Best Campgrounds near Jacksonville, NC

Camping near Jacksonville, NC, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Carolina Beach State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "We hiked a trail to see Venus flytraps in the wild," making it a unique experience.
• Water Activities: At Goose Creek State Park Campground, you can launch kayaks and enjoy paddling on the Cape Fear River. A reviewer noted, "Great campground, excellent marina and paddling opportunities."
• Fishing and Relaxing: Cedar Point Campground is a great spot for fishing. One camper said, "Nice place to throw a line into the water and relax!"

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathrooms at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "Bathrooms were also very clean. Cleanest I might have ever seen at a camp."
• Friendly Staff: Many campers enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. At New Bern KOA, one reviewer said, "The staff is exceptional. Pat signed us in and led us to our site."
• Spacious Sites: Campers love the large, private sites at Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area. A guest mentioned, "Large sites with concrete pads; very long and will accommodate long travel trailers or motor homes easily."

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in summer. One camper at Carolina Beach State Park Campground warned, "The biggest drawback here is the mosquitoes."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Oyster Point Campground, have fewer amenities. A reviewer noted, "There are toilets at each end, but it's a pit. No flushing. No sink. No showers."
• Construction Noise: If you stay at Onslow Beach Campsites, be aware of nearby construction. One visitor said, "The bridge that is right behind camp about 60 feet was under a full rebuild."

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. Wilmington KOA has lots of activities, as one reviewer mentioned, "Seemed to have lots of activities some places even had chimaeras and Weber grills."
• Bring Bug Spray: With the presence of mosquitoes, especially in summer, it's wise to pack bug spray. A camper at Goose Creek State Park Campground advised, "Remember to bring your bug spray."
• Plan for Shade: Choose sites with trees for shade. A visitor at Cedar Point Campground noted, "Lots of space and shade."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Goose Creek State Park Campground warned, "A few would be very tight for even the smallest pop ups."
• Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups. New Bern KOA offers these amenities, making it easier for RVers.
• Avoid Peak Times: If possible, try to camp during off-peak times to avoid crowds. A visitor at Wilmington KOA mentioned, "Overcrowded - for kids & families."

Camping near Jacksonville, NC, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!