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The best camping in Croatan National Forest, NC

82% (11)

Ever wanted to see a carnivorous Venus flytrap up close and in action? Here's your big chance.

The best camping in Croatan National Forest, NC

Flanners Beach Campground

1. Flanners Beach Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Croatan National Forest · 39 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Curl up beneath the towering pines and hardwoods of Neuse River Campground

Public campgrounds in Croatan National Forest are often sold-out.

Oyster Point Campground

2. Oyster Point Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Croatan National Forest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Situated on the Intercoastal Waterway, Oyster Point Campground is the trailhead for the 21-mile Neusiok Trail

Neusiok Trail

3. Neusiok Trail

100%

(1)

Campground in Croatan National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Part of the 900-mile Mountains-to-Sea Trail, The Neusoik Trail meanders over 20 miles from a sandy beach on the Neuse River to a salt marsh on the Newport River

Fishers Landing

4. Fishers Landing

100%

(1)

Campground in Croatan National Forest · 1 site

You’ll be hooked at Fishers Landing

Catfish Lake Boat Launch

5. Catfish Lake Boat Launch

Campground in Croatan National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Looking for a place from which to set sail? With cabins and a dispersed camping area to boot, Catfish Lake offers a small boat ramp to launch you into fun

Big Cypress Farm

6. Big Cypress Farm

100%

(15)

7.4mi from Croatan National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are a family farm. Established in the 1970s we have lots of local wildlife and water fowl. We have chickens. A lake that is stocked with catfish,brim and bass /I l The sunsets are incredible. And when the full moon is over the pond it is an amazing sight. You can relax here by the pond or venture out to explore historic down town New Bern ,or head the the beach located in Morehead, Swansboro, and the surrounding areas. Check the local Restaurants and the local shops as well. Throughout the year we are surrounded by many different festivals as well. You can listen to the crickets and the birds chirping, and watch the squirrel as they jump and run from tree to tree.we are close to the beaches and are in close proximity of the national Forrest as well. And there are quite a few golf courses near to us as well. We are a work in progress and would be considered primitive Campground. So if what you are looking for is a place to escape to from every day hustle and daily grind we are you kind of place. So check us out on Facebook and have a blessed day.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$20

/ night

Black Barn Farm

7. Black Barn Farm

99%

(230)

15mi from Croatan National Forest · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

