

Anglers can expect to reel in a number of fresh and saltwater species that are exceptionally tasty catches, including Striped Bass, Rock Bass, Sunfish, Largemouth Bass, Crappie, Bluegill, Flounder, and Gar.Īn expansive parking area is located close by for day trippers or folks passing through who want a glimpse of this unusual and remarkable shoreline, and a ranger station is also on site, open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. With no big waves and no rushing currents, a day at Flammers Beach is an ideal adventure for families with young children who love splashing, but who might be a little too small for the big Atlantic Ocean waves crashing just miles away.įishing is also exceptionally popular here, and is permissible off the sandy banks. The area is very popular with swimmers of all ability levels, as the safe, shallow bottom extends for hundreds of yards in the river.

On the beachfront, visitors will find ample room to spread out a towel and soak up the sun off the water. At the top of the stairs, visitors will find a changing room with cold showers and flush toilets, and just a few yards away lies an expansive picnic area for sunny barbecues and lunches overlooking the water. The star of this campground, however, is the completely unique and popular Flammers Beach, which is a long stretch of shoreline that borders the Neuse River and is accessible by a stairway on the borders of the campsites' designated area.

Following rustic paths through the wooded terrain, bird watchers and nature lovers may be able to spot a variety of both coastal and "mainland" species, including herons, ibises, cardinals, jays, and even hawks and eagles. Hiking is a popular activity in this region, with several nature trails, including the Beede Loop Trail and the Wright Loop Trail, encircling the inner perimeter of the campsites. Despite being relatively close together, the sites are all located within a wooded region of the recreation area, ensuring plenty of privacy for guests. The camping fee is approximately $12, or $17 for sites with electricity, and the "loop" of campsites available makes it easy for any camper, despite their location, to access the public restrooms and bathhouses (complete with hot shower facilities), drinking water, and dump station. All of the sites feature a picnic table, park grill, tent pad and lantern poles, and 14 of the sites also feature electrical hook-ups. There are 42 campsites within the campground, which can accommodate both tent camping and RVs. An essential component of the Croatan National Forest, the area is unique in that it is essentially a half-beach and half-wooded retreat, allowing guests to enjoy hiking and secluded camping, in addition to a day stretched out on the "sand" banks of the Neuse River. The Neuse River Recreation Area is located about 12 miles south of New Bern along US 70, and is virtually hidden about a mile down a quiet side road. Ideal for visitors who want to get back to nature while enjoying a day on the shore, this recreation area can please beach-goers, swimmers, nature fans, birders, anglers, and virtually every outdoor lover in between. The Neuse River Recreation Area is an inviting rustic vacation destination for seasoned campers and newcomers alike, with an equally alluring location that's just steps away from the miles-wide Neuse River, and just a few miles away from New Bern, Morehead City, and the beaches of the Crystal Coast.
