Best Tent Camping near New Bern, NC
The coastal region surrounding New Bern, North Carolina offers several tent camping destinations within driving distance, though most require travel to nearby areas. Hammocks Beach State Park provides primitive tent camping on Bear Island, accessible only by ferry or personal watercraft. Haywood Landing Recreation Site offers free tent sites with boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in access options. Phoenix Farms Vineyard features private tent camping with fires allowed and picnic tables available.
Tent campsites in this coastal area typically have minimal amenities, with varying levels of facilities. Haywood Landing provides basic toilet facilities but no showers, drinking water, or electric hookups. Bear Island campsites at Hammocks Beach State Park have more developed facilities with showers and toilets available, though no fires are permitted on the island. Phoenix Farms has picnic tables and allows fires, with firewood available on site. Most tent areas require campers to pack in their own water and supplies, especially at more remote sites. Reservations are available at some locations but not all.
The beach camping experience at Hammocks Beach State Park offers a unique tent camping opportunity. A visitor commented, "Bear Island's seclusion and minimalist amenities are what make this place a hidden gem." Sites are positioned behind dunes providing some wind protection, though blowing sand can be an issue. Campers must be prepared to pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. Most tent sites in the region have limited or no shade, making hot summer days challenging without portable shade structures. Haywood Landing provides a more wooded setting with potential wildlife encounters. A camper noted, "The mosquitos are horrible so bring bug spray." For those seeking privacy, Phoenix Farms Vineyard offers a secluded tent camping experience on a historic former tobacco farm with vineyard views.