New Bern is nestled within the Inner Banks of Craven County, and was the original state capital of North Carolina. This quaint city is home to four historic districts, a Civil War battleground, and is the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola. The quirky history and beautiful landscape make this a great place for humans and canines. New Bern has a plethora of dog- and human-friendly activities, including trails, beaches, and walking tours of the area. A human population of nearly 30,000 comes with a lot of puppers. Luckily, there are nine vets in the city to keep the local pups healthy!
Flanner’s Beach is a favorite spot for the local K-9s to splash around and let their ears down. There are several miles of trails with varying degrees of difficulty, including a paved route that is perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. The trails, beach, and campgrounds are all dog-friendly, but dogs must remain on a leash. Flanner’s Beach is conveniently located near downtown New Bern, home to thirteen dog-friendly eateries.
Lawsons Creek Park is located on 140 acres of land and water, at the junction of the Neuse and Trent Rivers. A sprawling boardwalk surrounds the entire park, giving you and Fido a breathtaking view of the twin rivers and the marshland. Amenities include boat ramps, picnic shelters, grills, two fishing piers, and hiking/nature trails. Your pup will never want to leave! The park also has several handicap-accessible amenities, including a fishing pier.