We Bet You Didn’t Know These Rural Eastern North Carolina Destinations Even Existed

While we are familiar with the stunning coastal towns gracing our beloved state, here are some rural Eastern destinations in North Carolina worth noting. From parks to a museum, and even a hot dog headquarters, take a moment to consider a few out-of-the-way places.

1. Lillington, Raven Rock State Park

This 4,600-plus acre natural space offers trails, falls, rapids, and great places for bird-watching. And the main reason we enjoy the park is the extraordinary 150-foot rock.

Hot Dog Headquarters

We love the wide variety of hotdogs, especially with melted cheese, jalapenos, chili, and slaw. Enjoy the deliciousness at this tiny eatery.

2. Hertford, Springfield Bed and Breakfast

Here is a great place to learn about Hertford's historical roots, in this classic Southern setting and a late-nineteenth-century-house. Sit on the porch a spell and enjoy the recently renovated circa 1896 inn. Discover more on Springfield Bed and Breakfast’s Facebook page.

3. Kinston, CSS Neuse Civil War Museum

The stories in this downtown history museum include some fascinating ones about the gunboat CSS Neuse, one of 26 ironclads commissioned by the Confederate navy, and its amazing remains. Other exhibits reveal life in Kinston and eastern North Carolina during the Civil War. For more information, visit CSS Neuse Civil War Museum’s Facebook page.

Lions Water Adventure

This place is like a dream, offering three water slides, and a trip through the lion's mouth. The

5,000-square-foot-kiddie pool showcases fountains and a lazy river. Buy some treats and eat in the picnic area.

See more photos of fun on Lions Water Adventure’s Facebook page.

4. Bladenboro, The Beast of Bladenboro

In the chilly mid-winter of 1953-54, an unknown creature terrorized this rural town for 13 days. Find out more about this spooky unsolved mystery.

Dove's BBQ

The seasoned collards and the delicious cornbread are worth the trip alone to this charming eatery. Discover more on Dove's BBQ's Facebook page.

5. Belhaven: Belhaven Town Dock

The town of Belhaven might arguably own the prettiest riverfront locations on North Carolina’s inner banks. Its historic homes decorate the banks of the Pantego Creek.

Spoon River Artworks & Market

This gorgeous structure includes a farm-to-fork style restaurant just steps away from the Pungo River, leading to the Pamlico Sound.

6. Gatesville, Merchants Millpond State Park

The 3,520-acre forested park in North Carolina has a stunning 700-acre mill pond, offering all kinds of outdoor fun in this beautiful wild space.

Will-O-Wisp Café

And after a hike, pop into this local diner for one of the best pizzas and Philly cheese steaks around.

For more photos of the yummy food, visit Will-O-Wisp Café's Facebook page.

Pack a bag and head out to one of these rural Eastern destinations in North Carolina. And while you're in the area, check out the Wilson Botanical Garden.