Looking for an adventure where you can explore Raeford and then fall asleep in your tent? Find the best information on tent camping near Raeford, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Raeford, North Carolina's most popular destinations.
Located in Columbus, Robeson, Scotland, and Hoke counties 60 miles south of Fayetteville, Lumber River State Park has two access areas located about 1 hour from each other: Princess Ann and Chalk Banks. Possibilities for paddling on this 115-mile river are extraordinary. An abundance of wildlife and plant life, including the belted kingfisher and the rare Carolina bogmint, helped Lumber River earn federal designation as a National Wild and Scenic River, the only blackwater river in the state to have that honor.
Tent sites (including paddle-in sites) Group tent sites
Both accesses have camping facilities. If you have a reservation, please verify the location of your campsite prior to your visit. Princess Ann and Chalk Banks accesses are located 1 hour apart, so please check that you are headed to the correct campground.
$12 / night
San-Lee Park is a 177+ acre park, located at 572 Pumping Station Road, that offers hiking trails, a mountain bike trail, a Nature Center with a multipurpose room that is available for rent, playground, picnic facilities, campgrounds, and two stocked lakes for fishing. Paddle boat rentals are available seasonally.
Campsite rentals are available during park operational hours. A driver’s license or similar identification is required for registration. Sites are available on a first come, first serve basis. Reservations are not taken. For additional information, please call 919-776-6221 Ext. 4.
Program Date:
April – October Exceptions for weather & burning bans
Fee:
$15.00 per night
Register:
At park office during park hours Must be 18 years or older or accompanied by an adult
Tent Camping
The park provides tent sites, tables, charcoal grills, water, and a shower house. Campsites are located in a private section of the park close to the lake.
$15 / night
The Owl Creek Horse Camp provides primitive overnight campsites for trail riders on a first come, first serve basis. The Owl Creek Trail System is approximately 26 miles and suitable for equestrian riding.
$5 / night
At the Family Wilderness Camp, there are five campsites just off of the Campbell Creek Loop Trail, approximately 2.5 miles from the parking lot and 0.5 mile from the river. The maximum number of campers for each site is six.
Backpackers can also utilize the canoe camp, located beside the river off of the Little Creek Loop Trail, in a low-lying area. The camping area is a 1.7-mile hike in from the park office. There are six campsites, each accommodating up to six campers.
All supplies, including water, must be packed to the sites. Neither the Family Wildness nor Canoe Camp is accessible by vehicle.
Both camping areas offer a vault toilet, and all sites include a fire ring with a grill.
$12 / night
Traveler
Camp Ground is quiet and well laid out. Facilitaies are clean and maintained. Lake was open and fun to play in.
Camp ground is next to airfield, you might get Helicopter nosies from time to time.
Scout
Bass Lake was at the right place for an overnight right off of I-95. Although right next to I-95, the drone of the traffic fades into the background once you pull into the well landscaped campground (Bass Lake as the setting of a wooden campground) with absolutely level sites. Staff and owner were wonderful - and what I learned about coffee from the owner (Frizzy's Coffee House) is why I'm going to route every trip possible through Dillon in the future - more knowledgeable than any barista I've ever met, I experienced what coffee ROASTED the day before tastes like!
Traveler
The state park has excellent hiking trails and the RV park is located in an excellent location to use them.
The sites are huge, level, and clean. The bathhouse is clean and modern. While there aren’t many recreational amenities besides the hiking, the price makes this park an excellent value.
Scout
Site was clean and lots spacious. Dual hookups for sewer connections. Nice water pressure.
ScoutNice campsite and nice folks. Had food trucks and site was clean.
Scout
We really enjoy this little state park. It’s small, quiet, and clean. We use it all the time to “test” new camping gear and setups before we travel further from home on longer trips.
Legend
Not everyone's idea of a great camping experience involves being completely surrounded by farm animals on an actual working ranch - so if the thought of this bothers you, then stop reading this review and mosey on to another campground. For my entire family, we absolutely loved the cows, horses, donkeys, chickens, guinea hens, ducks, turkey, cats, dogs and other animals we came across during our stay. In fact, our daughters thought the farm animals were the best part of our camping trip!
As for Double L Farms Campground itself, this place is located outside of Lumberton and just a 20 minute or so drive from the heavy trafficked I95 highway corridor, but here at Double L, you'll feel a million miles away from the hectic realities of urban life. The campground is fairly modest in size and has only enough space for a couple dozen RVers / tent campers, but I don't really get the feeling that you'll ever have a problem finding a spot here, so it's up to you whether you want to make a reservation by calling ahead or just 'wing it.' The hosts, Brian & Lisa, were easily some of the best campground hosts we've ever had and they definitely make this experience a 5 star encounter as the duo went out of their way to ensure we had everything we needed and even provided recommendations on local spots in the surrounding areas.
