Best Campgrounds near Southern Pines, NC

The pine forests around Southern Pines give campers several good options within driving distance. Smith Lake Army RV Park has electrical and water hookups for those who want basic comforts while camping. Many people like to hike the trails at Morrow Mountain State Park Campground, which has routes for different skill levels. The water views at Crosswinds Campground make it a quiet place to relax after a day outdoors. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area's Poplar Point Campground has big campsites spread out among the trees. If you want something more basic, Moccasin Branch Campground has fewer amenities but more natural surroundings. Military families often stay at Army Travel Camp when visiting the area. Watch for deer and birds around your camp - they're common in these woods. Keep your food sealed up tight so animals don't come looking for a meal. Some activities need permits, and fire rules change throughout the year based on conditions. Most camping areas limit stays to two weeks so everyone gets a chance to use them. It's smart to book ahead, particularly in summer and fall when more people are camping. Remember to pack out all your trash and leave your site clean for the next campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Southern Pines, North Carolina (83)

    1. Sycamore Lodge

    9 Reviews
    Pinebluff, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 420-3843

    $55 - $138 / night

    "Sycamore 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."

    "Nice lake with walking trail. The main lodge is beautiful."

    2. Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park

    10 Reviews
    Wagram, NC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 628-4564

    $17 - $47 / night

    "It was a little tricky finding the entrance to this campsite, but when we managed to Google map our way in into the park, we were very happy with our selection!"

    "There was a path walkable to the river, and each campsite was clean, had plenty of space on level ground to set up camp, a fire pit, and very clean toilet. I would definitely go back!"

    3. Airport RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Carthage, NC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 695-5216

    4. Pine Lake RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Wagram, NC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 281-3319

    $40 / night

    "The park is clean with a lake to finish in and hiking trails that you can go explore."

    "Nice pond, pool and trails! They strongly support our troops!!"

    5. The Heritage Camping & Recreation

    1 Review
    Carthage, NC
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 949-4663

    6. Sandhills Campground B

    1 Review
    Pinebluff, NC
    16 miles
    +1 (910) 281-3917

    "This is a campground located in the Sandhills Gamelands in NC. If you're looking for primitive, this is it. No bathrooms, no water spigots, no camp store, nothing like that."

    7. Uwharrie National Forest

    15 Reviews
    Troy, NC
    28 miles

    "It should be no shock to those familiar with North Carolina’s geography that if one is seeking higher altitudes and breathtaking overlooks, Uwharrie is not the place he should go."

    "This area was one of my favorite ares for dispersed camping in Uwharrie National Forest while living in North Carolina. The area can be accessed by boat on the Little River, or by hiking in."

    8. Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    51 Reviews
    New Hill, NC
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 362-0586

    $27 - $37 / night

    "Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina!"

    "Poplar Point is located on the banks of the lake in the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area."

    9. Moccasin Branch Campground — Raven Rock State Park

    21 Reviews
    Mamers, NC
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 893-4888

    $27 - $75 / night

    "The campground is walking distance to Raven Rock trails and you get a free walk up pass to get in. We had a very good time and will definitely go back."

    "It is a place of beauty and next to cape fear river ,Has plenty of places to hike to and to camp."

    10. Racetrack Campground

    1 Review
    Rockingham, NC
    19 miles
    +1 (910) 582-4673
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Recent Reviews near Southern Pines, NC

432 Reviews of 83 Southern Pines Campgrounds


  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Cheraw State Park Campground — Cheraw State Park

    Very nice,calm spot and active hosts

    For us this was a pleasant little stopover after a long drive. Nicely located next to a lake, there is also a nice little walk partially around the lake. It is a small campground with nice spots. The hosts where active and there if you wanted advice. At the campground you can't swim, but you can walk 10 minutes to a beachy area on the other site of the lake.

