Camping options near Vass, North Carolina sit between 250-450 feet in elevation in the Sandhills ecosystem, characterized by sandy soils and longleaf pine forests. The region experiences mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing and hot, humid summers that make spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Most campgrounds in this area operate year-round due to the temperate climate.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Moccasin Branch Campground, visitors can explore multiple trail options for all skill levels. "We hiked in from the parking lot too one of the canoe in sites on the river. I loved all the trails, mainly the one that goes from the campsite I was on to the river where there is natural waterslide," shares Sarah L. The trails connect campsites to the Cape Fear River with options for both short walks and longer excursions.
Water recreation: The region offers multiple lakes and rivers for fishing, kayaking and swimming. "We brought our dog on our hike. The trails are easily followed and they include long and short Trails for your enjoyment. Great day trip," notes Christine J. about Moccasin Branch. Most water access points remain open April through October, with swimming areas typically closing after Labor Day.
Fitness and recreation: Beyond natural attractions, Fayetteville RV Resort & Cottages provides diverse recreational facilities. "Great spot and one of the best kept secrets of Fayetteville, NC. Putt Putt. Weight Room. Pool. Event Center. Basketball Courts. Play Ground and Nature Trail," notes one camper. Many campgrounds host scheduled weekend activities during peak season from May through September.
What campers like
Community activities: Weekly scheduled events create social opportunities at several campgrounds. At Sycamore Lodge, Karen R. notes, "I love it here I can relax or keep busy with all the fun activity! The atmosphere is friendly and fun! The pool the hot tub, volleyball, game room and well stocked store! Bands on weekend crafts golf cart rentals!" Most campgrounds increase their activity schedules during summer months.
Proximity to attractions: Campers appreciate the central location for day trips. "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.," shares Cindy A. The location serves as a convenient base for exploring regional attractions.
Peace and nature: Many visitors value the natural setting and quiet atmosphere. At Crosswinds Campground, Angela M. appreciates "having a double site with my parents. Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy." Sites that back up to water features or wooded areas typically book furthest in advance.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park can be particularly busy with families. "This is a great family campground. They have activities all day for the kids and family. They are still under construction but you can't tell. Very spacious with plenty of activities and room for kids," notes Josh Q. Weekends often book 2-3 months in advance during summer.
Amenities and facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds. According to Tony C. at Sycamore Lodge, "Bathrooms and amenities are top notch. Sites are large and easy to back into." However, some campgrounds have limited facilities - "There were only 2 bathhouses in the campground," notes Rebecca F. about Jellystone Park.
Site conditions: Terrain and site layout impact camping comfort. Robert N. observes about Jellystone Park: "The only complaint I have of this campground is that some of the sites have some tricky slopes. Took some time leveling my rig, but turned out great." Sites near water features tend to have more level terrain but may be muddier after rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Select campgrounds with specific children's activities and facilities. At Morrow Mountain State Park, one camper notes, "Nice campground with a decent bathhouse. There is no AC in the bathhouses. They offer canoe and row boat rentals, they have a swimming pool that is open after Memorial Day. They also have a museum you can check out during the day." Swimming facilities typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Site selection: Choose sites based on proximity to bathrooms and play areas. Jennifer R. suggests at Morrow Mountain: "C loop, site 48, is where we stayed this trip. Its a good site. Close to the showers, which are clean and well maintained. Close to the trash bins and water spicket as well. Behind the site is a great little 'valley' to explore if you have kids/dogs."
Activity planning: Schedule around organized events at campgrounds. Tucker M. shares about Jellystone Park: "Absolutely had a blast and met another great family here! Me and my kids camp via Tent there. Amenities available were: General Store, Pool, Gaga Ball, Bouncing Pillow, Bath House by the pool, fishing pond laser tag, and a bunch of activities." Most family-oriented campgrounds post activity schedules online a week in advance.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: RV campers should research site dimensions and access roads. At Pine Lake RV Resort, Shahaliegh B. cautions, "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." Most campgrounds can accommodate rigs up to 35 feet, with limited availability for larger vehicles.
Hookup details: Water and electrical hookups vary by campground and site. William Scott R. notes about Sycamore Lodge: "Site was clean and lots spacious. Dual hookups for sewer connections. Nice water pressure." RV sites with full hookups typically cost $10-15 more than partial hookup sites.
Long-term options: Several campgrounds offer extended stay arrangements. "The resort is a 15m drive from Fort Bragg, 20m from Fayetteville, and the Fayetteville Airport, and 1h away from Raleigh and the Raleigh Airport," shares Tony J. about Fayetteville RV Resort, which accommodates both short and long-term campers. Monthly rates typically start around $600 at campgrounds offering extended stays.
