Tent camping near Leland, North Carolina offers access to the unique Carolina Bay lake system and Atlantic coastal environments within a 30-mile radius. The area features a mix of sandy coastal plains and blackwater river systems with cypress trees, creating diverse habitat for wildlife. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter camping provides more comfortable conditions with temperatures averaging 50-60°F during the day.
What to do
Water recreation at Black River: The shallow water areas at Black River Camping Ventures provide excellent swimming spots for families. "The river was lots of fun. Most was pretty shallow and a huge sand bar area. The kids loved it and dogs too. Lots of people fishing too," notes camper Kelsey K.
Kayaking to ancient trees: Paddle through tea-colored waters to see some of America's oldest trees. "Miles down river you can find the oldest cypress trees east of the Rocky Mountains," explains Taylor B. from Black River Camping Ventures.
Beach activities at Carolina Beach: Freeman Park offers beach camping with direct ocean access. "We had a great time and great view camping on the beach. The amenities are pretty basic but it's all we need for camping!" shares Lauren about her New Year's Eve camping experience.
Ferry rides and coastal exploration: Visit nearby Southport via ferry from Fort Fisher. "Down South of it is bald island a access to a ferry that will take you to Southport," recommends Tony B., who enjoyed exploring the area.
What campers like
Relative privacy between sites: Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground offers secluded camping spots. "The sites are all a far distance from one another so there's no chance of bothering one another at night. We had two neighbors during our stay but never heard or saw them," reports Kristin T.
Quieter camping during off-season: Freeman Park is less crowded during certain months. "Camping here can be very hit-or-miss, depending on the time of year. I would recommend only during the cooler months. Feb-March, Sept-Nov. That's about the only time you can hope to avoid a chaotic, party scene," advises Greg T.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lake environments support diverse wildlife. "Bullfrogs, peepers, and owls called all night. Dragonflies galore flew about. It's rustic, but relaxing," shares Courtney B. about Lake Waccamaw.
Beachfront sunrise views: Waking up to ocean sunrises ranks high with campers. "Wonderful to wake up to the sunrise over the ocean," says Phillip C. about his Freeman Park experience where they were almost alone except for "two nice guys just there to night fish."
What you should know
Distance to facilities varies greatly: Sites at Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground require planning ahead. "The only warning I'd give is you are permitted to drive to your campsite to set up, but sites 2-5 are a quarter mile plus from the parking area... especially sites 4 and 5 are very far from the bathroom. Don't forget anything in the car," cautions Kristin T.
Beach driving requires proper preparation: Vehicle access at Freeman Park demands specific skills. "First and foremost, make sure you know how to drive in the sand and what to do when your car gets stuck. It happened to us, as well as to many vehicles on the beach," warns Katy S.
Insect protection is essential: Bugs can be problematic, especially in summer months. "Not just mosquitoes, but knats, horse flies, flies, etc. They were terrible," reports Kelsey K. about Black River Camping Ventures.
Tidal awareness for beach campers: Ocean tides affect camping conditions. "Also CRITICAL to be educated about beach weather and TIDES!!!! Super high tides were present during my visit. A high Queen tide came near the camp spots at night while a super high king tide COMPLETELY COVERED the camp sites in the morning!" emphasizes one Freeman Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water access: The gentle slope at Black River Camping Ventures works well for young swimmers. "Most was pretty shallow and a huge sand bar area. The kids loved it and dogs too," notes Kelsey K.
Aquarium and museum proximity: Educational opportunities complement outdoor activities. "There is also a aquarium, and museum down the road if you need a history or education fix," shares Tony B. about the Fort Fisher area attractions.
Look for educational programs: Some military recreation areas offer structured activities. Bonnie F. mentions Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area has "ongoing outdoor classes (kayaking, ghost turtle hunting, etc)" that can engage kids.
Team building challenges: River Island Adventures offers unique family activities. "They offer kayaking, paddleboarding, tubing, camping, glamping, night paddles with 6 different kinds of smores!! And the super cool Escape River Island which is 10 challenges like survivor or amazing race or escape room or something. Great team building!!!" explains Cherish C.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up locations may be problematic: Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area sites have unique limitations. "The sites themselves are extremely long, but for some reason the hook-ups are all near the front of the site, so you can't take advantage of the length," notes Erin S.
Military ID requirements: Some campgrounds have access restrictions. "You need a DOD ID card to stay here. It is affordable if you qualify to stay. They will check and make you leave if you are not a card holder," warns Lacey B. about Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area.
Parking and check-in logistics: Plan your arrival carefully. "Recommend parking at your site, then going to check in. Not much space to turn around at the office," advises E G. about navigating the Fort Fisher facility.
Some facilities prohibit wood fires: Check fire regulations before arrival. "They do not allow wood burning fires, only propane campfires," notes E G. about Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area's policies.