"HYTTE" is a Norwegian word that translates to "cabin" or "cottage' in English. Hytte are small, wooden houses that are often built in the countryside or forest. They are typically rustic and simple, with basic furniture and utilities like a table ,chairs, bed and heat source. They are not equipped with running water or electricity. Ours have solar! The idea of hytte includes freedom, frugality and a simple life. We offer Steinhytte-the stone cabin, Trehytte- the wood cabin , Rosahvalhytte-the pink whale cabin and Furuhytte-the pine cabin. Come embrace what the Scandinavian people have been doing for hundreds of years. Unplug, unwind, relax and enjoy nature. See it through the eyes of your childhood. Play. Live. Breathe. Welcome to our little piece of heaven! Our property offers a variety of activities for you to enjoy and a variety of camping options. Set up camp in a tent, hammock, a car, a bus, or stay in one of our primitive dry camping cabins. All camp areas are private from our home, with a porta potty and well water available. Please be aware-we are a working farm. There is sometimes noise and if you are sensitive bring earplugs, headphones, etc... The ducks chatter and talk the night away, the dogs do bark if Bambi-Baloo-Thumper or their chicken siblings hang too close to the pens. We have wildlife here! Owls, coyotes, bear and deer some are more musical than others. Please be aware! Never put your hands where you can't see! North Carolina has several poisonous snakes and although we don't see them often, we are playing in their playground There are mosquitoes, ticks, fire ants (esp. after a good rain) and critters outdoors. Always bring bug spray even if you think you may not need it! To avoid unwanted interaction, keep tents/screens on cabins zipped or closed when not in use. Make sure food is "buttoned up" for the night and be aware of any crumbs or scraps dropped on the ground or in cabins. This will invite unwanted guests of all types. Be aware and observant where you walk and use a flashlight or headlamp at night. We will not be responsible for injury, bites, stings, etc... Be smart and camp safe! There are MANY things to do in our area that are low cost to free, which is an added plus for any families coming to visit! Just ask me and I'll give you suggestions depending on your budget. Plenty of stuff for grown-ups too! Walmart Express is less than three miles away and Walmart Supercenter is less than five miles away. Smithfields BBQ, Chinese and Bojangles are close by. There are two wonderful restaurants nearby El Mexicano and Riverside a Pizza/subs place that will deliver camp side too! Be sure to mention what site number you are camped! If you love the ocean, the beach is just a short distance away. Emerald Isle is ten miles away, Ft. Macon is twelve miles away. These both have public beaches and Ft. Macon offers hot showers if you don't opt for our cold one! Hikers will love the nearby trails and abundant hiking options from poccosin (bogs) swamps to the Mountain to Sea Trail. Our property is perfect for outdoor adventure and exploration. If you prefer a more relaxing stay, you can stay on our property and enjoy a refreshing swim in our pond or cozy up by a campfire. Bring your s'mores gear to belly up to a picnic table. Birdwatching is a popular activity here as we are a family-run bird farm with a variety of feathered friends including ducks, chickens, guineas, geese, turkey and even an emu or two! We offer mini tours of the animals when we feed up and kids like to help gather eggs. Just reserve the "Feeding time" and a head count. We are passionate about birds and love to share our knowledge with our guests. The porta toilet is located at the end of the emu pen and well water is available in front of the barn. Any vehicle over 6' will have to enter/exit on West (left) side of the pond due to low clearance. Cold water shower available. (Let me define...high tech redneck style; a hose with multi option spigot.) Our property is also conveniently located near the historic towns of Beaufort and New Bern, perfect for a day trip. There are nearby stores and farmers markets where you can get fresh veggies, and we are always willing to suggest places to go. You can also visit Fort Macon, Hammocks Beach, Carteret County Speedway, the NC Aquarium, local farms, live music at The Gardens and more. Go see a local mud bog on Saturday nights or check out the local Bogue Sound distillery and fabulous seafood restaurants, which is just a short drive away. Bring your boat because we have plenty of space to park and can direct you to whichever type of waterway you want to be on. There are nearby private fishing charters, horseback riding and ferry adventures to go see the ponies. Better yet go visit the NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort and get inspired to sign up to build your own boat. They offer excellent sea themed classes for the children during the summer. Sign up early because they fill up fast. Just one of our neat local treasures. We know people/locations to get you going for beach fishing, kayaking, hunting, and tons more. Don't forget there are many festivals, parades and floatillas nearby to enjoy. Mumfest in New Bern is always awesome and don't forget the NC Seafood Festival. During Winter carriage rides can be arranged through historical New Bern. We are open year-round, and Wintertime is a delight at the beach. Come visit us during the holiday season to enjoy the lights and cuddle up to a cozy campfire. The cabins are heated by propane, and we can have a tank ready for you when you arrive for an extra charge. A single 20 lb tank typically lasts four days. Light a luminary to float on the pond to make your New Year begin just right even just for a special occasion! We ask that no one smokes inside the cabins for the safety of yourself and allergies to other campers. Thank you in advance and please police your butts. We try to keep the area tidy. Please do not feed anything to our birds! Each species has a specialized diet and just one food item wrong could kill them. We love sharing our pets with you and Miss Jennifer is always willing to answer questions. Make sure to get the coupon codes for the active military, vets, repeat campers! So come unwind, unplug, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life in nature. Remember how to play and have fun like in your childhood. We look forward to hosting you! Please be sure to plug in our discount codes for the best pricing! Only one discount can be used at a time /per stay. Repeat campers! $5 OFF YOUR STAY We appreciate you! C9MOQGQH We LOVE OUR VETS-30% off your stay. Active duty/Enlisted/Veterans...Thank you for you service and sacrifice! This can also apply to EMTs, Nurses, Doctors and firefighters! EFHEXJE Bookings are for a total of seven days max per site. We have a zero-drug policy, and we love our 2nd amendment but cannot allow firearms (this includes BB guns), fireworks or ATV's due to insurance. We are a family run, family-oriented camp. Please be respectful to your fellow campers. You can always ask questions and we are here to help you have the best camp experience available. Please be respectful of others while here and learn to be a kid again. We ask that no cooking or smoking in done inside the cabin!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$25

