The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Minnesott Beach, North Carolina

River camping in Minnesott Beach puts you close to sandy banks, calm currents, and the easy rhythm of the water. With over 50 sites set up for river lovers, you can pitch your tent or roll in with your camper and wake up steps from the shoreline. Dropping a line at sunrise, paddling out, or taking a dip when the sun’s high—this is how days go here. Average sites run $40 a night, but you’ll find options down to $15 if you’re watching your budget. Showers, toilets, and pet-friendly spots are standard at most camps. Check out JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond (266 reviews) for a tried-and-true favorite, or try Live Oaks Farm (85 reviews) and Bright Star Farm (81 reviews) for a quieter spot. Surfing, fishing, and swimming are easy to access, so pack the basics and get ready to make the river your backyard.

99% (639)

Top-rated campgrounds

Drone shot overlooking tent sites and farmed fields.

River camping in Minnesott Beach puts you close to sandy banks, calm currents, and the easy rhythm of the water. With over 50 sites set up for river lovers, you can pitch your tent or roll in with your camper and wake up steps from the shoreline. Dropping a line at sunrise, paddling out, or taking a dip when the sun’s high—this is how days go here. Average sites run $40 a night, but you’ll find options down to $15 if you’re watching your budget. Showers, toilets, and pet-friendly spots are standard at most camps. Check out JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond (266 reviews) for a tried-and-true favorite, or try Live Oaks Farm (85 reviews) and Bright Star Farm (81 reviews) for a quieter spot. Surfing, fishing, and swimming are easy to access, so pack the basics and get ready to make the river your backyard.

99% (639)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

100%

(491)

49mi from Minnesott Beach · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Chinquapin, NC

Finalist for Top Hipcamp in 2023 and 2024! This is a Family Venue! No Parties and/or drunknesses allowed. We strive to create an environment for nature viewing, stargazing, fishing, and unwinding in nature as camping should be. Quiet time enforced 10pm-6am. Check in strictly 2-8pm. We do not allow late check ins. We meet and greet all guests.the historic pond was originally much smaller. We have records that date back to our 6th Great-Grandfather, Joab Fountain, who received a royal grant from the crown in 1773 for the property and then just a grist mill, blacksmith shop and old general store. The property was passed down through the Fountain family until the late 1910's. Originally a creek dammed up for the purpose of the mill it was later dug out in the late 1940's by Lee Baysden. The property also features 2 smaller ponds and surrounded by woods, swamp, and farmed fields, a total of 84 acres. Divided by Duplin and Onslow County line making it very unique! Chinquapin, NC The store/office is the original detached kitchen from his homeplace, which is the white house just up the street. We still use this today and it has Mr. Lee Baysden's handwriting in the store that states opened June 1956. The pond was owned and fished until the late 1990's. A hurricane damaged the dam and land was sold sometime after. The next owner dug the pond into the lake it is today and fixed the dam. In 2020 My husband Tyler, and I decided to buy the Pond Our camp office/store is opened most weekends or by check-in requests and fishing passes available 7 days a week online from sunrise-dark. Our lake features fishing for Bass, Crappie, Bream, Catfish, Bowfin, varieties of Panfish, and more. Check out our Facebook page (JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond) for all the latest news and catches! We have tagged bass that have been released back into the lake. Let us know if you catch one so we can record it! We are continually trying to make JCO and Lee Baysden Pond a great place in our community for friends and families! Enjoy the great outdoors unplugging from all the daily devices of reality. Enjoy bird watching for ducks, geese, heron, osprey or occasional eagle, owls, turkey, deer, and more. We now have a lake Kitty that adopted us and is now part of the team. Her name is "Tail".

2. Crockett Landing

96%

(70)

20mi from Minnesott Beach · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Beaufort, NC

15 beautiful acres on the North River in Beaufort, NC. Just off Highway 70 which is an Outer Banks Scenic Byway. Trails and private campsites throughout the property as well as a large communal deck (The Landing) by the river for gatherings and multiple observations areas to observe and enjoy the wildlife throughout the property. Bathhouses for guests and well water throughout property. Fishing, hiking, boating, kayaking, etc on the property. Atlantic Beach and Morehead City only 20 minutes away. Close to several stores and gas stations as well as countless fishing spots and about 7 miles to the end of Hawkers Island Rd where you can catch the ferry to Cape Lookout. Crockett Landing is a haven and sanctuary for wildlife and those who want to connect with nature and have a good time. There is a tote at the Cafe Blue full of games like badminton, volleyball, frisbees, wiffle ball, corn hole, paddle ball etc. The Cafe is an outdoor kitchen for guests to use as they like. Propane grill and stove available including dishware and pots and pans.

