Best Campgrounds near New Bern, NC

The coastal region surrounding New Bern, North Carolina features a diverse range of camping options along the Neuse and Trent Rivers. New Bern KOA Holiday stands as one of the area's most developed campgrounds with 91 sites offering full hookups, cabin accommodations, and resort-style amenities including swimming pools and fishing piers. Within Croatan National Forest, campers find more rustic options at Flanners Beach Campground (Neuse River Campground) where electric sites and basic facilities provide a more natural setting. The forest also offers dispersed camping at Great Lake for those seeking primitive experiences. Small, highly-rated private options like Wallace Meadows Farm provide intimate camping with just a handful of well-maintained sites, while Cedar Point Campground offers year-round access with boat launch facilities for water recreation.

Hurricane impacts remain a consideration for coastal camping in this region, with some beach areas still showing damage from past storms. As one camper noted, "Beach remains closed due to hurricane damage, just FYI. Many sites have electric hookup available. Great hiking/walking trails!" Most campgrounds in the New Bern area feature level sites with varying degrees of privacy. Summer humidity and insects present challenges, particularly in wooded areas near water. Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering Wi-Fi while others provide a more disconnected experience. Reservations are essential during peak season (April through October) when the historic downtown of New Bern draws significant tourism traffic.

Waterfront access represents a primary attraction for many campgrounds in the region. According to one visitor, "Flanners Beach is tucked away just off of Hwy 70 outside historic New Bern NC. It's a small campground overlooking the mighty Neuse River." Sites with river views tend to book quickly, especially at state park facilities like Goose Creek State Park where campers praise the spacious layouts and water proximity. Privacy levels vary considerably between campgrounds, with some offering well-separated sites while others place campers in closer proximity. Tent campers report finding fewer dedicated spaces compared to RV sites, though most campgrounds accommodate both. The region's mild climate supports year-round camping, with many facilities remaining open through winter months when temperatures rarely drop below freezing and crowds thin considerably.

Best Camping Sites Near New Bern, North Carolina (85)

    1. New Bern KOA Holiday

    12 Reviews
    Bridgeton, NC
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 638-2556

    "It’s not that the campground was not“pretty,” but when you are this close to New Bern, there are better things to photograph."

    "We used New Bern KOA for our shakedown trip with our new RV. Easy in, full service, lots to do. A great first experience with KOA"

    3. Dixon Landing RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Bridgeton, NC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 617-1010

    $60 - $90 / night

    "Just far enough away from the noise but close enough to be convenient to everything. Groceries and restaurants, gas and history all within a short drive."

    "This is a very secluded campground right on the wide Goose Creek/Neuse River, with access to the ocean varying from 25-50 miles. "

    5. Great Lake Dispersed Site - Croatan National Forest

    6 Reviews
    Havelock, NC
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "This is about as close to nature as it gets! All primitive camping, no amenities at all. Beautiful natural surroundings. Watch out for snakes and alligators!"

    "The path is blocked at about halfway down by concrete barriers and downed trees. So I pulled my Ford Ranger in the pines beside the path and slept there."

    6. Cedar Point Campground

    28 Reviews
    Swansboro, NC
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 638-5628

    $27 - $54 / night

    "Plenty of hiking trails, boat access and woods all right here in this park. The boat access and pier are just a brief walk away from the campground."

    "The one redeeming factor was that it was close to the bath house. The facilities were fairly new. For example, the bath house looked as if it had been built recently, and the concrete looked fresh."

    7. Goose Creek State Park Campground

    35 Reviews
    Bath, NC
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 923-2191

    $17 - $75 / night

    "Goose Creek State Park campground is one of the newer state parks in North Carolina. The RV part of the park has a great layout with large sites."

    "This campground is nestled in the tall North Carolina pines. There isn’t much shade though because the branches are mainly at the top."

    8. Oyster Point Campground

    23 Reviews
    Morehead City, NC
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 638-5628

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Fun place to camp, water close by, picnic table and fire ring. Tent pads are pretty big. Host is very nice and cheap."

    "We found a few paths to the river but the river access was very small. There is a Mountain-to-Sea path nearby as well."

    9. Military Park Cherry Point MCCS - Pelican Point RV Park

    1 Review
    Cherry Point, NC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 466-2762

    "There are several different camping locations available throughout the base, all of which are free but must be reserved ahead of time. Base access required! They are all on the water, very peaceful."

    10. Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm / RV site at Wallace Meadows Farm

    3 Reviews
    Pollocksville, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 840-6106

    $45 - $50 / night

    "The property is surrounded by trees and it was very tranquil. There's even a guesthouse which could possibly accommodate fellow travelers who may not have an RV."

