Situated in central North Carolina's Sandhills region, camping near Rockingham offers diverse terrain ranging from sandy soils to pine forests with elevations between 200-500 feet. The area experiences mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures and humid summers that typically reach the 90s. RV campers will find several family-operated campgrounds within a 45-mile radius offering various hookup options and seasonal activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Smith Lake Army RV Park offers a catch-and-release fishing pond where military families can enjoy peaceful afternoons. "There's lake access [with] lots of recreational activities," notes Joy B., who adds that "concrete pads are level and sites are spacious with a picnic table and fire pit."
Farm animal experiences: At Double L Farms Campground, families can interact with various farm animals on the working ranch. "Not everyone's idea of a great camping experience involves being completely surrounded by farm animals on an actual working ranch... For my entire family, we absolutely loved the cows, horses, donkeys, chickens, guinea hens, ducks, turkey, cats, dogs and other animals," writes Stuart K.
Hiking trails: Explore the natural areas surrounding Smith Lake Army RV Park with its network of hiking paths. "The hiking trails are great and easy to get to. Reminds me of Sgt time training Thursday's, lol. Great swampy and peidmont preservation area," reports Clean Slate D., who frequently stays at this military campground.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Bass Lake Campground receives consistently positive feedback for its immaculate facilities. "Bath house is immaculate as is thee campground," says Tim W., who stayed for five weeks. Another camper adds: "The showers and bathrooms were spotless. We would definitely stay here again!"
Quiet, rural settings: Many travelers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at Pine Lake RV Resort in Wagram. Michael Y. describes it as "Clean, quiet and great owner!! Nice pond, pool and trails!" while Patrick F. notes it's "a great place to get away and hang up your hat for a few days."
Friendly campground hosts: Double L Farms Campground stands out for its welcoming owners. "Lisa and Brian are some of the nicest people I've ever met, Lisa is the epitome of Southern charm and hospitality," shares Bradley K. Another guest, Deborah P., states: "The owner, Lisa was the best we've ever encountered and we've camped in all of the lower 48."
What you should know
Military installation noise: If staying at Smith Lake Army RV Park, be prepared for aircraft operations. "Close to Ft. Bragg entrance, Exchange, and Commissary. This campground is near a military runway so be prepared for loud aircraft noise as well as other military installation noise," advises Joy B. Another camper notes: "Camp Ground is next to airfield, you might get Helicopter nosies from time to time."
Highway proximity: Some rv parks near Rockingham are positioned close to Interstate 95, which affects noise levels. Florence RV Park is "so close to I95 (look for exit 169) that you'll both feel and hear the swoosh of passing by traffic 24/7," according to Stuart K.
Site conditions vary: Airport RV Park has limited spots with variable conditions. "Most look long term," notes Robert M. Another camper reports: "They are putting in new sites and rebuilding a local favorite restaurant that recently burned down. Sites have full hookups; there are no restrooms/showers."
Tips for camping with families
Animal interactions: Children particularly enjoy the farm setting at Double L Farms Campground. "If you have a family with small children, they will love the horses, chickens, guinea hens, and the couple of friendly cats and dogs that they own," advises Marvin D. Another camper recalls: "Brian took our two year old on a tour of their amazing farm — horses, cows, ducks, chickens, and all the tractors of our toddlers' dreams."
Playground access: Camp Henning at Ellerbe Springs offers families 42 acres to explore with recreation options. "You have 14 RV sites to choose from and 42 beautiful acres to explore. This property was purchased in 2022, and the new owners are continuing to add on to the property," according to Ashley F.
Water activities: Some Rockingham area RV campgrounds feature water recreation. Pine Lake RV Resort has "a pond to go fishing and the campground has a variety of boats and kayaks that you can use on the pond," mentions Shahaliegh B., who adds there are "lots of places to hike and go site seeing and if that is not your thing they also have a nice size pool."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When staying at Spring Valley RV Campground, choose locations away from the highway. "I would select a spot that is halfway through the loop (it's lower and further removed meaning you'll hear less traffic from nearby HWY 95)," recommends Stuart K., who found the campground "quaint, intimate and incredibly quiet."
Access considerations: Double L Farms notes some challenges with larger vehicles. "The only down side is it can be hard to get larger trailers in and out of the park and into and out of some of the sits," warns Shahaliegh B. while another camper describes the access road as "dirt with sand mix, they good a good job of keeping it graded."
Weather preparedness: Wet weather can affect camping conditions at some Rockingham area RV parks. A visitor to Florence RV Park mentions it "gets a bit messy/muddy if it's raining" despite being "beautiful and clean, with a pond, park, large laundry room, and easy access dump station."