3. Live Oaks Farm

98%

(166)

49mi from Minnesott Beach · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Holly Ridge, NC

Live Oaks Farm is a mini farm full of beautiful 200 year old live oak trees, willow trees, azaleas, other plants, and a pond. We are a great oasis right off of Topsail Island that gets coastal breezes and plenty of sunshine. We are a small growing farm with chickens, dwarf Nigerian goats, and ducks. We also offer a seasonal pumpkin patch and Christmas tree farm. You will usually see Patrick working around the property or in the wood workshop building furniture. His beautiful wife Brittany and their gorgeous kids Maddox and Everlee enjoying the outdoors as well.

4. 160 Acres On 1700's Waterfront

11mi from Minnesott Beach · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Beaufort, NC

Established in 1750, McIntyre Farm has been owned and operated by the same family for generations. This stunning 160-acre waterfront property offers a calm, quaint, and untouched escape surrounded by nature. Wildlife such as dolphins, eagles, turkeys, and deer can often be spotted across the land. Enjoy peaceful hikes along scenic trails, relax by a cozy campfire, or spend the day fishing along the private shoreline. With plenty of open space, it’s a family- and dog-friendly destination where you can truly unwind and reconnect with the outdoors.

5. Bright Star Farm

99%

(104)

37mi from Minnesott Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV · Trenton, NC

Bright Star Farm has been in our family for over a century. The land, which is home to horses, chickens, peacocks, two little pigs, and various farm cats, is a restful, healing haven for both tired and adventurous souls who want to escape for a while. Learn more about this land: Hook up your RV or pitch your tent to camp with miniature horses, a couple of pot belly pigs, birds, and more in Jones County's charming countryside. Enjoy our 100-year-old family farm and receive half-a-dozen complementary farm-fresh eggs on your first morning with us. We are a short drive from some of North Carolina's best amenities, including historic New Bern and the Crystal Coast. Get ready to spend the night down on the farm!

6. Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

98%

(50)

16mi from Minnesott Beach · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bridgeton, NC

Need to recharge, reconnect and truly escape it all? This is your place. Our property is a unique, healing place to unplug surrounded by the beauty of eastern North Carolina. Nestled along the Neuse River with mature trees draped with Spanish moss ,we have 1000ft of riverfront as well as a peaceful pond, dock and prayer/mediation labyrinth. You will experience the most unforgettable sunsets, overwhelming peace, tranquility and a supreme connection back to nature. With only a 10 minute drive to historic downtown New Bern and a 30-40 minute drive to the beach, you can experience the best of both worlds. Many people tell us, and we know it true ourselves, there is something truly healing about our property. Come find out! Our personal home is located on the property, but we give our campers space and privacy during their visit. A few notes: -Our campsite is located on a peninsula surrounded by the river, because of the nature of the property, we do not allow children under 10 to visit. -Firewood is not provided but can be purchased at KOA just down the highway. -Fishing licenses are required for those wishing to fish -On your ride down our dirt road you will pass mobile homes about a 1/4 of a mile from us. These are our friendly neighbors that keep to themselves and do not interact with our property. If you are not comfortable driving past that, this might not be the campsite for you. This is very common in rural North Carolina. -Our campsite is for 5 people and 2 tents max. If you have more than 5 people coming please request to add additional people to your reservation. -Our bathroom has a sink, toilet and electricity. There is no shower available. -This is eastern NC, and there are plenty of wildlife and bugs. -Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times. -The campsite is located on the peninsula of our property but if you are more comfortable camping away from the riverfront you are able to move over to the pond as well (there is also a fire pit there).

7. Old 30 Dirty Family Farm

100%

(8)

31mi from Minnesott Beach · 2 sites · Tents · Jacksonville, NC

Small beginning family farm on over 7 acres with chickens, a stocked pond/lake, guest house, and small community garden. Close to NC beaches, restaurants and fun things to do. Plenty of space for RV travelers. Close to local military bases. Beautiful place to view various types of wildlife and natural scenery.

