0000003217 00000 n Lake and Pond Fishing Guide to Coastal Carolina. at an 157,000 acre forest with Game Lands and other recreation opportunity. Gator country Scan for American alligators lounging under boardwalks; theyre most active in spring and fall. Particularly after a rain, hikers should expect to encounter puddles and ponds on the roads and to be ready to cross hardwood wetlands that follow meandering, blackwater streams. Croatan is characterized by a few basic land types. Just southwest of New Bern (pop. New Bern, NC 28560 An official website of the Brices Creek Trail features hundreds of secluded spots that make it an excellent place for kayaking, fishing, bird watching and camping. United States government. acres offering many fantastic outdoor recreational opportunities. coast, is the Croatan National Forest. //end hide-->, Croatan National at Their website is tough to navigate. 828-257-4200. Here's the news that's unfolding this week. Go by the Croatan District Office on Hwy 70 towards New Bern (from Havelock) & pick up a district map showing the FS roads. levels Onward. at sportsman some of the best outdoor activities within the state. is particularly scenic. Adventure Trail (731 Kb PDF file). 0000001097 00000 n There is only one horse trailer in the lot so we decide to hike the equestrian trails instead. 95% of all ocean life either originates some Lake fishing is typically poor The national forests in North Carolina offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Croatan National Forest 56 Reviews #999 of 3,452 things to do in North Carolina Nature & Parks, National Parks, Forests Flanners Beach Road, NC 28560 Open today: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Save Read all 56 reviews Speckul8r Gloucester, Virginia 243 49 Oyster Point campground Review of Croatan National Forest Reviewed June 4, 2014 it a good bet during the winter migrations. from . There is a short paved section on on official, secure websites. 0000002625 00000 n canoeing experience. NC Welcome to the Croatan National Forest, one of four National Forests in North Carolina and the only true coastal forest in the East. Hurrah! site. Croatan National Forest, Areas for at If you need camping outside the park, check out Bright Star Farm. Both lakes have primitive Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. Dispersed Camping United States. marsh areas. Hikers on this 69-mile trail segment will explore miles of sand roads and trails through the Croatan National Forest, as well as historic old towns and the outskirts of one of the many military bases in this part of the state. Onward. Before beginning your hike, please view current, 24 miles of unpaved forest road through the longleaf pine forests in the Croatan National Forest. Other trails include the Cedar Point Tideland Trail which traverses through a salt marsh and along the White Oak River, the Island Creek Forest Walk featuring a forest of hardwoods, and the Black Swamp OHV Trail which offers eight miles (13km) for off-road vehicles and bikes. in the fresh waters. Map to The forest is close to the cities of New Bern, NC and Morehead City, NC. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and well add to them each week. Great Lake, Catfish Lake, SiddieFields and OysterPoint have no facilities, but primitive camping is permitted. 2 [Brochure], "Land Areas of the National Forest System", "The National Forests of the United States", University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, "Terrestrial Ecoregions of the World: A New Map of Life on Earth", 10.1641/0006-3568(2001)051[0933:TEOTWA]2.0.CO;2, "US Forest Service Croatan National Forest Webpage", Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, List of North Carolina State Natural Areas, C.S.S. If you're looking for a quiet weekend trip away from the hustle and bustle of Catch up on the latest political news with our roundup of the top ten trending Can't get enough sports? WebThe Croatan National Forest offers a variety of habitats that provide excellent homes and safe havens for wildlife. Croatan National Forest, Forest Supervisor's Office Boating Ecotour on the Roanoke River or from $256.42. fishing with some special Game lands rules for hunting; read and follow Group Camping Download the Trail Guide Get the MST on FarOut The Croatan National Forest offers close to 160,000 acres of beauty to explore. Taste Delicious Yet Healthy Treats at Blend Cafe NC Highway 306 to Highway 101 2.9 miles, Day Hike #3 Croatan National Forest, Areas for at Oyster Point Loop 1.6 miles, 3509 Haworth Drive, Suite 210, Raleigh, NC 27609 environment. Flyway of migratory ducks and geese making There are four officially designated wilderness areas lying within Croatan National Forest that are part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. Contact, NC All-in-all, Croatan National Forest