Spring Lake is positioned where the North Carolina Coastal Plain meets the Piedmont, creating a landscape of gentle slopes and mixed hardwood forests. Located at approximately 220 feet above sea level, this transitional zone offers campers diverse ecosystems within short driving distances. Most camping facilities maintain seasonal operations from March through November, though some locations close certain areas during winter months due to maintenance requirements.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Smith Lake Army RV Park, military families can access designated fishing areas within the recreation zone. "You can fish inside the rec area, just not from the Campground," notes Clean Slate D., who regularly visits in December.
Kayaking rentals: Paddle boats and kayaks are available for rent directly on Smith Lake during summer months. "You can rent kayaks and paddle boats right on the water front, but the beach is only open on Weekends until Labor Day," mentions E G., who praised the facilities.
Hiking trail exploration: Canoe Camp at Raven Rock State Park offers multiple trail options for day hikes or overnight trips. "The trails are good for family and have been here numerous times and will continue to go even though we have hiked all the trails," says William R., who regularly visits the park.
Swimming in natural settings: Jordan Lake provides numerous swimming opportunities away from designated beaches. "Loved being able to just chill in the lake away from it all," writes Joanna R., who appreciates the quieter spots beyond the main recreation areas.
What campers like
Level, well-maintained sites: Poplar Point Campground receives consistent praise for site quality. "Like the way the campsites take advantage of the rolling terrain. Campsites are roomy. Lots of shade. We had a substantial deluge while there, and the water drained just fine," reports Stuart O.
Wildlife observation: Nature trails at Spacious Skies Sandy Run provide unexpected wildlife viewing opportunities. "Here, we discovered squirrels, all sorts of endemic birds, a few stray turtles, a couple deer and a group of industrious beavers who had built quite the dam," describes Stuart K.
Water recreation access: Direct lakefront access is a major draw for many campers. "There are TONS of spots that are right on the lake yet have plenty of trees for privacy," explains Andrew S. about Jordan Lake's RV sites, noting that "there are tons of small beaches that you can walk or boat to that are secluded enough to allow your dog to run freely."
Community activities: Organized events enhance the camping experience at certain locations. "During our stay they had scheduled kid activities and movie night with popcorn," says Steve K. about Fayetteville RV Resort, which also offers "Meet Your Neighbors Happy Hour" that "ends early enough that you can still have a quiet evening around your camp site."
What you should know
Military installation noise: Smith Lake Army RV Park campers should expect aircraft activity. "Next to Simmons Army Air Field so, expect whirlybirds at all hours buzzing the CG. All the sounds of freedom are to be expected and enjoyed," notes Clean Slate D.
Alcohol restrictions: Many state park campgrounds prohibit alcohol, and enforcement can be strict. "Rangers can be very ticket-happy if you bring beer so be aware," warns Joanna R. about Jordan Lake.
Campground policies: RV park rules vary significantly regarding vehicle types. Kari B. experienced challenges at Spacious Skies Sandy Run: "I was then asked where my van was. I explained it was parked right beside the check in cabin in the driveway. I then found out that the campground 'doesn't take that kind of camper-no tents, pop-ups' or other vehicles of the sort."
Reservation requirements: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "This resort is very community oriented with activities throughout the week and a free waffle breakfast every Saturday," notes Tony J. about Fayetteville RV Resort, making it a frequently booked option.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Certain campgrounds offer exceptional play facilities. "Playgrounds were phenomenal for kids. Bike and Hiking trails all throughout the site," mentions E G. about Smith Lake's family-friendly amenities.
Nature programs: Legacy Farms Roughing It provides unique animal interactions for children. "Beautiful Arabian horses. Also goats, ducks, turkeys, chickens, roosters, Guineas, etc. Cats and dogs add to the fun," shares Evan S. about this small farm camping experience.
Swimming areas: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. "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," reports Andrew S. about Jordan Lake, mentioning that "there are options for boat or jet ski rentals VERY close."
Bathroom facilities: Family campers should research bathroom availability before booking primitive sites. "The campsite had a bench and firepit. The site itself was off the trail a bit allowing it to be more secluded feeling," explains James H. about Canoe Camp, noting limited facilities for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Connectivity considerations: Cell service quality affects working campers. "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," reports Andrew S. about Jordan Lake.
Site selection strategy: Experienced RVers recommend specific locations within campgrounds. "We camped at C-52. This site was very spacious, easy to back into, and level. This was a HUGE site, lots of space between neighbors," advises Martha S., who enjoyed the natural setting at Poplar Point.
Hookup variations: Electrical systems differ between parks. Jay K. noted at Legacy Farms that "the electrical hookup was limited to 120V, and having a 30amp or 50amp hookup would have been more convenient."
RV size limitations: Not all parks accommodate larger rigs. At Spring Valley RV Campground, Stuart K. observed that while "there's room here for perhaps 30 or so different RV parking spaces," the site is "fairly quick and easy to get on/off the main highway, and the place itself is quaint, intimate and incredibly quiet."
