William B. Umstead State Park
00 review8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27617, United States
William B. Umstead State Park
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
About this campground
Escape to William B. Umstead State Park, where the simplicity of tent and pop-up camping reconnects you with nature's rhythms. This peaceful retreat offers an authentic outdoor experience, inviting you to pitch your tent beneath towering trees and fall asleep to the gentle sounds of the forest. Perfect for families seeking their first camping adventure or seasoned outdoor enthusiasts looking for a back-to-basics getaway, the park's tent-only policy ensures a tranquil atmosphere free from the hum of RV generators.
The campground accommodates tent and pop-up camping only, explicitly prohibiting RVs and trailers.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape shaped by centuries of human and natural history. Once home to indigenous peoples who traversed these ancient trails, the land later served as farmland before its transformation into a cherished state park. Today, remnants of old homesteads and historic structures whisper stories of the past, while the preserved forests stand as a testament to conservation efforts that saved this natural treasure for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons that transform your camping adventure throughout the year. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect hiking temperatures, while summer brings warm days ideal for exploring shaded trails. Fall paints the forest in brilliant oranges and golds, creating a photographer's paradise, and mild winters offer crisp air and peaceful solitude for those seeking quiet reflection in nature.
ElevationNestled in the gentle rolling hills of the Piedmont region, the park's varied terrain offers diverse camping experiences. From creek-side spots in peaceful valleys to hilltop sites with filtered forest views, the modest elevation changes create natural amphitheaters of beauty while remaining accessible to campers of all fitness levels.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of hardwood forests, serene lakes, and meandering creeks that define this natural sanctuary. Towering oaks and hickories create a living canopy overhead, while understory dogwoods and redbuds add seasonal splashes of color. Crystal-clear streams babble through rocky beds, and three pristine lakes mirror the sky, offering stunning sunrise and sunset reflections that reward early risers and evening wanderers alike.
Geological RegionDiscover the ancient Piedmont landscape, where weathered granite outcroppings tell a billion-year geological story. The park sits atop some of North Carolina's oldest exposed rock formations, creating unique microhabitats and scenic vistas. These time-worn stones, smoothed by millennia of wind and water, provide natural gathering spots for campers and serve as silent witnesses to the Earth's incredible history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are mentioned, but no specific details are provided.
Sites SizeReviews suggest the sites are large and can accommodate big setups, though maneuvering may be tricky for larger setups like a 42 ft vehicle.
Sites PrivacyThere is no specific mention of privacy levels at the campsites.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground supports various activities including hiking trails and trail exploration. While no specific details about the trails are given, user reviews suggest they are scenic. Being near the airport, the area is noisy, which could influence outdoor experiences.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and are described as 'nice' by a user review. The park is a favorite for long-term campers who enjoy hiking.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger station contact number: 9195714170.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingA recycling station is available, but no further information on trash facilities is provided.
Campground Map
8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27617, United States
Driving directionsThe Crabtree Creek section is located 10 miles northwest of Raleigh off US 70. The park visitors center and camping facilities are located in this section. From I-40, turn northeast on I-540 and take the US 70 exit. Travel southeast on US 70, and turn right on Umstead Parkway, which leads to Visitors center. After entering the park, turn right onto Campground Road.
Road access is described to be straightforward, with proximity to major highways (US 70, I-40, I-540). Campground access requires navigation through Umstead Parkway.Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
William B. Umstead State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has mixed reviews. Some campers praise its cleanliness, large sites, and proximity to hiking trails. However, noise from the nearby airport and the park's gate-locking policy are significant concerns for others.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the 'clean hot showers,' 'large campsites,' and the natural environment with access to 'trees and trails.'
Common Concerns
Significant complaints include the campground’s proximity to the airport causing loud noise from planes, the 'gate-locking policy' that prevents entry or exit after posted times, and negative...
Show more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing earplugs if you are a light sleeper due to noise from the airport. Plan your arrival and departure to align with the gate-locking hours.
Seasonal Insights
No specific seasonal trends were mentioned in the reviews.
Camper Quotes
"Omg, one of the best campgrounds we've stayed in. Lots of large sites...clean hot showers, just loved it." - Debbie Edens. "It’s right next to the airport...extremely loud from planes taking off." -...
Show more
Last updated August 10, 2025