When it comes to finding your dream home, location, location, location is as vital as the house itself. If you are seeking a vibrant suburban community with access to city life and all that nature has to offer, consider the town of Clayton, Selma, and or Smithfield North Carolina. These charming towns are prime locations that can fulfill your desire to have a tranquil home life with easy access to bustling city life and easy access to small-town flare.
Johnston County – Modern, and Rich in History
Clayton is in Johnston County. Formed in 1746, the county is steeped in history and southern hospitality, but it also offers great entertainment, shopping, and dining for residents of all ages and interests to enjoy.
Here are some of the great community amenities you can expect
Parks and Recreation
Enjoying the mild climate of North Carolina with friends and family is easy when there are so many great outdoor opportunities in the area.
Parks and Trails – The Johnston County Parks system includes over 60 parks and recreation centers. Some of the features you’ll find in parks throughout the county include sports leagues, batting cages, pickleball courts, hiking trails, camping, picnic shelters, boat ramps, fishing, pools and splash pads, dog parks and playgrounds.
The East Clayton Community Park has recently opened the Harmony Playground, which is a one-of-kind inclusive play destination for children of all abilities to play together in a safe and supportive environment!
Water Adventures – Neuse Adventures offers kayaking and canoeing for beginners of all ages, as well as experienced floaters. You can take a self-guided trip and enjoy nature at its finest as you drift down the river and enjoy the wildlife. This is truly an opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts.
Entertainment and Education
Clayton, Selma, and Smithfield and surrounding areas provide an abundance of unique museums, historical sites, and annual community events.
Festivals and Events at a Glance
- Selma’s Railroad Days
- Benson’s Mule Days
- Smithfield’s Ham & Yam Festival
- Shindig music festival
- Beach Fest
Ava Gardner Museum
Nearby Smithfield has a captivating museum dedicated to the illustrious Ava Gardner. The actress was born just outside of Smithfield, and in the Ava Gardner Museum, you’ll find photographs, jewelry, costumes, papers, and many other artifacts to discover. Anyone who enjoys television and film is sure to appreciate this unique museum.
Bentonville Battlefield
A National Historic Landmark, Bentonville Battlefield was the largest Civil War Battlefield in North Carolina. There are over 18 driving pull-offs and markers throughout the Bentonville Battlefield. You’ll have the opportunity to track the three-day battle or walk through the Confederate cemetery. You’ll also find a museum and participate in a guided tour of the Harper House.
Shop to You Drop
Clayton, and nearby Selma and Smithfield, offer such a unique array of boutiques and stores. 
- Antique stores and malls
- Boutiques
- Country Stores
- Carolina Premium Outlets
Dining
There’s no shortage of diverse dining options in and around Clayton.
- Eastern-style barbecue
- Southern-style comfort food
- Farm-to-table restaurants run by local chefs
- Bakeries, homemade candy stores, and ice-cream parlors
A Short Drive for a Weekend Getaway
There’s no shortage on where to go whether you choose the beach, city, or the mountains, living in Clayton and the surrounding community you’ll have easy access. Here are a few you may consider.
Raleigh, NC – Just a short 30-minute drive and you’ll quickly arrive in Raleigh, the Capital city. Whether for business or pleasure it’s a short and convenient drive.
Wilmington, NC – Only 2 hours away, you’ll find this lovely seaport city full of great riverfront shops, restaurants, and historic charm.
Outer Banks (OBX) – A 3 1/2-hour drive takes you to great beaches and historical lighthouses.
Asheville, NC – A 4-hour drive to Asheville has you in the Blue Ridge Mountains where you can hike, hunt waterfalls, or just enjoy nature.
Robuck Homes Communities Meet Your Lifestyle
Robuck Homes has built homes in over 63 communities and is excited to bring timeless architectural designs and craftsmanship to Johnston County. Baylee Ridge will offer around 80 opportunities to build a new home on large homesites in the evolving town of Selma by neighboring Clayton.
We invite you to explore the many beautiful amenities within the Robuck Homes Design Studio, with offers a collection of exterior and interior styles. We invite you to learn more about our coming soon communities and join the Baylee Ridge community interest list coming soon to Selma, NC.