From an amenities standpoint, there's a quaint, well-maintained bathhouse with showers and toilets. Inside you'll also discover that the bathhouse is actually multi-purpose and equipped with A/C, washing machine, has WiFi and even a microwave. Of course, there's full RV hook-ups with 30 / 50 electrical amp, sewage and water lines. The best amenity though? The free rooster alarm clock you'll hear around 5:30am every morning! All this for $25 a night? Yeah, it's a very good price for what you get.
Insider's tips? Here's a few: (1) I think the best sites are those located furthest back on the property near the field, where you can gaze up at the stars at night with an unobstructed view, but really, all of the sites are pretty good, so you can't really go wrong with any of the sites; (2) There does appear to be some more permanent residents living in trailers here, but it wasn't that big of a deal and we didn't mind; (3) With 46 acres of farmland, there's plenty to explore and we really enjoyed hiking around the place, but if you want to venture out and try some different locations for hiking, I highly recommend Luther Britt Park where there's some pretty good lakeside hiking trails; (4) For the kiddos, if you need to get away and see something a bit more educational then try out Exploration Station in downtown Lumberton; (5) Should you run out of any supplies or find yourself in need of anything, the closest store is Family Dollar which is just due west of Double L and while no frills, they should have just about everything you need to tied you over in a fix- and if not, head on into Lumberton for many more options; and (6) When you grow tired of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or on-board mini-fridge and want to explore some great local fare, then check out The Governor Place for brisket burger and duck fries with alioli or Tony B's Chicken & BBQ for superb brisket where Tuesday is chicken & pastry day (which is pretty much like chicken dumplings).
Happy Camping!
Guide
This is a very large campground with mostly full-time people. Nice laundry facilities, decent sized transient sites, beautiful beach and piers. It was "off-season" but the weekends were quite busy. There is a 5mph campground rule that most definitely is NOT followed. Kids and adults drive golf carts like it's the Indy 500. Was a nice stay, but probably won't go back.
Legend
When it comes to the artificial 'camping-for-the-masses' line of properties that KOA creates across the country, there’s some definite turn-offs for pure nature enthusiasts such as me, but in some cases, you come across one of their sites that is fairly decent and should not be overlooked. Lumberton KOA, which runs parallel to I-95 in these parts of North Carolina, does not disappoint. In fact, you would be hard-pressed to find a better campground that is just minutes off of I-95 to park yourself for the night. But, to be clear, this place isn’t necessarily a destination – but rather, intended for those enroute to somewhere greater. In short, if you need a good place to park for the night, you will be pleasantly surprised by what you find here at Lumberton KOA. And if you need something more substantial, well, just keep heading on down the road.
With a wide-array of elongated parking lanes for your parking pleasure, all of the sites come equipped with the typical 30 / 50 amp electrical hook-ups, waste disposal and water connections. There’s of course, the typical KOA office / market that will supply you with just about anything you might be missing. Other amenities include complimentary WiFi, camping kitchens, shuffleboard, propane and firewood for sale. In addition, there’s the standard-issued picnic table, fire ring / grill, garbage receptacles, kid’s playground and even a community BBQ – nearly everything was brand-spanking-new. In particular, I loved the open-air picnic shelters, in-ground heated pool (open from Memorial Day weekend until Halloween) as well as the wooden-framed tent parameters that you’ll find, which discourages pests from encroaching upon your encampment. The KOA hosts were nice, incredibly accommodating and offer pricing by the night, week and month.
Insider’s tip? (1) As this is certainly NOT a destination, but rather a very nice layover, arrive late, leave early, but while you are here, be sure to get to know the locals you are surrounded by – there’s always a great vibe amongst fellow KOA’ers; (2) Near this RV parking lot, you do have access to Lake Lynn, which has some decent fishing and is a good place to drop a kayak or canoe in for a short spin around its periphery; (3) For the kiddos, if you need to get away and see something a bit more educational then try out Exploration Station in downtown Lumberton; (4) When you grow tired of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or on-board mini-fridge and want to explore some great local fare, then check out The Governor Place for brisket burger and duck fries with alioli or Happenings on Elm, which has a pretty amazing wine tasting (for these parts), outstanding domestic and international craft beers as well as some pretty great edibles like baked brie crostini and Annette's homemade lasagna.
Happy Camping!
Scout
and recharge before continuing on your journey. The view from this spot is breathtaking, with rolling hills and a clear blue sky stretching out before you. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature and the peacefulness of this place. Whether you are traveling alone or with loved ones, this is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. So take a deep breath, soak in the surroundings, and enjoy this moment of tranquility before hitting the road again.
