Open

The campground recently closed for renovations beginning January 2026. Sites appear to be reopening mid-May 2026 with availability showing starting May 17. The boat ramp remains inaccessible to motorized watercraft due to low water levels; canoes and kayaks can still launch.

Special Weather Statement issued June 6 at 9:11AM EDT by NWS Newport/Morehead City NC

9:11 AM — June 7th, 12:15 AM

Abnormally dry fuel conditions further exacerbated by high temperatures reaching well into the 90s inland, low relative humidity (lowest away from the immediate coast), and strengthening southwest winds gusting to 15-20mph in the afternoon will lead to increased fire danger today and Sunday. Fire fuels could easily ignite and spread rapidly in these conditions. Residents and visitors to the area are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers. Exercise caution if operating any equipment that could create sparks, and keep vehicles off dry leaves and grass. Please refer to your local burn permitting authorities on whether you can burn. If you do, you are advised to use extreme caution.

About

Located 75 miles northeast of Greenville in North Carolina's coastal plain, Pettigrew State Park offers camping along the shores of Lake Phelps, one of the state's largest natural lakes. The 12 family campsites are non-electric and feature fire rings, picnic tables, and tent pads, with bathhouses providing flush toilets and showers. A 26-person primitive group camp is also available for larger parties. The park encompasses rich cypress swamp habitat and is known for its wintering population of tundra swans. Visitors can explore 9 miles of hiking and biking trails, launch canoes and kayaks from the boat ramp, swim, and fish in the lake. The historic Somerset Place, a preserved antebellum plantation, is adjacent to the park and offers guided tours. Reservations are accepted up to 6 months in advance through the NC State Parks reservation system. Holiday weekends require a two-night minimum stay. Leashed pets are welcome at campsites but not inside buildings.

Directions

From Greenville, take US 64 East approximately 50 miles to Creswell. Turn left onto Main Street, then right onto Lake Shore Road. The park entrance is approximately 6 miles on the right at 2252 Lake Shore Road, Creswell, NC 27928.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station
Wifi
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers Yes
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store
Price $27 - $55

Vehicle

Max RV Length 76ft
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites Yes

Contact

Email pettigrew@ncparks.gov
Phone +1 (252) 797-4475

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile Yes

Availability

Photos

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