Camping opportunities near Cherry Point, North Carolina extend beyond the larger, more developed campgrounds. The coastal region features a mix of pine forest and marshy landscapes, with elevations generally below 20 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions between 60-75°F with lower precipitation.
What to do
Fishing from piers and banks: At Oyster Point Campground, campsites #9 and #11 have pathways to small private beaches. "It's a nice little campsite by the river, the campsite was very clean, and there are a few trees providing cover, but still enough sun to get some solar, if you need that. There's like a 20 ft path directly from my campsite to the river, which is nice," notes Jenna L.
Kayaking in calm waters: Cedar Point Campground provides direct water access. "Beautiful water ways open for canoeing and kayaking. The camp spots are a little close together but being right off the water is worth it. All the amenities here. Trails as well," reports Natalie B.
Gem mining for kids: Available at New Bern KOA Holiday for those looking for family activities. "They have gem mining. You buy the bags of dirt in the camp store," explains Jen B. The activity provides hours of entertainment for children during hot afternoons.
What campers like
Private, rustic settings: The primitive nature of Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground appeals to those seeking seclusion. "Nice quiet rustic with lots of privacy if you choose. Very friendly onsite host," mentions Angela. The campground maintains natural surroundings without commercial development.
Well-maintained facilities: The cleanliness at many sites receives consistent praise. "The bathhouses are all very new due to a recent hurricane and they were kept clean. The dock/pier was picture perfect as the sunset over the Neuse river," says Jen B. about New Bern KOA.
Affordable pricing: Value matters to campers in the region. "At only $10 per night, the price is unbeatable for the area. Spot #15 puts you right by the water's edge, which makes for a beautiful morning view," notes Alexandria F. about Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground.
What you should know
Bug protection essential: Insects can be problematic, especially during warmer months. "We loved this campground! It was so easy to access, the roads were well maintained and it was right on the coast... Only complaint is nature related and that's the bugs! The flys are insane but you'll quickly learn to ignore them," reports Hannah F. about Oyster Point.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Verizon service was good," notes Jody B. about one area, while others may have reduced coverage depending on carrier and specific location.
Site leveling requirements: Dixon Landing RV Resort requires some adjustment for RVs. "Site layout is long, very wide and mostly level side-to-side. Front-to-back was easily compensated with blocks. The road in and the sites are a combination of compacted sand and grass that drained well after a storm," explains Sara M.
Tips for camping with families
Choose shaded sites during summer: Heat management is crucial for comfort. "Sites w water view are best... In site #5 at 9:00 AM we had some solar charge happening," advises Roger W. from Oyster Point Campground. This timing information helps families plan tent placement.
Find campgrounds with activities: Some locations offer more for children. "The pool is nice on a hot humid day. They have gem mining. You buy the bags of dirt in the camp store. The bathhouses are all very new due to a recent hurricane and they were kept clean," notes a visitor to New Bern KOA.
Consider proximity to medical facilities: Most campsites near Cherry Point are at least 15-30 minutes from urgent care centers. "Area is remote. Closest shopping was more than 10 miles away," mentions Tracy R. about Oyster Point Campground, which applies to medical services as well.
Tips from RVers
Water quality varies: Goose Creek Campground and other sites have issues with water taste. "Water quality: 1/5 potable but tastes gross," reports one camper. Many experienced RVers recommend bringing drinking water or filters.
Solar panel positioning: For those with solar setups, site selection matters. "It was shady for the later part of the day (which wasn't great for our solar panels). Most sites had shade for either the early or late part of the day," notes Jody B. about Oyster Point Campground.
Electrical reliability: Power issues can affect charging capabilities. "We were only able to occasionally have reliable electricity, resulting in even small 5V items not charging. The biggest issue was inconsistent/incomplete charging of wheelchair batteries," reports one camper about their experience at a campsite near Cherry Point.
