Cedar Point Campground

For those of us in North Carolina who truly appreciate the essence of traditional camping – the quiet solitude of the woods, the crackle of a campfire, and a sky full of stars – Cedar Point Campground offers an authentic and beloved experience. We know that not every outdoor adventure needs to be about resort-style amenities and bright lights. Sometimes, the best getaway is simply about immersing ourselves in nature, and this cherished campground delivers precisely that, year after year.

Cedar Point Campground, nestled within the picturesque Croatan National Forest, is a long-standing favorite for many North Carolina families, often returning for "many years now and never had a bad experience." This consistent loyalty speaks volumes about the quality and reliable enjoyment it provides. What makes it so special is its commitment to maintaining a natural, wooded environment. As one reviewer enthusiastically put it, "We love the feel of being in the woods here, instead of being in some lighted parking lot like some campgrounds." This focus on preserving the authentic camping atmosphere, with "no bright lights and light pollution," allows for true relaxation and an appreciation of the night sky.

A significant highlight that campers consistently praise is the spaciousness and natural setting of the individual sites. They are described as "large, wooded and most are a decent distance from the neighboring sites," providing a welcome sense of privacy often missing in more densely packed campgrounds. The low underbrush makes it easy and enjoyable to "hike through" the surrounding area, inviting exploration right from your campsite. This natural design ensures that visitors feel truly immersed in the forest, creating a tranquil backdrop for their outdoor activities.

Furthermore, the practical amenities are well-maintained and contribute significantly to a comfortable stay. While sites offer electric hookups, campers should note the absence of sewer and water at individual sites, though a convenient dump station is available on-site. The bathhouse consistently receives high marks for being "normally clean and well maintained" and offering "hot showers – much better than most." The camp hosts are also frequently lauded for being "very helpful" and "nice," doing a "great job keeping it natural." This combination of thoughtful site design, essential amenities, and dedicated staff ensures that Cedar Point Campground remains a top choice for those seeking a genuine and peaceful North Carolina camping experience, even if it means reserving "well in advance" due to its popularity.

Cedar Point Campground is strategically located at 391 Vfw Rd, Cedar Point, NC 28584, USA. This address places it squarely within the Croatan National Forest, offering a genuine forest camping experience in coastal North Carolina. For us North Carolinians, this means a manageable drive to a serene natural setting, particularly for those residing in the eastern and central parts of the state.

The campground's location provides excellent access to the natural wonders of the national forest while remaining relatively close to charming coastal towns. It's nestled just off NC Highway 24, providing a straightforward route to the entrance. While the campground itself is intentionally designed to be a "get away" from resort-style commercialism, visitors will find nearby towns like Swansboro and Emerald Isle a short drive away for supplies, dining, and additional coastal activities. This balance of secluded natural beauty and convenient access to local amenities makes Cedar Point Campground an ideal base for exploring the Crystal Coast region. Its placement ensures that you feel truly immersed in the woods, yet not entirely cut off from the conveniences of civilization.

• Electric Hookup Sites: All campsites are equipped with electric hookups (30 and 50 amp services available), providing power for RVs and electronic devices.
• Spacious & Wooded Sites: Campsites are large, naturally wooded, and spaced at a decent distance from neighbors for privacy. Each includes a fire ring and picnic table.
• Clean Bathhouse: A well-maintained bathhouse with flush toilets and hot showers is available for campers' use.
• Dump Station: An on-site dump station is provided for RV waste disposal.
• Potable Water: Fresh drinking water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground (sites do not have individual water hookups).
• Camp Hosts: Dedicated and helpful camp hosts are on site to assist campers and ensure a pleasant stay.
• Trash & Recycling: Bins are typically available for convenient waste disposal.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at campsites (must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and attended). They are not permitted inside buildings.
• Firewood: Campers can gather fallen limbs for fires, though bringing your own dry firewood is often recommended for best results.

