Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park
Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Dec. 31, 2019

Backcountry Camping in a State Park

Raven Rock State Park is known for its namesake cliffs on the edge of the Cape Fear River. It has over a dozen miles of trails, which include horseback riding, hiking, and cycling trails. Since this park is along the fall line, most of the trails are easy with some rise and fall in elevation. Make sure you hike to the“Raven Rock” while you are there. It is impressive, and there are other trails that offer peaceful walks through the forest and other views of the river. The only camping allowed, for now, is primitive tent camping. The campsites can be reached either by hiking or by canoeing/kayaking in. There is a privy, but there are no showers. I counted seven spaces for camping. There is a site(or was) for group camping. The ranger told me that it is no longer in use. When I was talking to her, she said that they are working on an area for RV camping and that it would be ready next year. If I understood correctly, it will be in the area of the Mountain Laurel Loop Trail. When you camp there, make sure to take a good head lamp or flashlight. I had to walk quite far to get to the privy, and during the night, it is dark! The site that I chose was a longer walk to the privy than the other campsites, but it was a little more remote and private. I also had to by-pass a mud hole on the way to the privy, so again, take a good light source. The best thing about Raven Rock State Park is, of course, the 150’ cliffs along the river. The best thing about camping at Raven Rock State Park is how quiet it is. The hike is 1.7 miles, and other than the sounds of Cape Fear River down below, the only thing you hear at night might be an occasional airplane flying overhead. Since it was during December, I didn’t see any other campers. During the day, however, the park had several day hikers. If you want to camp in the backcountry but don’t want to hike very far to get there, this is a great place. If you have an RV or just want to camp where you can drive to, you will have to wait for a year, according to the park ranger.

  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • This is the entrance from the Cape Fear River, in case you are canoeing in.
    Play button icon
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • I guess I was a little particular about where I set up my tent.  I was happy on my third attempt.
    Play button icon
  • There are only two ways to get to the campsites--canoe in or hike in.
    Play button icon
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019
  • Review photo of Canoe Camp — Raven Rock State Park by Myron C., December 31, 2019