Columbus County is located in the southeastern part of North Carolina in close proximity to the popular beaches of North and South Carolina. Wild scenic rivers teem with wildlife as they wind through old Cypress, Pines and the beautiful flora and fauna of the coastal plain. Whether you come for a daytrip (a quick jump from I-95, US 74 or US 701), or you stay longer at one of our many hotels and Bed and Breakfast establishments, you’ll discover a place and a community that you’ll definitely want to visit again!
For nearly three-quarters of a century, strawberries have been celebrated in Chadbourn, nicknamed the “Sunny South Colony” in the early 1900’s. Home to the North Carolina Strawberry Festival, the longest running agricultural festival in the state, is held the first weekend in May. Make sure and visit the historic Chadbourn Depot Museum and antiques shops in the downtown area.
Fair Bluff, nestled against the banks of the nationally recognized “Wild & Scenic” Lumber River, is home to the Southeastern North Carolina Watermelon Festival, held annually in July. Walk the beautiful elevated riverwalk, visit the Fair Bluff Depot Museum or enjoy a trip down the Lumber River in a kayak or canoe.

From its sandy shorelines to its tree-lined natural areas, Lake Waccamaw offers peaceful surroundings, an intriguing natural history and fun in the sun. You can view one of the greatest geological mysteries of the eastern United States—the phenomenon of Carolina bays; it boasts rare plants such as the carnivorous Venus Flytrap and several animal species found nowhere else on earth, such as the Waccamaw Killifish. Visit Lake Waccamaw State Park and Visitor Center. Nearby, you can catch a glimpse of a botanical wonder—the Green Swamp.
Whiteville, the county seat, offers “small town charm with big city connections” and countless opportunities to experience authentic Southern charm in a small town setting. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Forestry or stroll downtown with its unique shops and restaurants.