Best Campgrounds near Washington, NC
Washington, North Carolina offers both developed campgrounds and primitive camping areas along the Pamlico River and surrounding waterways. Goose Creek State Park Campground provides tent, RV, cabin, and glamping options within a forested setting approximately 8 miles east of downtown Washington. Other established campgrounds include Tranter's Creek Resort and Twin Lakes Resort, which offer full hookup sites for RVs alongside cabin rentals. The region's camping areas range from waterfront locations with fishing access to more secluded wooded sites that provide shade and privacy.
Many campgrounds in the Washington area remain open year-round with varying amenities and reservation requirements. Goose Creek State Park features primitive tent camping with vault toilets and water spigots but no showers or electricity. Larger RV resorts like Twin Lakes and Tranter's Creek provide full hookups, showers, and amenities such as swimming pools and camp stores. Summer brings higher humidity and temperatures, making waterfront sites particularly desirable. As one camper noted, "Goose Creek has good campsites scattered about in a stand of long leaf pine. The sites are spacious, well equipped and well spaced (private)."
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Washington area, with several campgrounds offering direct water views or boat access. Sites at Goose Creek State Park near the Pamlico Sound are particularly popular, with campers highlighting the peaceful setting and wildlife viewing opportunities. The campground offers only 14 sites, creating a more intimate camping experience compared to larger commercial campgrounds in the area. According to visitor feedback, "Sites 11-14 are around a little peninsula on the sound so all have some water view." Campers should be prepared for insects, particularly in warmer months, as multiple reviews mention ticks and mosquitoes as the primary drawback to camping in this coastal region.
