Clayton, North Carolina is the kind of place where life moves at just the right pace—quick enough to stay interesting, but with enough room to breathe. Located just southeast of Raleigh in Johnston County, it has evolved from a small farming town into one of the fastest-growing areas in the state, yet it hasn’t lost the character that makes it feel like home to so many. With a population of just over 30,000, Clayton offers a unique blend of suburban ease and small-town familiarity.

This town is known for its strong sense of community and a deep connection to the arts. The Clayton Center, housed in a beautifully restored former school building, hosts everything from concerts and theater performances to community meetings and public forums. It's more than just a venue—it’s a symbol of how Clayton respects its past while embracing growth and creativity.

One thing many folks don’t realize about Clayton is its historical role in the tobacco and cotton industries. In the early 1900s, it served as a critical hub for transporting agricultural goods thanks to its proximity to the railroad. Some of those old tobacco warehouses and mills still stand today, many repurposed into new businesses and loft-style apartments, giving the town an interesting architectural texture.

When it comes to food, Clayton doesn’t disappoint. Mannings Restaurant, located on Main Street, is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Known for its upscale Southern cuisine with a contemporary twist, their shrimp and grits and signature bourbon-glazed pork chops keep people coming back. Then there’s McKinley’s Restaurant , a laid-back Irish pub where the faces are familiar and the hearty portions of food are delicious. They’re known around town for their traditional dishes as well as their burgers and sandwiches.

For a more casual bite, Nancy Jo’s Homemade Bakery & Café offers some of the best sandwiches and pastries you’ll find around. Their chicken salad croissant has its own fan club, and their baked goods are a lunchtime temptation that’s hard to pass up.

Businesses in Clayton tend to stick around—and for good reason. Deep River Brewing Company is one of those local landmarks that feels like a second living room for many residents. Founded by a couple with backgrounds in engineering and farming, it’s Johnston County’s first legal brewery and is known for its inventive, locally sourced beers.

Those looking for things to do have plenty of options. The Sam’s Branch Greenway is a favorite spot for a peaceful walk or bike ride along the Neuse River, offering a scenic path surrounded by lush trees and native wildlife. Clayton River Walk on the Neuse, a part of the statewide Mountains-to-Sea Trail, offers a longer stretch for the more adventurous.

Each year, the town comes alive for the Clayton Harvest Festival, one of the most anticipated events in the area. With a carnival, classic car show, local vendors, and live music, it’s a multi-day celebration that draws thousands. The Art Walk and Christmas Village & Tree Lighting are also beloved annual traditions that blend creativity, culture, and community spirit in a way that feels authentic to Clayton’s personality.

There’s even a little local legend that stirs up interest now and then. Some longtime residents like to talk about the “Clayton Lights,” strange glowing orbs reportedly seen in the wooded areas near town after dusk. Whether there’s any truth to it or not, it adds a layer of mystique that’s fun to speculate about on late summer evenings.

We at Integrated Wildlife Management understand that with so much natural beauty and wooded space in Clayton, sometimes nature crosses the line into our homes and businesses. When that happens, it can be unsettling and disruptive. That’s why we offer professional wildlife control and prevention services to help protect your property while respecting the environment around us. Whether it’s a raccoon in the attic or squirrels setting up shop in the walls, we’ve got the tools, training, and experience to take care of it the right way. If you’re in Clayton and facing wildlife issues, contact us today—we’re here to help you reclaim your space with practical solutions that work.