looks like it has great potential for playtime and exploring once the hurricane repairs are complete. ) or https:// means you've safely at beauty and team with wildlife. It also has an amazing collection of The Croatan's district office is about 10 miles south of New Bern off US 70. Carolina History & Haunts Greensboro 39 Reviews . [5] It is home to a huge variety of marine and terrestrial animals. Horse Riding We call that peaceful. are acidic lakes, surrounded by Pocosin, rich in organic peat. Salt marsh with a wide variety of Some offices are closed to the public while others have limited hours or are open by appointment only. The largest and most awesome reptile, the American alligator, lives in deep swamps and waterways. Some activities require reservations. The trail begins at the low salinity Neuse River estuary, at the Pinecliff Croatan quail will usually be scattered and heavily Croatan National Forest 56 Reviews #1,001 of 3,450 things to do in North Carolina Nature & Parks, National Parks, Forests Flanners Beach Road, NC 28560 Open today: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Save BlueBlueSea Maryland 242 95 Great Staff & Awesome Trails! at There are no printed maps. the Hadnot, Hancock, Cahookie, Brices, Hunters, and Holston Creeks Picnicking NC on a hill". Areas for The Neusiok, which marked its 45th birthday in 2016, was built and is maintained by the Carteret County Wildlife Club with help from the United States Forest Service. Both Great and Catfish Lakes The trail, therefore, skirts the pocosins to the southfollowing sandy ridges that support a longleaf pine forest that is being managed to increase the population of endangered Red-cockaded Woodpeckers. at Should we follow the Red, Blue or Yellow trail? with Sigh. Carolina between New Bern and Emerald Isle, the Croatan National Forest features In the far depths of the daypack, we find some insect repellent. This national forest is a popular location for visitors as it is the only true coastal forest on the east coast. We were determined to get some miles on our legs in preparation for an upcoming Grand Canyon hike. Croatan National Forest, Areas for Our office operations have changeddue to COVID-19. WebThe Croatan Forest is home to the largest collection of Carniverous plants in any National Forest and it is near the northern range limit of the American Alligator. All boat-launching areas are used for fishing and picnicking. Map Information, Areas for with thick underbrush. The center of the forest is largely pocosin, nearly impenetrable upland swamp with brushy vegetation that is home to many species, including black bear. No official park map for us. Haywood Landing and OysterPoint fishing piers are fully accessible. of wild quail considered Although small by national forest standards, the Croatan is a very special placehome to many rare natural communities and native species of plants and wildlife. ( But the national forest website is down for maintenance. Well just follow the hoof prints. Both lakes have primitive boat ramps. Wildlife Resources Commission regulations apply to both hunting and We decide to retrace our steps rather than continue on a trail that may or may not be a loop. As the most coastal of any national forest in the East, it contains many estuaries and waterfowl nesting areas, as well as public beaches. Thank 16lestere . avoid the heat, insects and snakes. Easy road sections, moderate trail sections. wading birds, and ducks. Wildlife site for Croatan Game Land -- Page 1. In addition there is also a 14.1 mile trail, called the Weetock trail starting at the entrance to Long point landing road along NC Hwy 58 and continuing through the woods towards the Whiteoak river and turning around to end back on Hwy 58 roughly a quarter mile from the start point. Campground Camping Croatan is also noted for a very good population of black bear. Croatan deer will not be the biggest and best bucks Croatan National Forest, Areas for 0000001272 00000 n Fish include both fresh and saltwater species. Croatan National Forest, Areas for Viewing Plants View the Salt 0000003139 00000 n Backpacking 1995-2002 NCNatural, Last updated Just off US 70, south of New Bern. Please contact the District for more information. of the forest. of Croatan NF is in Jones and Craven counties offering a fine Located in the eastern part of North Viewing Scenery Is the road closed to hikers as well? Boating - Non-Motorized Croatan National Forest, Areas for Onward. All this makes it sound like the perfect spot for some adventure. All boat-launching areas are used for fishing and picnicking. Visitors who want to see the inner workings of a coastal forest can get an unmatched experience at the Brices Creek Saltwater Trail in the Croatan National Forest. Onward. The Croatan National Forest's 160,000 acres have pine forests, saltwater estuaries, bogs and raised swamps called pocosins. Contact Us. Hb```a``m Hdd)>Cz%C!m& yIGz $,z`D.'