Old Boy Scout Camp, Jacksonville, NC

Are you a North Carolina local looking for a truly rustic and secluded outdoor experience? Perhaps you're a military service member or family at Camp Lejeune seeking a quiet spot for a weekend campout, a fishing excursion, or simply a peaceful place to enjoy a barbecue by the water. The Old Boy Scout Camp in Jacksonville, NC, offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature without the typical amenities of a developed campground. This hidden gem, located within the Camp Lejeune area, provides a back-to-basics outdoor experience that is increasingly sought after by those who appreciate simplicity and natural beauty.

North Carolina is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from majestic mountains to stunning coastlines. Amidst this natural splendor, there are often lesser-known spots that offer a different kind of outdoor adventure. The Old Boy Scout Camp is one such place. It’s not your typical commercial campground with full hookups and extensive facilities. Instead, it offers a raw, unfiltered camping experience, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural environment. This type of primitive camping appeals to adventurers, anglers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle without traveling too far from Jacksonville.

The allure of the Old Boy Scout Camp lies in its simplicity and its untouched feel. It’s a place where the focus is on the natural surroundings – the water, the trees, and the quiet. For local users, especially those familiar with or stationed at Camp Lejeune, it represents a readily accessible outdoor escape. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best experiences are found in the simplest settings, where nature takes center stage and modern conveniences are left behind. This approach to outdoor recreation aligns perfectly with the spirit of exploration and self-reliance that many North Carolinians cherish.

While many campgrounds focus on extensive amenities, the Old Boy Scout Camp embraces a different philosophy. It’s about providing a maintained natural space for specific activities like fishing and primitive camping. This distinction is crucial for setting expectations and attracting the right kind of visitor – those who appreciate the quiet solitude and the opportunity to truly rough it, even if just for a day or two. It’s a testament to the diverse outdoor opportunities available within North Carolina, catering to a wide range of preferences, from luxurious RV resorts to secluded, basic campsites like the Old Boy Scout Camp.

The Old Boy Scout Camp is located at Wilson Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28543, USA. A crucial aspect of its location and accessibility, as highlighted by user reviews, is that it is described as a "secluded hidden gem of Camp Lejeune." This indicates that while it has a Jacksonville address, its access is likely tied to the Camp Lejeune military base. For North Carolina locals, particularly those who are military personnel, veterans, or have authorized access to Camp Lejeune, this location offers a unique and convenient outdoor escape right within the base's perimeter.

Jacksonville, NC, is a vibrant city predominantly known as the home of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station New River. The proximity to these installations means that the Old Boy Scout Camp is easily accessible to the military community. For other North Carolina residents, access would depend on the specific entry requirements for Camp Lejeune, which typically involve security checks and valid identification for non-military personnel. It's essential for anyone planning a visit who is not affiliated with the military to confirm their eligibility and the necessary procedures for gaining access to the base.

Despite its secluded nature, the reviews suggest that the "gravel road is clearly still maintained by the base," indicating that while primitive, it's not entirely neglected. This makes it reasonably accessible by vehicle for those authorized to enter. The location "alongside water" further enhances its appeal for activities like fishing, making it a convenient spot for local anglers. Its hidden nature ensures a peaceful and less crowded experience compared to more commercial recreational areas. This combination of seclusion, accessibility for authorized users, and natural features makes it a valuable spot for outdoor enthusiasts in the Jacksonville area.

Based on the user reviews, the Old Boy Scout Camp offers a very basic, primitive outdoor experience. As such, the "services offered" are minimal, focusing on maintaining the natural space rather than providing developed amenities. These would include:

Maintained Access Road: User reviews indicate that the gravel road leading to the site is regularly maintained by Camp Lejeune, ensuring accessibility.
Regularly Cut Grass: The grass in the area is regularly cut, suggesting basic upkeep of the camping/recreation areas.
Open Space for Activities: The primary "service" is providing an open, maintained natural area suitable for activities like primitive camping, fishing, and barbecuing.
Water Access: The location alongside water (though not a beach) provides direct access for fishing and enjoying the waterfront.

