Croatan National Forest

Forest

New Bern, NC

USDA Forest Service provides national forest recreation information, permits, accessibility guidance, maps, trail conditions, and outdoor safety resources.

  • planning visits to national forests or grasslands
  • finding camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, boating, or other outdoor destinations
  • locating accessible campsites and trails

Croatan National Forest

Forest

Craven County, NC

Croatan National Forest is the only true coastal forest in the East, with hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing.

  • coastal forest exploration
  • hiking and day hikes
  • pocosin and estuary environments

克洛坦国家森林

Forest

NC

克洛坦国家森林是东部唯一真正的沿海森林,提供徒步、露营、划船、钓鱼和湿地生态体验。

  • Visitors seeking coastal forest and pocosin landscapes
  • Day hikes and backpacking
  • Non-motorized boating and river or stream fishing

Forest in nearby counties

FAQ

What activities are available in Croatan National Forest?

The forest supports day hiking, camping, non-motorized boating, river and stream fishing, wildlife viewing, and other coastal recreation. Some listings also identify biking, horseback riding, and OHV riding.

Is Croatan National Forest mountainous?

No. It is a coastal forest with pocosins and estuaries, so it is not the right choice for visitors seeking high-elevation mountain terrain.

How can I check trail conditions or closures before visiting?

The Forest Service provides maps, closure notices, trail-condition information, and amenity details through its National Forests and Grasslands App and recreation information resources.

Do I need a permit for forest recreation?

Some activities or uses may require recreation permits, special-use permits, or Special Forest Product E-Permits. Check the Forest Service permit information for the specific activity and site.

Are accessible trails or campsites available?

Accessible camping and hiking information is available through the Forest Service. The agency also identifies trails meeting Trails Accessibility Standards and offers a free lifetime Federal Recreational Lands Pass to people with permanent disabilities.