8. Dirt Road Daylilies Nursery And Cam

100%

(5)

9.9mi from Minnesott Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV · Merritt, NC

Welcome to our evolving campground and nursery! Currently, we offer two RV carports, each sized 18x30, equipped with electric and sewer hookups. We are located 6 min from Oreintal and 6 min from Bayboro. As we continue to expand, additional sites and amenities will be added to enhance your experience. Explore our daylily gardens boasting 2000 flowers, available for both viewing and purchase. Cast your line into the pond for a relaxing fishing session. If you're a boat enthusiast, feel free to bring your boats to enjoy the scenic peninsula of the Neuse River, as well as the many creeks that feed into the Neuse. Witness the growth and development of our campground and nursery, where new additions are on the horizon. Whether you're seeking a serene camping experience or have a green thumb for plant shopping, our evolving space on the Neuse River peninsula offers a unique and refreshing getaway. Just added a Dog Kennel Run!! So bring your Pups!

9. Pasture Creek Farms

94%

(71)

29mi from Minnesott Beach · 10 sites · Tents · Hubert, NC

Raw coastal land. Water activities: paddle activities, swimming ,wading, canoe, small boats Stocked ponds, throw back only (extra fee). Dirt roads and game trails for walking or hiking. Close to beach. Firewood available for purchase on site. Water available (ask host) Dry and primitive camping. Lots of wildlife. Convenient to beach, intracoastal water way, and boat ramps.

10. Potters Marine & Campsites

100%

(9)

32mi from Minnesott Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bath, NC

almost 4 acres of land with full operating Marina, bring a boat and launch it for free at our boat ramp, keep it in the water tied to our dock for the duration of your stay, Very quite family friendly, laid back family owned marina, at the end of a private road with plenty of open space. Convenience of a bath house at the marine, available for you to also. use.

11. The Crystal Coast Preserve!

100%

(1)

20mi from Minnesott Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Beaufort, NC

3 stunning waterfront acres with a former church (now a family retreat) on Town Creek in Beaufort NC. Abandoned waterfront train track bed perfect for up to 3 pop ups or sprinter vans! 10 minute walk to Beaufort Docks - or bike or kayak! Also really nice grassy tent sites under the magnificent live oak trees. Very special place in the #1 small coastal town in America. **All sites have water & electricity.

12. Fields of Green.

30mi from Minnesott Beach · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · Jacksonville, NC

66 acres, 28 acres of green pastures. Beautiful sunrises / sunsets, Viewing pond, Bring your own fire pit, lawn chairs.

13. Hidden Orchard

13mi from Minnesott Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Merritt, NC

Boutique Campground in a Hidden Orchard We are a boutique campground tucked away in a hidden orchard. The well-groomed property sits on a small peninsula surrounded by water on three sides. The creeks around us contain small reds, trout, mullet, gar, and various other species. It’s great fishing for kids, and the area is known for much larger fish if you have a boat. (Note: we don’t have a boat ramp, but kayaks and paddleboards can be launched easily from shore.) The water is brackish, and locals typically don’t swim in it. We can accommodate up to eight full-size RVs in drive-through sites (up to 55' in length). Tow vehicles can be detached and parked separately. We can also host four trucks or vans up to 25' in length in back-in sites. RV slots have 50A power and water, while truck and van sites have 30A power and water. We also offer one primitive tent site, with three to four more planned, and a glamping tent coming in Spring 2026. All sites include picnic tables and fire pits, and tent campers are welcome to use RV sites. Please note there isn’t much shade, so it can get hot in the middle of summer. This may be fine for RVs, but tent campers should keep an eye on temperatures. Spring, fall, and early winter are especially pleasant — perfect for sitting around a campfire under the stars. With very little light pollution, stargazing is excellent. Small solar torches provide a soft glow at night, but we recommend bringing a flashlight for walking after dark. Our bathhouse includes toilets and sinks. We do not currently have showers, but we’re working on adding them soon. As for location, we’re only a 12-minute drive from Oriental, the sailing capital of North Carolina — a charming, friendly town of just 999 residents. Despite its small size, Oriental hosts many local events throughout the year. About 15 minutes in the other direction, you’ll find larger stores like Walmart, as well as health services, laundromats, car washes, and more. We’re pet-friendly — we have dogs ourselves — and generally very lenient. However, if there are several dogs on the property, we may ask guests to keep theirs on a leash, especially if any show signs of aggression.

Camper favorites near Minnesott Beach

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Old 30 Dirty Family Farm

100%

(8)

31mi from Minnesott Beach · 2 sites · Tents · Jacksonville, NC

Small beginning family farm on over 7 acres with chickens, a stocked pond/lake, guest house, and small community garden. Close to NC beaches, restaurants and fun things to do. Plenty of space for RV travelers. Close to local military bases. Beautiful place to view various types of wildlife and natural scenery.

