The best camping in Goose Creek State Park, NC

·
100% (2)

Discover Goose Creek State Park's natural beauty and outdoor activities.  

The best camping in Goose Creek State Park, NC

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

5. Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

98%
(50)
25mi from Goose Creek State Park · 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).
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Big Cypress Farm

7. Big Cypress Farm

100%
(15)
33mi from Goose Creek State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · New Bern, NC
We are a family farm. Established in the 1970s we have lots of local wildlife and water fowl. We have chickens. A lake that is stocked with catfish,brim and bass /I l The sunsets are incredible. And when the full moon is over the pond it is an amazing sight. You can relax here by the pond or venture out to explore historic down town New Bern ,or head the the beach located in Morehead, Swansboro, and the surrounding areas. Check the local Restaurants and the local shops as well. Throughout the year we are surrounded by many different festivals as well. You can listen to the crickets and the birds chirping, and watch the squirrel as they jump and run from tree to tree.we are close to the beaches and are in close proximity of the national Forrest as well. And there are quite a few golf courses near to us as well. We are a work in progress and would be considered primitive Campground. So if what you are looking for is a place to escape to from every day hustle and daily grind we are you kind of place. So check us out on Facebook and have a blessed day.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Spruill Conservation Farm

9. Spruill Conservation Farm

100%
(267)
36mi from Goose Creek State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Roper, NC
(Note: Fireworks, crackers, sparklers, garbage burning are not permitted) End of summer conditions are terrific right now. The cover photo shows Site #3, On the morning of Sat.Nov 22, 2025, the Farm will host a 5K Perimeter trail run/walk, with Campsite 1 as the finish line. Therefore, it is closed for camping on the 21. Sites 2 and 3* will remain open, but please note there will be extra people in the waterfront area on the morning of Nov 22 until 11am. Note about price increase: Hipcamp has recently increased their commission rate, and this has been reflected in our new price increase of $2 per night. We are very sorry to have to raise our rate. However, we are very pleased with the support and quick feedback that Hipcamp consistently provides. Feel free to ask us any questions about this. Ask us about our annual Fig Festival at in August. Free camping for volunteers. The Spruill Farm belonged to the Spruill Family for over a hundred years and has been set up as conservation easement protected land in '23. It includes hardwood forest, swamp, a beautiful swimming beach* on the Albemarle Sound - one of the largest freshwater sounds in the world-, acres of farmland, vegetable garden and perhaps the largest fig orchard for hundreds of miles around. The purpose of the Spruill Farm is to further environmental research, promote ecological education and sustainable practices, and provide access for the public to the ever-diminishing shoreline experience. Please enjoy the incredible sunsets and woodland views, while respecting the serenity of this unique gem on the inner-banks. Wildlife on the property include Red Fox, River Otter, and 95 species of birds, including Bald Eagles (2 nests on the farm), nesting Osprey, Wood Ducks. Visit the 'Spruill Farm Conservation Project' on inaturalist(dot)org to see all 95 species, and upload any images from your observations. Because it is a nature preserve, please read the guidelines and rules closely if you choose to book with us. *Note: the shoreline changes with the wave action and the seasons. This makes the Bobby Wilkins shoreline trail so beautiful- always changing. If your expertise and interests coincide with the mission of the Farm, feel free to propose collaborative projects to julia@thepeanutfactory.org
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$37
 / night
Birds Eye view of the property, Glamping tents are in the lower left corner of the field

11. Oak Grove Retreat

100%
(45)
48mi from Goose Creek State Park · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging · Tarboro, NC
Saint Anne's Chapel and Oak Grove Retreat Center is a unique historical venue for your next camp site in the Tarboro area of North Carolina. The farm was originally established in 1832 by the Pender Family. On the current 25 acres is a restored 1920s Episcopal Mission Church with parklike grounds that is maintained year-round and has a rich and interesting history. We have host a wide variety of events over the years, including weddings, receptions, meetings, retreats, drum circles, sound healing's, festivals and more. Camping is available in the field or in the 17 acre woods. Learn more about this land: Welcome to Oak Grove - a property with a 100 year old de-consecrated Episcopal church, beautiful woods, and amazing grandfather oaks. A common site for weddings, drum circles, and other metaphysical and spiritual happenings, the property has a labyrinth, a free expression chalkboard, a Zen sand box that are free to use.  A short walk down the wooded trail brings you to a small clearing with a central fire pit and several areas suitable for a tent. Situated close to a road, traffic can be heard but easily tuned out, particularly as the road gets much quieter at night. The woods are next to a large open field that is great for star gazing.  Bring your hammock!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Big Mill B&B Extended Stay Farm

