Washington, North Carolina camping options extend beyond the main riverfront sites to include several rural retreats within 30 miles of town. The region sits at low elevation with most campgrounds under 50 feet above sea level, creating humid conditions in summer months. Mosquitoes are typically most active from May through September, with evening temperatures remaining warm enough for tent camping through October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Tranter's Creek Resort provides electrical hookups for tent sites beside the river with a dedicated fish cleaning sink and fishing pier. According to one camper, "There is a fish cleaning sink and a pier to fish from also. Small cabins are for rent here as well. This facility has one of the cleanest pools I have ever been in."
Hiking trails: Farm Country Campground offers walking paths through agricultural land and wooded areas. A visitor notes, "There are miles of walking trails around the farms and through the on-site forests. They are directly across the street from the 'Deadwood Smokehouse grill'."
Wildlife viewing: Goose Creek State Park Campground provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, especially in the primitive camping area. "On our walk with the dogs seen deer and a raccoon visited us during the night," mentions one visitor who stayed in the primitive section.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Twin Lakes Resort offers direct water access with spacious waterfront sites. A December visitor noted, "The lots are spacious with a good view of the water. At this time of year, December, there weren't too many people here so it was very nice."
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight bathroom cleanliness as a major benefit. At the New Bern KOA Holiday, "The bathhouses are all very new due to a recent hurricane and they were kept clean. The dock/pier was picture perfect as the sunset over the Neuse river."
Privacy between sites: Phoenix Farms Vineyard offers secluded camping on a former tobacco farm. As one camper states, "The property is beautiful, and the camp spot is private. We have plenty of space for our RV."
What you should know
Weather challenges: Hurricane season can affect camping plans in this coastal region. At Green Acres Camping Resort, one visitor reported, "My dog and I arrived a couple of days before my wife and daughter because hurricane Isaias was on its way. Unfortunately, the storm hit hard and the campground lost power for two full days."
Permanent residents: Some campgrounds serve as home bases for full-time RVers. At Whispering Oaks RV Resort, a travel nurse notes, "I'm a travel nurse living in my RV with my husband and 2 dogs and I call it home. It's quiet and peaceful with a small pond to fish in."
Seasonal differences: Winter camping provides different experiences than peak season. A Twin Lakes Resort visitor stated, "When we arrived on Christmas Day, there was a gentlemen who was able to help us to our spot and made things easy to find. This was very helpful."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: New Bern KOA Holiday offers multiple entertainment options for children beyond standard playground equipment. One visitor notes, "They have gem mining. You buy the bags of dirt in the camp store... They had horseshoes and Gaga-ball that were open."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain pools for summer recreation. At Tranter's Creek Resort, a visitor highlights, "This facility has one of the cleanest pools I have ever been in. Very well kept bathroom facilities with a laundromat as well."
Educational opportunities: Farm Country Campground's location offers agricultural learning experiences with easy access to local attractions. A camper explains, "About 15 minutes to Williamston NC, with plenty of shopping (Walmart, Food Lion Piggly Wiggly, Tractor Supply)."
Tips from RVers
Tent camping alternatives: Green Acres Family Campground provides cabin options for RVers wanting a break from their vehicles. A visitor mentioned, "We stayed in a cabin a few years back and really enjoyed it. This campground was awesome and now that we have a camper we are planning a trip here soon!"
Site surface conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging ground conditions for large rigs. At Farm Country Campground, campers report, "Owner explained that the wrong kind of sand had been delivered so it would not compact, it was a challenge pulling our trailer thru the sand."
Full-timers welcome: Pierce Mobile Estates provides long-term options for travelers needing extended stays. According to one visitor, the location offers "Such a quiet and safe place to stay! Just minutes from town!"
