," advises one camper. At Jones Lake State Park Campground, "there aren't any stores around, so get your food and supplies before you arrive."
Tips for camping with families
Farm animal experiences: Double L Farms Campground offers unique opportunities for children to interact with farm animals. "In the morning Brian took our two year old on a tour of their amazing farm — horses, cows, ducks, chickens, and all the tractors of our toddlers' dreams," writes Heather M.
Playgrounds and activities: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. "If you have kids they will love the playground that is in the campground," notes one camper about Jones Lake State Park. The park also has "swimming, fishing pier, kayak and paddleboat rentals, trails and so much more."
Easy hiking options: For families with young children, the trails around Jones Lake provide accessible walks. "Hiked here a couple times. Lake is beautiful and there is a swimming area. Flat all around so if you're looking for difficulty this is not the place," writes William R.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly between campgrounds. At Lumberton I-95 KOA, the location is "conveniently located right off of I-95" with "no potholes for trucks to hit all night," according to Fred R. However, some campgrounds have challenging access roads with "dirt road to campsite is packed white sand."
Site specifications: RVers should carefully check site details when booking. At Spacious Skies Sandy Run, "There were full hookup and lots of big rigs/TT and class A's in park." Another camper notes, "Just because you booked a pull through…doesn't mean you have a pull through spot when you show up."
Winter camping considerations: For winter camping, be prepared for freezing temperatures. One camper at Spacious Skies Sandy Run mentions receiving "a rather rude letter at the camp office demanding that we disconnect on specific dates by 6pm" due to forecasted freezing temperatures. Most campgrounds require disconnecting water hoses during freezes unless using heated hoses.