/ night

Pasture Creek Farms

8. Pasture Creek Farms

94%

(74)

16mi from Croatan National Forest · 10 sites

Raw coastal land. Water activities: paddle activities, swimming ,wading, canoe, small boats Stocked ponds, throw back only (extra fee). Dirt roads and game trails for walking or hiking. Close to beach. Firewood available for purchase on site. Water available (ask host) Dry and primitive camping. Lots of wildlife. Convenient to beach, intracoastal water way, and boat ramps.

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$25

/ night

Bright Star Farm

9. Bright Star Farm

99%

(106)

26mi from Croatan National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Bright Star Farm has been in our family for over a century. The land, which is home to horses, chickens, peacocks, two little pigs, and various farm cats, is a restful, healing haven for both tired and adventurous souls who want to escape for a while. Learn more about this land: Hook up your RV or pitch your tent to camp with miniature horses, a couple of pot belly pigs, birds, and more in Jones County's charming countryside. Enjoy our 100-year-old family farm and receive half-a-dozen complementary farm-fresh eggs on your first morning with us. We are a short drive from some of North Carolina's best amenities, including historic New Bern and the Crystal Coast. Get ready to spend the night down on the farm!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$40

/ night

Crockett Landing

10. Crockett Landing

97%

(72)

29mi from Croatan National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

15 beautiful acres on the North River in Beaufort, NC. Just off Highway 70 which is an Outer Banks Scenic Byway. Trails and private campsites throughout the property as well as a large communal deck (The Landing) by the river for gatherings and multiple observations areas to observe and enjoy the wildlife throughout the property. Bathhouses for guests and well water throughout property. Fishing, hiking, boating, kayaking, etc on the property. Atlantic Beach and Morehead City only 20 minutes away. Close to several stores and gas stations as well as countless fishing spots and about 7 miles to the end of Hawkers Island Rd where you can catch the ferry to Cape Lookout. Crockett Landing is a haven and sanctuary for wildlife and those who want to connect with nature and have a good time. There is a tote at the Cafe Blue full of games like badminton, volleyball, frisbees, wiffle ball, corn hole, paddle ball etc. The Cafe is an outdoor kitchen for guests to use as they like. Propane grill and stove available including dishware and pots and pans.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

Catfish Waterfowl Impoundment

11. Catfish Waterfowl Impoundment

Campground in Croatan National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Wade into Catfish Waterfowl Impoundment

Great Lake Boat Launch

12. Great Lake Boat Launch

Campground in Croatan National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Grab your shallow-bottomed boat and your deep-seated friends

Siddie Fields

13. Siddie Fields

Campground in Croatan National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Siddie Fields will definitely lure you in with fantastic fishing, canoeing, and kayaking

Cedar Point Campground

14. Cedar Point Campground

60%

(5)

Campground in Croatan National Forest · 39 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Cedar Point Campground sits amidst a dynamic landscape

Serenity

15. Serenity

100%

(13)

31mi from Croatan National Forest · 5 sites

Escape to nature in our waterfront glamping tent with stunning views on three sides. Enjoy a private deck with lounge chairs, a propane firepit, and access to kayaks. The site includes inflatable twin beds, a solar phone charger, an outdoor restroom tent, a sandy seating area, wood firepit, BBQ, and shaded common space. No running water or electricity—bring coolers, bedding, and cookware. A peaceful off-grid retreat perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$50

/ night

Lucky’s Lookout

16. Lucky’s Lookout

100%

(16)

32mi from Croatan National Forest · 1 site

Private campsite at the heart of Down East North Carolina, just minutes from Harkers Island and 25-30 minutes from the beautiful beaches of the Crystal Coast and Cedar Island. The Harkers Island fishing pier and boat/kayak launch are less than 5 minutes from the site. Immerse yourself in the local experience by enjoying the cuisine and shopping in Beaufort and Morehead City, NC.

