The best camping near Merchants Millpond State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Merchants Millpond State Park adventure.

100% (5 reviews)

Discover the serene beauty of Merchants Millpond State Park.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Merchants Millpond State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Merchants Millpond State Park

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Spruill Conservation Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Roper, NC

(Note: Fireworks, crackers, sparklers, garbage burning are not permitted) Tip: check out the 'Phases of the Moon' calendar in photos before booking! Formerly: Spruill Farm Conservation Project The Spruill Farm belonged to the Spruill Family for over a hundred years and has just been set up as conservation easement protected land. It includes hardwood forest, swamp, a beautiful swimming beach* on the Albemarle Sound - one of the largest freshwater sounds in the world-, acres of farmland, vegetable garden and perhaps the largest fig orchard for hundreds of miles around. The purpose of the Spruill Farm is to further environmental research, promote ecological education and sustainable practices, and provide access for the public to the ever-diminishing shoreline experience. Please enjoy the incredible sunsets and woodland views, while respecting the serenity of this unique gem on the inner-banks. Wildlife on the property include Red Fox, River Otter, and 95 species of birds, including Bald Eagles (2 nests on the farm), nesting Osprey, Wood Ducks. Visit the 'Spruill Farm Conservation Project' on inaturalist(dot)org to see all 95 species, and upload any images from your observations. Because it is a nature preserve, please read the guidelines and rules closely if you choose to book with us. *Note: the shoreline changes with the wave action and the seasons. This makes the Bobby Wilkins shoreline trail so beautiful- always changing. If your expertise and interests coincide with the mission of the Farm, feel free to propose collaborative projects to julia@thepeanutfactory.org

Solitude at Thornton Farm

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Wakefield, VA

Peace and quiet equals “Solitude at my farm. I’m just like you. I want to camp at a quiet place in the country where it’s plenty of acres and no houses to look at and a clean bathroom and shower. Well it’s here. I’m Located in Wakefield Virginia. If you’re traveling to Virginia Beach I’m one hour away. From my farm there is a free ferry in Scotland where the ferry departs to Williamsburg just 30 minutes. At my farm I have 5 sites for tent/camping so it’s spaced appropriately apart I have 2 Rv sites totally away for their privacy and a new mini house also properly spaced away. All have a clean picnic table and a fire pit. 100 feet away you’ll find that clean bathroom, shower and a wash station for hygiene. You’ll see the love I put into this and because I love it and my prior guests love it, which means it may be right for you also. In the town of Wakefield you’ll find gas stations, dollar stores, a Value food market and if you want (to go) food we have that also. Plus it’s home to The Virginia Diner. Amenities include toilet access, a shower, trash disposal, picnic tables, and potable water. Pets are allowed, as are campfires.

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Big House Farm

10 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Chesapeake, VA

We are located in Chesapeake VA back in a more rural section. We own a poultry farm and have 40 acres of pasture and 60 acres of trees. There’s tons of wildlife and plenty of farm work if your up for it! This is a private and. Plenty of restaurants, shopping and beach around. We live on the property and around to help with any questions or needs.

Booked 2 times

MARSH DUCK WAY

1 site · Tent15 acres · Virginia Beach, VA

Come enjoy the serene views of Marsh Duck Way located in The Back Bay/Pungo area of Virginia Beach. A night under the moon and stars is all it takes to recharge. Whether it’s practicing mindfulness, reconnecting with yourself, moving your body, practicing gratitude, or simply watching the birds, fishing, crabbing, a quick getaway can offer space to focus on what means most to you. Waking up to the symphony of birds chirping in the morning and a gentle breeze rustling through the native foliage as you lay in the hammock enjoying your morning coffee uninterrupted by car horns and cell phone rings? This is available in Virginia Beach? Yes…there’s a place where you can still catch sight of a deer or fox through the tall trees, spot dancing river otters on the bank or in the creek. The Wildlife Refuge is adjacent to this property and across the bay…In this area of Pungo you can expect to see migratory birds, more than 300 species call this place home…which affords some of the best bird-watching opportunities on the East Coast. While this is especially true during the fall and winter months, when thousands of birds, such as snow and Canadian geese, tundra swans and a variety of duck species flock to the Bay to rest and feed before their long journey south, many species can be spotted year-round. Osprey, gannets, gulls and terns can be seen fishing and wax myrtles line the canal to the bay which provides habitats for a variety of nesting songbirds. There is no shortage of waterfowl that can be spotted here. In addition to a large number of avian visitors each year, Back Bay is also home to many other species that crawl, swim, scurry and slither with a variety of snakes and turtles. Few places on the East Coast offer such unique beauty and diversity of wildlife and opportunities to experience all of these wonderful creatures in their natural habitats abound. Head out of our private launch on a paddle boat, paddle board or one of our kayaks into the Back Bay. These are available as extras😊. There is a fire pit, firewood, a kudu grill and string lighting throughout the trees! The wild is calling you at The Back Bay Marsh Duck Way Campsite. All you have to do is answer.

