William B. Umstead State Park and Eno River State Park offer rustic cabins and primitive campsites within a 25-mile radius of Zebulon, North Carolina. The area features rolling Piedmont terrain with elevations ranging from 250-350 feet above sea level, characterized by mixed hardwood forests and access to the Neuse River watershed. Several state parks provide camping facilities with varying levels of amenities and hiking access to local waterways.
What to do
Trail exploration at Falls Lake: The Mountains-to-Sea Trail section near Falls Lake provides hiking opportunities with lakefront views. A camper notes, "This is a hidden gem for a MST hiker. The campground is located on private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites" at MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping.
Paddling opportunities: Bring kayaks or canoes to explore the waterways near camping areas. "Feel free to bring your kayak or canoe to take out onto the water," mentions a reviewer about RTP Lakefront Campsite, which offers water access directly from campsites.
Running and biking trails: The extensive trail systems accommodate various outdoor activities beyond hiking. "I've been to this park over a dozen times to run, and every time seems better than the previous one. Depending on where you park, you can access excellent 8-14 mile loops on the main gravel paths," shares a visitor about trail options.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Campers appreciate the privacy and natural surroundings at many sites. "The primitive sites are spaces far enough apart that it truly feels like solitude. Piper Creek is our favorite. Flat and easy 1.2 mile hike in along the river," notes a camper about Eno River State Park Campground.
Historic cabin accommodations: Rustic cabins provide shelter while maintaining a connection to the area's history. "There are historic cabins with cots to sleep on. There is electricity in the cabins," explains a reviewer about group camping options at William B. Umstead State Park Campground.
Water features: Swimming holes and river access enhance the camping experience. "The Eno River is more than safe to swim or paddle in. If you can camp close to the river, I recommend, it's great to fall asleep to the sounds of the river," shares a camper about riverfront camping options.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some parks require phone reservations rather than online booking. "It's quite difficult to reserve sites here as you have to call the county to get a permit," warns a camper about Lake Michie Recreation Area, which has limited sites available.
Site conditions: Campsites range from well-maintained to more primitive conditions. "The campground had a gravel base and picnic table with fire pit. The gravel was very painful to sleep on," notes a camper about certain hike-in sites, emphasizing the importance of proper sleeping pads.
Airport noise: Proximity to RDU International Airport affects the soundscape at some campgrounds. "The only bummer is the occasional airplane you will inevitably hear above you as the park is located right next to RDU international airport," mentions a camper about noise considerations.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Take advantage of interpretive activities for children. "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean," shares a visitor about Family Wilderness Camp, which offers structured outdoor learning opportunities.
Easy access options: Consider drive-in sites for camping with small children. "This is a great little campground right inside Raleigh. I've camped there several times with the kids and it's great because it's so close and there are a few good hikes," recommends a parent about proximity to urban areas.
Water safety: When camping near water features, maintain proper supervision. "There is a tremendous amount of hiking and trails to do around here. The Eno River is more than safe to swim or paddle in. Dogs are welcome here!" explains a camper about family-friendly water access points.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most camping areas near Zebulon focus on tent camping rather than RV sites. "Small sites, hard to reserve but quiet. Other than the large group camping area, all of the sites are very small, not very level, and have low clearance," reports a camper about limitations for larger vehicles.
Seasonal availability: Check operating schedules as some campgrounds close seasonally. Umstead State Park operates from March 15 to December 1, requiring winter camping plans to focus on year-round facilities like Eno River State Park.
Pack-in requirements: Most camping areas have minimal facilities, requiring self-sufficiency. "Packing everything in and out was fun but there was no running drinking water at the site," notes a camper about the preparation needed for primitive camping experiences.
