The South River is a tributary of the Black River, approximately 78.47 mi (126.29 km) long, in southeastern North Carolina in the United States.

It rises 2 miles northeast of Falcon, at the border of Sampson and Cumberland counties at the confluence of Mingo Swamp and the smaller Black River. The smaller Black River flows 30 miles from northeastern Harnett County, in Angier and approximately 25 mi (40 km) south of Raleigh. The smaller Black River flows south-southeast past Benson, then south-southwest, passing west of Dunn. East of Fayetteville, the South River turns south-southeast and joins the larger Black River near Ivanhoe approximately 30 mi (48 km) northwest of Wilmington.

The South River forms much of the western border of Sampson County, as well as the eastern borders of Bladen County and Cumberland County.

The South River is home to a wide variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, chain pickerel, various species of sunfish, longnose gar, and catfish. To navigate through the river, a kayak or a small johnboat is recommended.

• List of North Carolina rivers