  • Bailey R.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    Lake front view

    This is such a pretty camp site. Even if you aren’t on the water you still have a beautiful view of the lake. The spots are well spread out so you don’t feel like you are on top of each other and it’s very kid friendly

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Jordan Lake Crosswinds

    Big Water, Tall Pines & Gorgeous Lakefront Sunsets

    Nestled along the shores of Jordan Lake, Crosswinds Campground is one of those places that makes one feel like they just scored a million-dollar lakefront spot for the cost of a campsite fee. First impressions? Towering pines everywhere, a breeze rolling off the water and the faint hum of boats out on the lake. It’s a large, well-loved campground that still manages to feel peaceful – provided you’re not parked next to that one guy who thinks 'quiet hours' are just a suggestion.

    The facilities here strike a nice balance between rustic and comfortable. Out of the 182 sites, 134 offer water and electric hookups, making it RV-friendly while still keeping things woodsy. Every site has the basics: picnic table, fire ring, lantern / garbage holder and enough tree cover to keep you from baking like a biscuit in the North Carolina summer sun. Bathhouses are clean and scattered through the loops in just about the right proportion where the loos feel like an overcrowded line to see your favorite band with a dump station on site at each of the campground loops. Roads are well-paved –although you will find that errant pothole just waiting to take out one of your tires, so tread carefully – but a little snug for bigger rigs, so if you drive something the size of a tour bus, maybe don’t test your parallel parking skills here.

    The lake is the true star. With 180 miles of shoreline surrounding a 12,000-acre reservoir, Jordan Lake sprawls wide enough to feel like a small ocean … and Crosswinds puts you right on the edge of it. Beyond the lake itself, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area covers a span of some 46,000 acres of public land, so there’s tons of nature to explore here. Boating, fishing and kayaking are all top-notch, and the eagle-spotting here is so good you’ll feel like you wandered onto a National Geographic special. If you want civilization, the quaint and full-service townships of Cary, Apex and Pittsboro are all close by for groceries, breweries or just a break from your campfire cooking experiments.

    As for the campground itself, there are 3 distinct loops: A, B & C (yes, even your kindergartner can keep these 3 straight!). Here’s a breakdown of each loop, because each one offers up something different and unique – some things good, some things not so much – that may influence where you choose to camp. Here’s a snapshot:

    Loop A (AKA 'Boats & Bobbers'): (1) the only loop that is entirely non-electric, so if powering up your campsite is important, then bring your own source or look to the other loops; (2) closest to the main entrance, so great for quick access, but the only loop if you take a left at the fork (the other 2 loops are right of the fork); (3) nearest the boat launch, so you will experience all of the boat-launching skippers driving westward past your loop from dusk to dawn, which is great if you are thumbing your way to the boat launch, not so great if you prize peace & quiet; (4) an ‘easter egg’ of a hidden trail exists near A21 that will lead you down to the lakeshore to a quiet spot perfect for uncorking that vintage Bordeaux you’ve been looking for the right location and moment to savor; and (5) IMHO the best sites are those that are lake-facing such as 19– 22 and 45– 47.

    Loop B (AKA 'Sand & Swimming'): (1) if Loop A is defined by its proximity to the boat launch, then this loop can be dubbed the Beach Loop as it is the only circuit with an actual beachhead and proper swimming area; (2) while centrally located in between the other 2 loops, this area is definitely considered more tranquil and has a tighter feeling of community; (3) unlike the previous loop, this one has campsites with running electric and water, but there’s a bonus to some of these sites as they are considered duplex campsites, so while a bit more$ ($25 more for non-electric and $40 more for duplexes with electric), you’ll have more space, which is especially important if there’s 2 families looking to camp together; and (4) IMHO the best sites here are those westernmost, lake-facing spots such as 24, 26, 30, 32, 34, 36 and 40.