Pets

Full hookups

from

$55

/ night

Escape near Cape Lookout

17. Escape near Cape Lookout

95%

(208)

35mi from Croatan National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Secluded campsite with 4 RV spots, 3 electric and water, 1 water only (quiet generator allowed here) and 1 tent only site. All spots are waterfront, located on Core Sound. There is a dock to tie up your kayaks and paddle boards. Boats are welcome to park in our overflow parking area and a public boat ramp is 0.25 miles away. Take the Davis ferry to the beautiful beaches of Cape Lookout just a few minutes away! 3 sites with 30-amp power (sites 1, 2 and 3) we welcome generators at the other sites, so long as they are quiet. All with water hookups except tent site 5. One can also pitch your tent close to the water (site 5). Enjoy swimming in the sound, fishing, wind surfing, paddle boarding, kayaks and your canoes!!!! Enjoy it all and only share the space with 4 other sites. No waste dump on site. Core Creek Campground will allow you to dump for $39. 20 minutes from shops and restaurants of Beaufort and Morehead city. There is also a ferry to Ocracoke Island from Cedar Island, a peaceful 20-minute drive away. Really great access to a quiet and beautiful part of the outer (inner) banks. Everything you’d ever want to do at the beach is within 30 minutes and the sunrise on the sound is gorgeous. Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially at dusk. Recommend spray or a bug light. Carteret County is now spraying our site for mosquitoes! With Cape Lookout National seashore and Fort Macon State Park under 20 minutes from us, you also have tons of outer-bank activities to choose from.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$30

/ night

JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

18. JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

100%

(496)

35mi from Croatan National Forest · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Finalist for Best NC Hipcamp in 2023 and 2024! This is a Family Venue! No Parties and/or drunkenness allowed. We strive to create an environment for nature viewing, dark night stargazing, fishing, and unwinding in nature. We truly believe that being in nature is essential for a happy and healthy human life. Quiet time enforced 10pm-6am. Check in strictly 2-8pm. We do not allow late check ins for respect of other campers and our family. We meet and greet all guests, and all vehicles must be registered. The Jones Family owns and operates JCO (Juniper Creek Outfitters) since 2020. The Historic Pond dates back to 1773 where a grist mill, sawmill, general store, and blacksmith shop were established. The land was once our 6th Great Grandfather's and how Fountaintown was formed. The property consists of 84+ acres: 22-acre lake, swamps, creeks, and farmland. We are in a farming community. We take pride in stewardship of the land and waters to keep its natural beauty and help with keeping the balance of the ecosystem. Many animals call it home! (Heron, Ducks, Osprey, Turkey, deer, beaver, fish, and many other wildlife) We have a lake Cat named Tail. She may greet you! The Ponds are stocked with Bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill and more. Catch and release. NC fishing license required. JCO currently has 9 RV/Travel Trailer sites on main side that wrap around the lake. A Floating cabin and an A-frame Glamping cabin on main side. Across the lake we have 12 primitive tent sites that spread-out around the property. Views of lake and sunset, little pond, swamp and creek views. The lake is a Fishing lake. Kayaks and trolling boats are welcome. No gas motors. Upon booking we can send a local tourism guide for the area. We are only 50 minutes from the beach and coastal towns. Pet Friendly campsites. Check Out our social media links or ask about events coming up. Sunrise Easter Service April 5th at 6:45am Southeast Trail Life Junction April 10th-12th Carolina Critters Nature Classes April 11th and May 9th 6th Annual Youth Fishing Tournaments May 2nd Bluegrass in the Grove (Event we are sponsoring in next county) June 13th Campfire Stories and Smores Nights (to be determined)

