The coastal area surrounding Creswell sits at an average elevation of just 7 feet above sea level, creating a network of shallow waterways that define the camping experience. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 30°F, making year-round camping possible for prepared visitors. The relatively flat terrain provides easy access for standard vehicles to most established campsites, though the low elevation means standing water can be common after rain.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Phelps: Launch directly from Pettigrew State Park Campground where the water is notably clear. "The water in Lake Phelps is perfectly clear. We didn't get to explore it much without a boat but there are fish. Also, this lake is close to the outer banks so you can plan to go there as well," notes camper Justin C.
Fishing for bass: Most waterfront sites offer good fishing access with bass being common. "I caught 7 large mouth bass and saw a lot of perch. 2 of them were keepers so I want to come back out again just to fish," reported a regular visitor to Pettigrew State Park Campground.
Hiking historic trails: The Moccasin Trail at Pettigrew offers a moderate 3-mile round trip hike. "Be careful!!! It was brisk and damp and we of course, came across what appeared to be a moccasin on the trail. My dog jumped over it...startled it and I saw its head pop up," warns camper Kristi D.
Wildlife viewing: Merchants Millpond State Park is known for alligator spotting from a safe distance. "If you canoe long enough, you'll come across two alligators who live in the pond," shares Kaylee G., highlighting the unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Goose Creek State Park Campground receives consistent praise for site layout. "The sites are spacious, well equipped and well spaced (private). There are several water stations and composting toilets," notes camper Chip G.
Access to multiple water bodies: Campers appreciate having options between lake, river, and ocean access. "We kayaked in their creek that goes out directly to the Chowan River. Large fishing pond, firewood available, clean shower house, game room and tidy clean sites," mentions a camper at Rocky Hock Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution makes for excellent night sky viewing. "You'll hear the ocean waves pretty much all night from all or most sites, and the star viewing is also great here," reports Ashlee L. about camping at Oregon Inlet Campground.
Educational history elements: Many sites include access to historic structures. "The history being preserved is spectacular. Lots of hiking biking and only about 12 sites. There are boardwalks that meander through the swampy forest," says Justin C. about Pettigrew State Park Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most sites have spotty connectivity. "Internet is spotty. Turn your cellular data on," advises camper Evelyn O. at Goose Creek State Park Campground.
Seasonal camping restrictions: Some campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Oregon Inlet Campground runs from March through November with specific services. "Facilities were clean, showers were warm, sites were spacious! The walk to the beach was a little longer longer than expected but not terrible (took 10-15 minutes carrying a 25 lb toddler)," notes Virginia W.
Wildlife considerations: Prepare for encounters with local fauna. "We traveled through there on the way back from a grocery run and saw a lot of wildlife including a baby black bear," reports a camper at Pettigrew State Park.
Water levels fluctuate: Low elevations mean changing water access. "The deepest part of the lake is 9' so you are able to walk around most of the lake. My kids loved this," shares Justin C. about Lake Phelps.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access timing: Plan beach trips in morning or evening hours to avoid crowds. "I love waking up early and walking down to the beach to see the sunrise. Oftentimes I'll be the only one one the beach," shares Valerie P. from Oregon Inlet Campground.
Kid-friendly water features: Merchants Millpond State Park offers safe water exploration opportunities. "Taking a canoe or kayak out to explore the pond and swamps is a must and total unique experience. Turtles, birds, cypress trees, and alligators," recommends a camper named Boone.
Natural playgrounds: Sand dunes provide built-in entertainment. "The dunes are right next to the campsites and provided hours of fun—running, climbing, sliding, and just being wild and free," reports David N. about camping at Oregon Inlet.
Family-sized sites: Request specific site numbers known to accommodate families better. "We used site 11. I still think it's the best one, it's the largest, right next to the main trail head, & bath house trail right ahead of the site," suggests Charli R. about Merchants Millpond State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Rose Bay Preserve offers full hookups near water access. "Beside state boat ramp, access to anywhere, Next to ferry to Ocracoke too..." notes Dan B.
Level site options: Look for sites specifically graded for larger vehicles. "The sites are level and very well designed for optimal privacy," reports Barbara W. about Rocky Hock Campground.
Travel distances between amenities: Columbia is the nearest town to many camping areas with full services. "Columbia is the closest town that has groceries or anything to eat. There is a back route to the campground from there along the refuge called Newlands Road," shares a camper at Pettigrew State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping offers fewer crowds but requires preparation. "Wanted to try out a new tent in the snow, was the only camper, and had a huge plot to myself. All RVers were polite and kept to themselves and were quiet," notes William P. about Rocky Hock Campground.
