Croatan National Forest surrounds Morehead City, North Carolina, with camping options spread across pine forests and coastal waterways. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures reaching the 90s and mild winters with occasional frost. Biting flies and mosquitoes are prevalent from late spring through early fall, requiring campers to prepare with appropriate insect protection for both people and pets.
What to do
Hiking on accessible trails: The Tideland Trail near Cedar Point Campground offers wildlife viewing through coastal marshes. "There are hiking trails and a boat ramp about a 1/4 of a mile down the road and a hiking trail that loops for about 2 miles along the marshy shore line," notes a visitor who spent two weeks at the campground.
Beach access and water activities: Hammocks Beach State Park provides secluded beach camping on Bear Island. A camper describes their experience: "The beach camping spots are right in front of the dunes. We went on Labor Day weekend and there was no one there! So peaceful and serene. Lots of shells to find!" Ferry service to the island costs a small fee and is included with camping reservations.
Kayaking and paddling: The Newport River and surrounding waterways provide paddling opportunities directly from several campsites. At Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground, a camper mentions: "We were able to launch kayaks almost directly from campsite #11. Tent pads are big enough for 1 large tent or 2 small tents."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Oyster Point Camp, campers appreciate the spacious layout. "Campsites are clean and cared for. They have nice tent pads done up. Would be nice if some of them had two tent pads for a second tent but ground was nice and level for a second tent," reports a visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The coastal location provides chances to observe diverse wildlife. A camper at Great Island Cabin Camp shares: "Abundant wildlife, empty beaches, our kind of heaven in the summer months, hot fishing spot in the fall."
Clean facilities: Waters Edge RV Park maintains well-kept amenities. A visitor notes, "Clean bathrooms, friendly staff, small and quiet location that's close to many activities and restaurants. The water front is very nice as well. I'll definitely be back."
What you should know
Limited cellular service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. At Black Barn Farm, campers can enjoy disconnecting, while Cedar Point offers more reliable connections: "We found good cell phone service with Verizon throughout the property. The campground did not have wi-fi."
Pack-in, pack-out requirements: Some sites require campers to remove all trash. At Hammocks Beach State Park, a visitor warns: "You must pack out all trash. There are no trash cans on the island. The only other people on the island are interns studying the sea turtles and other campers."
Seasonal insect challenges: Biting insects can be problematic. A camper at Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground advises: "We loved this campground! The only complaint is nature related and that's the bugs! The flies are insane but you'll quickly learn to ignore them. We smoked them out and it was fine for the most part."
Tips for camping with families
Interactive activities: Dogwood Family Campground offers a family-friendly environment close to attractions. A visitor shares: "This spot is close to everything without being on top of it all! Kid friendly, pet friendly, and very clean! All of the lots are level making for an easy setup!"
Low-cost campground access: Cedar Point provides affordable camping for families with children. "This is a great campground if you don't want to be far off the main road or by yourself. It is bustling with activity and people and everyone was very nice! The pool is amazing! The slide is so fun!"
Water safety considerations: For families visiting beach sites, being aware of tides is important. At Hammocks Beach State Park, a camper advises: "Make sure you know the tide schedule. The water levels are changing pretty dramatically during the day."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling and access: At Goose Creek Campground, RVers find suitable accommodations. "My wife and I spent a few days here while searching the area for potential retirement location. It's also a seasonal campground. Bathrooms were spotless, beautiful pool and a nice little waterslide for the kids."
Power availability: Cedar Point Campground offers electrical hookups for RVs but with some limitations. A long-term winter camper notes: "This location has a bathhouse. The bathrooms are separate from the showers. The bathrooms were slightly heated. The showers, on the other hand, were not heated."
Year-round options: RVers seeking pet-friendly camping near Morehead City, North Carolina have winter options. "I camped for 14 days at this location in January. The campground was fairly quiet. The few campers were very quiet and respectful to the other campers."