• Authentic Wooded Camping Experience: Offers a true "in the woods" feel, with natural underbrush and a focus on nature over bright lights and commercial amenities.
• Low Light Pollution: Ideal for stargazing and enjoying the natural night sky, as there are "no bright lights and light pollution."
• Underbrush Good for Hiking: The low underbrush between sites and throughout the campground makes it easy and enjoyable to hike directly from your campsite.
• Proximity to Water: While not directly on the water, the campground is part of the Croatan National Forest, which is surrounded by coastal waters, offering opportunities for water-based activities within a short drive.
• Consistent Positive Experience: Many long-time campers return annually, highlighting a consistently good experience over many years.
• Relaxed & Natural Atmosphere: Designed for those who prefer a peaceful, natural environment over a busy resort.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Bathhouses are consistently reported as clean and well-maintained with hot showers.
• Helpful Camp Hosts: The on-site hosts are consistently praised for their helpfulness and friendliness.
• Pet-Friendly Trails: The ability to walk/hike trails with dogs is a significant advantage for pet owners.

As a campground located within the Croatan National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Cedar Point Campground typically operates under federal fee structures and is less likely to offer the kind of commercial promotions found at private RV resorts. However, for us North Carolina residents, understanding the standard fee structure and available federal passes can still provide value. It's always best to check the official Recreation.gov website or call the forest ranger district directly for the most current information, as policies can change.

• Standard Site Fees: Fees are generally modest for electric-only sites (typically in the $20-$30 per night range, but confirm current rates through Recreation.gov).
• Federal Interagency Passes:
  • America the Beautiful - National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Pass: While primarily for park entrance fees, this pass (available for purchase, or free for specific groups like military and seniors) can offer a 50% discount on the camping fee at some federal campgrounds. It's crucial to confirm if Cedar Point Campground honors this discount specifically for camping fees.
  • Senior Pass & Access Pass: For U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or older (Senior Pass) or with permanent disabilities (Access Pass), these lifetime passes offer similar discounts on camping fees where applicable.
• Reservations Highly Recommended: As noted by reviewers, Cedar Point Campground "stays pretty booked up." This suggests strong demand, making promotions less frequent. Booking well in advance via Recreation.gov is crucial to secure a site, especially for popular seasons and weekends.

Always consult Recreation.gov or contact the Croatan National Forest Ranger District for the most up-to-date pricing, reservation policies, and eligibility for any federal discounts that might apply to camping at Cedar Point Campground.

To plan your serene escape to Cedar Point Campground or to inquire about reservations, you can use the following contact details, primarily for the Croatan National Forest district office that manages the site:

Address: 391 Vfw Rd, Cedar Point, NC 28584, USA

Phone: (252) 638-5628 (This number likely connects to the Croatan National Forest Ranger District Office, which oversees operations at Cedar Point.)

Mobile Phone: +1 252-638-5628

For online reservations and the most current information, the official federal recreation website, Recreation.gov, is the primary platform. Searching for "Cedar Point Campground Croatan National Forest" on Recreation.gov will provide detailed information, including any current alerts, pricing, and reservation options. Given its popularity, booking well in advance is highly recommended.

For us North Carolinians, Cedar Point Campground is an ideal and highly suitable destination for a true outdoor getaway, particularly for those who cherish a traditional, uncommercialized camping experience. Its location within the Croatan National Forest means we have direct access to a beautiful, wooded environment rich with opportunities for natural exploration, all within a manageable drive from many parts of Eastern and Central North Carolina. This accessibility makes it perfect for both spontaneous weekend trips and longer, more immersive nature escapes.

What truly sets Cedar Point apart and makes it so beloved by locals is its commitment to maintaining a genuinely natural and peaceful atmosphere. The spacious, wooded sites, with ample distance between neighbors, provide a sense of privacy and seclusion that is often hard to find. The absence of excessive artificial lighting means we can truly enjoy the night sky, a rare luxury for many. This focus on natural beauty over resort-style amenities is exactly why long-time campers keep returning – it feels like real camping, like being truly "in the woods."

While the sites offer electric hookups, the need to manage water and sewer tanks encourages a more mindful approach to resources, aligning with a more authentic outdoor experience. The consistently clean bathhouses with hot showers and the helpfulness of the camp hosts ensure that essential comforts are well-provided. For North Carolina residents seeking a quiet, natural, and genuinely "woodsy" camping experience where the focus is on reconnecting with nature and enjoying the simple pleasures of the outdoors, Cedar Point Campground is an absolute gem within our state's beautiful national forests.

Cedar Point Campground

391 Vfw Rd, Cedar Point, NC 28584, USA