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$25

/ night

Live Oaks Farm

19. Live Oaks Farm

99%

(167)

36mi from Croatan National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Live Oaks Farm is a mini farm full of beautiful 200 year old live oak trees, willow trees, azaleas, other plants, and a pond. We are a great oasis right off of Topsail Island that gets coastal breezes and plenty of sunshine. We are a small growing farm with chickens, dwarf Nigerian goats, and ducks. We also offer a seasonal pumpkin patch and Christmas tree farm. You will usually see Patrick working around the property or in the wood workshop building furniture. His beautiful wife Brittany and their gorgeous kids Maddox and Everlee enjoying the outdoors as well.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$57

/ night

Turkey Trot Trails

20. Turkey Trot Trails

100%

(23)

42mi from Croatan National Forest · 1 site

Learn more about this land:Come enjoy a stay at Turkey Trot trails! Located quite/secluded farm just 10 minutes from downtown Washington, Goose Creek State Park and many more attractions around “Little” Washington. The campsite is convenient for campers, and Rv’s located on 2.5 acres (wooded and cleared) with amenities provided (Water, sewer and electricity).

Full hookups

from

$35

/ night

82% (11)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Croatan National Forest adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Croatan National Forest

Big Cypress Farm

100%

(15)

7.4mi from Croatan National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$20

/ night

Black Barn Farm

99%

(230)

15mi from Croatan National Forest · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$25

/ night

Pasture Creek Farms

94%

(74)

16mi from Croatan National Forest · 10 sites

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$25

/ night

Bright Star Farm

99%

(106)

26mi from Croatan National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$40

/ night

Crockett Landing

97%

(72)

29mi from Croatan National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

Serenity

100%

(13)

31mi from Croatan National Forest · 5 sites

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$50

/ night

Lucky’s Lookout

100%

(16)

32mi from Croatan National Forest · 1 site

Pets

Full hookups

from

$55

/ night

Escape near Cape Lookout

95%

(208)

35mi from Croatan National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$30

/ night

JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

100%

(496)

35mi from Croatan National Forest · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$25

/ night

Live Oaks Farm

99%

(167)

36mi from Croatan National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$57

/ night

Turkey Trot Trails

100%

(23)

42mi from Croatan National Forest · 1 site

Full hookups

from

$35

/ night

Nick’s Nook

90%

(36)

44mi from Croatan National Forest · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our little private campground is a hidden jewel in the making. Each campsite is private. We are not a parking lot like so many campgrounds are these days. We are still currently working on infrastructure but are willing to host campers that are self sufficient at a reduced rate for now. We do have a fun play ground, hiking trails, a steam we lovingly named Alligator Gore (to keep the little ones out of the mud). We are pet friendly. Each site has a fire ring or fire pit. We have a full bathroom available. We have a small camp store. We have group camp sites, pull through RV / Camper sites and a few glamping cabins. Located only 40 minutes from the NC coast and much more affordable and less crowded. We are still growing so we do not have a pool yet but will have one in the future. We do have a kids and youth program with weekly crafts and other activities. Picnic tables are available on some sites. Almost across the street is a wonderful boat ramp and fishing spot on the Cape Fear River. Canoe down to a sand bank about a mile down river and have a romantic picnic. A Celtic themed restaurant, the Mad Boar, is just a 10 minute drive if you are looking for a unique farm to table experience. And Duplin Winery is just 15 minutes away with tastings and tours. Located just 10 minutes from I-40 off US 41 we are easily found. A diamond in the rough.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$30

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Zachary

1 week ago

37 ft travel trailer

15 nights at Almost There!

Very nice quiet partially fenced lot you have the whole lot to yourself which is nice my starlink got great speeds there if you have a longer bumper pull id recommend backing onto the property instead of pulling in and then trying to back into the spot would 100% recommend

Dawn

2 weeks ago

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Bright Star Farm

Always a lovely stay here. Beautiful farm and welcoming host. One of our faves!

