Cedar Point Campground sits on the White Oak River in Croatan National Forest, just minutes from Emerald Isle beaches. The campground maintains 40 electric hookup sites on paved pads with gravel areas for picnic tables and fire pits. Winter temperatures can dip into the 30s while summer brings heat advisories with temperatures regularly climbing above 90°F, requiring special planning for outdoor activities and pet care.
What to do
Kayaking White Oak River: Access the water from the boat ramp near Cedar Point Campground just 0.25 miles from the campsites. "Another attraction is its proximity to Emerald Isle and the ocean, which is about two to three miles away. If you are a kayaker like I am, or a boater, there is access to the White Oak River by way of a boat launch," notes Myron C.
Hike the Tideland Trail: This marsh trail loop extends approximately 2 miles through estuaries and coastal wetlands. "The main attraction here is the Cedar Point Tideland Trail which takes you through the estuaries close to the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. This area is a photographer's dream, especially if you like photographing the native habitat and creatures," shares Myron C.
Beach day at Emerald Isle: The public beach at Emerald Isle is just 15 minutes from most Swansboro area campgrounds. "While in the area we enjoyed the public beach on Emerald Isle, which is only 15 minutes from campground. There are lots of water sport rentals nearby and restaurants," writes Steve V. at Cedar Point.
Bear Island excursion: Take a ferry from Hammocks Beach State Park to access pristine beaches for day trips. "The ferry only runs during the day between 9ish-6pm. Bathhouse was clean with large, individual showers," notes Lauren. If camping overnight, remember "you have to hike with all your camping gear less than a mile to the beach."
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Many campgrounds in the Swansboro area feature well-maintained sites with room to spread out. "We camped in site 17. It is a great site with lots of room between you and the next camper," notes Martha S. about Cedar Point Campground.
Clean bathroom facilities: Campers consistently praise bathroom cleanliness at most Swansboro area campgrounds. At Emerald Isle RV Resort, "Super clean bathhouse. The staff would drive around 3 times per day to collect your trash," mentions Donna E., while Martha S. adds that Cedar Point has "bath facility in a very nice building, is heated and has individual locking shower rooms."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The coastal location provides excellent nature observation. "I was able to get photos of birds, soft shell crabs, and closeup photos of dragonflies. The estuary itself is worth taking pictures of, especially at sunset," writes Myron C. about the Cedar Point area.
Waterfront proximity: Many sites offer direct water access or views. At Goose Creek Campground, "Our site was right on water with a great view of the sunset. The barrier Island's are only 5 minute ride over the bridge," according to Michael M.
What you should know
Military training noise: Camp Lejeune's nearby operations can create occasional noise. "Camp Lejeune is less than 30 minutes away and on some nights we could hear the artillery in the distance as the Marines trained," reports Steve V. from Cedar Point. This might affect light sleepers or sensitive pets.
Water access limitations: While most campgrounds advertise water proximity, the actual access points vary significantly. At Oyster Point Campground, "Sites #9 and #11 have pathways to a very small private beach," notes Roger W., while Laura F. adds "We were able to launch kayaks almost directly from campsite #11."
Summer heat challenges: The hot months require extra planning. "The heat in the bathrooms and showers had to be over 100 degrees. Also, typical National Forest setup, the showers are push button, with no temperature control (you get what you get) and the water only flows for about 15 seconds with each push of the button," explains Steve V. about summer camping at Cedar Point.
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking during peak seasons. "All of the sites are by reservation only except for five first come/first serve spots," notes Myron C. about Cedar Point Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach preparation: Beaches near Swansboro have limited facilities. "Access will be a challenge for some. There is a state ferry that runs through the day (in season), but does not allow a cart to carry stuff. It's a long walk!" advises Kent F. about Bear Island camping at Hammocks Beach State Park.
Plan for insects: The coastal environment means mosquitoes and flies are prevalent. "The bugs are bad in June and bug spray didn't really help," warns Laura F. from Oyster Point, while Hannah F. adds, "The flys are insane but you'll quickly learn to ignore them - aside from a few bites here and there. We smoked them out and it was fine for the most part."
Family activities: Find family-oriented amenities at certain campgrounds. Buttons Family Campground receives praise for "Quiet and welcoming. Super helpful staff go above and beyond to make your experience a positive one," according to Debra M. At Emerald Isle RV Resort, "Love this little campground. Emerald Isle is a favorite vacation spot for my family and when we aren't renting a house, this campground is a great alternative. It's clean, close to the beach, has a little pool and they do fun family activities, too (like outdoor movies and Christmas in July!)."
Tips from RVers
Water management: Many campgrounds lack full hookups or have limited water access. At Cedar Point, "The sites do not have water hook ups so make sure your RV fresh water tanks are topped off, or there are plenty of potable water points throughout the campground to fill up you jugs," advises Steve V.
Site selection for sun/shade: Consider your power needs when selecting a site. "The sites on the southeast side seemed to have more shade than those on the northwest side... Lots of sun throughout the day until late evening, so a little miserable on this stay as the area had heat advisories every day," notes Steve V. about Cedar Point.
Electrical reliability: Some campgrounds have inconsistent electrical service. Solar backup might be beneficial for extended stays as Steve V. reports about Cedar Point, "there are serious issues with the electric connections, which you have no choice but to pay for. We were only able to occasionally have reliable electricity, resulting in even small 5V items not charging."
