Go the Distance in Lumberton, North Carolina

By Morgan Carey

Stay ahead of the game when you visit the sports scene in Lumberton, North Carolina. This all-in-one sports destination has everything from community race events and collegiate sports teams to pickleball courts and bass fishing. In Lumberton, the ball is in your court. Discover the fan-favorite traditions on your visit and get ready to play!

Start a Winning Streak: Sports Events & Races in Lumberton, NC

Runners will need to pace themselves to complete all of the race events in Lumberton. Celebrate the holidays at races like the Turkey Trot, Nightmare on Elm Street, and the New Year’s Resolution Run. In the spring, you can put on your light-up sneakers for the Glow Run presented by Robeson Road Runners, or sign up for the UNC Health Southeastern 5K, 10K, and Family Fun Mile at Rumba on the Lumber. Hit a new personal record and plan your trip to Lumberton.

Lumberton’s nearby colleges and universities bring a sense of team spirit to the small-town community. Dick Christy, Athletic Director at UNC Pembroke says, “Whether you’re cheering for the Braves on a Saturday afternoon at Grace P. Johnson Stadium or packing into Lumbee Guaranty Bank Court for a basketball double-header, there’s a sense of unity and excitement that radiates far beyond campus.” For Christy and UNC Pembroke, it’s more than just competition that keeps them going, it’s a celebration of culture and the heart of southeastern North Carolina. It’s just like Christy describes, “It isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about building community and giving people a reason to come together.”

Hometown pride is on full display when Lumberton is rooting for the UNC Pembroke Braves and the RCC Diamond Eagles. At Robeson Community College, the community is gearing up for even more games with the addition of a baseball and softball team. The inaugural teams’ first season will begin in Spring 2026, and the local community is already excited to have new teams to cheer on. Michelle Shooter of the Southeastern N.C. Agricultural Events Center is one member of the community who is excited about what collegiate sports bring to the area. “Anytime people can come together as a community and have a good time, good things happen. You remember what makes our community special.”

Get Game-Ready: Sports Venues & Facilities in Lumberton, NC

Looking for venues and facilities for your next sporting event? Get the ball rolling in Lumberton. The Dr. Raymond B. Pennington Sports Complex has hosted Dixie Youth Baseball and State tournaments and will be the home of the future Robeson Community College’s baseball and softball teams. The complex features six baseball and softball fields, two football and soccer fields, and classic sports facility amenities. Enjoy downtime between games at Lumberton’s newest all-inclusive playground with wheelchair-accessible equipment and inclusive play for all ages. Cool down after the game with a relaxing stay at one of Lumberton’s hotels or celebrate a win at a local restaurant. This is what sets Lumberton apart from other sports tourism destinations—small-town hospitality, big-event capabilities, and convenient accessibility.

At the Southeastern N.C. Agricultural Events Center, you’ll find a one-of-a-kind venue with a full calendar of events. Known for its equestrian events like barrel racing and rodeos, the event center hosts a range of events from dog shows to auctions. Outside of the arena, you can let your energy out on 85 acres of greenspace. With room to fly kites, explore trails, and host community celebrations, there is no shortage of fun. What other kinds of events can the center accommodate? “If you dream it, we can host it—and in a safe, fun environment,” boasts Michelle Shooter, the center’s Agribusiness Manager.

Take It Outside: Outdoor Adventures in Lumberton, NC

Explore all of Lumberton’s outdoor recreation when you fish, swim, and hike in North Carolina’s great outdoors. Catch catfish in the Lumber River, largemouth bass at Luther Britt Park, and crappie at Lowry’s Fishing Farm. You can find other species in Lumberton’s waters, like perch, pike, and bluegill. Going for a swim? Discover the 142-acre oasis at Luther Britt Park. Known as “Lumberton’s Best Kept Secret,” the park has two lakes for swimming and waterfront attractions like an 18-hole disc golf course. There is plenty of fun to have on the water when you visit the area’s riverfront parks.

At Luther Britt Park, you’ll find some of Lumberton’s most popular trails. Follow the signs to StoryWalk Robeson, an interactive literary trail that takes you through four different stories throughout the year. Stroll the Downtown Riverwalk, a paved pedestrian and bicycle trail that begins at the park’s entrance and extends into downtown Lumberton, offering scenic views of the Lumber River, public art, and murals.

Choose from a system of beginner-friendly hiking trails in Lumber River State Park. Discover kid-friendly adventures on the Kids in Parks Track Trail’s 0.5-mile loop lined with historic markers. For an easy hike under shady tree canopies and along a blackwater river, opt for the Griffins Bluff Trail, Naked Landing Trail, or Mill Hole Trail. After exploring by land, uncover the natural beauty of the Lumber River, a National Wild and Scenic River that is navigable by canoe and kayak. This 115-mile-long river and linear park can be accessed at two points: Chalk Banks in Wagram and Princess Ann in Orrum. Wire Pasture access in Maxton is coming soon and will add amenities to the state park like educational trails and exhibits, picnic areas, beach access improvements, and a 5,100-square-foot visitor center. Adventure outdoors and uncover a new side of North Carolina.

In Lumberton, everyone’s on the same team. Director of Recreation & Parks Timothy Taylor puts it best: “Sports and recreation are a reflection of the quality of life within our community; they bring individuals together to participate in activities that promote positive self-worth, good health, and a sense of belonging.” Experience Lumberton like a local when you cheer on from the stands, cross the finish line, and get in the game. When you play in Lumberton, you score big on fun.