Dirt Road Daylilies Nursery And Cam

100%

(5)

9.9mi from Minnesott Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV · Merritt, NC

Welcome to our evolving campground and nursery! Currently, we offer two RV carports, each sized 18x30, equipped with electric and sewer hookups. We are located 6 min from Oreintal and 6 min from Bayboro. As we continue to expand, additional sites and amenities will be added to enhance your experience. Explore our daylily gardens boasting 2000 flowers, available for both viewing and purchase. Cast your line into the pond for a relaxing fishing session. If you're a boat enthusiast, feel free to bring your boats to enjoy the scenic peninsula of the Neuse River, as well as the many creeks that feed into the Neuse. Witness the growth and development of our campground and nursery, where new additions are on the horizon. Whether you're seeking a serene camping experience or have a green thumb for plant shopping, our evolving space on the Neuse River peninsula offers a unique and refreshing getaway. Just added a Dog Kennel Run!! So bring your Pups!

Pasture Creek Farms

94%

(71)

29mi from Minnesott Beach · 10 sites · Tents · Hubert, NC

Raw coastal land. Water activities: paddle activities, swimming ,wading, canoe, small boats Stocked ponds, throw back only (extra fee). Dirt roads and game trails for walking or hiking. Close to beach. Firewood available for purchase on site. Water available (ask host) Dry and primitive camping. Lots of wildlife. Convenient to beach, intracoastal water way, and boat ramps.

Potters Marine & Campsites

100%

(9)

32mi from Minnesott Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bath, NC

almost 4 acres of land with full operating Marina, bring a boat and launch it for free at our boat ramp, keep it in the water tied to our dock for the duration of your stay, Very quite family friendly, laid back family owned marina, at the end of a private road with plenty of open space. Convenience of a bath house at the marine, available for you to also. use.

The Crystal Coast Preserve!

100%

(1)

20mi from Minnesott Beach · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Beaufort, NC

3 stunning waterfront acres with a former church (now a family retreat) on Town Creek in Beaufort NC. Abandoned waterfront train track bed perfect for up to 3 pop ups or sprinter vans! 10 minute walk to Beaufort Docks - or bike or kayak! Also really nice grassy tent sites under the magnificent live oak trees. Very special place in the #1 small coastal town in America. **All sites have water & electricity.

Fields of Green.

30mi from Minnesott Beach · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · Jacksonville, NC

66 acres, 28 acres of green pastures. Beautiful sunrises / sunsets, Viewing pond, Bring your own fire pit, lawn chairs.

Hidden Orchard

13mi from Minnesott Beach · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Merritt, NC

Boutique Campground in a Hidden Orchard We are a boutique campground tucked away in a hidden orchard. The well-groomed property sits on a small peninsula surrounded by water on three sides. The creeks around us contain small reds, trout, mullet, gar, and various other species. It’s great fishing for kids, and the area is known for much larger fish if you have a boat. (Note: we don’t have a boat ramp, but kayaks and paddleboards can be launched easily from shore.) The water is brackish, and locals typically don’t swim in it. We can accommodate up to eight full-size RVs in drive-through sites (up to 55' in length). Tow vehicles can be detached and parked separately. We can also host four trucks or vans up to 25' in length in back-in sites. RV slots have 50A power and water, while truck and van sites have 30A power and water. We also offer one primitive tent site, with three to four more planned, and a glamping tent coming in Spring 2026. All sites include picnic tables and fire pits, and tent campers are welcome to use RV sites. Please note there isn’t much shade, so it can get hot in the middle of summer. This may be fine for RVs, but tent campers should keep an eye on temperatures. Spring, fall, and early winter are especially pleasant — perfect for sitting around a campfire under the stars. With very little light pollution, stargazing is excellent. Small solar torches provide a soft glow at night, but we recommend bringing a flashlight for walking after dark. Our bathhouse includes toilets and sinks. We do not currently have showers, but we’re working on adding them soon. As for location, we’re only a 12-minute drive from Oriental, the sailing capital of North Carolina — a charming, friendly town of just 999 residents. Despite its small size, Oriental hosts many local events throughout the year. About 15 minutes in the other direction, you’ll find larger stores like Walmart, as well as health services, laundromats, car washes, and more. We’re pet-friendly — we have dogs ourselves — and generally very lenient. However, if there are several dogs on the property, we may ask guests to keep theirs on a leash, especially if any show signs of aggression.