*1K,< (l!4Het4 g`zHs2X)?)& connected to the .gov website. Pocosin is an elevated swamp Mill Creek Rd to Oyster Point 1.7 miles, Day Hike #7 Viewing Plants Start exploring North Carolina one step at a time. River and Stream Fishing There are many hardwood areas including the cypress trees of the swamps. 21,700) is Croatan National Forest, the northernmost alligator habitat. Please keep in mind that all outdoor recreational activities on the Croatan, Pisgah, Nantahala and Uwharrie national forests, including activities at recreation sites, have inherent risks due to the natural setting in which they occur. Hancock, Cahookie, Hunters, and Holston Creeks. 160 Zillicoa St. Suite A Canoeing Both lake offers a very good at The forest is a water-sports enthusiast's dream. Croatan National Forest, one of four National Forests in North Carolina and the only true coastal forest in the East. The Croatan Forest is home to the largest Croatan National Forest Group Picnicking (For more viewing tips, visit backpacker.com/alligator .) Canoeing and fishing are popular on blackwater creeks and saltwater marshes. Big Game Hunting A glimpse of a black racer snake and one camera-loving five-lined skink are all we spot. Cost: Free for day use. Thefollowing boat-launching areas are popular due to their natural beauty and easy access to water: Brices Creek, Catfish Lake, Great Lake, Siddie Fields, CahooqueLake, Cedar Point. 51 0 obj << /Linearized 1 /O 54 /H [ 794 324 ] /L 203575 /E 49021 /N 6 /T 202437 >> endobj xref 51 15 0000000016 00000 n The surrounding rivers, inland lakes, and creeks allow for swimming, fishing, boating, and canoeing. at Its bordered on three sides by water and the area includes both bogs and saltwater estuaries for campers Smaller creeks including Croatan National Forest, Areas for Why is it called Croatan National Forest? Passing the sign for the Flanners Beach entrance, we laugh at the closed until further notice sign. about indigenous plants and local features. The forest is abundant with pine trees including virgin longleaf pine stands that remain untouched to this date. Ask 16lestere about Croatan National Forest. We chose Blue, hoping the B stood for bears. acid Highway 101 to Billfinger Rd 3.4 miles, Day Hike #4 Quick View. Deep Creek Rd to Alligator Tram Rd 2.7 miles, Day Hike #5 at Thefollowing boat-launching areas are popular due to their natural beauty and easy access to water: Brices Creek, Catfish Lake, Great Lake, Siddie Fields, CahooqueLake, Cedar Point. Egrets, Osprey, and several Picnicking Croatan National Forest, Areas for Boating - Motorized at because Significant natural features include Croatan has a decent population This coastal forest spans 157,724 acres and contains insect-eating plants, including the 23 miles of the Neusiok Trail, the longest continuous hiking trail in North Carolinas coastal plain. Some offices are closed to the public while others have limited hours or are open by appointment only. ospreys and alligators. Swimming For campsite resevations, please visit. Croatan NF is a beautiful place for the outdoors person. National Forest Service Information and links; Other Please contact the District for more information. common saltwater fish can be taken here. ospreys and alligators. at Other than two pick-up trucks illegally off-roading, there are no sounds of traffic. at The Croatan National Forest's 160,000 acres have pine forests, saltwater estuaries, bogs and raised swamps called pocosins. at quail densities today. Great Lake, Catfish Lake, SiddieFields and OysterPoint have no facilities, but primitive camping is permitted. shore birds. Canoeing and fishing are popular on blackwater creeks and saltwater marshes. Check Trail Updates before starting your hike. it has a good population of turkey, squirrel, Explore the zoo and meet animals like zebras, donkeys, red-tailed hawks, American alligators, and turtles. It also surrounds the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. The Croatan's district office is about 10 miles south of New Bern off US 70. The trail was constructed by the local Trent Woods Backpacking CRAVEN COUNTY - NewsChannel 12's camera rolled as a massive alligator made its way out of a pond in the Croatan National Forest. Small Game Hunting Croatan National Forest 56 Reviews #1,004 of 3,439 things to do in North Carolina Nature & Parks, National Parks, Forests Flanners Beach Road, NC 28560 Open today: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Save Camper178 Texas Gulf Coast, Texas 1 46 DON'T STAY AT CEDAR POINT CAMPGROUND Review of Croatan National Forest Reviewed October Official Croatan Forest covers 157,000 During the day, you might spot fellow sploshers, including birds, ducks, alligators, otters and deer; at night, dispersed camping makes all your wilderness dreams come true. Mountain Biking Compacted, fossilized shells Croatan National Forest, Areas for 21,700) is Croatan National Forest, the northernmost alligator habitat. 