Cedar Point Campground provides 40 sites with electric hookups about 15 minutes from Emerald Isle beaches. The campground sits along the White Oak River in Croatan National Forest where summer temperatures regularly exceed 85°F. Sites have paved parking pads with adjacent gravel areas featuring picnic tables and fire rings.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Point offers boat ramp access to the White Oak River about a quarter mile from the campgrounds. At Onslow Beach Campsites, campers enjoy dual-water access. "We have found many shark teeth on the beach and made great memories wake boarding and relaxing," notes Paul R., highlighting the combination of ocean and intracoastal waterway.
Beach exploration: The nearest public beaches are 15 minutes from Cedar Point Campground on Emerald Isle. For those with Department of Defense ID, Onslow Beach Campsites provides direct beach access. "You have to have been in the Military to get on base!" explains Jon S., while another camper adds, "I love that we were so close to the beach. The bathrooms were clean and the common areas were very clean as well."
Hiking trails: Cedar Point features a 2-mile loop trail along the marshy shoreline. "This is the trailhead for the Neusiock trail. One of my favorites. Be certain to go for a day hike and have a swim after," recommends Joshua M. The Tideland Trail through the estuaries is particularly appealing for nature photographers interested in capturing native birds, crabs, and dragonflies.
What campers like
Secluded beach camping: Hammocks Beach State Park on Bear Island offers a unique camping experience only accessible by ferry or private boat. "If you're looking for beautiful beach camping that isn't super crowded, then Bear Island is the place to be! The sites are reasonably priced and include one ferry round trip per day as part of your camping fee," shares Sarah C. Sites are primitive but have access to potable water and shower facilities.
Level, well-maintained sites: At Cedar Point Campground, campers appreciate the organized layout. "All sites are paved; minimal leveling required. Lots of trees and shade -- plenty of room for the hamock and screenhouse," notes Rick S. Each site provides enough separation for comfort while still maintaining a community feel.
Beachside convenience: For campers seeking direct ocean access, several options stand out. "This campground is ON THE BEACH! Just a short walk over the dune and you will be at the water," writes Bart about Surf City Family Campground. The proximity eliminates the need to drive to beach access points, allowing campers to move freely between their site and the water.
What you should know
Military base access requirements: Several campgrounds including Onslow Beach Campsites require Department of Defense identification. "We loved it. You must have a DOD ID for access. Right on the beach and a C store right there. Nice showers and bathrooms," Howard B. explains. Without military credentials, civilian campers should focus on public access campgrounds like Cedar Point or Hammocks Beach.
Limited water hookups: Cedar Point sites lack individual water connections despite having electricity. "No individual water at sites, but potable water available at the dump station," reports one camper. Water spigots are distributed throughout the campground, requiring campers to fill portable containers or tanks.
Weather considerations: Summer heat and seasonal storms affect camping conditions. "Standing water can be problematic during heavy rain, creating muddy conditions," notes a visitor to Haywood Landing Recreation Site, who adds "The mosquitos are horrible so bring bug spray." Winter camping brings milder temperatures but potential challenges: "The bathrooms were slightly heated. The showers, on the other hand, were not heated," reports Robert D. about Cedar Point.
Tips for camping with families
Pack essential beach gear: For families visiting dog friendly campgrounds near Jacksonville, preparation is key. "If you're looking for beach camping that isn't super crowded, then Bear Island is the place to be! The sites are well spaced and you won't feel on top of one another," notes a Hammocks Beach visitor. Families should bring shade structures, as natural shade is limited on the beaches.
Choose sites strategically: At Cedar Point, "The sites on the southeast side seemed to have more shade than those on the northwest side," advises Steve V. This becomes especially important during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F and shade provides needed relief for children and pets.
Consider ferry logistics: When camping at Hammocks Beach State Park, families face unique transportation challenges. "Be prepared to backpack in all your supplies a minimum of a mile from the ferry drop to your campsite. Lightweight gear is a must," shares Lauren. Families with young children should pack accordingly: "It takes planning to go with kids but it's totally doable. We had a 2 and 9 year old and they did great."
Tips from RVers
Prepare for hookup limitations: At Cedar Point, RVers must adapt to electricity without water connections. "Would have given this one a '10' if it had water hookups," notes Rick S. RVers should arrive with full freshwater tanks and bring hoses long enough to reach communal water points for refilling.
Consider site orientation: At pet friendly campgrounds near Jacksonville, exposure to elements varies by location. "We stayed on site 24 on this visit. Lots of sun throughout the day until late evening, so a little miserable on this stay as the area had heat advisories every day," reports Steve V. about Cedar Point. RVers with awnings should consider wind direction when positioning their rigs to maximize shade.
Check bathhouse conditions: While most campgrounds provide shower facilities, quality varies significantly. At Emerald Isle RV Resort, "Super clean bathhouse. The staff would drive around 3 times per day to collect your trash," shares Donna E. In contrast, some campgrounds have more basic facilities: "The bathrooms were functional but not very clean," notes another reviewer about a different location.
