Pettigrew State Park
00 review2252 Lake Shore Rd, Creswell, North Carolina, 27928, United States
Pettigrew State Park
$23.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard sites cost $23-$26 per night. Firewood is available for sale at the campground entrance.
About this campground
Tucked away in the serene wilderness of Pettigrew State Park, this intimate 13-site campground offers a rare escape from the modern world. Often whispered about as North Carolina's 'hidden treasure,' this rustic retreat beckons those seeking solitude beneath pristine night skies. When darkness falls, the absence of city lights transforms the campground into a natural planetarium, where the Milky Way stretches across the heavens in breathtaking clarity.
Pettigrew State Park offers primitive camping sites suitable for tents and small vehicles. There are no options for RV or glamping accommodations, and the sites are basic, with minimal facilities.
Historical SignificanceHistory comes alive just steps from your campsite at the magnificent Somerset House Plantation. This antebellum estate stands as a powerful testament to the complex tapestry of American history, offering visitors a chance to walk through time and contemplate the stories embedded in these ancient grounds. The proximity of this significant historical landmark adds a profound dimension to your camping experience, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground experiences a delightful dance of seasons, from crisp winter mornings that give way to balmy summer evenings. While rain occasionally graces the landscape, bringing fresh scents of earth and cypress, the most magical moments arrive during those perfect weeks when azure skies meet moderate temperatures and gentle breezes whisper through the trees. These ideal conditions create an outdoor paradise where every activity feels effortless and every sunset more spectacular than the last.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient cypress sentinels rise from the mirror-like waters of Lake Phelps, their gnarled roots and Spanish moss creating an enchanted landscape that feels untouched by time. As evening approaches, the western sky erupts in a symphony of colors that paint the lake's surface in shades of gold, crimson, and purple. A network of scenic trails winds through this natural wonderland, inviting exploration of hidden coves, wildlife viewing spots, and pathways that lead to fascinating historical sites, creating an immersive experience where nature and heritage intertwine.
Geological RegionNestled in the East District's distinctive flat coastal plain, the campground sits in a unique ecosystem where ancient lake beds meet primordial forests. This level terrain, sculpted by millennia of natural forces, creates an accessible wilderness perfect for all skill levels. The proximity to Lake Phelps—one of North Carolina's most mysterious natural lakes—adds an element of geological intrigue to this already captivating landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park offers basic camping facilities but has not explicitly highlighted accessibility features. User reviews and site data do not provide specific information regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of 13 sites, with sites 1-6 located in a wooded area and sites 7-13 situated in a more open grassy field.
Sites PrivacySites in the wooded area (1-6) offer more shade and privacy, while the grassy sites in the open field (7-13) are less private. A review notes that the grassy side feels less private as campers park and camp very close to their neighbors.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #1 is less suitable for larger vehicles due to narrow driveway clearance. Site #2 is recommended for its shade.
Best CampsitesSite #2 is described as very shaded and pleasant. Sites 1-6 are more wooded while 7-13 are in an open field.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No specific stay limit found in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne loop with 13 sites divided between wooded and open field areas.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites available first-come, first-served, as noted by some reviewers who made last-minute reservations.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy provided.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pettigrew State Park provides a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Lake Phelps allows for various water-based activities, and the park also offers cultural experiences like visiting the nearby Somerset House plantation.
Hiking
The park features around 10 miles of walking and biking trails, including the Lake Shore Trail, which passes a designated swimming hole. The trails provide opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore the area.Fishing
Fishing is popular at Lake Phelps, which is located just 300 yards from the campsite. Users report catching largemouth bass, pickerel, catfish, spotted gar, and other species. Fishing piers are available, and the lake offers a variety of fishing experiences.Swimming
There is a designated swimming area along the boardwalk near the campground. The swimming hole is part of the Lake Shore Trail, and a user review notes: 'No dogs or fishing allowed in the swimming hole.'Biking
The park's trails are suitable for biking, providing a scenic and enjoyable way to explore the area. Specific details about trail difficulty and terrain are not provided.Boating
The park includes a boat ramp and jetties, making it easy for visitors to enjoy boating on Lake Phelps. The lake is also noted for offering excellent stargazing opportunities.Wildlife viewing
The wildlife at Pettigrew State Park includes tundra swans, as noted in a February review. The campground's quiet and natural setting provides ample opportunities for observing local fauna.Cultural and Educational Programs
The historic Somerset House plantation, located next to the park, offers cultural and educational experiences. Visitors can tour this site to learn more about the region's history.Winter Activities
The park provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing even in winter. One user review mentions tundra swans in February as a highlight.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are likely popular due to the lake access, though specific activities are not detailed in the sources.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
General hazardsPotential bear presence noted by claw marks on trees near the campgrounds. Mosquitoes are prevalent especially in grassy areas.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingGarbage bins are available throughout the campground to help maintain cleanliness, though recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClose access to Lake Phelps for fishing, swimming, and boating. Boat ramps are available, and swimming areas are designated.
Common complaintsBathrooms described as dark and outdated by several reviewers. Mosquito prevalence in grassy areas is a recurrent issue.
HostThe campground has a ranger station available.
Campground Map
2252 Lake Shore Rd, Creswell, North Carolina, 27928, United States
Driving directionsFrom US 64 East or US 64 West, take exit 558 to Creswell. Turn left onto Alligood Road and drive approximately one mile. Turn left onto Main Street and drive two miles (the road name changes to Spruill's Bridge Road). Turn right onto Thirty Foot Canal Road and drive for five miles. Turn left onto Lake Shore Road and the park office entrance is immediately on the right.
Access is straightforward from US 64, but involves smaller rural roads such as Thirty Foot Canal Road and Lake Shore Road. These roads appear to be paved and accessible year-round.Nearby places
Creswell (7 miles)
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Pettigrew State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground is described as a quiet, peaceful, and hidden gem with basic amenities. Many reviewers praise the cleanliness of the facilities, the natural beauty of the location, and the variety of activities available.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the small size of the campground (only 13 sites, which avoids overcrowding), clean bathrooms and showers, good cell service, beautiful views of Lake Phelps, and the...
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Common Concerns
Some reviewers mention issues such as mosquitoes, outdated restrooms, and a lack of electricity at campsites. One reviewer highlighted a broken water spigot, and another mentioned that the vault...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
'Pack bug spray,' is a frequent recommendation due to mosquito concerns. Campers also suggest choosing shaded sites for privacy and bringing water containers to minimize trips to the spigots. For...
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Seasonal Insights
The campground is praised year-round, with spring and fall highlighted for fishing and comfortable weather. Winter reviews mention tundra swans as unique attractions, while summer reviews emphasize...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'What a little hidden treasure of a NC State Campground!' - Michael Crawshaw
2. 'Bathrooms with showers are available, plenty of garbage bins, and a few water spigots (the one closest to us is...
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Site-Specific Reviews
'Site 2 is VERY shaded,' 'Sites 1-6 are more in the woods,' and 'if you reserve site 1, be careful with wider vehicles as the driveway is narrow.'
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed in the park, but they are not permitted in the designated swimming hole.
Last updated August 10, 2025