North Carolina State Parks

Lumber River

2819 Princess Ann Road, Orrum, NC 28369 · (910) 628-9844 · E-mail

The Lumber River flows through the south-central portion of our state. And, the river's headwaters are in Montgomery, Moore and Scotland counties where the waterway is known as Drowning Creek. The creek becomes a river at SR 1412/1203 along the Scotland-Hoke county line, and its waters flow into South Carolina, eventually joining the Little Pee Dee River.

Lumber River State Park contains 7,936 acres of land and 115 miles of state natural and scenic waters, 81 miles of which are also designated national wild and scenic waters. The park's recreation activities are currently centered at the Princess Ann Access, which includes a reverse flow area named Griffin's Whirl. At the access, a bend in the river opens to a long, straight vista that beckons paddlers to take a ride.

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.

Camping

Nine individual campsites are available for family camping with a maximum of six people per site. One site is handicapped accessible. Each site has a table, grill, lantern holder, trash can and fire pit. All fires must be contained in the pit. Permits for camping are required.

Group campsites are available by reservation for verifiable, affiliated groups only. The maximum number of persons allowed per site is 15. Each site includes two tables, a grill, lantern holder, trash can and fire pit. All fires must be contained in the pit. Checkout time is noon.

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.

Hiking

Hikers enjoy the park's nature trail, which is a .75-mile loop. Begin near the picnic shelter and enjoy a peaceful walk along the highest bank of the Lumber River. The trail features a 100-foot boardwalk across a wet area. A fishing pier and turn-of-the-century millpond are adjacent to the trail.

Picnicking

Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the Lumber River in a picnic area. For large gatherings, a picnic shelter can hold approximately 100 people and is available for reservations. Some picnic sites are accessible for persons with disabilities. All sites are available on a first-come basis.

For more information visit: North Carolina State Parks - Lumber River State Park