Lumber River State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lumber River State Park |
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IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
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The Lumber River as seen from the boat launch at Princess Ann in Robeson County
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 Lumber River State Park
Location in North Carolina
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| Location | North Carolina, United States |
| Area | 13,659 acres (55.28 km2) |
| Elevation | 102 ft (31 m) |
| Established | 1989 |
| Named for | The Lumber River |
| Governing body | North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation |
| Website | Lumber River State Park |
Lumber River State Park is a special place in North Carolina. It's a state park that protects a long part of the Lumber River. This park stretches across four counties: Scotland, Hoke, Robeson, and Columbus.
The park covers about 13,659 acres (55.28 km2) of land. It follows a 115-mile (185-km) section of the Lumber River. This area is found in North Carolina's Coastal Plain, which is a flat, low-lying region. The park was created in 1989. At the same time, the North Carolina government named the river a "Natural and Scenic River."
The Lumber River is unique because it's the only blackwater river in North Carolina to be named a National Wild and Scenic River. A blackwater river gets its dark color from plants decaying in the water. This special title was given by the Department of the Interior.
The park includes parts of four counties along the river. The river starts, or its headwaters, are in Scotland County. The Lumber River flows right through the middle of Robeson County. You can find the main visitor areas at Princess Ann Landing. This spot is in southeastern Robeson County, close to the towns of Orrum and Fair Bluff. The river eventually flows into South Carolina. There, it joins the Little Pee Dee River about 8 miles (13 km) south of the state line.
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History of the River and Park
The Lumber River has a special history. It's the only blackwater river in North Carolina that the United States government has called a National Wild and Scenic River. This means it's protected for its natural beauty and importance.
The river is 115 miles (185 km) long. It starts where Drowning Creek and Buffalo Creek meet near Wagram in Scotland County. What's amazing is that the river flows freely along its whole path. This makes it one of the longest rivers in North Carolina without any dams or major blockages.
Over the years, different parts of the river have received special recognition:
- In 1978, the upper part of the river became a State Recreational Water Trail.
- In 1981, the river was named a National Canoe Trail.
- In 1984, the lower part of the Lumber River became a State Canoe Trail.
- Finally, in 1989, the North Carolina government officially made the Lumber River a Natural and Scenic River and also created Lumber River State Park.
Early Settlements Along the River
The first European settlers in this area were Scots-Irish people. They moved here in the late 1700s. In 1796, they started a town called Princess Ann. This was the second town in Robeson County. It was also the first town settled by people who traveled up the river from South Carolina.
Princess Ann is no longer a town today. But its name is still remembered in local stories. It's also the name of the road that leads to the main part of the state park. The main visitor facilities for Lumber River State Park are located in this area of Robeson County, known as Princess Ann.
Fun Things to Do at the Park
Lumber River State Park is a great place for outdoor adventures! There are 24 places along the river where you can launch a boat. These spots make it easy to explore the park by water.
Fishing Adventures
The entire length of the river is open for fishing. You can try to catch many types of fish here. Some common ones include black crappie, largemouth bass, different kinds of catfish, and redbreast sunfish. Remember, if you want to fish, you need a valid fishing license. You also must follow the rules set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
Camping and Hiking
If you love camping, the Princess Ann section of the park has nine simple camping sites. These sites are called "primitive" because they offer a basic outdoor experience. Each site is meant for up to six people. They come with a picnic table, a grill for cooking, a lantern holder, a trash can, and a fire ring. Princess Ann also has several hiking trails where you can explore the woods. There are also many picnic areas for a nice outdoor meal. Plus, many local town and county parks are also located along the Lumber River.
Plants and Animals of the Park
Lumber River State Park is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. It's a great place to see nature up close!
Beautiful Plants and Trees
You can see many colorful wildflowers in the park. These include wisteria, sarvis holly, Carolina bogmint, mountain laurel, wild azalea, spider lily, and swamp mallow.
The swampy areas along the river are filled with different kinds of trees. Look for tall bald cypress trees, water elm, river birch, and tulip poplar.
Amazing Wildlife
The park is also home to many animals and birds. You might spot an American alligator in the water. On land, you could see white-tailed deer, American black bears, beavers, and northern river otters.
For birdwatchers, there are many species to observe. Keep an eye out for barred owls, majestic great blue herons, wild turkeys, sandpipers, and colorful prothonotary warblers.
Nearby State Parks
If you enjoy Lumber River State Park, there are other state parks not too far away. These parks are within 30 miles (48 km) of Lumber River State Park:
- Jones Lake State Park in Bladen County
- Lake Waccamaw State Park in Columbus County
- Little Pee Dee State Park in South Carolina