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Gretchen’s Big Pine Carolina Estate

3 sites · RVs, Tents9000 acres · Columbia, NC

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape in a truly beautiful and unique place. World class fishing, bird/wildlife watching, hiking, water sports, visit the famous OBX beaches, restaurants, grocery store, and so much more is located nearby! You will be surrounded by 9000+ acres of the Palmetto Pear Tree Nature Preserve. You never know what wildlife you may be able to observe. There has never been a more peaceful and tranquil place to relax I can promise you that. Hello, Things you should know about staying at my private campsite are listed below. Please read to its entirety before booking. The very small, very private campground is located in Columbia, NC 27925 Distance to things nearby- (These are pictured on my listing) 0 miles to peace, and tranquility 1 mile to Albemarle sound 2 miles to nearest boat ramp 12 Miles to Food Lion and nearest Gas Station 27 Miles to the beach -There is no bathroom or shower house on the property. -Check in and out time is 12 noon. -This listing is for 1 campsite only, so you must bring your own tent, or camper. -You will have access to full hook up water, sewer and electric. -Cell phone service is very limited, so if you’re looking to unplug but be able to text somewhat this is the place for you! -No refunds will be given for inclement weather. -You will be surrounded by 9000 acres of the Palmetto Pear Tree Nature Preserve so there are plenty of wild animals. Including but not limited to deer, turkey, raccoons, possums, squirrels, coyote, endangered Red Wolfs, Bear, snakes, eagles, otters, birds galore and so much more. You truly never know what wildlife you may encounter. -Pets are allowed, you will be in the wilderness so keep an eye on them. -There are a total of 3 campsites on the property. If there happen to be other campers on the property please leave space for them to hook up and be respectful of their space and privacy. If you’d like to book another site for friends and/or family together please see my other listings. -World class fishing, hunting of all kinds, bird/wildlife watching, hiking, kayaking, boating, water sports, beach sitting, restaurants, grocery store, the beach and so much more is located nearby. -I am not responsible for accidents! -Hunting the property for deer, bear, squirrel, etc is available at additional costs. Please message for Hunting rates.

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Evans Family Farm

15 sites · RVs, Tents700 acres · Plymouth, NC

A small family farm with lots of wildlife and adventure. 700 acres located on the Roanoke River and Conaby Creek. We have 3 ponds great for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. On your stay you are likely to see black bears, deer, and more! We are 5 minutes away from a grocery store and gas station. Join us at our piece of heaven in the middle of nowhere.

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Meet at the Creek

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Chesapeake, VA

Our property is located in Deep Creek Chesapeake, VA on the intercoastal waterway/dismal swamp canal. We have 4+ acres of natural beauty at the end of a gravel road. Though we are not far from the city, nature definitely is the main character around here. The waterway is brackish (salt and fresh) so there is a wide array of wildlife to enjoy. Bald eagles and heron fly over daily and we often see otters, foxes and raccoons and birds galore. Guests have access to kayaks and dock (2 story) for fishing and/or relaxing. Water views from any spot on the property. We also have two friendly dogs that would love to meet you.

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Drewry Blueberry Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Wakefield, VA

We live on a diversified farm with hogs, chickens, guineas, five dogs, cattle, a donkey, milk cows... with a blueberry and grape orchard for u-pick customers. Our farm contains about 400 acres of fields, woodlands, our home and an 18th century home that we restored for nightly rentals. It is quiet here with night skies where you can actually see the stars. Yet we are only 18 miles from the Jamestown Ferry and Colonial Williamsburg and more.

