Get back to nature to enjoy lush green spaces and our bounty of outdoor recreational activities. Here's the the perfect itinerary for outdoorsy types looking to discover their next great adventure in Sanford, NC.
OUTDOOR ENTHUSIAST ITINERARY
Outdoor Enthusiast Weekend in Sanford
Day One
Stop 1 | Last-Minute Provisions
Stock up on firewood, s'mores fixins, rain gear and any other supplies you may need for your outdoor adventures at local shops. Located on the Deep River in Gulf, NC, JR Moore & Son stocks quick-fix meals, boots, outdoor wear, snacks and other essentials. It's also a fun place to browse. If you don't find what you're looking of there, head over to Broadway, NC to Broadway Hardware. Here, you'll find the hardware to get you prepared to camp, fish, hunt and more in mere minutes. Hunting and fishing licenses can also be purchased at the store as well.
Stop 2 | Set Up Camp
From camping to glamping, Sanford has the best of the best! The campground at San-Lee Park for instance, has a bath house and loads of scenic spots for tent camping. You're also just a short walk from lake fishing, mountain biking, paddle boating and nature trails.
Prefer a few more amenities and creature comforts? Check out Sugarneck, a venue turned glamping respite located in greater Lee County near the Cape Fear River. Enjoy private accommodations with dedicated bath houses for each tent, hot water, gas cooking and fire pits.
Stock up on firewood, s'mores fixins, rain gear and any other supplies you may need for your outdoor adventures at local shops. Located on the Deep River in Gulf, NC, JR Moore & Son stocks quick-fix meals, boots, outdoor wear, snacks and other essentials. It's also a fun place to browse. If you don't find what you're looking of there, head over to Broadway, NC to Broadway Hardware. Here, you'll find the hardware to get you prepared to camp, fish, hunt and more in mere minutes. Hunting and fishing licenses can also be purchased at the store as well.
Stop 2 | Set Up Camp
From camping to glamping, Sanford has the best of the best! The campground at San-Lee Park for instance, has a bath house and loads of scenic spots for tent camping. You're also just a short walk from lake fishing, mountain biking, paddle boating and nature trails.
Prefer a few more amenities and creature comforts? Check out Sugarneck, a venue turned glamping respite located in greater Lee County near the Cape Fear River. Enjoy private accommodations with dedicated bath houses for each tent, hot water, gas cooking and fire pits.
Day Two
Stop 1 | Family-Style Breakfast
For a hearty start to the day, pile up at Brass Kettle Family Restaurant. Famous for breakfast, and plenty of outdoor seating, the Kettle sets you up nicely for a full day on the river and/or trail.
Stop 2 | Cast Off For Open Waters
If you're especially looking to get out on the water during your trip, Sanford and Lee County boast several river access points. Kayak Ramp at U.S. 421 Bridge on the Deep River is a great launching off spot for kayaks and canoes. Got your power boat in tow? Head over to the Lee/Chatham county line for access to the Cape Fear River.
Anglers, both amateur and professional alike, will also definitely want to cast their lines at the reservoir at San-Lee Park. Check in at the nature center for complimentary fishing rods and tackle. You'll also find great mountain bike and hiking trails there as well.
Stop 3 | Afternoon Greenway Hike, A Thrilling Bike Ride, or Both
Wind down from an active day with a leisurely stroll on the Kiwanis Family Park Greenway, which winds through some naturally beautiful spots. Or, keep the adrenaline pumping over at San-Lee Park. Hop on your mountain bike and catch some major air tackling several trails of varying degrees of difficulty.
For a hearty start to the day, pile up at Brass Kettle Family Restaurant. Famous for breakfast, and plenty of outdoor seating, the Kettle sets you up nicely for a full day on the river and/or trail.
Stop 2 | Cast Off For Open Waters
If you're especially looking to get out on the water during your trip, Sanford and Lee County boast several river access points. Kayak Ramp at U.S. 421 Bridge on the Deep River is a great launching off spot for kayaks and canoes. Got your power boat in tow? Head over to the Lee/Chatham county line for access to the Cape Fear River.
Anglers, both amateur and professional alike, will also definitely want to cast their lines at the reservoir at San-Lee Park. Check in at the nature center for complimentary fishing rods and tackle. You'll also find great mountain bike and hiking trails there as well.
Stop 3 | Afternoon Greenway Hike, A Thrilling Bike Ride, or Both
Wind down from an active day with a leisurely stroll on the Kiwanis Family Park Greenway, which winds through some naturally beautiful spots. Or, keep the adrenaline pumping over at San-Lee Park. Hop on your mountain bike and catch some major air tackling several trails of varying degrees of difficulty.
Day Three
Stop 1 | Pack Up and Head Out For More Recreation
Another day on the river or trail? Yes, please! Here are a few more recommendations for outdoor activities and places to stock up on the right gear.
Bonus | Gear
Back to Dirt Bike Shop can service your bike, show you the best new wheels on the market, and offer you some great accessories. They're also in the know on the best road routes in the area if you're looking to embark on a ride.
Bonus | Activity
For a one-mile trail with the opportunity for clay shooting at its finest, check out Deep River Sporting Clays. From their wobble deck to the full trail, the DSRC staff is ready to assist everyone from novice to seasoned shooters.
Bonus | Trails
Download full maps online of all the hiking, biking and paddle trails in the area. You can also get them at the Sanford Visitor's Center. For an additional adventure during your trip, embark on our outdoor public art, antique, and BBQ trails as well.
See you in Sanford!
Another day on the river or trail? Yes, please! Here are a few more recommendations for outdoor activities and places to stock up on the right gear.
Bonus | Gear
Back to Dirt Bike Shop can service your bike, show you the best new wheels on the market, and offer you some great accessories. They're also in the know on the best road routes in the area if you're looking to embark on a ride.
Bonus | Activity
For a one-mile trail with the opportunity for clay shooting at its finest, check out Deep River Sporting Clays. From their wobble deck to the full trail, the DSRC staff is ready to assist everyone from novice to seasoned shooters.
Bonus | Trails
Download full maps online of all the hiking, biking and paddle trails in the area. You can also get them at the Sanford Visitor's Center. For an additional adventure during your trip, embark on our outdoor public art, antique, and BBQ trails as well.
See you in Sanford!