14. Big Mill B&B Extended Stay Farm

24mi from Goose Creek State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Williamston, NC
Extended Stay RV Lodging in Eastern North Carolina – Big Mill Bed & Breakfast Searching for quiet, private extended stay RV accommodations near Greenville, Washington, Windsor, Plymouth, or Williamston, NC? Big Mill Extended Stay offers peaceful, family-owned lodging on a scenic farm in Eastern North Carolina. We provide long-term RV sites that are all-inclusive. Our 30/50 amp hookups include electric, sewer, water, Wi-Fi, and Cable TV. We also have 2 RV sites, and cozy guest suites ideal for: • Traveling nurses and medical professionals • Contractors and utility crews • Remote workers and digital nomads • 4 RV sites nestled in a fig orchard, overlooking farm lakes, fields, and the original grape arbor • One site features a restored vintage Airstream for a unique stay • Quiet lodging for traveling nurses in Eastern North Carolina • Short and long-term rentals near Greenville, Windsor, Washington, Williamston, & Washington, NC
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$20
 / night
Dirt Road Daylilies Nursery And Cam

15. Dirt Road Daylilies Nursery And Cam

100%
(5)
29mi from Goose Creek State Park · 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!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Hidden Orchard

16. Hidden Orchard

31mi from Goose Creek State Park · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night
Three Pecans Farm

20. Three Pecans Farm

37mi from Goose Creek State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Creswell, NC
Escape to a peaceful retreat in the heart of Eastern North Carolina, where nature meets comfort. As you arrive you're met with the shade of three beautiful pecan trees. Our intimate 1-acre campsite offers a limited number of sites, ensuring you enjoy privacy and tranquility in a serene, natural environment. Surrounded by 80 acres of lush farmland, you'll feel connected to the land and its peaceful surroundings. Share stories and warm moments with fellow campers around the communal firepit, or take a short drive to explore nearby Pettigrew State Park. Here, you can hike scenic trails, swim in the pristine Lake Phelps, or take advantage of the lake’s excellent opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing. For your convenience, the charming town of Creswell is just minutes away, offering a grocery store and local restaurants. Known for its prime hunting grounds, the area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, the stunning beaches of the Outer Banks are just a 45-minute drive away, giving you easy access to sun, sand, and surf. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature, explore the surrounding outdoors, or simply relax by the fire, our campsite offers the perfect getaway in Eastern North Carolina.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night
100% (2)

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Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

98%
(50)
25mi from Goose Creek State Park · 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).
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

Big Cypress Farm

100%
(15)
33mi from Goose Creek State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · New Bern, NC
We are a family farm. Established in the 1970s we have lots of local wildlife and water fowl. We have chickens. A lake that is stocked with catfish,brim and bass /I l The sunsets are incredible. And when the full moon is over the pond it is an amazing sight. You can relax here by the pond or venture out to explore historic down town New Bern ,or head the the beach located in Morehead, Swansboro, and the surrounding areas. Check the local Restaurants and the local shops as well. Throughout the year we are surrounded by many different festivals as well. You can listen to the crickets and the birds chirping, and watch the squirrel as they jump and run from tree to tree.we are close to the beaches and are in close proximity of the national Forrest as well. And there are quite a few golf courses near to us as well. We are a work in progress and would be considered primitive Campground. So if what you are looking for is a place to escape to from every day hustle and daily grind we are you kind of place. So check us out on Facebook and have a blessed day.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night