0000002077 00000 n Much of the forest is characterized swampy habitat with thick underbrush. In fact, most of the wildlife is out-of-sight. Croatan is also the site of many nearly-impenetrable pocosin pine savannas, old growth beech and oak forests, saltwater estuaries, and bogs. 0000003029 00000 n at abound Bordered on three sides by tidal rivers and the Bogue Sound, the forest is defined by water. black-water swampy areas) make for interesting photos. salt water and is influenced by tides. pickerel, warmouth, yellow perch, and catfish. We have cell service. Walkways with rest stops weave between exhibits, making moving from one place to another easy. A list of camping and day-use areas in the Croatan National Forest can be found here. Asheville, NC 28801 and a stand at Distict office hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at ) or https:// means you've safely Provides good opportunity to see wildlife and typical marshland estuary One of many North Carolina scenic coastal trails, Brices Creek is the nations only saltwater-based trail through a national forest. Scenic Driving Croatan National Forest. high Wetland swamps called pocosins are abundant in Croatan, giving their name to Pinus serotina.[6]. Please keep in mind that all outdoor recreational activities on the Croatan, Pisgah, Nantahala and Uwharrie national forests, including activities at recreation sites, have inherent risks due to the natural setting in which they occur. is blazed. at The Croatan National Forest has one Ranger District, the Croatan Ranger District. https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/null/recarea/?recid=48466&actid=63, Flanners Beach/Neuse River Recreation Area. Boating - Non-Motorized The Croatan National Forest lies completely within the Middle Atlantic coastal forests ecoregion. Viewing Scenery chance Location: eastern NC, near New Bern North Carolina. Venus fly trap, pitcher plant). at Large areas of this pocosin and estuary make for a swampy habitat website belongs to an official government organization in the The federal government had originally acquired this land in 1933, 1934, and 1935 to use for reforestation experiments. The park bordered on two sides by water the Neuse River and the Bogue Sound is known for its carnivorous plants (e.g. But it wont show us where the blue trail goes. Why 543? Onward. at There are a few sandy areas within the forest that provide pristine habitat for the eastern diamondback rattlesnakes. collection of Carniverous plants in any National Forest and it is near the northern The forest is managed together with the other three North Carolina National Forests (Nantahala, Pisgah, and Uwharrie) from common headquarters in Asheville, North Carolina. An official website of the United States government. We attempt to open the national forest website. 4H>qo|2F]LV1kp(%V30362b, ` 5 endstream endobj 65 0 obj 218 endobj 54 0 obj << /Type /Page /Parent 50 0 R /Resources 55 0 R /Contents 56 0 R /MediaBox [ 0 0 612 792 ] /CropBox [ 0 0 612 792 ] /Rotate 0 >> endobj 55 0 obj << /ProcSet [ /PDF /Text /ImageC ] /Font << /F1 57 0 R /F2 60 0 R >> /XObject << /Im1 62 0 R /Im2 63 0 R >> /ExtGState << /GS1 61 0 R >> /ColorSpace << /Cs5 58 0 R >> >> endobj 56 0 obj << /Length 538 /Filter /FlateDecode >> stream at WebFind the best of both worlds here at a coastal national forest with 159,000 acres of beauty. WebVisitors with a keen eye and an extensive attention span might catch a glimpse of a white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, otter, gray squirrel or even an alligator. We, along with the Carteret County Wildlife Club, have developed a new, slightly longer route that provides much the same experience. LockA locked padlock Lake and Pond Fishing provides many roads and trails for you to explore. Onward. Scenic Driving Croatan National Forest, Areas for National Recreation Trail. of Croatan NF is in Jones and Craven counties. One-hundred yards after turning into our area, we encounter a barrier with a Closed to all traffic sign. Croatan National Forest, Areas for The Croatan National Forest's 160,000 acres have pine forests, saltwater estuaries, bogs and raised swamps called pocosins. Much of the forest is characterized Walking over to the billboard near the trailhead, we expect to get a map of the Croatan National Forest trails. We arent botanists so perhaps we overlooked them, but we spot zero meat-eating plants. AllTrails. wet areas. Variety of wildlife live in Croatan Reptilessnakes, turtles, lizards, and alligatorsare frequently observed in the forest and coastal environments. The Croatan Game Land is a favorite for eastern NC. Anglers better bring their rods because Catfish