TravelerThis is our favorite campground in the area. It is clean and quite with easy back in sites. The bathhouse is well maintained as is the camp road. We have stayed here during all four seasons and there isn't a bad time to stay. I can't say enough good things about this campground
Scout
I’ve camped here twice now. The hike in and out is very easy. Only about 2 miles each way. The spots are clean and well spread out with a hook to hang things on, a fire pit, and a picnic table at each site. The pit toilet is central to all 6 sites. It’s a pit toilet so it’s nothing glamorous but it’s there if you need it. The river is a short walk away from all the sites if you want to get a great picture with the sunrise. Overall, I definitely recommend.
GuideExcellent new cabin’s perfect fire pit new tables/restrooms spaced out beautifully designed campground.
Scout
We are from out of town. We picked this spot because it was a last minute trip and on their website it advertised they had first come first serve spots open. We drive over there see a completely empty campground and think we won’t have any issue getting a spot. And when I say empty I mean there was quit literally no other campers . So we tried to check in, but there is no place to check in. So we went to the nature center and asked around to try to get some help. We had to wait for some other man to come around because no one else who worked there could help us. After finally tracking this man down at the paddle boats and an hour of back and forth, we were told you have to call and make a reservation but we shouldn’t have a problem getting a spot since it’s empty. After calling and only getting voicemails, we found the man again who called his boss. His boss finally answered and said we can only camp there by making reservations 72 hours ahead of time. Probably the most difficulty I’ve ever had trying to get a camp site.
Traveler
Beautiful Arabian horses. Also goats, ducks, turkeys, chickens, roosters, Guineas, etc.. Cats and dogs add to the fun. Tom and his wife are great hosts. I set up a small tent on the lawn, and the fall weather was perfect. Would have stayed longer, but I had to hit the road.
Traveler
This was our 3rd time staying here. This park has a wonderful creek running through the middle of it and most short-term sites back up to it. There are also a couple of camping cabins and some tent sites. The campground road is sort of narrow and the sites can be a little tight, making it awkward to back in if you have a large TV and full-size camper - but once you’re in it’s all good. The creek and nice natural landscaping of the park are very worth it. The owners have done a fantastic job over the years with this piece of property, keeping that mountain forest feeling and just tweaking nature a little. No pool and no playground, but there are spots to get into the creek. Good clean bathhouse with newer washers/dryers and a covered porch where you can hang out waiting for your laundry (or just hang out, period). A good contingent of spots that are booked for the season and plenty of weekend campers like us. It’s a good balance. No full-timers, as the park is closed during the winter. The campground is conveniently located between Sylva and Waynesville and very close to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Surprisingly good cell reception for being in the mountains and having lots of tree cover. Got 1-3 bars ATT depending on where I was within the campground, and we had no issues using our TMobile hotspot to stream videos/tv. They do have wifi at the camp office but we didn’t need to use it.
Scout
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
Scout
I stayed here for 5 weeks while renovating my motorhome. It is a very clean and well run facility. Bath hi puse is immaculate as is thee campground. There are no activities but there is a very scenic small lake with walking paths. Great location near restaurants and a small town . Very nice people here!
TravelerSycamore Lodge is close to home, 1 1/2 hrs drive time, not bad.
Happy with this place, it is clean, friendly and mostly quiet. Close to Pinehurst and Southern Pines with great restaurants, etc.
Scout
Beautiful, peaceful location, rural yet easy to find. Fire pits and picnic tables for every site. Mike is extremely friendly, very experienced with camping and RV life and always goes above and beyond to give you a calm and memorable stay. Great eggs!
GuideWe spent the month of October watching the leaves change. The owners were so nice and helpful. We camped with our patio hanging out over the creek. It was fantastic. We loved it so much that we are going back next summer for three months. This is a wonderful place, above 3000 ft convenient to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, Waynesville, Cherokee Casino.
GuideDecent campground and bathrooms. No swimming in lake which sucks.
ScoutGreat place we stopped to eat and got some rest before heading back out on the road.
LegendJake from the Dyrt here! Legacy farms is an awesome horse farm that offers primitive camping for tenters who want to rough it, or hookups for those who want to bring an RV for a different type of farm experience. After staying, make sure to leave a review on the Dyrt and post some pictures for us to see!
ScoutThis KOA journey is exactly what the journey type campground . This a stop over spot where you can count on being a few miles from95 and has what you expect, reliable hookups, level site and courteous staff. Simple and sufficient.
Scout
This may be the best campground I have visited. Very quiet and the views are amazing!
ScoutBathrooms and amenities are top notch. Sites are large and easy to back into.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Raeford, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Raeford, NC is Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 10 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Raeford, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 5 tent camping locations near Raeford, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
