Lawson Creek Park Kayaking & Croatan National Forest Hiking Guide
Flanked by tidal rivers and the 160,000-acre Croatan National Forest, New Bern provides premier paddleways and wilderness trails. Whether you are launching a kayak at Lawson Creek Park, exploring sheltered Trent River marshes, or trekking coastal pine savannas, this guide covers access points, safety tips, and trailheads.
For motorized boat slips, fishing charters, or deep-water docking, explore our marina and water adventures guide.
Premier Water Access & Paddle Trails
Lawson Creek Park Kayak Launch (1309 Country Club Rd): Offers an ADA-accessible kayak launch dock, motorized boat slips, 270 acres of parkland, nature boardwalks, and direct paddle access west into calm marsh channels or east to the Trent River confluence.
Union Point Park Launch (210 E Front St): Downtown access point ideal for scenic paddles past historic riverfront docks and the Neuse River bridge.
Top Croatan National Forest Hiking Trails
Neusiok Trail: 20-mile segment of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail crossing cypress wetlands, pocosin bogs, and coastal sand ridges.
Flanners Beach Recreation Area: Scenic river bluffs overlooking the Neuse River, featuring shaded 3-mile loop trails, picnic pavilions, and beach walking.
Explore Local Lodging & Dining
Visiting New Bern for camping or outdoor recreation? Check out our guides to New Bern Dining & Breakfast Spots and Local Campgrounds & Accommodations.