    Loop C ('Sunsets& Sundowners'): (1) just like the previous loop, here you’ll find all campsites have running water & electric, so no primitive shenanigans to deal with here; (2) of the 3 loops, this is the one located most northernly, most secluded, furthest from the entrance and has no amenities (like a beach or boat launch) that will draw non-camping traffic; (3) the biggest draw of this loop are the arresting views of Lake Jordan, especially at dusk, where you can place your fold-up camping chair in just the right direction, sit back and sip on those sunset-inspired Mai Tais; (4) There’s a small, hidden beach (shhh! don’t tell your fellow campers in Loop B, lest they become disenfranchised!) that you can access near site 32 that will allow for a private swim or late-night evening hang-out staring at the breathtaking moonlit starscape; and (5) IMHO the best sites are (you guessed it) the ones that have the best views of that incandescent sundowner view facing westward, so you’ll want to eye spots 19, 21, 23, 24 – with the absolute pinnacle sites being 24, 26, 30, 32, 34 – as well as those that have even a partial view, including 36, 40 and 42.

    Insider Tips?  Here's a smattering: (1) Plan a swim or paddle near the Ebenezer Church swimming beach, just a short drive from Crosswinds. It’s less crowded than the main day-use areas and offers sandy shoreline, gentle water entry, and shady picnic spots; (2) For paddling, launch in the morning from the camper-only ramp before the motorboats hit the water and turn it into Daytona-on-the-lake; (3) Eat at The Fearrington House Restaurant in Pittsboro if you’re feeling fancy – exotic meats and Oregon Pinot Noirs so smooth they’ll make you forget you slept on a foam mattress last night; (4) Bring bug spray – the mosquitoes here treat Off! like it’s a garnish; and (5) Don’t skip stargazing on a clear night, the Milky Way shows off, and it’s better than cable.

    Happy Camping!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Asheboro

    Great stay

    Campground has many things to do for the Littles. I would recommend renting the “off road” golf cart for fun. The only negative is the lack of bath houses. Although we have a full bathroom in our camper we typically use the showers at the campgrounds. There were only 2 bathhouses in the campground. Our site was well shaded and enough space between the sites.

  • MaryAnn P.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Cheraw State Park Campground — Cheraw State Park

    VERY Nice campground!!

    The camping spots were clean and well kept....some have water and electric hookups and some are more rustic. There are plenty of large spaces for RVs with lots of room around them for privacy. It felt very private even though there were people all around. The bathrooms and showers were amazingly clean and they had a giant heater you can turn on over the showers when it's cold outside! There is a lake with a swimming area that was also well-maintained and clean, it has a boardwalk that goes around a large portion of the lake that connects the campground with the beach are. You can rent kayaks and canoes to take out on the lake, and the fishing is excellent! They also have rental cabins by the swimming area but I've never stayed in one. It is a nice campground, quiet and great for children! I will definitely go back!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 5, 2025

    Arrowhead Campground

    Perfect spot

    Nicely spaced, shaded, and quiet camp ground. A lot of people camp here with their jeeps, sidexsides, and 4wheelers. The bathrooms and showers aren’t fancy but are clean. There’s a boat ramp right by the entrance. Overall an awesome camp ground!

  • Amber L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2025

    Coble's Landing

    DO NOT STAY HERE

    WARNING DO NOT STAY HERE!!! REX COBLE is part owner of this campground. My father’s camper was broken into and vandalized by the owner REX. Stayed for 3 months and never received a receipt for cash handed over. Always gave us the go around and said he was out of town on business. So we started using cash app to prove payments. We even paid 6 months advanced for storage. Investigation still in process and having to get the law involved again. Biggest crook and con of Anson County. Drug deals happening right in the Rv Park in front of family’s and children durning the day and all times at night. This place needs to be investigated, raided and shut down! Our whole life was taken from us. Photos, jewelry, guns, clothing, TVs, and etc. I highly suggest you do not stay here or trust your belongings being stored.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 27, 2025

    West Morris Mtn.

    Peaceful spot that feels like you’re deep in the woods, but easy access!

    Beautiful peaceful, deep woods campsite. Super easy access for any car.

  • J
    May. 8, 2025

    Legacy Farms Roughing It

    Charming farm!

