Lake Phelps is one of North Carolina's most remarkable natural treasures — a shallow, crystal-clear lake spanning 16,600 acres, fed entirely by rainfall. The lake sits within Pettigrew State Park and has yielded some of the oldest dugout canoes ever found, dating back over 4,000 years.

The fishing here is outstanding, with largemouth bass, yellow perch, and catfish abundant in the clear waters. Kayakers and canoeists love the lake for its calm conditions and stunning reflections. The surrounding old-growth cypress swamps are hauntingly beautiful.

Black bears are frequently spotted along the park roads and lakeside trails, especially in the early morning. The park also includes the historic Somerset Place, a preserved antebellum plantation that offers important insight into the region's complex history.