Camping in New Bern, NC

Backed up against the expansive Croatan National Forest, camping in New Bern, NC means taking a short drive out of town to some of the most secluded campsites in Eastern North Carolina. Some camp with tents, while others prefer the amenities found in pop-up campers and RVs, but no matter your preference, the camping options in and around New Bern offer experiences that can accommodate nearly every taste. The huge Croatan National Forest provides both campsites with water, and primitive camping under the stars for the hardy and adventurous, as well as numerous points of riverfront access for kayaks and smaller boats.

One of the most renowned names in camping, the KOA campground in New Bern offers one of the area’s most prolific opportunities for enjoying the outdoors. Not only does this site, located just outside of town on the banks of the Neuse River, offer modern amenities like wireless internet, a swimming pool and clean showers, campers can also enjoy their very own cabin. Water is a major draw for camping all across New Bern and the KOA is no different as it offers a boat ramp and a fishing pier. 

In an area that’s surrounded by the Neuse and Trent rivers, having water access is a must for many of the campsites in New Bern. Campers usually travel with at least one kind of boat and with good reason. Whether it’s a one-man kayak, a canoe or a pontoon boat, many of New Bern’s surrounding campsites are very accommodating with boat ramps and docks. And if your trip is going to include fishing, be sure to call ahead to see what’s biting. Campground hosts aren’t just familiar with New Bern and its history; they make a point to talk with the fishermen in their campsites about the day’s catch. 

Different types of campers enjoy different types of amenities. Those in search of comfort over primitive camping will find that most sites have a little bit of both. In addition to the KOA’s comfortable cabins and utility hookups, the Moonlight Lake RV Park can be found about 10 minutes outside of the city limits. Here campers settle in with rates available for the day, week, month or year to create a home away from home that’s complete with water and sewer, cable TV, a bath house, cabins, fire pits, a fishing pod for kids and a Jacuzzi. 

Those in search of a more rustic experience will be happy to discover the vast expanse of camping and water access available in the Croatan National Forest. Fishers Landing and Flanners Beach both offer a direct connection with nature, including sandy beaches by the river, opportunities to see wildlife and nearby trails. Fishers Landing’s amenities include no-flush toilets and drinking water, while Flanners Beach also offers electricity and a new bath house with showers.

But no matter how you camp, you’ll find a site that fits your taste. The main thing to remember as that New Bern’s beautiful camping opportunities are no secret to locals either. Offering quick getaways and stay-cations for residents in New Bern, Havelock and surrounding areas, it’s important to book your ideal spot early.