By:
Submission
At the Family Wilderness Camp, there are five campsites just off of the Campbell Creek Loop Trail, approximately 2.5 miles from the parking lot and 0.5 mile from the river. The maximum number of campers for each site is six.
Backpackers can also utilize the canoe camp, located beside the river off of the Little Creek Loop Trail, in a low-lying area. The camping area is a 1.7-mile hike in from the park office. There are six campsites, each accommodating up to six campers.
All supplies, including water, must be packed to the sites. Neither the Family Wildness nor Canoe Camp is accessible by vehicle.
Both camping areas offer a vault toilet, and all sites include a fire ring with a grill.
Great park! About an hour’s drive from downtown Raleigh. We arrived later in the afternoon but were able to do the Raven Rock Loop Trail and the two shorter trails (American Beech and Longleaf) before the sun went down. The early November weather was perfect! My only complaint was we did not realize we were supposed to go a different way after the split in the Raven Rock Loop trail- I did not see a sign or trail marker. Due to this, we just went back the way we came. In hindsight, we probably should have looked at a map. 😂
We’re excited to come back and do the longer trails- or maybe rent one of the cabins!
Great hidden gem south of Raleigh. The 4.5 mile Campbell Creek Loop Trail while marked as moderate, the hilly terrain and uneven surface on the hills can end your day with a twisted ankle. Use caution. With that in mind it is a beautiful trail especially during peak fall colors. If you go in the afternoon in late fall and winter, check your watch and make sure you can get back before the park gate is locked. Also, you will find yourself stumbling in the dark. I did not plan enough time and had to cut my adventure off early. I didn't make it to the Lanier Falls. The signage before the trail warns you to allow three to four hours to enjoy the trail. I also would lean toward the four hour time limit so you can stop and enjoy the scenery. This is a free state park.
The Raven Rock Loop trail is easy, scenic, and moderate in length. It's a worthwhile hike, especially if you're looking for something that doesn't require committing a lot of time. The rest of the park is nice too, albeit less scenic. The visitor center has exhibits and historical information. Free admission & free parking.
Great park about an hour away from Raleigh. Free entrance and parking. Restrooms near the visitor center. Multiple trails to explore. We usually do the Raven Rock Trail which is a 2.6mile easy hike. From the stairs you can explore a little bit more along the rock surface and river if you want. The climb back up the stairs is the only harder portion of this trail.
