Best Dispersed Camping near New Bern, NC
Croatan National Forest offers dispersed camping options near New Bern, North Carolina, with Great Lake Dispersed Site as the primary location for free primitive camping. The area features long leaf pine forest in swampy terrain with basic amenities limited to pit toilets at some locations. Fires are permitted, and both tent and RV camping are accommodated with drive-in and walk-in access available.
Road conditions present significant challenges following hurricane damage. Multiple reviews indicate concrete barriers and downed trees block several access routes. A camper noted, "The path is blocked at about halfway down by concrete barriers and downed trees." Four-wheel drive vehicles are essential for reaching certain areas, particularly Great Lake. The natural environment includes alligators, bears, ticks, and mosquitoes, requiring proper preparation. For coastal dispersed camping, South Core Banks at Cape Lookout National Seashore provides beach camping accessible only by ferry or boat, requiring permits for overnight stays and vehicle use on the beach.
