Established in 1936, the Croatan National Forest is a unique coastal treasure along the Atlantic coast of North Carolina. It features diverse ecosystems, saltwater estuaries, bogs, and majestic forests, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or exploring the waterways, this forest provides an unforgettable experience. For a comfortable camping trip, you can conveniently rent RVs online.
Camping in Croatan National Forest
Whether you prefer camping inside the forest or at nearby private campgrounds, there are numerous options to suit all budgets for camping near Croatan National Forest.
Campgrounds in Croatan National Forest
Private Campgrounds Near Croatan National Forest
Located in North Carolina, these private campgrounds provide easy access to Croatan National Forest while offering the comfort of modern amenities. They are ideal for families and solo travelers and are a perfect base for exploring the forest's stunning natural beauty.
Budget-friendly Campgrounds
Make your visit more enjoyable by planning ahead with detailed information about campgrounds and dump stations.
Croatan National Forest Hiking Trails
Explore the various hiking trails in Croatan National Forest, from long walks to challenging treks.
Easy Hikes for Beginners
Challenging Trails for Hikers
Lakeside Trails
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Cedar Point Tideland Trail
The Cedar Point Tideland Trail is ideal for family activity as the path is easy for the smallest legs to navigate. Visitors wander through cedar forests, over wetlands via bridges and boardwalks, and along the edge of marshes. There is plenty of wildlife that calls this area home. Birds, including osprey and the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, are often spotted here hunting for their daily meal.
Length: 1.4 miles
Intensity: Easy
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Neusiok Trail
If you are looking for a hike through diverse environments, then the Neusiok Trail is the perfect trail for you. Expect to get your feet wet as some of the path is below sea level. At times, there is overgrowth that forces you to walk with care. The route goes through swamps, wetlands, pine forests, and grassy areas. Expect bugs—use your repellent before and during the hike.
Length: 20.6 miles
Intensity: Intermediate to Difficult
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Island Creek Forest Walk Trail
If you are looking for a shorter walk that features all the topography at Croatan National Forest, visit the Island Creek Forest Walk Trail. This loop trail features a river, forests, grasslands, swamps, marshes, and a mix of wildlife, birds, frogs, and fish.
Length: 2.8 miles
Intensity: Easy
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Patsy Pond Nature Trail Loop
This nature trail winds its way through Long Leaf Pine Flat Woods, an open area spotted with ponds. While low-lying shrubs and herbs cover the ground, towering longleaf pines provide a light canopy that helps mitigate the hot sun during the summer months.
Length: 2.9 miles
Intensity: Easy
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Weetock Trail
The Weetock Trail skirts the shore of the slow-moving White Oaks River. The trail passes near active archeological digs documenting human occupation of the area for well over 5,000 years. The Weetock Trail moves through hardwood ridges, cypress-gum-palmetto swamps, managed wildlife clearings, creeks, and past beaver lodges.
Length: 18.7 miles
Intensity: Easy to Intermediate
How to get to Croatan National Forest
Address: 160 Zillicoa Street, Suite A, Asheville, NC 28801
Fee: Entry fee $0
By Car
From New Bern: Take U.S. Highway 70 East to access Croatan National Forest, approximately a 20-minute drive.
From Raleigh: Take Interstate 40 East and then U.S. Highway 70 East for about 2.5 hours to reach the forest.
By Air
The nearest airports to Croatan National Forest are:
Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN): Approximately 20 minutes from Croatan National Forest, this regional airport offers convenient access to the forest. Car rental services are available for easy transportation to the park.
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU): Situated about 2.5 hours from Croatan National Forest, this major airport provides numerous domestic and international flight options. Visitors can rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive to the forest
Seasonal Restrictions
Croatan National Forest experiences seasonal restrictions primarily on hunting regulations and road conditions. During hunting seasons, specific areas may be designated for particular types of hunting, and visitors should check the dates and rules for different game species. Additionally, some trails and roads may be temporarily closed or restricted during periods of high rainfall or severe weather, particularly in winter. It's advisable to check current conditions and regulations before planning your visit, as restrictions may change based on wildlife management needs and environmental factors.
Fees in the Croatan National Forest
Croatan National Forest in North Carolina does not charge an entrance fee, but certain activities and facilities may require payment. Developed campgrounds charge fees for overnight stays, and some day-use areas may have parking fees or require permits. Dispersed camping is permitted in undeveloped areas, provided there are no "No Camping" signs, but it is not allowed in day-use areas, campgrounds, or most wildlife openings. Be sure to check specific areas for updated fees and regulations before visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Croatan National Forest
Is Croatan National Forest open all year round?
Yes, the Croatan National Forest is open year-round. The coastal area provides lots of recreational activities in summer, and cold weather outdoor activities during winter as well.
Is there a fee to get into Croatan National Forest?
No, there is no fee to get into Croatan National Forest. However, there may be fees or permits required to park in certain areas, like day-use areas. There may also be permits required for some recreational activities in the forest like using OHV trails or camping.
Does Croatan National Forest offer free camping sites?
Yes, Croatan National Forest has free camping sites. Dispersed camping is allowed in many areas including the Catfish Lake Boat Launch, Oyster Point Campground, and near the Neusiok Trail.
Can you kayak, canoe, or raft in Croatan National Forest?
Yes, you can kayak, canoe, and raft in Croatan National Forest. Brice's Creek, Catfish Lake, and Dixon Fields are all great spots to launch a canoe or kayak for a day on the water.
What type of wildlife lives in Croatan National Forest?
Wildlife in Croatan National Forest includes deer, black bears, turkeys, alligators, and ospreys. The park is also home to interesting plant species like the Venus fly-trap and the pitcherplant.
