This is not a”campground” per se, but rather a large area of national forest where dispersed camping is allowed. This is about as close to nature as it gets! All primitive camping, no amenities at all. Beautiful natural surroundings. Watch out for snakes and alligators!

We stopped to check it out and it was closed due to the coronavirus. It is also the location on the southern trailhead for the Neusiok trail, part of the mountains to see trail. Highly recommend hiking the trail from the campground! Views are beautiful!

There are several different camping locations available throughout the base, all of which are free but must be reserved ahead of time. Base access required! They are all on the water, very peaceful. Many if the ponds are stocked for fishing. No hookups, but some sites do have a bathroom. No”hiking” trails around the campsites but lots of areas to walk and explore!

Camping on Portsmouth Island is about as off-the-grid as I’ve ever been! We went in early October and had the beach to ourself, as far as the eye could see. The (abandoned) Village of Portsmouth is a must see! Bring lots of bug spray… the mosquitos are relentless!

There are a few nice convenient trails around the Recreation area. The water views are peaceful and beautiful! A fair chunk of the trail is still closed from hurricane Florence damage, as is the beach access. It’s all currently closed now due to COVID-19… hopefully that will change soon!

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). Had a great ocean breeze. Can hear traffic from the highway but it’s not obtrusive (our site was on the highway side). Will definitely be back!