Merchants Millpond State Park Campground, near Gatesville, North Carolina, is a peaceful retreat that invites you to unwind in nature. With spacious sites that offer privacy, it’s a great place to set up camp and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding forest and swamp.

The campground features clean facilities, including a well-maintained bathhouse with warm showers, which visitors appreciate after a day of exploring. Many campers have enjoyed the extensive trail system, with one reviewer describing it as “magical” for its therapeutic hikes through the lush landscape. You can also rent canoes to paddle around the pond, where you might spot turtles, birds, and even alligators.

For those who love a bit of adventure, the area is perfect for hiking and biking, with trails that lead you through stunning scenery. While some campers have mentioned noise from nearby sites, the overall vibe is one of calm and connection with nature. If you’re looking for a quiet escape with plenty of outdoor activities, Merchants Millpond State Park Campground is worth a visit.

Located in Gates County 10 miles south of North Carolina's northeastern border with Virginia, Merchants Millpond State Park centers on a 760-acre millpond more than 190 years old. Hiking the surrounding trails or paddling the placid, shallow waters of the pond offer a great way to explore this wetland environment. Old-growth cypress trees adorned with Spanish moss create an "enchanted forest," particularly at Lassiter Swamp. Visitors have even spotted the American alligator here, at the northernmost point of its range.

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