VisitJoCo for Outdoor Fun

Year of Trail log on Clayton greenway photo. The Johnston County Visitors Bureau has partnered on a new initiative from VisitNC called OutdoorNC; which in turn has partnered with Leave No Trace. JoCo and the state of North Carolina are fun, and unspoiled, places to recreate and enjoy the outdoors, and we want to keep them that way.

Our partnership with OutdoorNC and Leave No Trace is not just about promoting natural spaces to explore, but also about promoting the ways in which we can make sure to leave these spaces pristine for everyone. You can read the 7 important principles of Leave No Trace.

Enjoy adventuring in JoCo!

Below you will find more information about exploring nature in JoCo across our towns, recreational assets, trails, and more. We have created three separate itineraries based on where you are in Johnston County - Benson, Clayton, or Smithfield. The itineraries include ideas on hiking, biking, and paddling, as well as options regarding down time, where to eat, and where to grab a cold beverage. In addition, Johnston County also has multiple campgrounds - many of which offer tent camping, RV spots, and even cabins for a more glamping experience.

There's plenty to see and experience in Johnston County, NC. But for the more outdoor minded individual or family, our rural landscapes offers an escape into nature. This isn't rock climbing,…

There's plenty to see and experience in Johnston County, NC. But for the more outdoor minded individual or family, our rural landscapes offers an escape into nature. This isn't rock climbing,…

There's plenty to see and experience in Johnston County, NC. But for the more outdoor minded individual or family, our rural landscapes offers an escape into nature. This isn't rock climbing,…

Using the power of science, education and stewardship of people and partners, the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics is on a mission to ensure a sustainable future for the outdoors and the…

How JoCo is Celebrating NC's Year of the Trail?

Johnston County will be joining with communities across North Carolina in celebrating the 2023 Year of the Trail, a statewide campaign inviting NC residents and visitors to get outside onto the trails, greenways, and blueways that stretch across the state. Our new visitors guide will promote all the trails JoCo has, which visitors and residents alike can explore! Info about our trails can also be found on our website - both recreational and thematic trails. In addition, the Bureau plans to post about JoCo trails and the Year of the Trail throughout the year on our social media platforms.