Matthew and I on our first backpacking trip at Raven Rock State Park outside of Lillington, North Carolina. Matthew was a trooper and we went 5 miles without one complaint. He was carrying about 25 pounds which is about a quarter his body weight. Raven Rock is great park with hiking, primitive camping, picnicing etc. They have just completed the new ranger station which is really nice and of course "green" construction. Highly recommend a day trip if you are in the area.
