Kerr Lake, spanning 50,000 acres with 800 miles of shoreline across Virginia and North Carolina, offers varied camping options year-round. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 300-320 feet above sea level, placing campsites close to the water even during seasonal fluctuations. Seasonal considerations affect camping at John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir, with waterfront sites requiring advance planning during peak fishing seasons.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling access: Campers at Thousand Trails Lake Gaston appreciate the direct lake access. "We brought our boat and the ramp is a bit steep, but the slips were great. Such a fun lake to explore," notes Kathy G. Paddlers can launch directly from many campsites without needing a designated ramp.
Fishing opportunities: The lake supports multiple species including bass and catfish. "Kerr Reservoir has the best Bass fishing this side of the Mississippi, and they hold Bass tournaments here on a regular basis. The lake is also one of the best place for Cat Fish in the state as well," according to a camper at North Bend Park.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer trails for exploration. At Occoneechee State Park, one camper hiked "the Plantation Trail, a large historical site that was once a homestead. Mellow, family-friendly walk with a cemetery, historical markers, and an old chimney. Lots of old growth - from the gigantic boxwoods to the wild daffodils growing in the woods."
Wildlife viewing: The reservoir attracts diverse bird species. "Saw eagles, ospreys, and herons daily," reports one visitor to North Bend Park. Waterfront sites provide excellent observation opportunities for wildlife along the shoreline.
What campers like
Beach access: Many sites include private beach areas. At Hibernia Campground, campers enjoy personal water access. "Our waterfront site had its own little beach where we could swim and launch our kayak," writes Pamela H. These beaches vary from sandy to slightly rocky depending on location.
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention the generous spacing. "The sites are large and somewhat wooded. Not a campground where it's one on top of each other which is nice... especially with dogs!" notes a Jeanna Marie C. about Hibernia Campground.
Sunset views: Waterfront sites provide excellent evening vistas. At J.C. Cooper Campground, Terry S. describes "beautiful sunsets on the lake" with "beautiful reflections in the lake waters" that make evening camping especially memorable.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high standards for bathhouses. At Hibernia, "The bathrooms here are impeccable, best of any campground we've been to," according to EMRY H. Many facilities include private shower stalls rather than common shower areas.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Hibernia Campground, "the sites descriptions on the website could be updated to better reflect the site. Site 65, as well as others in the immediate area, are listed as 'level' but that is far from reality," reports Glenn F. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended.
Water hookup distances: Water connections can be far from RV pads at certain sites. At J.C. Cooper Campground, Mark H. advises to "bring at least 75 feet of water hose, as some sites have long runs from in front of camper." This applies particularly to the lakefront sites.
Seasonal closures: While some campgrounds operate year-round, others have limited seasons. Thousand Trails Lake Gaston operates "March 31 to October 22," according to campground information, with most North Carolina state park sites following similar schedules.
Varying cell service: Connectivity varies by carrier and location. At RV Resort At Carolina Crossroads, campers report "poor cell service" despite being close to Interstate 95, requiring planning for those needing reliable connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Many campgrounds feature sandy beach areas suitable for children. At Thousand Trails Lake Gaston, Samantha G. shares, "This is probably our favorite thus far. We like the lake and it's easily accessible... It contains putt putt, pool, store, 2 beaches, dock, fishing areas, playground, and tons of shade."
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas. Occoneechee State Park offers "a large playground and easy walking trails," making it suitable for families with varying age groups according to Lisa M.
Splash pad option: For water play beyond the lake, Occoneechee State Park provides alternative water recreation. "We spent most of our free time at the splash pad. The kids loved that!" reports Katie M., though she notes there's "not a ton of trails" for hiking.
Kid-friendly sites: Some sites better accommodate families than others. When camping at Occoneechee, one camper advises considering campground C where "the sites are RIGHT on the water," but suggests avoiding these sites "in the heat of the summer" due to limited shade.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RVers staying at John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir, location affects access and comfort. At Hibernia, "Site 70 was perfect for us... Lots of beaches, hiking, biking," notes EMRY H., who adds, "some sites need some creative leveling but typically do-able."
Overnight convenience: For those traveling I-95, Carolina Crossroads offers easy access. "Conveniently right off of I-95. Off enough so there isn't any highway noise. Beautiful facilities. Including concrete slabs to park on," explains Tracey S., making it ideal for overnight stops during longer trips.
Length considerations: Some loops have tight turns for larger rigs. At Carolina Crossroads, Stephanie H. reports, "We struggled turning down aisle D in our 42 ft 5th wheel. Despite it saying it was 60 ft, spot was still tight." Checking campground maps before arrival helps avoid difficult maneuvers.
Hookup planning: Full hookups aren't available at all campgrounds. J.C. Cooper Campground provides water and electric, but a camper notes "no sewer" at many sites. Using the dump station requires planning departure timing to avoid morning congestion.
