Riegelwood is a small mill town on the Cape Fear River
The existence of Riegelwood is tied to the creation of a paper mill started in the 1950s by John Riegel. The prominent businessman chose the spot, some 30 miles inland from the coast, for its abundant tree canopy and easy access to the railroad. The mill was eventually purchased by International Paper, which still runs the plant and employs hundreds.
Properties in this tiny community of fewer than 600 have large lawns and backyards with oaks and pine trees overhead. Some properties back onto a small lake with private docks. "It's a very small community," says Robin Creech, library manager of East Columbus Library. "What keeps us going is International Paper. If it weren't here, it would be a ghost town."
Lower-priced single-family homes
The median price for homes here is $356,000, lower than the national and state medians. Ranch styles, manufactured homes and Colonial revivals are present. Land is available. Creech says the community has seen an influx of buyers from northern states, mainly taking advantage of the lower housing costs.
The paper mill's effect on the community
Riegelwood's paper mill once supplied 20% of the country's paper. However, the mill has eliminated hundreds of jobs as recently as 2023. Creech says residents do not experience much pollution from the mill. However, some homes experience loud noises.
Columbus County Schools
This area is served by Columbus County Schools, ranked B-minus on Niche. The district also maintains charter school options.
Baseball, adventure parks and golf
Riegelwood Community Park has several baseball diamonds, sports courts and a multipurpose field. The Riegelwood Community Center has a kitchen and a multipurpose room that can hold up to 80 people. Ransom Community Park has several baseball fields, a walking trail and basketball courts.
Cape Fearless Extreme is an adventure park offering zip lining, obstacle courses, and paintball. Riegelwood Country Club, adjacent to the mill, is a public course with a 9-hole, 3,000-yard layout.
Wilmington and other coastal entertainment options are 22 miles east.
Limited shopping and dining options
Riegelwood has limited dining options, but it does include some chain and local spots. Da' Shack on Old Stage Road serves breakfast items, burgers and sandwiches. Heather Rae's Comfort Cooking in nearby Delco opens for breakfast and lunch and features a rotating specials menu. More dining options are available in Leland, 16 miles east.
The community has a Piggly Wiggly, a Family Dollar and some smaller convenience stores. Larger grocery stores and big-box stores are in Leland.
The community has a clinic, but Waterford Medical Center is 16 miles east.
Severe weather threats in Riegelwood
Hurricanes and severe weather can be a factor in the area. Riegelwood was impacted by a tornado in 2006, which demolished several homes and killed several residents. According to local flood maps, a risk of flooding is present, but only near the Cape Fear River or Livingston Creek.
Local highways and Wilmington International Airport
The Old Stage Road connects to U.S. Route 74 and leads to Interstate 140 and Wilmington. Wilmington International Airport is 23 miles east.