It is crucial to note what is explicitly stated as not offered:

No Facilities: There are no public restrooms or dedicated facilities.
No Utilities: This is a primitive site, meaning no water, electrical hookups, or sewer connections are available. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient.

The "features and highlights" of the Old Boy Scout Camp are centered around its natural characteristics and the type of experience it offers, rather than man-made amenities:

Secluded Hidden Gem: Described as "secluded hidden gem of Camp Lejeune," it offers a quiet and private outdoor experience away from crowds.
Primitive Camping: Ideal for those who enjoy "roughing it," this site is suitable for primitive camping, where campers bring all their own supplies and leave no trace.
Excellent Fishing Spot: User reviews specifically highlight it as a good place for fishing, with "lots of people also fish here." One review notes "Way more crabs than fish," suggesting a good crabbing spot as well.
Waterfront Access: Located "alongside water," providing direct access for fishing, enjoying views, and possibly launching small, non-motorized watercraft.
Suitable for BBQs: Its open space and maintained grass make it a nice spot for outdoor cooking and picnics.
Maintained Natural Area: Despite being primitive, the area benefits from basic upkeep by the base, including regularly cut grass and a maintained gravel road.
Accessible to Camp Lejeune Community: Its location within Camp Lejeune makes it a convenient and unique recreational spot for military personnel and authorized visitors.
Peaceful Atmosphere: The lack of extensive facilities contributes to a tranquil environment, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.

Given the nature of the Old Boy Scout Camp as a "secluded hidden gem of Camp Lejeune" with "no facilities or restrooms," it is highly unlikely that there would be any publicly advertised "promotions or special offers" in the traditional sense. This is not a commercial enterprise with a booking system or a marketing department. Instead, its "offer" is inherent in its existence as a maintained natural area available for use.

Therefore, potential "promotions" would be implicit and perhaps include:

Free Access (for authorized users): The primary "special offer" is that it appears to be a free-to-use recreational area for those with access to Camp Lejeune. This in itself is a significant benefit for locals seeking low-cost outdoor activities.
Availability of a Primitive Site: The very existence of a maintained, albeit primitive, camping and fishing spot on base is a valuable "offer" for the military community who might otherwise have to travel further for such opportunities.

There are no direct contact details (phone numbers or website) specific to the "Old Boy Scout Camp" itself, as it is a site within a larger military installation. For any information regarding access, usage policies, or specific regulations for this site, individuals should direct their inquiries to the appropriate recreational or base access authorities at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.

For any inquiries regarding the Old Boy Scout Camp, including access regulations, specific usage rules, or any potential changes to its availability, individuals should contact the relevant departments at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. There is no specific phone number or direct contact provided for the Old Boy Scout Camp itself, as it is a recreational area within the base. Therefore, direct communication channels for Camp Lejeune should be utilized. For general information about base access, recreation facilities, or public affairs, individuals may typically find contact details on the official Camp Lejeune website or by calling the main base information line. It is always advisable to verify current access requirements and any specific regulations for using the Old Boy Scout Camp before planning your visit.

The Old Boy Scout Camp is particularly suitable for locals in North Carolina, especially those connected to or with access to Camp Lejeune, who prioritize a raw, authentic, and cost-effective outdoor experience. For the military community in Jacksonville, it offers a unique and readily accessible retreat for primitive camping, fishing, and barbecuing without the need for extensive travel or reservation fees. Its secluded nature provides a much-needed escape from daily routines, allowing individuals and families to decompress in a natural setting.

For North Carolina residents who appreciate self-sufficient outdoor adventures, this "hidden gem" aligns perfectly with the spirit of exploration. It encourages a return to basics, where the focus is on enjoying the natural surroundings and the company of loved ones, rather than relying on modern amenities. The opportunities for fishing and crabbing directly from the water's edge add a practical and enjoyable dimension to any visit. While it lacks facilities, this very characteristic is part of its charm for those seeking genuine solitude and a chance to truly disconnect. It's a testament to the diverse range of outdoor experiences available in North Carolina, offering a simple yet profound way to engage with the natural beauty of the region, making it an ideal spot for locals who cherish the untouched outdoors.