    "Easy entrance and exit from main highway to site area. Trees are well maintained to prevent brushing RV upon entrance and exit. Accommodates easy access to 2 pull through and 2 back in camp sites."

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Showing results 1-10 of 85 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near New Bern, NC

326 Reviews of 85 New Bern Campgrounds



Guide to New Bern

Camping near New Bern, North Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: There are numerous trails to explore, like those at Goose Creek State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "A ton of trails with trail heads everywhere," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing and Kayaking: Many campgrounds, such as Cedar Point Campground, offer access to water for fishing and kayaking. A reviewer noted, "Great place to throw a line into the water and relax!"
  • Beach Access: If you’re up for a beach day, Onslow Beach Campsites is just a short walk from the shore. One visitor shared, "The beach was clean and we had fun hunting for shark teeth."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review for Cliffs of the Neuse State Park Campground stated, "Bathrooms were also very clean. Cleanest I might have ever seen at a camp."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds, like Pettigrew State Park Campground, offer large, private sites. A camper mentioned, "Very private with full shade (bring plenty of bug spray)."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of campground staff. A review for New Bern KOA highlighted, "The staff is exceptional. Pat signed us in and led us to our site."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Hammocks Beach State Park Campground, have minimal facilities. A visitor noted, "There are NO trash cans or trash collecting points, so you have to pack trash out."
  • Access Challenges: Certain sites, such as those at South Core Banks, require a boat or ferry to reach. One camper advised, "You need 4WD to get around the island but most of the ferry places have ATV rentals."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially at Pettigrew State Park Campground. A camper shared, "I pulled in here for a night and got the chance to see bears running around on the way in."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like Cabin Lake County Park. A review mentioned, "We all had fun fishing, swimming, paddle boating, and family time."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring everything you need, as some sites have limited access to stores. A camper at Onslow Beach Campsites noted, "The location is good, close enough to walk to the beach every day."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Goose Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a nature center at the entrance of the park."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Some campgrounds, like Cedar Point Campground, offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. A reviewer said, "38 paved, level sites with 20/30/50A electric."
  • Be Prepared for Bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in warmer months. A camper at Pettigrew State Park Campground warned, "Bring plenty of bug spray."
  • Know Your Vehicle Size: Some campgrounds have tight spots for larger RVs. A review for Goose Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "If navigating the tent spot, the road may be tight for larger trucks."

Exploring the new bern, NC campgrounds can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in New Bern, NC?

New Bern offers several excellent camping options. New Bern KOA Holiday consistently receives high ratings for its well-maintained facilities, helpful staff, and convenient location for exploring the historic downtown area. The campground features a pool, gem mining activities, and recently renovated bathhouses. Another top choice is Flanners Beach Campground, which offers scenic views of the Neuse River and reasonable rates for water and electric sites. The campground is tucked away just off Highway 70, providing a peaceful setting with clean facilities, updated picnic tables, and well-maintained fire pits. Both locations serve as excellent bases for exploring New Bern's coastal charm and historic attractions.

Are there waterfront camping options near New Bern?

Flanners Beach Campground offers prime waterfront camping overlooking the Neuse River. Located just outside New Bern, this campground provides scenic water views and access, though the beach area may be temporarily closed due to hurricane damage in some seasons. For those willing to venture a bit further, Goose Creek State Park Campground offers beautiful sound access with a boardwalk through marshlands. The park provides a quieter waterfront experience compared to coastal campgrounds, with the added benefit of being less crowded. Both locations offer water and electric hookups with the natural beauty of eastern North Carolina's waterways as your backdrop.

What RV parks and facilities are available in New Bern?

New Bern KOA Holiday is the premier RV park in the area, offering full-service hookups and excellent facilities. The park is ideal for new RVers as it provides easy access and comprehensive amenities, though standard sites can be somewhat close together. For overnight stays while traveling through the area, Rest Area - New Bern, NC offers a convenient stopover just off the main highway. For those seeking additional options, Dixon Landing RV Resort is available in the vicinity with big-rig-friendly sites. Most RV parks in the area provide water and electric hookups, with dump stations available for those sites without sewer connections.

Are there cabin camping or glamping options in New Bern?

Yes, cabin accommodations are available in the New Bern area. New Bern KOA Holiday offers well-appointed camping cabins, including options that overlook a small pond. These cabins provide a comfortable alternative to tent camping, especially during extreme weather conditions. For a state park cabin experience, Goose Creek State Park Campground features cute cabins nestled among tall North Carolina pines as part of their recently renovated facilities. The cabins are a popular option for those wanting to enjoy the natural setting without pitching a tent. Both locations offer the convenience of cabin accommodations while still providing the outdoor camping experience and access to campground amenities and activities.