William B. Umstead State Park

Star3.36
13 reviews
8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27617, United States

Quick Facts

502 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

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Showers
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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

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What Campers Say

3.36

Mixed Reviews

Based on 13 reviews

10 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowerssites

"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."

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Campground Map

8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27617, United States

William B. Umstead State Park

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.

Best Time to Camp at William B. Umstead State Park

Experience 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Summer has warm days suited to camping but no swim/boating highlights mentioned.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Hardwood forest implies notable fall color; trails remain attractive for hiking.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring described: 'wildflower blooms and perfect hiking temperatures.'

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Four seasons noted but winter offers limited activities; milder climate reduces winter appeal.

Planning Tips

    About William B. Umstead State Park

    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.
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    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.
    HikingHiking trails are available and are described as 'nice' by a user review. The park is a favorite for long-term campers who enjoy hiking.
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    Policies & Safety


    Weather at William B. Umstead State Park

    Reviews

    3.4
    13 reviews
    Mixed Reviews
    Mixed Reviews
    William B. Umstead State Park has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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
    Based on 13 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Users appreciate the 'clean hot showers,' 'large campsites,' and the natural environment with access to 'trees and trails.'
    Based on 13 reviews

    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...
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    Based on 13 reviews

    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.
    Based on 13 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    No specific seasonal trends were mentioned in the reviews.
    Based on 13 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." -...
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    Based on 13 reviews

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    Last updated January 13, 2026
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