Flanners Beach Campground
4.02351 reviewsFlanners Beach Road, New Bern, NC 28560, USA
Flanners Beach Campground
$20.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$25.00
Premium Site Fee$50.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees include $20 for non-electric sites, $25 for single electric sites, and $50 for double electric sites. Scan & Pay adds an extra $2.25 per day for electronic payments. America the Beautiful Senior and Access Passes qualify for half-off standard non-electric fees.
About this campground
Perched majestically on a scenic bluff above the winding Neuse River, Flanners Beach Campground has become a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of riverside tranquility and modern comfort. This gem within the Neuse River Recreation Area features 39 thoughtfully designed campsites, including several equipped with electrical hookups and two spacious double sites perfect for larger groups. Campers here enjoy the luxury of a well-appointed bathhouse with private hot showers, while an inviting picnic area provides the ideal spot for riverside meals and gatherings. Though beach access remains temporarily closed following Hurricane Florence, the campground continues to enchant visitors with its elevated river views and peaceful atmosphere.
Flanners Beach Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping with electrical hookups, and group camping. Primitive camping is limited.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time with easy access to some of North Carolina's most treasured historical landmarks. Just a short drive away, the magnificent Tryon Palace stands as a testament to colonial grandeur, offering visitors a glimpse into life as it was in one of the original 13 colonies' governor's mansions. History buffs will also delight in exploring nearby Fort Macon, a remarkably preserved pre-Civil War fortress that tells the story of America's coastal defenses through the centuries.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of coastal Carolina weather, where balmy summer days invite endless outdoor adventures and mild winters offer comfortable camping year-round. The region's temperate climate creates ideal conditions for camping most of the year, though summer brings characteristic Southern warmth and humidity that's perfect for river activities. While the area occasionally faces tropical weather systems, the campground's resilient spirit and natural beauty shine through every season.
ElevationEmbracing its coastal heritage at sea level, the campground offers the authentic experience of North Carolina's tidewater region, where the gentle rise and fall of the tides connects campers to the ancient rhythms of the Atlantic coast.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your elevated perch on the river bluff, watch as the Neuse River flows majestically below, creating an ever-changing tableau where saltwater mingles with fresh in nature's perfect balance. Towering trees create a natural canopy overhead, their branches filtering sunlight to cast dappled shadows across the campsites below. This immersive natural sanctuary offers a front-row seat to coastal ecology, where the convergence of river and sea creates a unique habitat teeming with life and beauty.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of eastern North Carolina's distinctive coastal plain, the campground sits within the remarkable Neuse River Recreation Area, a region defined by its extraordinary brackish waterways. Here, the geological story of millennia unfolds as ancient river systems meet the Atlantic's tidal influence, creating a dynamic ecosystem where freshwater and saltwater dance in perpetual harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome trails are paved, offering accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. The campground has large, level sites that accommodate RVs and tents.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, level, and shaded with vegetation providing partial privacy.
Sites PrivacyMost sites are semi-private due to vegetation between them. However, some sites lack privacy.
Total Campsites39 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOuter loop sites offer short access paths to paved trails. Site #35 is recommended for privacy and proximity to restrooms.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include #35 for its proximity to amenities and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14 days within a 30-day period. Once the limit is reached, the camping unit must leave.
Guests Allowed Per Site
8guests per site with limitations on tents (maximum of 3 tents per site).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout with electric and non-electric sites evenly distributed. Two double sites are available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservations available starting January 1 and ending December 31. Peak season is from June 24 to December 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made up to 180 days in advance at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySeven sites are first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved in advance. Scan & Pay system is available for these sites, but availability must be confirmed with the campground host upon arrival.
Cancellation Policy$10 fee for cancellations. Reservations canceled within 3 days of arrival may result in forfeiture of one or more nights' fees. No refunds for weather conditions or early departures.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Flanners Beach Campground offers various recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Water activities like kayaking and fishing are also popular in the area, although access points are limited. Hunting is allowed but requires using an alternate location for water access.
Hiking
Hiking trails vary in terrain and difficulty, with users noting paved trails and rugged paths. However, trail markings are said to be confusing, and some trails are overgrown. Highlights include scenic views of the Neuse River.Fishing
Fishing is available but limited due to the closure of water access points.Biking
Paved and rugged biking trails are available. Trails are described as scenic and suitable for various skill levels.Boating
Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities; however, access points to the water are restricted.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include foxes, rabbits, legless lizards, and various bird species.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground remains open year-round.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular despite limited access to the water.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are provided at each campsite, but the movement of firewood is prohibited to prevent tree pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced but inconsistently according to guest reviews. Scheduled from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBeach access is closed due to erosion. Wildlife such as ants, roaches, and other pests may be present.
Active alertsBeach access remains closed due to damage from Hurricane Florence. Restoration timelines are unclear.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include hospitals and police stations located in New Bern (approximately 15 minutes away).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available but occasionally overflowing. Recycling bins are reportedly absent but requested by visitors.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground overlooks the Neuse River; however, direct beach access is currently unavailable.
Common complaintsGuests frequently mention rude campground hosts, outdated facilities, absence of beach access, and issues with cleanliness, including bathrooms running out of toilet paper.
HostHosts are present but have mixed reviews regarding their demeanor and helpfulness.
Campground Map
Flanners Beach Road, New Bern, NC 28560, USA
Driving directionsFrom New Bern, travel southeast about ten miles on US 70E. Turn left onto Flanners Beach Road (State Route 1107) and travel about 1/2 mile to the recreation area. From Morehead City, travel northwest on US 70W about 20 miles. Turn right onto Flanners Beach Road (State Route 1107) and travel about 1/2 mile to the recreation area.
Easy access from US 70E/W. Roads leading to Flanners Beach Campground are paved and accessible year-round.Nearby places
New Bern (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes) and Morehead City (20 miles, approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available at stores in New Bern, including a Walmart approximately 10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.0
351 reviews
Flanners Beach Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Flanners Beach Campground are mixed, with some praising the peaceful and clean environment, while others criticize the management and lack of amenities like beach access. The campground hosts receive polarizing reviews, ranging from being helpful to rude and unprofessional.
Review Summaries
Based on 351 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the clean facilities, spacious and shaded sites, proximity to New Bern and the Crystal Coast, and well-maintained trails.
Based on 351 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include rude hosts, closed beach access, unclean bathrooms, lack of trail maintenance, and gate policies requiring manual opening and closing.
Based on 351 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient firewood and camping supplies as on-site amenities are limited. Check trail conditions and carry maps or use AllTrails for navigation. Verify campsite availability before arrival,...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the campground's proximity to local attractions like beaches and historical sites. Winter reviews focus on the quiet and peaceful environment. Spring and fall reviews...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The vegetation wraps every site for a more private feel but don't let it fool you for soundproofing.' - Kristian Schofield
2. 'Still wish we could get down to the beach.' - Amy H
3. 'Campground...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #35 is noted for good proximity to trails and privacy. Site #16 is narrow and may restrict awning use. Site #37 is wide but confusingly marked.
Based on 351 reviewsAccessibility Features
Paved trails and level campsites make the campground accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. However, closures of certain facilities may inconvenience users.
Based on 351 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but reviews mention loose dogs and lack of enforcement of pet-related rules occasionally.
Based on 351 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025