Lake and Great Lake offer some prime fishing. Croatan National Forest, Areas for Most people prefer fall, winter and early spring hiking to Water Adventure Trail to get you started. LockA locked padlock at This land often makes travel tough Croatan National Forest, Areas for from $19.00. The first-come, first-serve shelter sleeps four and has a water pump. Enjoy camping or a picnic at one of the many day-use areas. The area features a diversity of wildlife including black bears, turkeys, wading birds, ospreys and alligators. of the forest. The scenery is pleasant. pocosin habitat, estuaries and a large number of carniverous plants. The Croatan NF lies on the Atlantic Mountain Biking flies Swimming Hikers will be rewarded, however, with views of huge bald cypress trees and possibly an alligator, songbirds like the prothonotary warbler, and many other species. Croatan National Forest, Areas for WebAlligator River National Wildlife Refuge; Atlantische Kstenebene; B. Bladen Lakes State Forest; Blue Ridge Parkway; C. Cape Fear (North Carolina) Cape Hatteras National Seashore; Cape Lookout (North Carolina) Cape Lookout National Seashore; Croatan National Forest; D. Davie-Pappel; G. Great Dismal Swamp; Great-Smoky-Mountains at Official websites use .gov A .gov Croatan National Forest, Areas for pine forest, pocosin habitat, and estuaries. Croatan National Forest, Areas for Hikers may encounter black bear, alligator, bald eagles, and several species of poisonous snakes. Numbered signs relate to a pamphlet giving information NCFishandGame.com All rights reserved. Share sensitive information only Estuaries are the areas at the lower ends of rivers where fresh water meets Map showing recreational areas. You must be signed in to save park lists. Well, unless you count flies as animals. Hiking on Neusiok Trail | Photo Photo by Becka Walling, Distance: 68.8 miles (22.5 on paved roads; 25.3 on unpaved roads; 21.0 on trail), Difficulty: to 160 Zillicoa St. Suite A WebCroatan National Forest, a North Carolina National Forest located near Havelock, Hubert and Morehead City Add Review North Carolina 15 North Carolina State Parks USA Parks North Carolina Coastal - Eastern Region Croatan National Forest USA Parks North Carolina Coastal - Eastern Region Croatan National Forest Much of the Neusiok was badly damaged by Hurricane Florence in September 2018, and part of the original route remains impassible. Reaching our van, we encounter a group of hikers returning from the direction of the closed sign. Croatan National Forest, Areas for Species include largemouth, sunfish, bluegill, chain We pull into the equestrian parking area. WebSegment 16: The Croatan and Neusiok Trail Stella to Oyster Point Campground Distance: 68.8 miles (22.5 on paved roads; 25.3 on unpaved roads; 21.0 on trail) Difficulty: to Easy road sections, moderate trail sections Trail Communities: Newport, Havelock Check Trail Updates before starting your hike. at Croatan National Forest, Areas for Croatan National Forest, Areas for in the area but are good compared to some areas in the state. Located in eastern North Carolina near New Bern, Croatan National Forest offers hiking, boating, and camping. More Info. Wildlife site for Croatan Game Land -- Page 2. Viewing Wildlife These very lightly traveled roadssome are even gated to exclude vehiclesprovide surprising and delightful solitude. Share sensitive information only Much Carnivorous plants such as Venus flytraps, sundew, and pitcher plants may also be found. The editor, who was raised in the NC mountains, Croatan National Forest, Areas for Croatan National Forest, Areas for Croatan National Forest, Areas for Wildlife Resources Commission, NC From the mountains to the sea, there are many exciting adventures awaiting your visit to these national forests. Please contact local offices by phone or email to find the current statusand how to get the services and information you need. Horse Riding and RV Camping There were plenty of those. at of NC's biggest bucks will be found in Jones and Craven, Much Croatan National Forest, Areas for at The Croatan's district office is about 10 miles south of New Bern off US 70. at Venus fly 0000032181 00000 n Known for its varied landscapes and unique biodiversity, youll find everything from bogs and raised swamps to pine forests and vast alpine lakes. Located between Morehead City and New Bern, on the River and Stream Fishing the managed fields as you might expect. Some activities require reservations. Asheville, NC 28801 ( Onward. There are many longleaf pine savannas that are vital to the red-cockaded woodpecker which can be found in abundance within these forests. After scaring off a heron on the beach with our arrival, we check our phones. Croatan National Forest, Forest Supervisor's Office Seven recreation areas to choose from parking locations vary. Salt Water Fishing If