The accident is expected to disrupt long-distance service between Charlotte and New York through Friday. Passengers are being bused around the accident scene.
Amtrak said in a news release that 12 passengers and one crew member were injured and taken to hospitals.
A spokeswoman for the N.C. Rail Division said the crossing in the town of Mebane has a gate with flashing lights that was working at the time of the derailment.