48-Hours Outdoors in JoCo

Getting outdoors and enjoying all that we have to offer in Johnston County really can't be done in 48 hours -- why rush? We suggest you slow your pace and visit us more than once for the serenity that nature can provide. Following this suggested itinerary is a full list of outdoor venues in the county -- hope to see you out on a trail in JoCo!
 

Getting here and where to stay is the first order of business.

For this itinerary, to be close to attractions and to give you some options, we suggest you base your stay in Benson. There are options for hotel stays, or you may choose to stay on site at Howell Woods in one of the cabins they have available. Benson is convenient to visitors traveling along I-95 or I-40. Click through via these links to choose what works for you, your friends, and family. Hotel options are Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn Express in the Town of Benson, camping and cottages at Howell Woods Cabins, Raleigh Oaks Cabins, and unique accommodations at Broadslab Distillery's AirBnB.
 

Suggested Nature Inspired Itinerary

Day One

9:00am         Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center
Before heading out to Howell Woods, where you will spend several hours, we suggest you pack trail snacks, water, and a lunch for yourself, family, and friends. Be prepared to picnic there on your first day out. Address: 6601 Devils Racetrack Rd, Four Oaks, NC 27524  Phone: (919) 938-0115

Howell Woods provides a number of outdoor recreation outlets for use by the general public - hiking, horseback, and bike trails; fishing and camping. Some require you to pay a small user's fee which helps maintain and improve the facility. It is important for you to follow a few rules and regulations to accommodate the multiple uses of the property. In addition, some road/trails or specific outdoor activities may have certain temporary restrictions depending on other activities that may be occurring. To determine if the area or outdoor activity you wish to enjoy is open or available:

Monday through Friday Reservations - Call ahead at least 24 hours
Weekend Reservations - Must be Made by 4:00 PM on Thursday

Should you be unable to reach a staff member, current restrictions or additional information will be posted on the information board at the Learning Center building. Howell Woods is actively managed for the benefit of wildlife, educational opportunities, and low impact outdoor recreation.

12N               Picnic Lunch at Howell Woods
Tables are available at the Learning Center to enjoy a picnic lunch, as well as, the reptile center and birds of prey rescue area. It's educational and fun for all ages.

1:30pm          Trails at Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site
Along with the Driving Tour, visitors to the largest state historic site in North Carolina, offers over 6 miles of hiking trails, and now part of the Mountains to the Sea Trail.  The following map will show you the options for hiking at Bentonville...where history and hiking happen! Additional details on the site are available via their brochure. For times, holidays, or to check for special event dates, visit their website before visiting. 

Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday, and most major holidays

5466 Harper House Rd
Four Oaks, NC 27524

3:00pm         Tour the Harper House and Museum
The museum located at the historic site is Free to the public and has an extensive gift shop and book selection for sale. Guided tours of the Harper House leave from the Visitor Center at 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 4:00pm. Tickets can be purchased in the Visitor Center and cost $2 for adults and $1 for children.

4:00pm          Return to your accommodations: Options for dinner and things to do in Benson or Four Oaks.
Whether you are staying in Benson or camping near Four Oaks at Howell Woods or Raleigh Oaks, the following links will take you to dining options for both locations, and check out things to do in each town as well, such as museums, shopping, and some craft beverages if you wish.

Places to Eat out:  Benson and Four Oaks
Things to Do: Benson and Four Oaks

Day Two

9:00am          Breakfast in your hotel or options in Benson or Four Oaks (above links)

10:00am        Farm Tour and Shopping at Smith's Strawberry Farm
The Smith's Nursery and Strawberry Farm offers seasonable fun for the entire family as well as special events throughout the year. When planning your visit to the area, you can pick-your-own berries and pumpkin, or buy direct in the retail store. Check the website for special events, workshops, and what's in season and enjoy fishing, trails, and farm animals. 

Strawberry Season: April-May
Blueberry Season: May-July
Pumpkin Season: September-October

12:00 pm        Lunch at Redneck BBQ Lab
If the weather is nice you can sit outside at the picnic tables (at the BP Gas Station) at McGee's Crossroads, and enjoy award winning barbecue. 

The Redneck BBQ Lab opened in 2016 and is owned and operated by members of the Redneck Scientific competition BBQ team. In 2016, the team finished fourth in the nation according to Kansas City BBQ Society rankings and earned multiple Grand Championships and Reserve Grand Championships along the way. This is a grand experience to add to your itinerary or anytime you are in the Benson area!!

1:30 pm        Tour and Wine Tasting at Gregory Vineyards

From vine to bottle, Gregory Vineyard's locally grown grapes go into making some of the finest wines in North Carolina. To date, their wines have won many awards and they are committed to pushing the envelope with new styles and seasonal special editions every year.

Wine Tastings offered every Friday and Saturday from 12pm-3pm.

Depart for home after some great hiking, history, farm tours, and a taste of local award-winning barbecue. Come back to see us and stay in the Clayton or Smithfield area for more nature adventures!

Listings of all Nature and Recreation in JoCo

The following listings will give you more options to explore...you will surely find a ton of fun places to visit.