Goose Creek State Park Campground offers primitive camping 25 miles east of New Bern, North Carolina amid sandy woodland terrain. Sites feature fire pits with log seating among pine forests along the Pamlico River. Summer temperatures frequently reach 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall more comfortable for tent camping.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Launch directly from docks at Goose Creek State Park Campground where access points make water entry easy. "There was a great spot to watch the sunrise/sunset directly behind our campsite with benches. Also close to our campsite was a dock to fish off of or to launch a kayak," notes Maureen C.
Hiking wooded trails: Several short trails rated as easy wind through the longleaf pine forests. "There are several water spigots, no electricity, and very clean, non smelly vault toilets. There are several short hiking trails that I would rate easy," explains Laura B.
Fishing with borrowed gear: The park offers a loaner program for fishing equipment. "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.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Wooded areas provide natural screening at Oyster Point Campground giving campers space from neighbors. "Campsites are large and spread out. Logs were at each campsite when we arrived, great for firewood or for seating around the campfire," reports Tracy R.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Even primitive sites receive attention to detail. "Not only is this campground surrounded by tall pines and beautiful lakes it is spotless. The campsites are well spaced and give a bit of a community feel with cabins near by the bath house, which also is incredible!!!" Deanna G. mentions about Goose Creek State Park.
Water access from campsites: Direct paths to shorelines make water activities convenient. "It's a nice little campsite by the river, the campsite was very clean, and there are a few trees providing cover, but still enough sun to get some solar, if you need that. There's like a 20 ft path directly from my campsite to the river, which is nice," describes Jenna L. about Oyster Point.
What you should know
Bug protection is essential: The coastal environment creates challenging insect conditions at certain times. "We loved this campground! It was so easy to access, the roads were well maintained and it was right on the coast. Plenty of campsites so one was easy to grab even without a reservation. Only complaint is nature related and that's the bugs! The flys are insane but you'll quickly learn to ignore them," warns Hannah F. at Oyster Point.
Seasonal temperature variations: Summer heat can be intense with limited shade in certain areas. "I'd say much better in the early spring or fall," Faith W. advises about Goose Creek Campground which she found very hot during summer months.
Cell service is reliable: Despite the natural settings, connectivity remains strong at most campgrounds. "Quiet, beautiful, cheap, great cell service. Love this place!" Lucy P. notes about Oyster Point Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Free swimming options: Tranter's Creek Resort provides one of the cleanest swimming facilities in the area. "This facility has one of the cleanest pools I have ever been in. Very well kept bathroom facilities with a laundromat as well. Very friendly staff and guests here as well," reports Cannon W.
Farm animal experiences: Children can interact with livestock at working farms with camping areas. According to Richard W. at Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm, "Owner is extremely accommodating and offers fresh eggs and black angus beef at responsible rates."
Yurt camping options: For families seeking comfort without tenting, yurt rentals provide sturdy shelter with amenities. At White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort near New Bern, North Carolina, yurts come with proper flooring and comfortable furnishings.
Tips from RVers
Level concrete pads: Rivers Edge Family Campground provides solid foundations for RVs. "Really beautiful location on river with very nice peer and green space. Extremely nice and helpful owners. Full hookups and a cement pad for picnic table. Site was fairly level," states Mary F.
Speed limit enforcement: Some parks actively monitor vehicle speeds for safety. "Make sure you adhere to the speed limit!" warns Jerry W. about Tranter's Creek Resort.
Pull-through availability: Easier access sites exist for larger rigs at certain locations. "Site 13 is a pull through," notes Roger W. about Oyster Point, making setup easier for RVers with larger vehicles.
