The New Bern area sits at the confluence of the Trent and Neuse rivers, creating estuarine conditions ideal for camping. Located about 112 feet above sea level in eastern North Carolina, this coastal region maintains mild winters with average temperatures of 40-60°F, while summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with high humidity. Campsites around New Bern range from waterfront locations to forest settings, with camping options available year-round despite occasional hurricane impacts.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Point Campground provides access to the White Oak River where campers can fish directly from the property. "There is a really nice pier at the campground beach for fishing, and the KOA here has outdoor boat rentals," notes Myron C. about New Bern KOA Holiday.
Historical exploration: The proximity to New Bern's historical sites makes camping a convenient base for day trips. "You can't come this close to New Bern and not go to Tryon Palace. The campground is about the best at which I have stayed, but my buddy had never been to New Bern. There was more to see," explains a reviewer at New Bern KOA Holiday.
Paddling routes: The waterways around Dixon Landing RV Resort provide kayaking access through scenic creek systems. "On the water so you can put your kayaks in and paddle the creek," writes Rhonda S. The resort sits directly on Goose Creek with river access for small watercraft.
Nature photography: The estuaries at Cedar Point offer unique photography opportunities. "This area is a photographer's dream, especially if you like photographing the native habitat and creatures. I was able to get photos of birds, soft shell crabs, and closeup photos of dragonflies," writes one camper about the Cedar Point Tideland Trail.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Clean bathroom facilities rank high with campers at several locations. "The bathrooms were very clean and each had a shower sink and toilet all to yourself. Climate controlled also," writes Joe B. about New Bern KOA Holiday.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated camping spots that provide privacy. At Oyster Point Campground, "sites are very large and well maintained," according to Steven G. Another reviewer noted, "Very wide sites," making it comfortable for larger setups.
Water views: Waterfront camping spots are highly valued by visitors. "Every RV site is pull-through with both 'waterfront' and 'water view' (more of a view of the marsh along the river) sites," writes Sara M. about Dixon Landing RV Resort. She adds, "We found Dixon Landing in their initial opening phase and it is lightly booked at this point."
Night sky viewing: The relative isolation of some campgrounds creates ideal stargazing conditions. "We loved this campground! It was so easy to access, the roads were well maintained and it was right on the coast," notes Hannah F. about Oyster Point Campground, where the lack of light pollution enhances night sky visibility.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on sun exposure and proximity to facilities. At Cedar Point Campground, "the sites on the southeast side seemed to have more shade than those on the northwest side," advises Steve V. Some campgrounds have limited shade during summer months.
Water quality variations: Water quality differs across campgrounds, which may affect drinking and cooking plans. One reviewer at Oyster Point notes, "The campground is on well water and very brown in color so I would not drink or cook with it."
Seasonal closures: Some campground roads close seasonally due to weather damage. At Great Lake Dispersed Site - Croatan National Forest, Austin S. reports, "The path is blocked at about halfway down by concrete barriers and downed trees. So I pulled my Ford Ranger in the pines beside the path and slept there."
Wildlife awareness: The region supports diverse wildlife that campers should prepare for. "There are alligators, bears, way too many ticks, mosquitos and a ridiculous amount of shotgun shells. It definitely felt dangerous," cautions Carina F. about dispersed camping in Croatan National Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer recreational options designed specifically for children. "They have gem mining. You buy the bags of dirt in the camp store," reports Jen B. about New Bern KOA. She adds, "The playground and jump pad looked like they would be a lot of fun but were closed due to Covid 19 restrictions."
Swimming options: Public beaches and campground pools provide swimming opportunities during hot months. At Goose Creek State Park Campground, "There is 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," writes Maureen C.
Free fishing programs: Some parks offer fishing equipment at no cost. "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. about Goose Creek State Park.
Junior wildlife watching: Campgrounds with nature trails provide educational opportunities for children. "Wildlife walks right by, several deer on our trip," notes Charles G. about Goose Creek State Park Campground, where guided nature programs may also be available seasonally.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RV sites vary in how level they are upon arrival. "Sites are level and spacious, cabins are very nice," notes Sam about Cedar Point Campground. Another RVer adds, "The sites are easy to get in and close to level."
Water fill stations: Since not all campgrounds offer hookups, locate water sources before arrival. "Upon arrival, you check in with the host, drive to water fill area and fill up your fresh water tank. There are additional water fill faucets throughout the park," advises Martha S. about Cedar Point Campground.
Wi-Fi connectivity: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds. "Wi-fi service available and ready," mentions a reviewer at Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm, while others note poor connectivity at more remote locations.
Electrical reliability: Power stability can be an issue at some locations. James V. notes at New Bern KOA, "Gets 4 stars primarily for the staff and the location. Standard sites are crammed together making privacy an issue. In our site we could not fully open our awning without it hanging over the neighbors site."
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