Uwharrie National Forest provides numerous dispersed camping options within an hour's drive of Southern Pines. The forest comprises over 50,000 acres of rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 300 to 1,000 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures typically remain above freezing at night, making year-round camping viable compared to higher elevation areas in western North Carolina.
What to do
Primitive camping in natural settings: Uwharrie National Forest offers secluded dispersed camping areas accessible by different means. "This is a great area for dispersed campers with 4WD or AWD. It's pretty popular so head out early to secure your spot. Some of the sites may have a little trash left from the last user, so please try to leave it cleaner than you came to," notes Zachary S. about Uwharrie National Forest.
River activities and fishing: The Lumber River at Chalk Banks provides water recreation opportunities. "The Lumber River is right here, so fishing and canoeing/kayaking are popular activities. There is a hiking trail here as well," explains Marvin D. about Chalk Banks — Lumber River State Park. Canoe-in camping sites are available for those seeking more remote experiences.
Hiking trail exploration: Moccasin Branch Campground connects to multiple trail systems. "The trails are nice and short, not too much room for extra exploration. Best advice is there are some big rocks in the river at various locations that you can lay on and take a nap. Super comfy and the water is also pretty shallow," recommends Cruz F. about the trails near this camping area.
What campers like
Clean facilities with recreational amenities: Sycamore Lodge maintains high standards for its facilities. "Beautiful campground, meticulously maintained. Store, restaurant, pool, dog park, kayak on lake, putt putt, cornhole, shuffleboard, horseshoes just to name a few," shares Kathie M. about the Sycamore Lodge amenities.
Water access from campsites: Jordan Lake campgrounds offer prime lakefront locations. "Amazing spots for RVs on the water! There are TONS of spots that are right on the lake yet have plenty of trees for privacy. Each has a nice fire pit/grill and picnic table," says Andrew S. about Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: State parks in the region provide natural habitats for various species. "I absolutely love this spot! I've been here a few times now and it was absolutely incredible! Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a chill hike and a nice campsite!" exclaims jenn about Moccasin Branch Campground, which is known for its woodland creatures and riverside setting.
What you should know
Campground access restrictions: Many campgrounds in the area have gated entry with specific hours. "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. about Chalk Banks, noting that rangers provide gate codes for after-hours access when you check in.
Limited services at primitive sites: Dispersed camping areas often lack amenities. "This is a no frills campground, and we knew that going in. We're ok with that. There is one vault toilet and one water source," explains Jay B. about Chalk Banks facilities.
Seasonal challenges: Summer heat requires planning for pet friendly camping near Southern Pines. "Been here twice this summer with friends. Loved being able to just chill in the lake away from it all," reports Joanna R. from Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, pointing out how water access can mitigate summer heat.
Tips for camping with families
Camp selection for young explorers: Look for campgrounds with shorter trails and water features. "Great place to hike, fish, and camp with the family," recommends Charles W. about Raven Rock State Park, which offers family-friendly trails and swimming areas.
Space for activities: Family campsites need room to spread out. "Like the way the campsites take advantage of the rolling terrain. Campsites are roomy. Lots of shade," notes Stuart O. about Jordan Lake's F Loop, adding that the camping area drains well after rain.
Safety considerations: Check sites before setting up camp. "The campground is in an old pine forest with a few sycamore trees. Our site is smaller than most with 30amps, water and sewer. The resort is well maintained and very clean," reports ToolMan56 T. from Sycamore Lodge, emphasizing cleanliness important for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RV camping: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles. "The campground features dual hookups for sewer connections. Nice water pressure," notes William Scott R. about Sycamore Lodge, highlighting features important for comfortable RV stays near Southern Pines.
Hookup considerations: Know what utilities are available. "Site was clean and lots spacious. Dual hookups for sewer connections. Nice water pressure," details the same camper about the pet friendly RV accommodations at Racetrack Campground.
Connectivity factors: Cell service varies throughout the Southern Pines camping areas. "For those that care about working on laptop or streaming TV while camping, our cellphone hotspots worked great. We got anywhere from 30-55mbps with our Verizon cell coverage," shares Andrew S. about Jordan Lake, noting this can be important for RVers needing to stay connected.