Tieisha

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Nick’s Nook

We had such a wonderful weekend at this campsite! I booked the group site for my family, and although I camp often, this was our first time camping in the winter and with a group and it did not disappoint. The site was nice and spacious, perfect for everyone to spread out and still feel connected. It had snowed the weekend before, and Nick was thoughtful enough to move us to a different site that wasn’t as wet. That small gesture made a big difference and showed how much he cares about his guests having a great experience. Nick was a great host overall friendly and helpful. We even lucked up and scored some Girl Scout cookies from his granddaughter! And the unlimited free firewood was definitely a huge plus, especially for a winter camping trip. We made some great family memories and would absolutely stay here again. Highly recommend!

Doug

January 2026

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

The owners were awesome and kindly let us switch spots based on their recommendation. We enjoyed paddling around the lake and were comfortable with our site. The firewood is dry and ready to burn. Lots of wildlife around here, couldn’t recommend a better local spot!

Sandra

January 2026

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Bright Star Farm

We enjoyed our stay at Bright Star Farm. It was nice and quiet. The directions were clear and the spot was very nice. They have a nice bathroom. We enjoyed seeing the peacocks and the miniature horses were adorable. It was nice getting a bit of history from the owners and the were super friendly! Would definitely recommend.

Patrick

January 2026

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pasture Creek Farms

This was a GREAT campsite and location. Private, scenic, and great hosts. This is far superior to others in the area and has my highest recommendation, as well as the glowing review of my 4 year old son who enjoyed traipsing around the beach and collecting sticks. 10/10

lee

January 2026

26 ft Class B

With pets

4 nights at Escape near Cape Lookout

Great spot down east to explore Harkers island park, Cedar Island beach and more from. Very quiet tucked back from the road on the water. If you can do without hookups site 4 is beautiful off the point. Could see where the other sites could get crowded with them all booked. We came for new year's get away last minute and it did not disapoint

Judy

January 2026

8 ft pop-up camper

With pets

1 night at JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

The campsite was beautiful and private. The host was friendly and helpful. We really enjoyed our stay and will come back again!

Carrie

January 2026

With pets

3 nights at Serenity

Rizwan's place is quite beautiful, down to earth, and has room to explore! The type of feels I enjoy! I could truly see all the hard work, love, and attention that has been put into the accommodations. Any questions were answered pleasantly and promptly. I slept well and had fun hanging around the property and look forward to coming back again and seeing what's new! I really enjoyed the details like the communal kitchen, docks with fishing poles/tackle, PFDs (lifejackets), and especially the various watercraft you could use. We may not be the best fisherfolk, but my dog and I had a great time attempting to fish on the paddleboat, while watching the pelicans, osprey, and eagles dive into the water around us. (2 thumbs and paws up)

Lucy

December 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Pasture Creek Farms

Veronika is uniquely considerate and a great host. Definitely a campground and grounds caretaker we would book with again! Thank you

December 2025

12 ft campervan

With pets

4 nights at Black Barn Farm

Delightful, will be back . Extra care and guidance Was felt and appreciated

Cris

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Black Barn Farm

This is an adorable little farm resort. We stayed in the off season so we didn’t play in the lake. If you’re looking for a Pinterest perfect boutique glamping situation this might not be a good match, but if you’re looking for a place to chill and disconnect from the outside world, this is the place! Plenty of fire pits and your basics are covered so bring your cooler and a marshmallow and relax! Your abode is an 8x10 shed with a bed with grandma’s nic-nacks and a cozy quilt. Perfect if you like camping but you don’t feel like packing all of your gear. We stayed here and day-tripped to Beaufort. Was a low-cost alternative to the expensive hotels there.

