If you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, then you certainly have a wealth of places to choose from in North Carolina. But if you’re looking for a big secluded treasure, then place yourself along the shady shores of Lake Phelps. While the Tar Heel State has a number of other lakes like Lake Norman, Lake Glenville, and Lake Lure that are wildly popular, Lake Phelps, on the contrary, is very underrated as a family destination. This makes it a perfect place for a day trip, a weekend, or a longer stay.
At 16,600 acres in size, Lake Phelps offers a shady and picturesque escape with the easiest and most accessible entry via Pettigrew State Park in Creswell.
The lake itself is the second largest natural lake in the state and is anywhere from 4.5 to nine feet deep throughout.
It would be a stretch to claim Lake Phelps is little known. It's a huge body of water, after all, and also a popular spot for photographers who proudly post lake views to Instagram on the regular.
However, as a state park, Pettigrew is a bit less sought after than the adventures found at other eastern North Carolina state parks, such as Jockeys Ridge and Fort Macon.
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Suffice it to say, you won't find large crowds at Pettigrew State Park. Nor will you run out of ways to enjoy the park to its fullest.
A shaded picnic area is set among a grove of cypress trees. Pack a lunch, bring swimming attire, and prepare for a unique day at the lake.
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A network of trails grips the shores of the lake and along one of them is a swimming dock — complete with ladders to help even younger kids enjoy some time in the water.
Dugout canoes discovered at the bottom of Lake Phelps have been dated as far back as 4,400 years and linked to Algonquian peoples who are thought to have used the lake area for hunting and fishing.
Fishing is especially popular and Lake Phelps is most widely known for its abundance of bass. Fish from your own vessel, from one of the many piers, or simply sit peacefully in a cozy camp chair along the shore and enjoy reeling them in.
In terms of space, Pettigrew State Park wraps around nearly one half of the lake's dreamy shoreline.
There is plenty of space to carve out a niche for you and your family and still share the park with others. The park also has a campground providing little excuse to not spend the night and extend the fun.
While you're there, you can plan to explore the restored, historic Somerset Place, a plantation house and out buildings dating back to the 1830s.
If you’re already putting some thought into places you’ll go when it’s safe to explore North Carolina again, then Pettigrew State Park is definitely one big, secluded gem that’s worthy of a visit.
To stay up to date on the open/close status of Pettigrew State Park, you can visit the official website and check for the Status of Park Facilities link. Each NC State Park’s status during these uncertain times is different. As of now, the park is open, but the office, restrooms, and swimming pier are not. Of course, we’re all hoping this will change as soon as it’s safe to return to normal status.
Are you already a fan of this underrated state park in North Carolina? We’d love to know – and to hear what your favorite state park is. Let us know by filling out our special nomination form here.
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