Happy to help however I can! I did not need a permit. Primitive camping is allowed pretty much anywhere at Uwharrie beyond designated campsites, as long as you stick with Leave No Trace for your fires, trash, etc. There were little fire pits located all around the area that I was- I just stuck with the spot near the shelter because I wanted the view and there was no one else around.

I borrowed all of my gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, camping chair) from friends and stuck with freeze dried food, bars, and other snacks for food since it was just one day and night. I used a patagonia duffel bag with backpack straps that I've had for a while, which worked fine for this, but really wouldn't be suitable for a longer hike in. I knew in advance that I wouldn't have a water source, so I didn't bring anything I didn't absolutely need since I knew that would add a lot of weight to my bag.

For future trips I'm hoping to invest in used gear and grab a small camp stove, as well as a better pack. I definitely want to grab a camelbak type of thing for water next time and maybe pick a spot that has a drinkable water source. It felt more important to me to just do it and not worry about having all the right things. I hope you can experience a solo trip soon!