Allison

December 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lake Linda

We stayed at Lake Linda’s Campground over Thanksgiving weekend for our very first family camping trip, and it was such a great experience. The hosts were friendly, proactive, and easy to get in touch with, even though they were also working the light show, hot chocolate hut and Santa photo op. These people do it ALL. Our site was easy to get in and out of, and the bathhouse was clean and well-kept, which we really appreciated as first-time campers. Waking up to the rooster and taking a family walk to see the farm animals was a huge hit with our 4-year-old. We live in Jacksonville but wanted a simple weekend getaway, and this was perfect. The campground is conveniently located near Lowe’s, Dollar Tree, Harris Teeter, and Bojangles, so anything we forgot was just a quick drive away. Thank you for having us!

Ryan

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

Beautiful spot with excellent privacy. Tessa was very friendly and accommodating. Highly recommend.

Trish

November 2025

38 ft Class A

3 nights at Live Oaks Farm

We stayed at The Pond Site from 11/26–11/29 for Thanksgiving, and it couldn’t have been a better experience. The property is peaceful, beautifully maintained, and felt like the perfect escape for a holiday weekend. Patrick, our host, was incredibly kind and welcoming. He made sure we had everything we needed while still giving us plenty of space to relax. The pond itself was gorgeous, and we loved waking up to the calm water each morning. The ducks were so fun to watch, and the nearby chickens added to the charm of the place—it felt like a little slice of countryside paradise. The site was clean, spacious, and easy to set up on, with plenty of room for cooking and relaxing. We truly enjoyed our stay and would absolutely come back. Thanksgiving at The Pond was memorable and wonderfully peaceful.

Loranda

November 2025

21 ft Class B

1 night at Escape near Cape Lookout

Very nice. Water to look at away from the road. Very communicative Would stay again

Samatha

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

Wonderful stay from pre-checkin to checkin to checkout! I wanted a quite relaxing but comfy stay surrounded by nature w a few creature comforts and the Cabin gave me just that. The view from the cabin is so serene. I enjoyed exploring the campgrounds w my pup and meeting some of the fellow campers. The Cabin is clean, well appointed, comfy bed w a splash of holiday cheer (based on when I stayed). Contessa is an outstanding host! I stayed on the grounds for my entire wkend stay but will checkout local attractions Contessa recommended during a future stay. JCO is a special place that’s easy to get to and not easy to forget; I’ll be back to get my overlanding on w my partner (he’s a frequent camper here). The JCO hype is legit!

pipper

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Crockett Landing

The views were absolutely incredible. The whole campsite was beautiful and well kept. Paul was very kind and has true passion for this land. I will 100% be staying here again in the future

LeRae

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Crockett Landing

Beautiful campsite with so much personality! The owners are wonderful people and we will be coming back!

Wayne

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

It felt secluded from others at the camp itself. The site was clean and very close to the water. The host were extremely gracious.

The best camping in Croatan National Forest, NC guide

Overview

About

Find the best of both worlds here at a coastal national forest with 159,000 acres of beauty. Croatan is graced with pine forests, saltwater estuaries, bogs, and raised swamps. Numerous campgrounds, recreation areas, picnic areas, and boat launches make it easy to enjoy the land.

The forest is a water-sports enthusiast's dream. It's bordered on three sides by tidal rivers and the Bogue Sound. A diversity of wildlife here includes wading birds, ospreys, deer, black bears and alligators.

Standout remote lakes include Catfish Lake and Great Lake. Both are ideal for camping, fishing, and non-motorized boating. Great Lake is the largest lake in Croatan. It's 6 miles from the highway and far, far away from the chaos of civilization.

Hikers looking for low-traffic trails and primitive camping love Neusiok Trail. Three lean-tos along the 21-mile trail are free to use.

Island Creek Forest Walk Trail is a 3.7-mile moderately trafficked loop trail that welcomes mountain bikes and dogs.

82%

11 ratings · 5 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

Tent · With pets ·

Flanners Beach Campground

Had an absolutely amazing time. The host were so helpful and friendly. The view was absolutely stunning. Highly recommend a visit! Thank you all for everything.