Jacksonville, North Carolina offers RV and tent camping options within reach of both coastal attractions and inland waterways. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making year-round camping possible at many locations. Several campgrounds offer waterfront sites along rivers, creeks, and marshlands that provide fishing opportunities and water access.
What to do
Kayaking from campgrounds: Dixon Landing RV Resort features direct access to Goose Creek where campers can launch kayaks right from the property. "Just far enough away from the noise but close enough to be convenient to everything... fish jumping, quiet and relaxing. On the water so you can put your kayaks in and paddle the creek," notes one visitor to Dixon Landing RV Resort.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer bank fishing access without requiring a boat. At Whispering Pines Campground, visitors can enjoy "catch and release pond for fishing," which is particularly appealing for families with children who want to try fishing.
Beach excursions: Most campgrounds are within driving distance to coastal beaches. "The barrier Island's are only 5 minute ride over the bridge," reports a Goose Creek Campground visitor, making day trips to area beaches convenient for campers.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention facility cleanliness as a standout feature. "Very clean bathhouse and laundry house. Nice pool," noted one visitor at Whispering Pines Campground, while another camper at Harbor Point RV Community specifically mentioned "the bathrooms are exceptionally clean and heated."
Water views: Many sites offer scenic water views that enhance the camping experience. At White Oak Shores, one camper shared, "We stayed in spot w33 which had a beautiful view of the water and plenty of space to stretch out behind the RV."
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds feature swimming pools, particularly welcome during hot summer months. "The pool is awesome! Great location," reported one visitor at Goose Creek Campground, while another raved, "The pool is amazing! The slide is so fun! It has 3ft all the way to 6ft roped off sections in the pool!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings both heat and crowds to Jacksonville area campgrounds. A visitor to Goose Creek Campground noted, "I'd say much better in the early spring or fall," when referring to the high temperatures during summer months.
Site variations: At many campgrounds, premium sites with shade or water views may be reserved for long-term or seasonal campers. At Whispering Pines, one camper observed, "The biggest downfall to this facility is that the nice campsites are only reserved for seasonal or year-round campers. Anyone there for days - weeks stay get a full-sun site."
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds feature sites that require additional effort for leveling RVs. One visitor to Dixon Landing RV Resort mentioned, "Site layout is long, very wide and mostly level side-to-side. Front-to-back was easily compensated with blocks."
Tips for camping with families
Pool features: Families particularly appreciate campgrounds with kid-friendly pool amenities. At Goose Creek Campground, a camper noted, "The pool is amazing! The slide is so fun! It has 3ft all the way to 6ft roped off sections in the pool!"
Fishing for kids: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities specifically designed for children. Dixon Landing RV Resort provides "a fishing pond for kids (C&R)," making it easier for younger children to experience fishing success.
Activity options: The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort offers recreational amenities beyond swimming. "We stayed from Fri to Sun and we enjoyed every moment we stayed. Caught fish and enjoyed the pool. And the golf cart rental was awesome too," reported one family visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV campers should consider how close sites are positioned. At Harbor Point RV Community, a visitor noted, "These sites are on top of each other and I don't know that I'd use this campground during high season," suggesting off-season stays for those who prefer more space.
Size accommodations: Some campgrounds can accommodate larger rigs, but caution is warranted. At Seahaven Marine RV Park, one visitor warned, "Large RV (DRWDP) got stuck in their spot so be careful."
Tree clearance: Low-hanging branches can be problematic for taller RVs. One camper at Harbor Point RV Community mentioned, "We have a 38ft rig and some of the trees are very low and scrape the top," highlighting the need to request sites with adequate clearance for larger vehicles.
