Goose Creek State Park Campground offers diverse camping options on the eastern edge of North Carolina's coastal plain, situated within a 1,672-acre preserve that borders the Pamlico River. The park sits at approximately 10 feet above sea level with a mix of maritime forest and wetland ecosystems. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F, while summer brings highs in the 80-90°F range with high humidity that affects camping comfort.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Campers at Goose Creek State Park Campground appreciate the convenient water launch options. "Our campsite was right on the Pamlico river. There was a great spot to watch the sunrise/sunset directly behind our campsite with benches. Also close to our campsite was a dock to fish off of or to launch a kayak," reports Maureen C.
Fishing opportunities: The park offers loaner fishing equipment for visitors without their own gear. "The park ranger told us about a neat program at the park, where they will loan out fishing poles for free, they are great poles and we ended up catching over 20 fish," shares a camper from Goose Creek.
Trail exploration: Oyster Point Campground features multiple hiking options near water. "At the entrance to campground there are hiking trails," notes Tracy R., while another visitor mentions, "We were able to launch kayaks almost directly from campsite #11."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Tranter's Creek Resort provides well-separated camping areas. "Tent sites with electrical hook ups right beside the river. There is a fish cleaning sink and a pier to fish from also," reports Cannon W., highlighting the riverside convenience.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards. "Very well kept bathroom facilities with a laundromat as well," notes a Tranter's Creek visitor, while at Goose Creek a camper shares, "The sites are pretty big so you can move around easily and there are tons of trails you can check out as well and water access."
Wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings attract diverse animal species. "Wildlife walks right by, several deer on our trip," comments Charles G. about his Goose Creek stay. At Oyster Point, a camper observed, "On our walk with the dogs seen deer and a raccoon visited us during the night."
What you should know
Seasonal insect conditions: Summer brings significant insect activity. "The bugs are bad in June and bug spray didn't really help," warns Laura F. about Oyster Point Campground. Another camper advises, "Make sure you bring good bug spray!!!"
Limited services: Some campgrounds have minimal amenities. "No showers," notes a camper about Oyster Point, while another mentions, "The gravel road had a lot of ruts in it so getting my trailer with kayaks in and out was a lot of trouble."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking more rustic glamping close to Bath, North Carolina, Goose Creek offers basic sites. "Great primitive camping, tent only. There are water spigots, no electricity, and very clean, non smelly vault toilets," explains Laura B.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Wallace Meadows Farm offers unique agricultural experiences. "My grandkids got to feed the cows and the walk around the farm was very nice," shares Faith W., adding a dimension to traditional glamping near Bath.
Birthday celebrations: Goose Creek accommodates special events. "I had several 13 year olds for a birthday trip and they had fun. A separate beach area if you like for swimming," reports Charles G.
Swimming options: Multiple water recreation spots exist for families. "There is a really nice pool with a store up front," mentions a visitor to Tranter's Creek Resort, while Goose Creek offers both river and designated swimming areas.
Tips from RVers
Site amenities: Rivers Edge Family Campground provides concrete pads. "Full hookups and a cement pad for picnic table. Site was fairly level," notes Mary F., though she cautions, "campsites are very tight with no landscaping for aesthetics."
Long-term considerations: Some campgrounds have permanent residents. "The only downside is that most people at the site are permanent residents but that's more of a preference for myself," mentions Stephanie R. about Rivers Edge.
Access considerations: Campground entrances can be deceptive. "Park is very secluded from the area. As soon as you pull in the driveway it kinda looks scary but after you pass all the trees you get this very big open land that is well maintained," explains a Rivers Edge visitor, providing useful insight for those seeking glamping options near Bath.
