Cedar Island Ranch

cedar island ranch reviews

For North Carolinians seeking an escape from the everyday hustle, the allure of the coast often calls. While many popular coastal destinations can become quite crowded, a hidden gem like Cedar Island Ranch offers a unique and serene RV camping experience. Nestled in the tranquil community of Cedar Island, this RV park provides a distinct opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy breathtaking views, and unwind in a peaceful setting. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Cedar Island Ranch, from its scenic location and accessibility to the array of services and unique features that make it a compelling choice for locals looking for a coastal retreat.

RV parks in North Carolina vary greatly, from bustling resorts with numerous activities to quiet, nature-focused havens. Cedar Island Ranch clearly positions itself as the latter, appealing to those who prioritize tranquility, natural beauty, and direct access to the Pamlico Sound and nearby beaches. Understanding what sets this RV park apart is key for anyone in the Tar Heel State planning their next outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway.

Location and Accessibility

Cedar Island Ranch is ideally situated at 3557 Cedar Island Rd, Cedar Island, NC 28520, USA. This location is pivotal to its unique appeal. Cedar Island itself is a remote and largely undeveloped barrier island on the eastern edge of North Carolina's Crystal Coast. It marks the southern tip of the Pamlico Sound, offering expansive water views and a true sense of being "away from it all."

Accessibility to Cedar Island is primarily via NC Highway 12, which stretches along the Outer Banks Scenic Byway. While it offers a feeling of seclusion, Cedar Island is also home to the Cedar Island Ferry terminal, which provides direct vehicle and passenger ferry service to Ocracoke Island, a popular destination within the Outer Banks. This means that while Cedar Island Ranch provides a quiet base, day trips to other iconic North Carolina coastal spots are easily within reach. The drive to Cedar Island is scenic, often passing through wetlands and offering glimpses of the diverse coastal ecosystem. For North Carolina residents coming from inland, the journey to Cedar Island is part of the experience, transitioning from bustling areas to the serene coastal landscape. The park's location offers a fantastic water view, with many RV sites directly on the bay water or facing Cedar Island beach, providing spectacular sunrises and sunsets, as noted by happy campers.

Services Offered

Cedar Island Ranch provides essential services to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for RV campers. These services are designed to support a seamless outdoor experience:

• RV Hookups: The park offers 61 RV spaces, each equipped with water plus 30- and 50-amp electric service. Sewer hookups are also available at sites, providing full utility connections for most RVs.
• Clean Bathhouses: Guests have access to clean bathroom facilities, which are crucial for any camping experience, ensuring comfort and hygiene.
• Free Wi-Fi: Staying connected is often important, even when seeking a quiet retreat. Cedar Island Ranch provides free Wi-Fi access for its guests.
• Boat Access: For those bringing their own watercraft, the ranch features a private boat ramp and also provides access to a state ramp into deep water, making it convenient for fishing, kayaking, and exploring the surrounding waters.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Cedar Island Ranch is welcoming to pets, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along for their coastal adventures.
• Enthusiastic and Knowledgeable Staff: Customer reviews frequently highlight the super helpful and friendly staff, indicating a commitment to guest satisfaction and providing assistance as needed.
• Year-Round Operation: Cedar Island Ranch is open year-round, offering flexibility for North Carolina residents to plan their visits across all seasons, whether for a summer vacation or a peaceful winter getaway.

Features / Highlights

Cedar Island Ranch truly shines with its unique features and highlights, catering to those who appreciate natural beauty and a relaxed pace:

• Quiet and Uncrowded Atmosphere: A consistently praised feature is the park's tranquil environment. It is described as "quiet and not crowded," making it the ideal destination for those looking to escape noise and crowds, providing a true sense of peace and relaxation. This is a significant draw for North Carolinians weary of overcrowded tourist spots.
• Beautiful Beach Access: The park boasts access to a beautiful beach, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, shelling, and long walks along the shoreline. The undeveloped nature of the beach allows for an authentic coastal experience.
• Stunning Sunrises and Sunsets: Given its location on the sound, the ranch offers spectacular water views, perfect for enjoying picturesque sunrises and sunsets over the Pamlico Sound.
• On-Site Activities: Cedar Island Ranch provides unique activities right at your doorstep. This includes:
  • Horseback Riding: Guests can enjoy memorable horseback rides along miles of undeveloped beach, an experience that allows for spotting the legendary Wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs.
  • Kayak and Canoe Rentals: The availability of kayak and canoe rentals provides an excellent way to explore the salt marshes and calm waters of the Pamlico Sound up close.
  • Fishing, Crabbing, and Clamming: The area is rich with opportunities for various fishing activities, crabbing, and clamming, providing both recreation and the chance for a fresh seafood dinner.
• Proximity to Cedar Island Ferry: Being "right at our doorstep" to the Cedar Island Ferry terminal offers convenient access to Ocracoke Island and further into the Outer Banks, expanding the possibilities for day trips and exploration.
• Natural Surroundings: Over half the area is part of the Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge, providing endless opportunities for wildlife observation, birdwatching, and enjoying unspoiled nature.

Contact Information

For those ready to plan their tranquil escape or inquire further about availability at Cedar Island Ranch, you can reach out using the following contact details:

Address: 3557 Cedar Island Rd, Cedar Island, NC 28520, USA

Phone: (252) 650-8050

Mobile Phone: +1 252-650-8050

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Cedar Island Ranch stands out as an exceptional destination for North Carolina locals seeking a genuine coastal experience that prioritizes peace, natural beauty, and a break from the ordinary. Its suitability for residents of the Tar Heel State is multifaceted.

Firstly, for those living across North Carolina, the desire to "get away from it all" without traveling extensively is often a priority. Cedar Island Ranch offers exactly that—a secluded, quiet haven that feels miles away from the everyday hustle, yet is accessible via scenic routes within the state. It provides the perfect antidote to crowded beaches and bustling tourist traps, allowing families and individuals to truly decompress and reconnect with nature. The consistent feedback about its quiet and uncrowded atmosphere resonates deeply with locals looking for a genuine retreat.

Secondly, the rich natural environment and unique activities available at Cedar Island Ranch provide unparalleled opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From horseback riding on pristine beaches and kayaking through salt marshes to excellent fishing, crabbing, and clamming, there's a myriad of ways to engage with the natural world. These activities are distinct from those found in more commercialized coastal areas, offering a more authentic and immersive experience of North Carolina's barrier island ecosystem. For families, the uncrowded beaches and opportunities for nature-based play provide memorable experiences away from screens.

Finally, the friendly and helpful staff, coupled with essential amenities like full hookups and clean facilities, ensure a comfortable stay. The added bonus of being at the doorstep of the Ocracoke ferry provides an easy gateway to further exploration of the Outer Banks, allowing for both tranquil relaxation and adventurous day trips. For North Carolinians who appreciate quietude, natural beauty, and a chance to create lasting family memories in a truly unique coastal setting, Cedar Island Ranch is not just an RV park—it's a destination that perfectly encapsulates the serene charm of the state's eastern edge. It's the ideal spot to "be away from the crowds and have some quiet time," making it a perfect match for locals yearning for an authentic and peaceful coastal escape.

Cedar Island Ranch

3557 Cedar Island Rd, Cedar Island, NC 28520, USA