The site of Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, with impressive cliffs overlooking the Neuse River, has been a landmark for centuries. Five hiking trails explore the riverside habitats and their mature forests and lead to some quiet fishing spots along the waterway. A favorite facility for the local communities is an 11-acre swimming lake with a bathhouse, grass-covered lawn, sandy beach and diving platform with rental boats available. Expansive picnic grounds are nearby. The park has group campsites, a 32-site family campground, and 3 reservable cabins. A visitor center offers museum-quality exhibits that explore the natural and cultural history of the region, complementing regular interpretive programs.

Camping

Tent, trailer and RV camping
The family campground at Cliffs of the Neuse is located in a wooded area near the park office.

There are 12 sites with electrical hookups: sites 1 to 6, 8, 10, 12, 26, 28 and 30 (30 and 50 amp service is offered). There is potable drinking water and dedicated wastewater for each site. A dump station is provided to those camping.

There are also 18 standard campsites. Water is available at several locations in the camping area and there is a washhouse with hot showers.

Occupancy is limited to one family or six people per site, and a limit of one RV and one tent; one pop-up and one tent; or two tents per site.

Campsite #6 is wheelchair accessible.

The campground is open year-round.​

Camper cabins

Camper cabins are now located on sites 7, 9 and 11.  Cabins feature interior electricity and potable water (outside) and are non-smoking. Pets are prohibited, with the exception of service animals and authorized search and rescue dogs.

Cabin #9 is wheelchair accessible.

Group camping
A portion of the park has been set aside as a primitive camping area for organized groups. There are four sites available that can each accommodate up to 30 people. Each site has picnic tables, a fire pit and a grill. Drinking water and waterless toilets are located nearby. Reservations are required for use of the area. Group camping is available year-round.

Activities

The park is a great place for a hike!

Boating and Swimming
Recreation activities in the park center on an 11-acre man-made lake where a grassy and sandy beach, diving platform, roped-off perimeter and bathhouse provide all of the facilities needed for a refreshing swim. For those who prefer to stay on top of the water, boats are available for rent. Private boats are not permitted. For the hungry, there's also a refreshment stand. Boating and swimming are available Memorial Day through Labor Day for a fee.

Fishing
The banks of the Neuse River provide scenic spots to wet your line. The river and its tributaries are home to bluegill, largemouth bass and several species of catfish. In the spring, white and hickory shad migrate up the river. A state fishing license is required and all regulations of the Wildlife Resources Commission are enforced. Fishing is not permitted in the lake.

Picnicking
The shade of huge pine trees offers just the place for outdoor dining. Located near the lake, the picnic area has 30 picnic tables served by 10 grills. Drinking water and restrooms are located nearby. The park's picnic shelter is perfect for large gatherings. Twelve tables and two fireplaces are housed in a covered brick shelter. To be certain that the shelter is available, reservations are advised. Use of the shelter is free of charge and on a first-come, first-served basis, unless reservations are requested. It can be reserved for a fee.