Campground options near Washington, North Carolina range from riverfront sites to farmland retreats. The coastal plain region sits at only about 10 feet above sea level, making many campgrounds susceptible to seasonal flooding. Several parks offer direct water access for kayaking and fishing along the Pamlico River and its tributaries, where campers can spot herons, deer, and other wildlife.
What to do
Kayak from your campsite: At Dixon Landing RV Resort, campers can put kayaks directly into Goose Creek from the property. "Just far enough away from the noise but close enough to be convenient to everything. Groceries and restaurants, gas and history all within a short drive. On the water so you can put your kayaks in and paddle the creek," reports Rhonda S.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer fishing access without needing to travel. At Goose Creek State Park Campground, there's a free fishing pole loan program. "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.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts diverse wildlife that often visits campsites. "There's a Blue Herron that hangs out by the pond you can see everyday. There are beautiful deer that come out at dusk to eat with their babies," notes Terry S. from Whispering Oaks RV Resort, which maintains a small fishing pond where wildlife congregates.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campers praise the water access at Twin Lakes Resort in Chocowinity. "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," says Victor A. The resort features "Big lake that runs to the ocean, great size pool, amazing beach ice cream, campground activities such as a live band, DJ, and movie night!" adds Riley.
Quiet locations: The campgrounds around Washington offer peaceful settings away from urban noise. "We loved this spot for a respite during our travels North…Close to the coastal town of Washington," reports Laurie H. about Whispering Oaks RV Resort, which one reviewer described as "a wonderful campground to visit or just stay awhile."
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention the generous spacing between sites. At Goose Creek State Park, "The camp sites are well maintained with a picnic table and fire pit area. Small gravel used on a dedicated tent area. We had a second larger tent on the site too," says Charles G. Similarly, Dixon Landing sites are described as "long, very wide (you have to actually walk over to talk to neighbors) and mostly level side-to-side."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The low-lying coastal area experiences flooding that can affect campgrounds. Dixon Landing has "a combination of compacted sand and grass that drained well after a storm." Before visiting parks along rivers, check water levels, especially after heavy rain.
Bathroom facilities vary: Facilities range from full bathhouses to primitive setups. "The showers are nicer than expected, but not fancy," reports Jeremy C. about Neuseway Nature Park & Campground. Some sites like Goose Creek have "clean, no showers" facilities according to Benjamin C.
Payment systems: Some campgrounds have specific payment requirements. Neuseway Nature Park accepts "cash or check at the Nature Center" and charges "$10 primitive site and $20 RV site" according to Taylor W. Similarly, campgrounds like Treeside RV Park may have different reservation systems for long-term versus short-term stays.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Kids often enjoy the wildlife viewing opportunities. At Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm, "My grandkids got to feed the cows and the walk around the farm was very nice," says Faith W., who also mentions that they "sell their own beef and I will have to say the best beef hot dogs I've ever had."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds connect to nature centers or learning experiences. Neuseway Nature Park includes "a variety of live animal exhibits, and across the street there is a planetarium and science center. Also included on the premises are a playground, a fossil dig, a picnic shelter, and a small train in which visitors can ride," describes Myron C.
Swimming options: Many families look for swimming areas during summer months. The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort offers a pool that guests enjoy, with Cori L M. noting "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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RV campers report varying experiences with site leveling. At Dixon Landing RV Resort, sites are "mostly level side-to-side. Front-to-back was easily compensated with blocks," notes Sara M., who also appreciates that "the electric pedestal was new and tall, making it easy to connect the surge protector, and topped with a solar light."
Pump-out services: Several parks offer alternatives to traditional dump stations. Dixon Landing provides "free on-site pump-out service" according to Sara M., which can be convenient for longer stays.
Accessibility for larger rigs: The region has mixed options for big rigs. Richard W. notes that Wallace Meadows Farm has "4 RV sites (50 Amp) and water service. Dump station is easy access upon arrival or departure. Easy entrance and exit from main highway to site area. Trees are well maintained to prevent brushing RV upon entrance and exit."
