River Bend has single-family homes with a family atmosphere on the Trent River
The eastern North Carolina community of River Bend may have started as a tobacco farm, but since incorporating in the 1970s it has grown into a small town of 2,900 positioned strategically in a nook of the Trent River. Popular with military families and retirees, this area offers many homes with large front lawns, golf course views and easy river access. “(Homes include) beautiful million-dollar waterfront homes and smaller townhouses and condos in the $150,000 range, so they have a combination of everything,” says David Caccavaro, a real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty New Bern.
Selection of styles with low HOA activity
The median home price is $316,000 lower than the national and state numbers. Homes include ranch styles, split levels, contemporaries and New Traditionals. Townhomes and condos are also available. Caccavaro says a homeowners association oversees some properties. “At one point, (River Bend was) considered a retirement community, but a lot of younger families have started to move in there, so you’ve got a good mix,” says Caccavaro.
Craven County Schools
Students attend Craven County Schools, which are rated B-plus on Niche. Craven Community College, also graded B-plus, is 5 miles east of River Bend.
Local parks, seasonal events and golfing
River Bend Town Park features a playground, skate park and a small boat launch. Rocky Run Park, north of the community, has a basketball court and playground. The public River Bend Country Club offers a 6,500-yard layout snaking through the community. The club also has sports courts and spaces for private events. Croatan National Forest, 10 miles south, has multiple hiking, biking and horseback trails. The community holds events, including an annual Fourth of July Parade and fun runs. Attractions and events in downtown New Bern are 7 miles east.
Hurricane and flooding risk in River Bend
Hurricanes can be a factor in River Bend. Hurricane Florence impacted the area in 2018. However, Caccavaro says the town maintains drains to mitigate flooding. Flood maps from the state of North Carolina show that properties are at risk of flooding, especially those closer to the Trent River.
Dining in the community, shopping in New Bern
River Bend has several local dining options, including the Saltwater Grill, which serves seafood, salads and steaks. Panichelli’s Pizza also has sandwiches and pasta dishes. Attitudes Pub and Grille features burgers, wings and sandwiches. Larger stores, including Publix, Harris Teeter, Target and Walmart are along U.S. Route 17 BUS. CarolinaEast Medical Center is 6 miles east in New Bern.
U.S. Route 17 BUS and Coastal Carolina Regional Airport
U.S. Route 17 BUS runs along the area’s northern edge and connects River Bend to New Bern and U.S. Route 70. Coastal Carolina Regional Airport, 9 miles east, has flights to Charlotte, Hartford and Orlando.