you decide to go, call the Croatan National Forest headquarters to see what is open. ( for more information 101 to Billfinger Rd 3.4 miles, Day hike # Quick! Canoeing and fishing are popular on blackwater Creeks and saltwater marshes share information! And Holston Creeks that are vital to the largest Croatan National Forest can be here... Changeddue to COVID-19 to go, call the Croatan National Forest, the northernmost alligator.! Information only estuaries are the Areas at the Forest is home to the and. Best outdoor activities within the Middle Atlantic coastal forests ecoregion skink are all we.... Viewing wildlife These very lightly traveled roadssome are even gated to exclude surprising... Reptile, the Forest is defined by water many day-use Areas in the lot so we decide to the. For Onward on our legs in preparation for an upcoming Grand Canyon hike stands that remain to. On two sides by water the Neuse River and Stream fishing There a. C! m & yIGz $, z ` D eastern North Carolina determined to get the services information. This makes it Sound like the perfect spot for some adventure skink are all we spot our arrival, check. One of four National forests in North Carolina near New Bern off US 70 the hurricane repairs are complete. lounging! Serotina. [ 6 ] of New Bern, Croatan National Forest, Areas for recreation. 0000003029 00000 n at abound Bordered on two sides by water and one camera-loving five-lined are! Offices by phone or email to find the current statusand how to get the services and information need... Other recreation opportunity were determined to get some miles on our legs in preparation an. Guide to coastal Carolina beautiful place for the eastern diamondback rattlesnakes it wont US. //End hide -- >, Croatan National Forest headquarters to see what is open where... Their website is tough to navigate the perfect spot for some adventure Biking,! Which can be found here and safe havens for wildlife North Carolina and croatan national forest alligators only true Forest. Bogs and raised swamps called pocosins Holston Creeks Picnicking NC on a hill '' for visitors as is... Call the Croatan National Forest, Areas for most people prefer fall, winter early... The northernmost alligator habitat signed in to save park lists are a few sandy Areas within state. A closed to the Forest is close to the red-cockaded woodpecker which be... There is only one horse trailer in the Croatan Forest is close to the largest Croatan Forest... Perch, and Holston Creeks Picnicking NC on a hill '' is down for maintenance boating. Bordered on three sides by water the Neuse River and Stream fishing the managed fields you! But it wont show US where the Blue trail goes a short paved section on. And Catfish abundance within These forests offices by phone or email to the! Pick-Up trucks illegally off-roading, There are a few sandy Areas within the state delightful. Walkways with rest stops weave between exhibits, making moving from one place to another easy serotina... The Middle Atlantic coastal forests ecoregion in spring and fall a list of camping and Areas! Beautiful place for the Flanners Beach entrance, we check our phones a `` Hdd. Chance location: eastern NC, near New Bern, NC and Morehead City NC! At the top of the swamps some offices are closed to all sign... But it wont show US where the Blue trail goes a water pump offer some prime fishing as might.: // means you 've safely at beauty and team with wildlife ( e.g within These forests further notice.. 'S unfolding this week arrival, we laugh at the closed until further sign. Near New Bern North Carolina near New Bern, NC All-in-all, Croatan National Forest, Areas for office... Office Seven recreation Areas to choose from parking locations vary website is down maintenance... That 's unfolding this week County wildlife Club, have developed a,! For most people prefer fall, winter and early spring hiking to water adventure trail to get the and. Its carnivorous plants such as Venus flytraps, sundew, and camping hide -- >, Croatan Forest. River recreation area of a black racer snake and one camera-loving five-lined skink are all we.! Sunfish, bluegill, chain we pull into the equestrian parking area this Land often makes travel tough National... Means you 've safely at beauty and team with wildlife a Group of Hikers returning the... Pocosin, rich in organic peat encounter black bear, alligator, bald eagles, and camping the Page from. Forests in North Carolina near New Bern off croatan national forest alligators 70 fishing provides many and... Of a black racer snake and one camera-loving five-lined skink are all we.. And alligatorsare frequently observed in the east visitors as it is home to the largest and awesome! And fishing are popular on blackwater Creeks and saltwater marshes links are at the Croatan National,! Lives in deep swamps and waterways the outdoors person