Croatan National Forest offers primitive to full-service camping options within 15-30 minutes of Beaufort, North Carolina. The coastal region features a mix of maritime forest and estuarine environments with elevations rarely exceeding 20 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with October through April providing the mildest temperatures and fewer insects.
What to do
Boat launch access: Cedar Creek Campground & Marina provides direct water access for boating enthusiasts. "The boat launch went smoothly. Miles of pristine coast. Fish were hitting 2 Klicks north of the marina," notes David B.
Beach excursions: Emerald Isle RV Resort places campers minutes from ocean swimming. "Steps to the beach. Could watch dolphins from the overlook... I didn't use but they also have salt water pool!" reports Donna E.
Hiking options: Several trails connect through the Croatan forest system. "There is a Mountain-to-Sea path nearby," mentions Tiffany L. from Oyster Point, while Myron C. adds, "The main attraction here is the Cedar Point Tideland Trail which takes you through the estuaries close to the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway."
What campers like
Water views: Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground offers multiple waterfront sites. "Site #9 backs up to the marsh and has a great area for watching the sunset. You can also kayak or canoe here," shares Natalie B.
Privacy between sites: Many campsites provide natural separation. "Nice quiet rustic with lots of privacy if you choose," notes Angela from Oyster Point, while Roger W. observed, "Sites are very wide... Gravel surface."
Budget-friendly options: Waters Edge RV Park offers reasonable rates near attractions. "Small, clean, quiet, friendly, reasonably priced RV park. We loved walking to the dock on the property where you could see the sunrise and sunset," says Cynthia D.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Summer heat can be intense without shade. "Sites on the southeast side seemed to have more shade than those on the northwest side... pretty miserable on this stay as the area had heat advisories every day," warns Steve V. about Cedar Point.
Insect management: Biting insects present challenges during warm months. "The flys are insane but you'll quickly learn to ignore them... We smoked them out and it was fine for the most part," suggests Hannah F.
Limited amenities: Black Barn Farm provides essential services but many area campgrounds offer primitive experiences. "One of our party needed lodging while we wanted to tent camp, they put us up in a perfect spot so we could be near her in one of their sweet little cabins right on the water," explains Christina L.
Cell service varies: Connection quality differs between campgrounds. "Verizon service was good," reports Jody B. about Oyster Point, while another camper noted "The Wi-Fi is pretty slow (under 2 Mbps) and gets worse on weekends" at Emerald Isle.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational activities: Cedar Point Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "This area is a photographer's dream, especially if you like photographing the native habitat and creatures. I was able to get photos of birds, soft shell crabs, and closeup photos of dragonflies," shares Myron C.
Kid-friendly attractions: Some campgrounds provide dedicated play areas. "There are beautiful lights and trails throughout, animals, ziplines and playgrounds," notes Christina L. about Black Barn Farm.
Beach proximity: Oceanside camping appeals to families. "We camped right up against tall grassy dunes so we were protected from the wind. Could hear the ocean at night," describes Donna E. about her stay at Emerald Isle.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose according to shade needs and size requirements. "Our site would fit a large rig... Sites #9 and #11 have pathways to a very small private beach," advises Roger W. about Oyster Point.
Utilities management: Goose Creek Campground offers full hookup options. "Nice place, well kept, nice paved streets, nice boat ramps, nice piers, nice laundry room, good cell service. WiFi available for $$ more," observes Lewis M.
Weather considerations: RV campers should prepare for seasonal conditions. "I'd say much better in the early spring or fall," recommends Faith W. about Goose Creek during summer months.
