Neuseway Nature Park & Campground offers camping along the Neuse River with sites for both RVs and tent campers. The campground features riverside locations with 30/50 amp electric hookups for RV sites, and a separate primitive area for tent camping. Sites include water and electricity connections with shared access to clean showers and restrooms protected by keypad entry. All campsites accommodate pets without additional fees. The primitive tent camping area costs $10 per night while RV sites are available for $20 nightly.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Cabin Lake County Park, visitors can fish in the 69-acre lake that features multiple islands and coves. "We took the kayaks and camped for the 3 day weekend. It cost a bit more than expected and the beach area closed at 1800, which we had five kids, so that was a bummer," notes Amber R. The park allows electric trolling motors only, creating a quiet environment for anglers.
Historic exploration: The area around New Bern KOA Holiday provides access to significant historical sites. "New Bern is a really wonderful little town on the coast of NC and this KOA is close to all the action," writes Julie L. Located just 0.3 miles from Herritage Street, campers can visit the nationally known Chef and the Farmer restaurant, the only full-size Civil War ironclad replica in the world, and Mother Earth Brewery.
Hiking trails: Several parks offer maintained trail systems suitable for family exploration. The trails at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park include routes along the 90-foot cliffs overlooking the Neuse River. "Started the year out on some trails. Had the place almost to myself except for the campers. Very well maintained. River is up, so some areas are flooded but still able to get a few miles in today!" reports Kat M.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layout at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park Campground. "Sites do offer privacy. Many weekend trips here. Lots of swimming and hiking. Rangers are extremely nice. My go to place for camping!" says Dana M. The campground includes both RV and tent sites with electric and water hookups at each location.
Clean facilities: The bathroom facilities at several campgrounds receive consistent praise. "The bathrooms were very clean and each had a shower sink and toilet all to yourself. Climate controlled also," notes Joe B. about New Bern KOA Holiday. The park has recently rebuilt its bathhouses following hurricane damage.
Quiet locations: Goose Creek State Park Campground offers a peaceful setting away from urban noise. "Goose Creek has good campsites scattered about in a stand of long leaf pine. The sites are spacious, well equipped and well spaced (private)," explains Chip G. The campground features several water stations and composting toilets throughout the camping area.
What you should know
Payment options: Several campgrounds in the area accept only cash or check. "One note is that they only accept cash for payment," mentions Jeff K. about Neuseway Nature Park. Similarly, at Cabin Lake County Park, campers pay by cash or check at the Nature Center during banking hours Monday through Thursday.
Seasonal flooding: The Neuse River area experiences periodic flooding. "You will want to make sure the river has not flooded before you decide to go. It rained the entire time we were there, so we didn't get to enjoy many of the outdoor opportunities," advises Myron C. The sandy soil at some campgrounds can also become soft after heavy rain.
Varied alcohol policies: While most campgrounds permit alcohol, Wallace Meadows Farm and other locations have specific policies. "Extremely nice campground with 4 RV sites(50 Amp) and water service. Dump station is easy access upon arrival or departure," reports Richard W. The farm offers a unique setting with access to a small river and fresh farm products.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Families particularly enjoy the swimming and boating options at Cabin Lake County Park. "There is a small swim beach (seasonal) and playground as well as boat ramp and fishing docks. There are well maintained trails for the hikers," mentions Rose S. The lake allows canoes and paddle boats which can be rented hourly.
Educational opportunities: Goose Creek State Park Campground offers nature programs suitable for children. "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 Maureen C. The park also features hiking trails with wildlife viewing opportunities.
Farm experiences: Wallace Meadows Farm provides unique animal interactions not available at standard campgrounds. "My grandkids got to feed the cows and the walk around the farm was very nice," notes Faith W. The farm sells fresh eggs and beef products directly to campers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should consider site location carefully at New Bern KOA Holiday. "Standard sites are crammed together making privacy an issue. In our site we could not fully open our awning without it hanging over the neighbors site," warns James V. The park offers deluxe sites with more space for those wanting additional room.
Hookup options: Most campgrounds in the area offer varied hookup configurations. "There are RV and primitive sites. They are literally right next to each other. The RV sites have power and water hookups, fire pit, and picnic table at each site," explains Taylor W. about Neuseway Nature Park. RV sites typically include 30/50 amp service and water connections, with some parks offering full sewer hookups as well.