Spruill Conservation Farm

100%
(267)
36mi from Goose Creek State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Roper, NC
(Note: Fireworks, crackers, sparklers, garbage burning are not permitted) End of summer conditions are terrific right now. The cover photo shows Site #3, On the morning of Sat.Nov 22, 2025, the Farm will host a 5K Perimeter trail run/walk, with Campsite 1 as the finish line. Therefore, it is closed for camping on the 21. Sites 2 and 3* will remain open, but please note there will be extra people in the waterfront area on the morning of Nov 22 until 11am. Note about price increase: Hipcamp has recently increased their commission rate, and this has been reflected in our new price increase of $2 per night. We are very sorry to have to raise our rate. However, we are very pleased with the support and quick feedback that Hipcamp consistently provides. Feel free to ask us any questions about this. Ask us about our annual Fig Festival at in August. Free camping for volunteers. The Spruill Farm belonged to the Spruill Family for over a hundred years and has been set up as conservation easement protected land in '23. It includes hardwood forest, swamp, a beautiful swimming beach* on the Albemarle Sound - one of the largest freshwater sounds in the world-, acres of farmland, vegetable garden and perhaps the largest fig orchard for hundreds of miles around. The purpose of the Spruill Farm is to further environmental research, promote ecological education and sustainable practices, and provide access for the public to the ever-diminishing shoreline experience. Please enjoy the incredible sunsets and woodland views, while respecting the serenity of this unique gem on the inner-banks. Wildlife on the property include Red Fox, River Otter, and 95 species of birds, including Bald Eagles (2 nests on the farm), nesting Osprey, Wood Ducks. Visit the 'Spruill Farm Conservation Project' on inaturalist(dot)org to see all 95 species, and upload any images from your observations. Because it is a nature preserve, please read the guidelines and rules closely if you choose to book with us. *Note: the shoreline changes with the wave action and the seasons. This makes the Bobby Wilkins shoreline trail so beautiful- always changing. If your expertise and interests coincide with the mission of the Farm, feel free to propose collaborative projects to julia@thepeanutfactory.org
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$37
 / night

Oak Grove Retreat

100%
(45)
48mi from Goose Creek State Park · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging · Tarboro, NC
Saint Anne's Chapel and Oak Grove Retreat Center is a unique historical venue for your next camp site in the Tarboro area of North Carolina. The farm was originally established in 1832 by the Pender Family. On the current 25 acres is a restored 1920s Episcopal Mission Church with parklike grounds that is maintained year-round and has a rich and interesting history. We have host a wide variety of events over the years, including weddings, receptions, meetings, retreats, drum circles, sound healing's, festivals and more. Camping is available in the field or in the 17 acre woods. Learn more about this land: Welcome to Oak Grove - a property with a 100 year old de-consecrated Episcopal church, beautiful woods, and amazing grandfather oaks. A common site for weddings, drum circles, and other metaphysical and spiritual happenings, the property has a labyrinth, a free expression chalkboard, a Zen sand box that are free to use.  A short walk down the wooded trail brings you to a small clearing with a central fire pit and several areas suitable for a tent. Situated close to a road, traffic can be heard but easily tuned out, particularly as the road gets much quieter at night. The woods are next to a large open field that is great for star gazing.  Bring your hammock!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night

Other options near Goose Creek State Park

The best camping in Goose Creek State Park, NC guide

Overview

About

This is one swamp you definitely want to see. Goose Creek State Park isn’t just some murky, muddy, squishy plot of land; it’s an ecological wonder full of unique plant and animal species that have flourished here for millions of years. Bald cypress trees reach up to 90 feet and Spanish moss hangs down like hair on an angsty teen. This landscape is an especially popular haven for all kinds of birds, not to mention turtles, snakes and river otters. When you visit, you can explore the waters by canoe or hike one of the many trails in the area. Primitive camping is also an option for the more adventurous, and there’s even a beach where you can go for a swim. Swimming in the swamp, however, is not recommended for obvious reasons. Stick to the boats and boardwalks and you can’t go wrong!

When to go

The ideal time to visit Goose Creek State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer months can be hot and humid, while winter brings cooler temperatures. Avoid holiday weekends if you prefer a quieter visit, as these times can attract larger crowds.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's official website for any alerts on closures or safety advisories before your visit.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking and bring insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes.
  • Ensure you have a map of the park, as cell service can be spotty in remote areas.
  • Facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available, but it's wise to bring water and snacks.
  • Respect the park's wildlife and natural habitats by following the 'Leave No Trace' principles.
100%
2 ratings · 0 reviews