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Gator Creek

1 site · RV, Tent6 acres · Columbia, NC

Located near Alligator River on the Little Alligator Creek. Fishing all around, just a short walk thru the woods or down the road. There is no clear path cut to the creek. I try to keep as much outside interference away from the property as possible. Public boat ramp in walking distance. Game lands are nearby with hunting for deer, bear etc. in season of course. No hunting allowed at Gator Creek. Not much light pollution so great for sky watchers. Lots of wild plants. Fiddle Head Ferns, Hearts A Busting, Wild Blueberries, Elderberry and more. A porta john located at my personal cabin but guest are welcome to use it or even pitch your tent in my cabin yard. City water available. We are adding a cooking shack for your use and hope to have it ready in a couple weeks. We do ask that you dispose of your trash appropriately because of the wild animals at Gator Creek. I am not on the site when campers are there. I want each camper to have the use of the property by themselves, that is the reason for only one camper at the time. I will add, I cannot guarantee how many Dragon Flys, birds, squirrels, bears etc. you will see, if any. You are camping in the wild in wetlands surrounded by state hunting preserves. If you want the outdoor life and like the wild Gator Creek is the place for you. PS: I am open to allowing car campers and or small camper vans.

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Country Living at Its Best!

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents46 acres · Suffolk, VA

This 46-acre horse ranch is located in the Whaleyville township of Suffolk. We are off of Highway 13, five miles from North Carolina state line. The 46 acres include 15 acres of pasture that host horse and sheep, and 31 acres of surrounding woods for hiking, camping, horseback riding and ATVs. A unique wildlife swamp borders the rear of the property.Learn more about this land:Enjoy country tranquility on this 46-acre horse ranch! 15 acres of pasture host horses and sheep. 31 additional acres available for camping, hiking, ATVs, and hunting. Unique wildlife swamp borders the property. Great star gazing!Located in the Whaleyville township of Suffolk, off of Highway 13 and 5 miles from North Carolina state line.

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Lonely Birch Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents61 acres · Sussex, VA

Small farm with cleared land that raises animals and 45 acres of woods with trails and a creek that splits the woods. See all forms of wildlife in the woods today. We have various livestock that people can interact with and enjoy. We will teach and inform of our practices on the farm and the way we are being good stewards of our land.

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Ross’ Paradise Park

25 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Windsor, NC

Passed down from previous generations, my father used his landowning opportunity to create a space of refuge for family and friends. Now that my brother and I are continuing his legacy, we wish to expand the definition of Family and Friends to You! Proudly black owned and family operated, Ross’ is a space for refocusing, re-centering, and grounding your thoughts about life. Come take part in an opportunity to support local and grow small. Take part in you!

The best camping near Merchants Millpond State Park guide

Overview

About

Looking for something a little different than western North Carolina’s stony mountains? Then head east to Merchants Millpond State Park for a serious change of scenery. Commonly referred to as an “enchanted forest,” you’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time. Primitive species of fish that basically look like they did millions of years ago swim below the swampy waters while bald cypress trees sprout above them. Thick growths of Spanish moss hang from the branches and alligators slink through the swamps.

If you’re really looking for adventure, venture over to Lassiter Swamp, the most remote and undisturbed in the area. Take a canoe out and see what you can discover. Just remember to blink, because you’ll be so glued to your surroundings that your eyeballs might dry out. Ecologically, Merchants Millpond is a true North Carolina gem not to be missed!

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book your campsite well in advance to secure your spot in this popular retreat.
Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies and last-minute openings for unexpected opportunities.
Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of an idyllic getaway.

When to go

The best time to visit Merchants Millpond State Park is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer brings warmth perfect for water activities, though it can be humid. Winters are quiet, offering a stark, peaceful landscape.

Know before you go

Check the park's official website for any alerts on closures or safety advisories before your visit.
Ensure you have all necessary permits for camping and fishing, if applicable.
Accessibility varies across the park, so plan according to your needs.
Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, and a visitor center with educational exhibits.
Remember to pack out your trash and leave the park as pristine as you found it.