Smithfield, North Carolina sits within the coastal plain region with an elevation of 150 feet, surrounded by gently rolling terrain along the Neuse River floodplain. Winter temperatures occasionally drop below freezing but rarely reach extreme lows, making RV camping available year-round with cold-weather preparation. Most camping locations near Smithfield maintain operation during all seasons with varying fee structures depending on amenities offered.
What to do
Fishing at local lakes: Just minutes from rv sites near Smithfield, North Carolina, Tucker Lake offers fishing opportunities with several species available. "We caught (and released) several smallmouth bass, brook trout and black bullheads" at Tucker Lake according to a camper staying at Four Oaks Lodging & RV Resort. The 30-acre lake has white sandy beaches and equipment rentals.
Visit historic sites: The Averasboro Civil War Battlefield and Museum is less than 10 miles from many campgrounds. A visitor at Fayetteville RV Resort & Cottages noted, "Averasboro Civil War Battlefield and Museum is only 9.6 miles. There is around 10 historical sites along the route that is connected to the history museum." These sites provide educational opportunities about regional history.
Golf opportunities: Local courses welcome visitors throughout the year. "If you'd like to hit the links then nearby Johnston County Country Club has some really nice fairways that you'll want to explore," mentions a camper who visited Four Oaks Lodging & RV Resort. Tee times are typically available with less crowding on weekdays.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives consistent praise at several Smithfield-area RV parks. "Bathrooms were immaculate. The laundry rooms were great," reports a long-term resident of Fayetteville RV Resort & Cottages. Similarly, at North Pointe RV Resort, reviewers appreciate the "two newly remodeled bathhouses and laundry rooms."
Community activities: Many parks host regular social events for guests. "We really liked the 'Meet Your Neighbors Happy Hour', they really wowed us with this event. It ends early enough that you can still have a quiet evening around your camp site," notes a visitor to Fayetteville RV Resort & Cottages. Weekend breakfast events appear common at several locations.
Accessibility from I-95: Quick access to major highways makes these campgrounds convenient for travelers. A reviewer at Hidden Haven RV Park observed, "It's close to I-95 but far enough away you don't hear the traffic. The latrines and showers are nice, large stalls and were clean." Most parks are within 5-10 minutes of highway exits.
What you should know
Long-term vs. overnight sections: Many parks divide their facilities between short-stay and permanent residents. "If you stay short term you will stay up front and long term in the back," explains a visitor at North Pointe RV Resort. This separation can affect site quality and atmosphere.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity creates ambient noise at some locations. A camper at North Pointe noted, "The place itself is just fine. The tv spaces appear to largely be pull through which I liked but there is a constant drone from the nearby highway that never lets up. It was loud all night as well."
Restaurant options: Local dining establishments range from quick service to regional cuisine. "Should you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your onboard mini-fridge and want to try out some local fare, then head on over to nearby JP's Country BBQ where they serve up smoked chicken, ribs as well as mac-n-cheese," recommends a guest at Four Oaks Lodging & RV Resort. Most restaurants are within 5-15 minutes of camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Coopers RV Park offers "a nice place to park with a concrete pad and full hook ups" without extensive recreation facilities, while other parks feature dedicated play areas. Families might prefer campgrounds with recreational facilities like those at Hidden Haven where "They also have a nice little pavilion but that's it for now. There are plans for more amenities so be patient."
Water activities: Tucker Lake provides swimming opportunities near many Smithfield campsites. "Here, you'll find white sandy beaches, paddle boats, kayaks and canoes for rent, rope swings, 165 foot waterslide for the kids to jump into the water and scattered open pavilions with BBQ's and grills," describes a visitor to Four Oaks Lodging & RV Resort.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer scheduled activities for younger campers. At Fayetteville RV Resort, "During our stay they had scheduled kid activities and movie night with popcorn," reports one reviewer. These programmed events typically increase during summer months and holiday weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: Level concrete pads make setup easier at several locations. At Smith Lake Army RV Park, a military-affiliated campground accessible to DoD members, one RVer noted, "Concrete pads are level and sites are spacious with a picnic table and fire pit." Site dimensions vary but most accommodate standard recreational vehicles.
Winter preparations: Cold weather camping requires some preparation but remains comfortable. A North Pointe camper mentioned, "We stopped for an overnight. Resort was undergoing renovation at the time. But there is propane available; laundry, pool, and dump station." Availability of propane service becomes particularly important during winter stays.
Laundry facilities: Access to washing machines varies between parks. "They don't have a lot of short-term facilities like bath houses laundry and things like that," notes a visitor at Coopers RV Park, highlighting the importance of checking amenity availability before arrival, especially for extended stays.
