The Uwharrie National Forest dominates the tent camping scene near Ramseur, North Carolina, with its 51,000 acres of forested landscape at elevations ranging from 350 to 1,000 feet above sea level. Situated approximately 25 miles southwest of Ramseur, the forest offers tent campers access to both developed and dispersed camping options throughout the year. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F, while summer temperatures commonly reach 85-95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Fishing access: Deep Water Trail Camp offers excellent fishing opportunities along the Yadkin River. "My friends both caught a couple of channel cats. One enormous female catfish we released because she had eggs on board," reports Vincent S. The camp provides direct water access with multiple primitive sites near the shoreline.
Rock hunting: Uwharrie geological exploration yields interesting finds for campers at Deep Water Trail Camp. "The big pieces of quartz we found were gorgeous, and so was the view at the water!" shares Tiffany A. The area's ancient rock formations contain various minerals worth searching for during day hikes.
Trail exploration: Multi-use pathway system connects many camping areas throughout the Uwharrie region. The Eno River State Park Campground features extensive trail networks that provide scenic river views. "There is a tremendous amount of hiking and trails to do around here. The Eno River is more than safe to swim or paddle in," notes Samantha P.
What campers like
Seclusion: Private tent sites can be found throughout the Uwharrie Forest system. At East Morris Mountain, "Only three sites on this little out of the way fire trail. We go to the end of the road for complete privacy," explains Dean S. These sites typically feature only basic fire rings without other amenities.
River sounds: Sleeping near water creates a peaceful atmosphere at several tent camping destinations. "If you can camp close to the river, I recommend, it's great to fall asleep to the sounds of the river," shares Samantha P. about Eno River State Park Campground. The tent sites position campers within hearing distance of flowing water.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk opportunities exist throughout the region's camping areas. While visiting Uwharrie Hunt Camp, Wesley R. reports, "I didn't stay in Hunt Camp proper, but just up the road. It is very quiet and enjoyable. Hung my hammocks from nearby trees and slept very well. Doing a little scouting for the upcoming hunting season."
What you should know
Trash management: Pack-out requirements apply at most primitive tent camping locations near Ramseur. Julie L. notes about Deep Water Trail Camp: "Why are there piles of trash being left at campsites? I bagged up 4 large bags of garbage that some college aged kids just left." Bring trash bags and be prepared to carry out all waste.
Road conditions: Vehicle clearance considerations matter for accessing remote sites. "PLEASE take something with a little ground clearance and better than 2 wheel drive to get here. My Honda Element was on two wheels at one point but the AWD handled it like a champ," warns Tiffany A. about Deep Water Trail Camp.
Reservation systems: Varying booking requirements exist across camping areas. San-Lee Park operates on a unique reservation system. Marvin D. explains, "There are maybe 10 or so sites here. They are all contained in one open area. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple activities: Parks with diverse options work best for family tent camping near Ramseur. Cedarock Park offers various recreational facilities beyond camping. "While staying at the park we went on hikes, fished, and played disc golf. It was a great time!" shares Tara T. The park's quarter-mile hike to campsites remains manageable for most children.
Water play: Creek access provides natural entertainment for children at several sites. Tara T. notes about Cedarock Park, "We were the only ones there for the weekend and there was ample space for setting up. We used the fire pit and the kids played in the creek." These shallow water features offer safe exploration opportunities.
Nature education: Wildlife learning opportunities abound at several parks with environmental programming. "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean," writes Elizabeth V. about Eno River State Park, which offers seasonal naturalist programs suitable for school-age children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Level parking considerations matter for those bringing small trailers to tent camping areas. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, Shari G. observes, "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. The campsites are rustic, grassy and comfortable, though no privacy in between."
Off-road vehicle access: Seasonal timing affects camping experience for tent campers bringing recreational vehicles. "We hit this campground right at the perfect time of year, BEFORE the opening day of off-road vehicle season in April," notes Shari G. about Uwharrie Hunt Camp. Vehicle noise increases substantially during OHV season.
Limited hookup options: Self-sufficient camping remains necessary at most tent camping locations near Ramseur. While some sites like Hunt Camp offer limited water access, most require campers to bring their own supplies. "The campground had a couple spigots and the pit toilets were clean," reports Shari G., highlighting the basic nature of available facilities.
