Wally, I am over in Asheville about 1.25hr west of you. I drive to North Statesville where a friend has a private pond. It's near "Love Valley" if you want to google it on a map. I am sure he will see this and can chime in. There is also a local club forming (Carolina RC Water Burners) in Charlotte run by Mitch Stinson. He has a lake identified near Shad's Landing in Charlotte. I have not been there so cannot comment on it.
Atlanta is the closest official pond that runs/races regularly. I don't know how active the Elizabeth City group is. They are a way due East.
The Charleston club is also a fair drive away, but still hold races.