From Wilmington to the Water's Edge
Wilmington has the Riverwalk, restaurants, and the beaches. JCO Campground has the rest of what you need: a still lake, a firepit, great fishing, and dark night sky. We're in Chinquapin, about an hour from Wilmington on a 22-acre fishing lake.
Why guests come from Wilmington?
Make the drive part of the trip
-
A real break from the city. No parties, no-late night music. Just cozy campfires and relaxing.
-
Fishing steps from your site. Bass, crappie, catfish, bream, and more. NC fishing license is required.
-
Kayaks and Boats available for rent. Hourly or Daily rentals.
-
Dog Friendly and family run.
-
Two unique cabins: The Floating Cabin and The A-frame Couples Cabin, plus RV and tent sites.
The back roads between Wilmington and the lake are some of eastern NC's best:
-
Duplin Winery, Rose Hill: the South's largest winery with free daily tours, a bistro, and the World's Largest Frying Pan nearby. Who doesn't want a photo of that oddity?
-
The Country Squire, Warsaw: a family-run restaurant, inn, and winery since 1961. With a Scottish vibe and haunted ghost stories involved it is full of atmosphere, good food, and great drinks.
-
Mike's Farm, Beulaville: country dining with buffet style right at your table, an NC Products Barn with winery, berry and pumpkin picking seasonally, holiday light shows, bakery, and farmers market there is something for everyone. Bring the kids and feed the farm animals and try fresh ice cream like the unique creamed corn flavor.
-
The Country Barn, Beulaville is our one do not pass up spot! Mennonite operated and owned bakery with fresh sourdough sandwiches and picnic stuff to go. Spices, candy, treats, pies, cakes, eggs, ice cream and everything in between. A brand-new building is in the works and should be opening in 2027 nearby.
Plan your stay
Weekend: Arrive Friday, fish at sunset, have a campfire and grill out. Don't forget your JCO Smores Charcuterie Box! Spend Saturday exploring the local farms and Rose Hill before coming back to relax at basecamp.
Weekday Specials for Cabin rentals or RV weekly stays.
Planning to Visit Wilmington: Home of the Battleship North Carolina, Fort Fisher, and not too far Moore's Creek National Battlefield for our history buffs.
Getting Here
We're at 211 Baysden Pond Road, Chinquapin, NC 28521. Head north/northwest out of Wilmington toward I-40 and follow the route toward Chinquapin. You can follow routes from Burgaw to Maple Hill. Turn onto Fountaintown road then onto Baysden Pond Road.
What Guests Say
"This is one of the best camping/glamping places we have ever been. Not only are the hosts super nice but they are very good about answering questions and quickly. The best part is how private the area is, besides other campers that may be here! We rented the Floating cabin and even though it was rainy it was still amazing. Fishing off the covered front porch, smores at night, swinging in the hammock, watching the sunrise, walking around the pond, and canoeing. This place is absolutely beautiful." -Cassidy L.
Quick Questions & Answers
Are pets allowed? Yes, we are dog friendly. (and even had a few camping cats!) Pets must be leashed or contained within your site. Not noisy or aggressive. Cleaned up after.
Is Alcohol allowed? No open display of alcohol or drunkenness permitted. We are a family venue. All music should display respect for families and camping neighbors.
Do I need a fishing license? Yes, a North Carolina license is required. (Inland recreational)
Music Allowed? Let's not forget we are camping to enjoy nature and relax. Keep all music at a level not to bother camp neighbors. Please be aware of your music selection as we are a family venue. Quiet time enforced 10pm-6am.
Do I need a Reservation? Yes, all camping, cabin, and day fishing guests must have reservations. We meet and greet all camping and cabin guests and show you to your site.
Can I Book Direct? Absolutely! Use the link right here to check out all the available sites or cabins.
