Croatan National Forest
RV Guide
Introduction
Head out in your RV to the calming, beautiful of nature of a coastal forest when you visit Croatan National Forest in the eastern region of North Carolina. One of the state's four national forests, this park was established by the government in 1936. Conveniently located near the cities of New Bern, Moreshead City, Wilmington, and the Atlantic Ocean, this area is like no other. Croatan National Forest is surrounded on three sides by water by the Bogue Sound, Neuse River, and the White Oak River.
With 160,000 acres to explore, enjoy the kayak life as you travel down the saltwater streams or take a hike through the majestic pine forest. Set up your campsite and walk to the unique raised swamps that the locals call pocosins. Be on the lookout for some fantastic wildlife like deer, black bears, ospreys, and even alligators. Enjoy fishing in the blackwater creeks or get a glimpse of the carnivorous Venus fly-trap while out in nature. There are three RV campgrounds with electrical hookups that you can reserve in advance with hot showers, picnic tables, and beautiful views of the major rivers. Read on for more details on these featured RV campgrounds.
RV Rentals in Croatan National Forest
Transportation
Driving
Whether you're traveling solo or with family and friends, you'll find that this national forest is a hidden North Carolina gem. Conveniently near the Crystal Coast, Inner Banks, or the Down East areas of North Carolina, this one-of-a-kind national forest is next to the Atlantic Ocean. Making for one unforgettable trip, Croatan National Forest is surrounded by water and bordered by the Bogue Sound, the Neuse River, and the White Oak River, making for fewer access points to the forest. The road to Croatan National Forest is a little rough for an RV so plan to drive slowly and take in the surrounding beauty. When you arrive near the area, the entrance to the forest might be challenging to find, so make sure to use your GPS accordingly. Only a short trip from Raleigh, North Carolina, Norfolk, VA, and Myrtle Beach, Croatan National Forest is a perfect last-minute getaway.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Croatan National Forest
Campsites in Croatan National Forest
Reservations camping
Cedar Point Recreation Area and Campground
Conveniently near the White Oak River, this campground has 40 sites that you can reserve in advance. Open year-round, each site provides a fire ring and electrical hookups; plus you'll have access to hot showers, drinking water, and flush toilets. There is also a dump station on-site for visitors to use during their visit. A great spot to enjoy a meal over the campfire, there are picnic tables to make your stay a breeze. Pet-friendly, this area has excellent access to hiking the Cedar Point Tideland Trail that travels over the boardwalk. Great for boaters and anglers, this campground offers a boat ramp and a fishing pier for some fantastic fresh-water fishing.
Flanner Beach Campground
Slow down your schedule as you camp at Flanner Beach Campground. An accessible camping area, this campground provides 40 reservable camping sites; 24 of which have electrical hookups. Walk among the vast vegetation of the Croatan National Forest by taking a stroll on the nearby three-mile non-motorized trail. Take in a few moments of peace in your hammock by taking a nap or reading a book or head out to the Neuse River for some time out on the water. You'll enjoy access to hot showers, potable water, and a dump station. Each site comes with a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern post. There is also a day-use picnic area next to the campground that provides access to the popular beach by the Neuse River.
Oyster Point Campground
The Oyster Point Campground is a hiker’s paradise, offering access to gorgeous 21 miles of the Neusiok Trail. Due to its location along the pristine Intercoastal Waterway, you’ll find access to many water sports to enjoy like paddling or fishing. There is even a boat ramp for you to use during your RV camping trip. Among the cypress swamps and loblolly pines, campers will find 15 spots at this campground. The campground provides two vault toilets, potable water, and picnic tables. Each site comes with a fire pit, picnic table, lantern post, and pad. Pets are welcome, and RVs up to 70 feet long can be accommodated.
Seasonal activities in Croatan National Forest
Off-Season
Fishing
See memorable sunrise with your favorite fishing gear as you enjoy a favorite outdoor pastime. Get out in your boat, canoe, or fish along the riverbanks as you try to catch Largemouth Bass, Flounder, and Redbreast Sunfish. To access the water, you’ll find several boat launches at Brice’s Creek, Catfish Lake, Haywood Landing, and many more. Before you cast your line, you’ll want to secure the proper North Carolina fishing license. Grab your camera to capture your biggest catch yet!
Picnicking
Croatian National Forest has many perfect places for you to have a picnic! Check out Fishers Landing Picnic Area that offers picnic tables, drinking water, restrooms, and access to the riverfront beach. Located near Haverlock, Pine Cliff Picnic Area makes for a great place to rest, and relax with friends. Try the Cedar Point Recreation Area which is situated next to the White Oak River and offers many picnic spaces. From a designated area to sitting quietly by yourself next to a river or stream, the options are endless at this fantastic forest.
Birding
Take a break from camping in the motorhome to view the unique birds of North Carolina's coastal area during your visit to the Croatan National Forest. A popular activity, your best place to view is along the White Oak River or from Bogue Sound. With the swamp habitat, you may see endangered species such as Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Bachman's Sparrow, and Brown-headed Nuthatch, as well as Blue Grosbeak flying overhead. Remember to pack your binoculars and get ready to have a relaxing afternoon out of the office!
In-Season
Hiking
Cover some ground during your next visit to Croatian National Forest on the Neusiok Trail. Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the forest and swamps as you travel along its scenic 21 miles. Want to view more of the hardwoods of the woods? Walk down the Island Creek Forest Trail or take in the salt marsh while on the Cedar Point Tidelands Trail. Grab a trail map, a camera, and water out of your campervan- the views will be amazing!
Observing North Carolina’s Wildlife
Get out in the beauty of North Carolina to hear and see the sounds and sights of nature. With such diversity at the national forest, you may see ospreys along with walking or migrating birds on your hike. Be on the lookout for a black bear, turkeys, or an alligator creeping by during your trip. It is always great to see these fantastic animals but remember - stay safe and don’t feed the wildlife!
Water Sports
Head out from your RV camping site at Croatian National Forest and take a dip in the water!.At this national forest, there are three riverfront beaches including Fishers Landing, Pine Cliff, and the Cedar Point Recreation Area for campers. Have a great time in the sun! From paddling in your kayak to taking out your fishing boat, there are many ways to enjoy the calming, clear waters of Croatan National Forest.