    We stopped for the night on our way to Florida and arrived late. Liz was very accommodating and welcomed us with a thoughtful gesture of cheese, jam, and crackers. The web check-in process was seamless and efficient. The farm itself was lovely, with a variety of animals. However, there were a couple of areas for improvement. The electrical hookup was limited to 120V, and having a 30amp or 50amp hookup would have been more convenient. Additionally, the shower was out of order during our stay. Despite these issues, we enjoyed our time at the farm and appreciated the warm hospitality. Overall, it was a pleasant experience.


Guide to Southern Pines

Camping near Southern Pines, North Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the lakeside views at Crosswinds Campground. A visitor said, "Great place. Plenty of shade and view of Lake Jordan."
  • Spacious Sites: Many appreciate the roomy sites at Moccasin Branch Campground. One camper mentioned, "The sites are huge, level, and clean."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Dan Nicholas Park is perfect for families. A reviewer said, "Great place for younger kids! Not for teens."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Hagan-Stone Park, may lack certain amenities. A visitor noted, "The bathhouse could also use some TLC."
  • Noise Levels: If you're sensitive to noise, be aware that William B. Umstead State Park Campground is near an airport. One camper mentioned, "You will hear planes all day and most all night landing and taking off."
  • Booking in Advance: Popular sites, especially at Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - Poplar Point Campground, fill up quickly. A reviewer advised, "I would highly suggest booking in advance since waterfront sites book up quick."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Dan Nicholas Park that offer activities for kids. One parent said, "It had everything for kids…Gem mining, carousel, paddle boats."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids engaged. A camper at Morrow Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, "We were able to fit 2 tents. Not far from bathrooms."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Bring along snacks and games to enjoy at your campsite. A visitor at Crosswinds Campground noted, "Good trees for hammocks are present."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site dimensions. A reviewer at Morrow Mountain State Park Campground said, "The campsites tend to be spacious and wooded—perfect for privacy."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Badin Lake Campground offer full hookups, which can be a big plus. One camper shared, "They have really nice established spots with great views of the lake."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Some areas, like Moccasin Branch Campground, may have poor cell coverage. A visitor warned, "Beware! Cell/Internet coverage is non-existent."

Camping near Southern Pines, North Carolina, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find tent camping areas around Southern Pines?

Tent campers near Southern Pines have several excellent options. Uwharrie National Forest offers dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more primitive experience. While not known for high elevations, Uwharrie provides beautiful natural settings with sites accessible by hiking in or via the Little River by kayak or boat. Another great option is Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, which many campers consider one of North Carolina's best campgrounds. Featuring spacious tent sites, many with lakeside views, Poplar Point offers a more developed camping experience with clean facilities. Both locations are particularly popular during summer months, so early reservations are recommended.

What RV park options are available near Southern Pines?

RV enthusiasts have several quality options near Southern Pines. Pine Lake RV Resort near Wagram offers full hookups and amenities designed specifically for RVers. For those who enjoy being near cities while still enjoying nature, Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area provides spacious RV sites just 30 miles west of Raleigh. This campground features level sites that stay dry even during heavy rains, clean bathrooms, and beautiful lake views. Other options include Airport RV Park and Racetrack Campground, which offer big-rig friendly spaces with necessary hookups. Most RV parks in the area require reservations, especially during peak seasons from spring through fall.

Where are the campgrounds near Southern Pines, NC?

Southern Pines offers several nearby camping options. Sycamore Lodge is one of the closest options, just a short 1.5-hour drive away. This campground is known for being clean, friendly, and conveniently located near Pinehurst and Southern Pines restaurants and attractions. For those willing to travel a bit farther, The Heritage Camping & Recreation near Carthage provides additional options. Other campgrounds within driving distance include those at Jordan Lake State Recreation Area and Uwharrie National Forest, which offer more nature-immersive experiences with lake access or forest settings. The region provides a mix of private and public camping facilities to suit different preferences and camping styles.