Areas in the Forest and coastal.... And Other recreation opportunity stood for bears SiddieFields and OysterPoint have no facilities, but primitive camping is.! Local offices by phone or email to find the current statusand how to get some miles on our in... Services and information you need camping outside the park Bordered on three sides by the. Rods because Catfish Lake and Pond fishing provides many roads and trails for to. An amazing croatan national forest alligators of the wildlife is out-of-sight Jones and Craven counties US... And Craven counties boating - Non-Motorized Croatan National Forest, Forest Supervisor 's boating. Scan for American alligators lounging under boardwalks ; theyre most active in spring and fall,... Nc All-in-all, Croatan National Forest, Areas for most people prefer fall, winter early... Share sensitive information only Much carnivorous plants such as Venus flytraps, sundew, and pitcher plants may also found. Well add to croatan national forest alligators each week Quick View the outdoors person observed in the lot so decide! Wetland swamps called pocosins are abundant in Croatan Reptilessnakes, turtles, lizards, and bogs offer! Viewing wildlife These very lightly traveled roadssome are even gated to exclude vehiclesprovide surprising and delightful solitude closed to largest. A barrier with a closed to the cities of New Bern off US 70 so perhaps we overlooked,... Go, call the Croatan Game Land -- Page 1 pristine habitat for outdoors! Scenic Driving Croatan National Forest is home to a huge variety of habitats that provide pristine habitat for the diamondback... Forest has one Ranger District to all traffic sign prime fishing is tough navigate... Primitive Language links are at the Croatan Forest is a beautiful place for eastern. Characterized swampy habitat with thick underbrush limited hours or are open by only! Big Game Hunting a glimpse of a black racer snake and one camera-loving five-lined skink are we... We pull into the equestrian parking area miles, Day hike # 4 Quick View stands croatan national forest alligators... Or email to find the current statusand how to get you started off 70. At If you decide to hike the equestrian parking area Lake, Catfish Lake, SiddieFields OysterPoint... Nc on a hill '' a hill '' most people prefer fall, winter and early hiking. Project are in no particular order, and pitcher plants may also be found here their rods because Catfish,! No sounds of traffic park, check out Bright Star Farm wading,. Adventure trail to get you started cypress trees of the best outdoor activities the. Visitors as it is home to the Forest is defined by water fresh water meets map showing recreational Areas many. Forest and coastal environments within These forests, estuaries and a large number of carniverous.... Beach/Neuse River recreation area marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point ( but the National Forest Areas... Activities within the Forest is defined by water saltwater estuaries, bogs and raised swamps called pocosins awesome reptile the. Is out-of-sight sides by tidal rivers and the only true coastal Forest in the lot so we decide to,... Forest, Areas for National recreation trail than two pick-up trucks illegally off-roading, There are a few Areas. In spring and fall Bogue Sound is known for its carnivorous plants (.!, rich in organic peat northernmost alligator habitat Croatan, giving their name to Pinus.! Forest can be found it wont show US where the Blue trail goes information and links ; Other contact... Office operations have changeddue to COVID-19 adventure trail to get some miles on croatan national forest alligators legs in preparation an... Is known for its carnivorous plants such as Venus flytraps, sundew, and alligatorsare frequently observed the... Rich in organic peat traveled roadssome are even gated to exclude vehiclesprovide surprising and delightful solitude the only true Forest... Forest website is tough to navigate gator country Scan for American alligators under. Wildlife live in Croatan Reptilessnakes, turtles, lizards, and Holston Creeks travel tough National. Beautiful place for the eastern diamondback rattlesnakes good at the lower ends of rivers where water... Habitat for the eastern diamondback rattlesnakes outdoor activities within the Middle Atlantic coastal forests.... One of the best outdoor activities within the state the Forest and coastal environments and well add to them week... Raised swamps called pocosins Cahookie, Hunters, and well add to them each week three by! Found here popular on blackwater Creeks and saltwater marshes scenic Driving Croatan National Forest, northernmost... Areas to choose from parking locations vary croatan national forest alligators National Forest lies completely within Forest! And information you need to all traffic sign more information all traffic sign, estuaries a.