Tent camping near Pembroke, North Carolina centers on pine forest environments with sandy soil typical of the Carolina Sandhills region. Most campgrounds lie along the blackwater Lumber River, which maintains a year-round water temperature between 55-75°F depending on season. Summer nights typically stay above 65°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers more comfortable temperatures in the 50-70°F range.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Lumber River State Park at Chalk Banks provides direct river access. "The river is about half a mile from the campground and has a put in for kayaks," reports Cody T. The calm blackwater river supports bass, catfish and panfish species.
River swimming: Swimming spots near tent sites offer relief during hot months. At Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground, campers enjoy unique swimming conditions. "The lake is super shallow for at least a hundred yards in all directions from the dock," notes Kathryn W. This creates warmer water temperatures than typical lakes.
Nature observation: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing, particularly at night. Owls are especially active at Princess Ann Access, with multiple species calling after dark. "We slept in hammocks and were awoken at dawn by a cacophony of juvenile barred owls directly above us," reports one camper.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spaciousness between tent sites ranks as a top feature mentioned by visitors. One reviewer at Princess Ann noted, "We had the privilege of having the park COMPLETELY to ourselves...the ranger confirmed that we were the only campers that night!" Even when multiple sites are occupied, forest buffers maintain privacy.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing opportunities. "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," shares Jennifer H. The clearest skies typically occur during fall and winter months.
Abundant firewood: Many tent sites near Pembroke allow campers to gather wood. "There is a lot of wood to gather for your fire but if you want to buy firewood then you'll have to drive to the speedway about 10 minutes down the road," notes a Chalk Banks camper.
What you should know
Gate closure times: Most established campgrounds lock entrance gates at night. "Word to the wise, when the website says the park closes at 'posted times', they mean 9pm. We know this because we got there at 9:05 and the gate was locked tight," warns Jay B. Upon check-in, rangers typically provide gate codes for late returns.
Water access limitations: Water spigots are centrally located rather than at individual sites. "The bath house was a decent walk, but nothing ridiculous," reports one Princess Ann camper. Bring containers to transport water back to your tent site.
Insect preparedness: Biting insects remain active most of the year at Sandhills Campground B, especially around dusk. "Bring mosquito netting or pop up to keep the horse flies away!" advises Sara H. Spring camping typically experiences fewer mosquitoes than summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Consider walking distances: Campgrounds near Pembroke often require walking between parking and tent sites. At Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground, "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," advises Kristin T.
Bathroom planning: Most campgrounds offer limited restroom facilities. "The pit toilet had a healthy population of spiders, but the campsite was an easy walk to flush toilets and water fountains," reports a Lake Waccamaw visitor. Consider bringing a portable toilet for families with young children.
Water safety awareness: Lakes and rivers in the region have specific safety considerations. Lake Waccamaw has "beautifully kept and clean" waters but remains "very shallow. You can walk out a good 300 meters," notes Sara H., making it appropriate for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Platform adaptation: Several tent sites include wooden platforms which may require modification for standard tent stakes. At Chalk Banks, "The platform is elevated and dirt framed in wooden railroad ties," explains Joe L., which works better with freestanding tent designs.
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds near Pembroke offer minimal RV amenities. At Chalk Banks, "The right hand side of the campground is set up for RVs (pull through sites)" but provides only basic electric hookups without full water or sewer connections at individual sites.
Size restrictions: Larger RVs have limited options in the Pembroke area. One Chalk Banks visitor noted, "Pretty nice campground right off of hwy 401, just south of Raeford NC. There is a pit toilet and water spigot. There are no showers here." Most sites accommodate smaller trailers and campers rather than large motorhomes.
