Tent camping near Lumberton, North Carolina centers around the tea-colored waters of the Lumber River and nearby lakes. The region features predominantly sandy soil with pine-oak forests and sits at elevations between 100-200 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall more comfortable for campers.
What to do
Fishing from piers and banks: At Black River Camping Ventures, the fishing pier provides access to deep water fishing while shallow areas near sandbars work well for bank fishing. "The tea-colored water provides excellent fishing, exploration by kayak or paddleboard, or it can be your next favorite swimming hole," notes Taylor B.
Kayaking the Black River: Launch points at several campgrounds provide access to calm waters suitable for beginner paddlers. "Miles down river you can find the oldest cypress trees east of the Rocky Mountains," reports one camper at Black River Camping Ventures.
Stargazing in low light pollution: At Princess Ann — Lumber River State Park, the clear night skies offer excellent star viewing. "You can see tons of stars here at night, it is amazing! It's lovely to sit by the water and look at the night sky," writes Jennifer H.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park offers well-separated camping areas. One camper noted, "Probably the biggest spots to camp I've ever seen gives you the feel of basically being way off the beaten path." Another mentioned they are "Extra large and private campsites."
Swimming in shallow water: The shallow, warm waters make family swimming accessible. At Black River, "Most was pretty shallow and a huge sand bar area. The kids loved it and dogs too," according to Kelsey K. Similarly, Lake Waccamaw provides gradual entry points with "super shallow for at least a hundred yards in all directions from the dock."
Wildlife watching opportunities: Morning and evening hours bring active wildlife. At Princess Ann, one camper reported being "awoken at dawn by a cacophony of juvenile barred owls directly above us." Others mention frequent sightings of water birds, frogs, and dragonflies throughout the camping areas.
What you should know
Gate hours and access codes: Most parks lock entrance gates at night. At Chalk Banks, "the ranger came by and greeted us and gave us the code for the front gate since it is locked from 8 pm to 8 am." Another camper at Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground warns to arrive during open hours: "Word to the wise, when the website says the park closes at 'posted times', they mean 9pm."
Distance to facilities: Walking distances to restrooms and water sources vary significantly. At Lake Waccamaw, "sites 2-5 are a quarter mile plus from the parking area" and "sites 4 and 5 are very far from the bathroom. Don't forget anything in the car."
Insect preparation essential: Biting insects are abundant, especially in warmer months. One camper suggests "Bring mosquito netting or pop up to keep the horse flies away!" Another noted, "Not just mosquitoes, but knats, horse flies, flies, etc. They were terrible."
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for group camping: Certain sites accommodate families better than others. At Princess Ann, "Sites 7 & 8 would be perfect for two families to camp together, because they'd have the whole trail area to themselves."
Shallow swimming areas for children: Sandhills Campground B offers access to lakes with gradual entries. "There are a plenty of good lakes for fishing, and a bunch of trails to check out," notes Marvin D., though remember this is completely primitive camping with no facilities.
Supply logistics: With limited services nearby, planning is crucial. At Black River Camping Ventures, "There is a country store a 1/2 mile up the road that can provide food, fishing gear, etc and the nearest town is about 10 minutes away which has a dollar store."
Tips for RVers
Vehicle clearance considerations: Access roads to some campgrounds require appropriate vehicles. For Sandhills Campground B, "Make sure you have 4 wheel drive or a vehicle with good clearance, as it's all dirt roads in and around and leading to here."
Limited hookup options: While some sites offer electric and water hookups, amenities are generally minimal. At Chalk Banks, RV sites are configured as "pull through sites" on the right side of the campground, while tent camping occupies the left side.
