Pet-friendly camping options near Vass, North Carolina span across Cumberland, Lee, and Harnett counties in the Sandhills region, where elevations range from 200-500 feet above sea level. The sandy soil and longleaf pine ecosystems create unique camping conditions, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September. Fall camping season typically extends through October with milder temperatures in the 70s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Heritage Camping & Recreation features a "nice fishing pond well off the road" according to visitor Robert M. Many campgrounds near Vass offer fishing access with specific regulations for catch and release.
Hiking trails: Moccasin Branch Campground at Raven Rock State Park provides excellent trail options. "We hiked in from the parking lot to 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 a natural waterslide," shares Sarah L. The park offers varied terrain suitable for different hiking abilities.
Water recreation: Poplar Point Campground at Jordan Lake provides multiple water-based activities. "The kids had room to play while we enjoyed peaceful lake views and easy access to boating, kayaking, and fishing," notes Maria M. The campground offers boat ramps and shoreline access points.
Nature observation: At Jordan Lake, visitors can spot diverse wildlife. "Bald eagles overhead, herons by the water, and fiery sunsets made it feel like we were far from the city," one camper reports. Early mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Concrete pads and level sites: Sycamore Lodge offers well-maintained sites with solid infrastructure. "Our site is smaller than most with 30amps, water and sewer. The resort is well maintained and very clean. Gravel roads and sites with a thick covering of pine needles between," shares ToolMan56 T. The concrete pads help with leveling and stability regardless of weather conditions.
Recreational amenities: Campers appreciate the variety of activities available. "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!" explains Karen R. from Sycamore Lodge.
Privacy between sites: At Chalk Banks campground, campers enjoy "extra large and private campsites. One of the campsites has a hammock stand. The group site is huge. The whole park is very clean and spacious," according to Tammie S. This provides a more secluded camping experience.
Seasonal events: Several campgrounds offer scheduled activities during peak seasons. "Had food trucks and site was clean," notes William Scott R. about his experience at Sycamore Lodge, demonstrating the additional amenities sometimes available.
What you should know
Military noise considerations: Smith Lake Army RV Park sits adjacent to military facilities. "Camp ground is next to airfield, you might get helicopter noises from time to time," notes Greg B. Military training operations can create significant noise at any time of day.
Gate closing times: Many campgrounds have strict entrance regulations. At Chalk Banks, "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. Always confirm gate codes and closing times when checking in.
Reservation requirements: Camping availability varies significantly by season. "We were told you have to call and make a reservation but we shouldn't have a problem getting a spot since it's empty. After calling and only getting voicemails, we found the man again who called his boss. His boss finally answered and said we can only camp there by making reservations 72 hours ahead of time," explains Karah S. about San-Lee Park.
Site variations: Not all sites have the same amenities. "Not each site had a fire ring—community fire rings only," reports E G. about Smith Lake Army RV Park, highlighting the importance of confirming site-specific features when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Look for water access points: Pine Lake RV Resort offers family-friendly water features. "This campground is very clean and quiet with lots of things to do, there is a pond to go fishing and the campground has a variety of boats and kayaks that you can use on the pond," explains Shahaliegh B.
Choose campgrounds with playground access: Multiple campsites feature dedicated children's areas. "Playgrounds were phenomenal for kids. Bike and Hiking trails all throughout the site," notes E G. about Smith Lake facilities.
Consider age-appropriate trails: When hiking with children, select appropriate paths. "OK to hike with children. I brought both of mine but we do a lot of primitive camping. So we are used to different terrain, and no bathrooms," advises Sarah L. about trails at Moccasin Branch.
Pack extra bug protection: Insects can be particularly problematic in this region. Maria M. advises visitors to Poplar Point Campground to "pack serious bug spray for summer," as mosquitoes can be intense near water areas, especially during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: At Spacious Skies Sandy Run (formerly Lazy Acres), RVers should note access limitations. "Super tight and small spaces with a bunch of trees to navigate while backing up," warns Steven F. Larger rigs may need to request specific sites.
Hookup quality: Water pressure can vary between campgrounds. "Site was clean and lots spacious. Dual hookups for sewer connections. Nice water pressure," notes William Scott R. about Sycamore Lodge.
Freezing weather protocols: Some campgrounds have strict winterization requirements. Josh W. shares: "We were given a rather rude letter at the camp office demanding that we disconnect on specific dates by 6pm, or else we would have our water disconnected and would be charged $10 for failing to disconnect." Always confirm cold weather policies if camping during potential freeze periods.
Site selection for views: At Poplar Point Campground, "Sites F36 and F40 are situated so the awning side of the camper has a direct, unobstructed view of the water," advises Stuart O., offering valuable insight for RVers looking to maximize their camping experience.
