On a national wild and scenic river, Lumber River State Park is all about eastern North Carolina paddling, fishing and exquisite scenery. The Princess Ann and Chalk Banks access areas anchor two ends of the riverine park, with tent-friendly campgrounds, group campsites, picnic grounds and short hiking trails at both. Possibilities for kayaking and canoeing are extraordinary, but require careful planning due to fluctuating water levels and hazards. There have been 24 possible float trips identified along this blackwater river, ranging from one hour to about half a day. Pier and riverbank fishing is available for black crappie, largemouth bass, catfish and panfish. The park’s interpretive programs regularly include paddling and fishing excursions.
Camping
Tent camping
23 primitive campsites, nine at Princess Ann and fourteen at Chalk Banks. One site at each access area is wheelchair accessible.
A maximum of six people is allowed per site. Each site has a table, fire pit with a grill, lantern holder and trash can. All fires must be contained in the pit. Permits for camping are required.
Group camping
Group campsites are available by reservation for verifiable, affiliated groups only. If not reserved, they can be used on a first-come-first-served basis.
There is one group site at each of the access areas. The maximum number of people allowed at Princess Ann is 20 and the maximum allowed at Chalk Banks is 35.
An overflow area is located at Princess Ann and it will hold up to 50 people.
Each site includes picnic tables, a grill, lantern holders, trash cans, and a fire pit with a grill. All fires must be contained in the pit. Checkout time is 3 p.m.
Activities
Hiking
The park is a great place for a hike!
Boating
A ramp at the park offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a leisurely small boat or canoe trip on one of the country's few wild and scenic rivers - the only black-water river with this designation in North Carolina. Contact the park office for river conditions and suggested canoe trips. Below is a listing of distances along the Lumber River.
Note: Due to the fluctuating water level of the Lumber River, canoeists and boaters should exercise caution in planning trips on the river. Add extra time for crossing exposed hazards and sandbars. All float times should include additional time to reach take-out points.
Fishing
Fish from a boat or along the riverbank. Black crappie, red breast, largemouth bass and catfish are abundant. Anglers must have a state fishing license and obey all regulations of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Picnicking
Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the Lumber River in a picnic area. Some picnic sites are accessible for persons with disabilities. All picnic table sites are available on a first-come first-served basis. For large gatherings, a picnic shelter can hold approximately 100 people and is available for reservations.
