Camping options near Grifton, North Carolina include several county and state parks within a 30-mile radius. The area sits in eastern North Carolina's coastal plain region, characterized by flat terrain with sandy soil and pine forests. Water features prominently in the camping landscape, with multiple sites offering access to rivers, lakes, and sounds, providing recreation opportunities year-round, though summer humidity often reaches above 80%.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Access to Neuse River from Neuseway Nature Park & Campground in nearby Kinston offers multiple fishing options. "There are viewing platforms to look at the river, trails, and at least three ponds in which you can fish," reports Myron C.
Paddling: Multiple rental options at Cabin Lake County Park, where "You can rent canoes and peddle boats for minimal per hour and just relax in the middle of a large lake," according to Tim H. The park limits boats to electric motors only.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning opportunities for deer spotting around Cabin Lake. "On our walk with the dogs seen deer and a raccoon visited us during the night," notes Evelyn O. Several campgrounds feature resident or wild animals, from turtles to birds of prey.
Swimming: Seasonal beach access at several locations including Cabin Lake County Park. "There is a small swim beach (seasonal) and playground as well as boat ramp and fishing docks," explains Rose S. Most swimming areas close by early evening.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Well-spaced camping areas at Goose Creek State Park Campground are repeatedly mentioned in reviews. "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," notes Wayne T.
Clean facilities: Modern bath houses at most developed campgrounds provide comfort for tent and RV campers alike. At New Bern KOA Holiday, "The bathrooms were nice and clean and cabins were nicely appointed," according to Julie L.
Rural setting with activities: Family-oriented camping within easy reach of attractions. "This campground has pull-through and back-in sites. The sites are level and most have 30/50 amp hookups, as well as water. There is also a primitive tent camping area. You can choose to stay along the river or next to the woods," explains Myron C. when describing Neuseway Nature Park.
Farm-based camping: Unique agricultural experience at Wallace Meadows Farm provides access to rural activities. "My grandkids got to feed the cows and the walk around the farm was very nice," shares Faith W. The farm also sells products directly to campers.
What you should know
Limited tent sites: Primitive camping options are available but may not be well-defined at some locations. At Neuseway Nature Park, "The primitive sites are not so well kept. They are not clearly marked and no dedicated fire pits," reports Taylor W.
Seasonal flooding: Neuse River water levels affect campground availability. "The waters from the Neuse River have covered the entire campground and Nature Center complex more than once and almost every year. With that said, you will want to make sure the river has not flooded before you decide to go," advises Myron C.
Payment methods: Cash preferred at several campgrounds. At Neuseway Nature Park, "You pay by the day (in cash or check) at the Nature Center (during banking hours Mon-Thurs I believe). Prices are fair ($10 primitive site and $20 RV site)," notes Taylor W.
Sandy soil conditions: Prepare for sand tracking into tents and RVs. One campground has implemented solutions with "Each site has 12x12 concrete pads to restrict tracking sand and/or dirt into RV unit," according to Richard W. at Wallace Meadows Farm.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple play areas at Cabin Lake County Park. "You can also choose to play at either of 2 playgrounds (one for small kids and one for larger) that are both within view of the lake and swim beach. EVERYTHING is within walking distance which was the best part," explains Tim H.
Educational opportunities: Animal exhibits at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park Campground. "It is part of the Neuseway Nature Center complex. The Nature Center has a variety of live animal exhibits, and across the street there is a planetarium and science center," shares Myron C.
Beach activities: Designated swimming areas available at multiple parks. "There is a swimming beach, but I would be careful about where I step since there is sometimes goose poop on the sand," warns Myron C. about Cabin Lake County Park.
Fishing program: Free equipment rental at select parks. "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!" reports Maureen C. about Goose Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Electric and water widely available, with some parks offering sewer connections. At Tranter's Creek Resort, "The campground is very well maintained, all the sites were clean and had excellent shower facilities," according to Wanda B.
Campsite surface variations: Concrete pads at select locations provide stability. "The sites are level and spacious with a good view of the water," notes Victor A. about Twin Lakes Resort.
Seasonal considerations: Check for closures before planning visits. "Although the family campground is closed until autumn, I recently stayed at this state park and have stayed at it many times before," advises Myron C. about Cliffs of the Neuse.
Dump station access: Limited availability requires planning. Wallace Meadows Farm provides a "Dump station is easy access upon arrival or departure. Easy entrance and exit from main highway to site area," shares Richard W.