Public campgrounds near Minnesott Beach

100%

(2)

Goose Creek Campground

35mi from Minnesott Beach · 15 sites · in Goose Creek State Park

Stories from the community

Will

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

Awesome stay as usual. I have 20 sunset pics on my phone everytime we stay.

p

pipper

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Crockett Landing

The views were absolutely incredible. The whole campsite was beautiful and well kept. Paul was very kind and has true passion for this land. I will 100% be staying here again in the future

L

LeRae

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

Beautiful campsite with so much personality! The owners are wonderful people and we will be coming back!

Jory

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Pasture Creek Farms

Have stayed here 3 times now. This place is a camping gem. Beautiful piece of property. You really feel tucked away in the forest. Still can’t believe this is so close to my house. Highly recommend for a weekend get away! Also - the owners really take pride in these campsites. You can tell they have put a lot of hard work into their land!

J

Jack

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

This was a great campsite. I will stay here again!

J

Jeff

November 2025

45 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Live Oaks Farm

Just stayed at Live Oaks Farm and it was wonderful! The surroundings are absolutely beautiful, and the host was so pleasant and helpful. Access to local attractions and Topsail Island was incredibly convenient. A perfect peaceful getaway with easy access to everything. Highly recommend!

A

Adam

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Crockett Landing

My wife and I loved it here. Site 5 was big enough for our two person tent. The cafe was useful to rinse off our dishes and the bath house was great for a quick hot shower during the cold October mornings.

T

Tammet

October 2025

29 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Dirt Road Daylilies Nursery And Cam

We LOVE camping here. And so dies our furbabies. The hosts are very friendly and welcoming, like your part of their family. Beautiful stars at nite, feels so close you can touch them.

E

Emily

October 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Potters Marine & Campsites

John and Tammy were so friendly. The area and fishing were great. Very peaceful. The bathroom was also very convenient and nice to have!

A

Amaya

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

We were staying at this site for 1 night on a last minute weekend getaway. The site was clean and exactly what we expected. Great for fishing and such an amazing view! We ended up extending our stay inter night because it was so peaceful and beautiful. Will definitely return.

R

Rebecca

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Live Oaks Farm

Patrick was very responsive, accommodating and friendly. We lived meeting the goats and hens and ducks and roosters.

T

Taylor

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

The campground was a nice little spot next to the road. It seems like the perfect spot for families with younger kids as there's lots of little trails for littles to explore and practice their balance on. I had a great time and Paul was an excellent host to us. During the storm he allowed us to move from our original campsite so our tent wasn't blowing around so much. I had a great time and would definitely go back!

P

Parker

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bright Star Farm

Great place to camp! The hosts were friendly and accommodating on the initial greet. They live there on the property but felt private as it's the only tent site. Would absolutely stay again.

L

Laura

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

👍🏻

H

Haley

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

I loved camping at Paul's place! The area was secluded and quiet, with beautiful views all around. I loved seeing and hearing so much wildlife. We stayed at the Pelican Point site, and saw many crabs and even shrimp at night! A wonderful experience.

A

Alex

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

Crocket Landing (Paul’s place) was awesome. Absolutely everything (and much more) that you would like to have at a campsite. The hot shower is a luxury, getting as hot as you could possibly want it. And it was hardly 25 minutes to the beach. We stayed at Camp 4, the tree fort, and it was awesome. Met Paul, what a rad dude. Great vibes and peaceful to the max. Can’t wait to go again. 🩵

b

beckie

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

STELLAR CAMPGROUND. very sweet and intentional and the ideal little spot. even though you are close to all things and the road, its exceptionally peaceful and little to no road noise. amenities are very thoughtful and the camp sites are so cool. loved it.

Sarah

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

We loved this campsite! There were so many thoughtful little touches that made it nice and welcoming. We came here for one night with our one year-old. We appreciated the “café“ little outdoor kitchen, with pots and pans to cook with. We also appreciated the bathrooms, and the hot shower was really nice! Each of the campsites has a cool design, and it’s right close to the water. We got to use the canoe and go out on the water at sunset. Paul was very helpful and responsive in helping us get the canoe, and super nice to talk to! It was very quiet and peaceful here. We would definitely like to come back someday!

A

Alex

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Crockett Landing

This was our second time staying here and looking forward to many more stays here! Super clean bathrooms and a great hot shower!

Xsus

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

We had such a great experience camping at Crockett Landing! Paul was a wonderful host and gave us information about the place and the surroundings. The beautiful natural surroundings made it so relaxing, and we especially loved that the campsites are right by the water—it was perfect for fishing. The campground is also well-equipped, with clean bathrooms and hot showers, which were a big plus on chilly days. We’ll definitely be coming back!