Get Back to Nature at the Croatan National Forest
The Croatan National Forest is a U.S. National Forest, it was established on July 29, 1936, and is located on the Atlantic coast of North Carolina. It is administered by the United States Forest Service, a part of the United States Department of Agriculture.
Catfish Lake is a remote body of water tucked away in the Croatan National forest. The lake offers visitors a place to get off the beaten path and enjoy camping, fishing, non-motorized boating, hiking, nature viewing and even hunting opportunities.
Great Lake is the largest lake in the Croatan Game land area. It is very remote and offers visitors a place to truly get away from hustle and bustle of the city limits. The lake offers camping, fishing, non-motorized boating and nature viewing.
The Neusiok Trail appeals to those who enjoy primitive camping and trails seeing little traffic, although the hike crosses several paved and unpaved roads. No camping facilities are available along the 21-mile trail, but there are three lean-tos that are free and open for use. The trailhead starts on the Neuse River at Pine Cliff Recreation Area and ends at Oyster Point on the Newport River. The trail passes through a cypress-lined sandy beach, hardwood forests and thick pocosin with pond pines.
