New Bern's location at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent rivers creates distinct camping conditions with marine influences affecting humidity and temperature. Many RV sites near New Bern, North Carolina remain accessible year-round due to the region's moderate coastal climate, though summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s with high humidity. Campgrounds in this area typically offer waterfront options with fishing access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Twin Lakes Resort, campers can access multiple fishing spots. "This place was quite on the off season. Nice showers and bathrooms. Tons of turtles," notes one visitor. The resort provides access to a large lake that connects to the ocean.
Water activities: The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort offers fishing and swimming options. "We stayed from Fri to Sun and we enjoyed every moment we stayed. Caught fish and enjoyed the pool. And the golf cart rental was awesome too," shares a camper who visited in August.
Marine exploration: Many campgrounds near New Bern provide coastal water access. "It was about 90 minutes (including 2 ferry rides) to reach the Cape Lookout National Park and lighthouse. The ferry dropped us off for 2 hours to walk the beach, hike and view the wild horses on Harker's Island," reports a visitor to Dixon Landing RV Resort.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Whispering Oaks RV Resort receives praise for its layout and natural setting. "A wonderful campground to visit or just stay awhile. It's quiet and peaceful with a small pond to fish in. There's a Blue Herron that hangs out by the pond you can see everyday," writes one camper.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out at several campgrounds. At Harbor Point RV Community, a December visitor noted, "The bathrooms are exceptionally clean and heated. All the amenities were in nice condition." Similarly, Whispering Pines Campground receives compliments for "clean bathhouse and laundry house."
Water views: Waterfront campsites remain popular throughout the region. "The lots are spacious with a good view of the water. At this time of year, December, there weren't too many people here so it was very nice," reports a Twin Lakes Resort visitor, highlighting the quieter off-season experience.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Summer holidays bring higher occupancy rates. At Whispering Pines Campground, one camper noted, "No shade trees for short stay guests. This is a deal breaker for us, as it's hot as hell here in the summer time." Another camper observed that "the nice campsites are only reserved for seasonal or year-round campers."
Site surfaces: Ground conditions vary between campgrounds. Dixon Landing features "a combination of compacted sand and grass that drained well after a storm," while Whispering Pines has "un-level gravel camper parking areas made it hard to get our camper level."
Resident populations: Many RV parks near New Bern house long-term residents. One visitor to Goose Creek Campground noted, "This is one of the closest campgrounds for civilians to visit the Camp Lejeune and Jacksonville, NC areas. The facilities are nice with numerous things to do, primarily focused towards the fact that the majority of this campground is permanent residents."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Goose Creek Campground receives high marks for its swimming facilities. "The pool is amazing! The slide is so fun! It has 3ft all the way to 6ft roped off sections in the pool," reports one family. Another visitor adds, "Beautiful area, great family atmosphere and clean facilities. The pool is awesome!"
Heat considerations: Summer temperatures require planning. Faith W. noted Goose Creek was a "nice overnight stay RV Campground new with no shade, very clean, beautiful river but not walking distance from campground. I'd say much better in the early spring or fall."
Activity options: Campgrounds offer varying recreation options. Twin Lakes Resort provides "a big lake that runs to the ocean, great size pool, amazing beach ice cream, campground activities such as a live band, DJ, and movie night!"
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Dixon Landing RV Resort offers an alternative to traditional dump stations. "Today they offer basic services with electric/water, a dump site (no water) and free on-site pump-out service," reports a visitor, noting this is more convenient than self-service options.
Site selection: For larger RVs, be mindful of site access. At Seahaven Marine RV Park, one camper cautioned, "Large RV (DRWDP) got stuck in their spot so be careful." Similarly, at Harbor Point, a reviewer noted, "We have a 38ft rig and some of the trees are very low and scrape the top."
TV reception: Even without cable service, television options exist. At Dixon Landing, campers were "amazed at how many TV channels we picked up just on antennae," providing entertainment options without additional fees or infrastructure.
