Whether you want to drop a center console into the Neuse River, hunt for redfish in the winding bends of the Trent River, or launch a kayak for a quiet morning on Brice Creek, New Bern, North Carolina is a coastal boater’s absolute paradise. Because our historic town sits right at the confluence of two massive river systems, finding water access is easy. However, finding the right public boat ramp—one with enough trailer parking, deep enough water for your draft, and the right amenities—can make or break your day on the water. This up-to-date guide breaks down New Bern’s top public boat launches, hyper-local navigation hazards, and veteran tips to ensure a stress-free launch.
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The Big Three: New Bern’s Top Public Boat Launches
The City of New Bern and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) maintain several excellent, free public access facilities. Let’s look at the premier spots to splash your boat.
1. Lawson Creek Park Boat Ramps (Jack’s Island)
Located right in the heart of town off Country Club Road, Lawson Creek Park is the undisputed heavyweight champion of local boat launches. Spanning a massive 140 acres along the Trent River, this park actually features two separate launching zones to alleviate weekend traffic.
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+
| LAWSON CREEK RAMP MATRIX |
+--------------------------+---------------------+----------------------+
| Feature | Launching Area 1 | Launching Area 2 |
+--------------------------+---------------------+----------------------+
| Number of Lanes | 3 Paved Lanes | 2 Paved Lanes |
| Courtesy Docks | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Large Motorboats | Skiffs & Pontoon |
+--------------------------+---------------------+----------------------+
- Amenities: Ample boat trailer parking, public restrooms, a picnic pavilion on Jack’s Island, a walking trail, and handicap-accessible fishing piers.
- Boater’s Note: This is the absolute best ramp if you want quick access to Downtown New Bern, Union Point Park, or if you plan to head west up the scenic Trent River.
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Never guess the tides or ramp setups again. Get our quick-reference comparison chart featuring parking spaces, lane counts, and local hazards for all New Bern launches.
2. Glenburnie Park Boat Ramp
If you want to explore the northern, wider stretches of the Neuse River, skip downtown entirely and head to Glenburnie Park at 340 Glenburnie Drive. Nestled in a quiet residential area, this 51-acre wooded park offers a fantastic waterfront launch setting.
- The Setup: Features two wide, well-maintained launching lanes, multiple courtesy docks, and a paved parking lot specifically designed for vehicles with trailers.
- Amenities: Shady picnic shelters with grilling stations, a playground, restrooms, a fishing pier, and even an 18-hole disc golf course.
- Paddler Bonus: Heading west from this ramp takes you into narrower, more sheltered sections of the river that are ideal for kayakers and paddleboarders looking to avoid heavy motorized wake.
3. Brice’s Creek Boat Launch (Croatan National Forest)
For a completely different vibe, hook up your skiff, John boat, or kayak and head south of the river to the Brice’s Creek Boat Launch located at 953 Perrytown Road. Tucked inside the pristine borders of the Croatan National Forest, this site accesses a skinnier, blackwater creek system lined with cypress trees and ancient moss.
- The Setup: A single-lane concrete ramp best suited for smaller vessels, shallow-draft skiffs, or canoes. It features 14 dedicated trailer parking spaces, additional vehicle spots, and a floating courtesy dock.
- Amenities: Vault toilets, a fishing pier, and quiet picnic areas.
- The Adventure Connection: This launch serves as the official starting point for the local leg of the famous Saltwater Adventure Trail, a unique water path highlighting coastal tideland ecosystems.
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Pro Safety Tips: Navigating New Bern Waters Like a Local
Before you drop your throttle, you need to understand that boating in Eastern North Carolina comes with a unique set of geographic rules. Keep these three local pillars in mind:
Watch Out for “Wind Tides”
Unlike the ocean, which follows a strict lunar clock, the Neuse and Trent Rivers are heavily influenced by wind direction. A sustained, strong North/Northeast wind will literally push water down from the sound, causing water levels in downtown New Bern to surge. Conversely, a strong Southwest wind will drag water out, leaving local boat ramps incredibly shallow and exposing hidden sandbars. Always check local wind patterns via the National Weather Service before launching.
Mind the No-Wake Zones
New Bern takes its maritime safety seriously. The waters surrounding downtown, Union Point Park, the train bridge, and within 50 yards of any public boat launch or marina are strictly designated No-Wake zones. Keep your boat at idle speed in these areas to avoid hefty fines from local wildlife officers and to respect property owners.
Know Your Bridges
If you are launching a sailboat or a large sportfish with a high tuna tower, keep a close eye on your charts. Navigating between the Neuse and Trent rivers requires passing under several structures, including the iconic Alfred A. Cunningham drawbridge and the local railroad trestle bridge. Ensure your vessel has the proper clearance or know the channel frequencies to request a bridge opening.
