Tent camping near Pinebluff, North Carolina provides access to the Sandhills ecological region, characterized by sandy soil, longleaf pine forests, and temperatures that average 90°F in summer and 50°F in winter. The camping areas around Pinebluff typically don't require reservations except during holiday weekends, with most sites operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Weather can change quickly in this region, especially during summer thunderstorm season.
What to do
Kayaking on Lumber River: Visitors to Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park can access the river via a boat ramp about half a mile from the campground. "The river is about half a mile from the campground and has a put in for kayaks," notes camper Cody T., who found the area "clean and well maintained" with "a lot of wood to gather for your fire."
Fishing opportunities: Fish for channel catfish at Deep Water Trail Camp, where the river provides productive spots. Vincent S. reports, "Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground, and some damn good fishing. One enormous female catfish we released because she had eggs on board."
Hiking nearby trails: Explore hiking trails around Lake Tillery or through the pine forests. A camper at Chalk Banks mentioned that there are "beautiful hikes around the river right next door," making it easy to combine camping with day hikes without driving to another location.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While Chalk Banks offers widely spaced sites, San-Lee Park provides a different experience with sites in a more open arrangement. According to Marvin D., "It's almost like one big group site. The sites have fire pits, grills, tables, and there are a couple of water spigots on the site. There are also bathrooms with showers."
Spacious camping areas: Many tent sites in the region are larger than average. S.H. S. found that at Chalk Banks, "The tent sites are some of the better spread out ones that I've seen and having cell coverage is immensely appreciated considering you're basically in the middle of nowhere."
Low crowds: Even during typical peak seasons, many campgrounds remain uncrowded. Joe S. noted about Chalk Banks, "Probably the biggest spots to camp I've ever seen gives you the feel of basically being way off the beaten path. Also the lumber river access is ideal to kayak and fish."
What you should know
Gate access codes: Many campgrounds in the area close their gates at night. At Chalk Banks, the entrance gate locks at 8 PM and opens at 8 AM, but registered campers receive a gate code. Cody T. explains, "Once we arrived, 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."
Varying amenities: Facilities range widely between campgrounds. Sandhills Campground B offers truly primitive camping with no facilities. Marvin D. describes it as: "If you're looking for primitive, this is it. No bathrooms, no water spigots, no camp store, nothing like that. Bring all your own EVERYTHING."
Cell service considerations: Phone reception varies by location and carrier. At Chalk Banks, Cody T. reported "Good phone service for AT&T and Verizon," while Deep Water Trail Camp typically has limited service with "about 1 bar for Verizon and ATT," according to Stephanie W.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, San-Lee Park offers a playground near the campground. Stuart K. describes, "Once you park your vehicle at the main parking lot, to the right, you'll see the children's playground - just past this and up a slight incline, stay to the left and you'll come to the campground in about 50 yards."
Water activities for kids: Look for camping locations with safe water access for children. At Deep Water Trail Camp, Gabby A. reports, "We brought our two pups & they had a blast playing & laying in the water! We stayed at a campsite next to the river bend, not on the actual Deep Water Trail, because it got super bumpy & didn't want to damage our car."
Bring bug spray: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near water. Bruce H. advises about Chalk Banks, "I'm a fan of this place it is beautiful and quiet sites are primitive but well cared for nice security features bring mosquito repellent."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions to campgrounds: Many campgrounds near Pinebluff have unpaved access roads that can be challenging. For Uwharrie Hunt Camp, Shari G. advises, "The campground is a quaint, and only $5 per night! With only 6 sites and what appears to be an over-sized parking lot right next to it, the lot accommodates the OHV trailers."
Vehicle clearance requirements: Deep Water Trail Horse Camp requires high clearance vehicles. Stephanie W. warns, "I would highly recommend 4WD if you're going all the way to the water sites. I attempted in my van and made it down to a sweet spot, but was stuck in the mud."
Water and power availability: For RVers needing hookups, options are limited. Most sites are primitive, but Uwharrie Hunt Camp does offer some electric hookups and water spigots, making it a better option for those who need these facilities while still enjoying a rustic experience.
