Oyster Point Campground
4.1299 reviewsForest Road 181, New Port, NC, 28570
Oyster Point Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee for single non-electric campsites is $10 per night, with a maximum of 8 people per site. Double sites cost $20 per night, accommodating up to 16 people. First-come, first-served sites can incur an additional $1 processing fee if paid digitally using the Scan & Pay system. America the Beautiful Senior and Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single site fees.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Newport River, Oyster Point Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience within the expansive Croatan National Forest. This intimate hideaway features 15 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with the essentials for a comfortable stay—sturdy picnic tables for riverside dining, fire grills for evening cookouts, level tent pads, convenient parking spurs, and classic lantern posts that cast a warm glow as darkness falls. Whether you're casting a line into the river's gentle current, paddling through pristine waterways, hitting the trail for a forest adventure, or using the campground as your base for exploring charming coastal towns and windswept beaches, Oyster Point delivers the perfect blend of wilderness solitude and accessible recreation.
Oyster Point Campground offers primitive camping with non-electric sites. It accommodates both tent and RV campers but has no hookups.
Historical SignificanceOyster Point holds a special place in the hearts of long-distance hikers as the gateway to the legendary Neusiok Trail—a challenging 21-mile journey that weaves through the forest before connecting with the Croatan Saltwater Trail. This humble campground stands as a testament to the incredible ecological tapestry of the Croatan National Forest, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have begun their adventures into one of North Carolina's most diverse natural landscapes.
Weather and SeasonsThe coastal climate here dances between extremes, with summer bringing sultry days wrapped in humidity and alive with the symphony of insects—mosquitoes and flies claim their territory during these warmer months. Savvy campers often discover the campground's true magic during late fall and winter, when crisp air replaces the summer swelter, biting bugs retreat, and moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking and campfire conversations under star-filled skies.
ElevationResting gently at sea level, the campground embraces its coastal heritage, offering the unique experience of camping where forest meets tidewater in perfect harmony.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where towering loblolly pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their needles whispering ancient coastal secrets. The Newport River flows past your campsite, its waters eventually joining the vast Bogue Sound in a timeless dance of fresh and salt. Venture beyond your tent and discover the mysterious beauty of cypress swamps, where knobby knees rise from tea-colored water, and thick bog vegetation creates an emerald maze that harbors countless species. This is coastal pine forest at its finest—wild, beautiful, and wonderfully alive.
Geological RegionYour camping adventure unfolds within the remarkable 160,000-acre Croatan National Forest, a coastal treasure in eastern North Carolina where ancient pine forests meet maritime influences. The campground's prime location along the Newport River places you at the intersection of diverse ecosystems—watch as the river winds its way toward Bogue Sound, eventually joining the famous Intracoastal Waterway. This unique geological position creates a rich tapestry of habitats, from upland pine savannas to tidal marshes, making every exploration a journey through multiple worlds.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, large, and well-spaced for privacy. Some sites offer paths to water.
Sites PrivacyMost campsites are private and well-separated by vegetation. However, recent tree thinning due to maintenance has reduced privacy in some areas.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to water (such as 9, 11, and 15) are recommended for views and kayak access. Sites with higher numbers tend to offer more privacy.
Best CampsitesCampsites 9, 11, and 15 are highly recommended for their proximity to water and privacy. Site 5 is noted for good hammock and tent camping.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days with a mandatory 16-day break before returning.
Guests Allowed Per Site
8per single site, 16 per double site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are large and well-spaced for privacy, some of which have paths leading to the Newport River.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, both online and via the mobile app.
Walk-in Availability1 campsite is first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved ahead of time. It requires in-person payment upon arrival.
Cancellation PolicyReservations cancelled within 3 days of arrival may result in loss of one or more nights' fees. Refunds are not provided for early check-outs, inclement weather, or Scan & Pay transactions.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides opportunities for a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. It is also the trailhead for the 21-mile Neusiok Trail.
Hiking
Oyster Point Campground serves as a trailhead for the Neusiok Trail, a 21-mile trail that winds through cypress swamps, pine forests, and bogs. Some reviews noted the trails were overgrown or poorly maintained in sections.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the Newport River, which is adjacent to the campground. Anglers can enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities.Biking
While biking on the Neusiok Trail is an option, some sections of the trail are overgrown or poorly maintained, limiting biking opportunities.Boating
The campground offers a small hand launch for kayaks and canoes. The Croatan Saltwater Trail is accessible from the campground, offering paddling opportunities between the Bogue Sound and Neuse River.Wildlife viewing
The campground's location in the Croatan National Forest provides opportunities for observing local wildlife. Visitors have reported seeing deer, crabs, and a variety of bird species.Winter Activities
Limited information is available about winter activities, but some visitors have noted a quieter and less buggy experience during off-peak seasons.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular activities at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings at each site. Firewood is not sold but can be gathered from downed trees.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBiting insects are common during warm months, including mosquitoes, flies, and no-see-ums. Hurricanes and tropical storms may also impact the campground due to its coastal location.
Active alertsSeasonal closures may occur due to hurricanes or tropical storms. Check weather forecasts before arriving.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Carteret Health Care hospital in Morehead City (approx. 12 miles away). Police and emergency services are available in Newport.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st - December 31st (entire year is considered peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, though some reviews noted overflowing receptacles and litter near campsites.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Newport River and nearby trails leading to Bogue Sound. The campground offers canoe and kayak launching points.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include biting insects, potholes on the entrance road, and minimal facilities such as vault toilets without running water. Some reviews also mention issues with campsite cleanliness and host behavior.
HostCampground hosts, frequently mentioned as Tonya and others, are described as friendly and helpful. Hosts assist with reservations and ensure campsite availability.
Campground Map
Forest Road 181, New Port, NC, 28570
Driving directionsFrom Newport, take SR 1154 to Forest Road 181 and turn right.
The road to the campground, Forest Road 181, is gravel and described as having severe potholes and soft shoulders, which can be difficult for RVs and low-clearance vehicles. Some reviews mention that the road has been graded recently, but others warn about the possibility of vehicles getting stuck.Nearby places
Newport (approx. 7 miles), Morehead City (approx. 12 miles), Atlantic Beach (approx. 14 miles). Travel times vary based on traffic conditions.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials can be found in Newport and Morehead City. Food Lion and Shortway Brewery are specifically mentioned as nearby resources.
Camper Reviews
4.1
99 reviews
Oyster Point Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Oyster Point Campground are mixed, with sentiments ranging from highly positive about the peaceful setting and affordability to complaints about bugs, maintenance, and lack of amenities. Many highlight the friendly campground host as a positive feature.
Review Summaries
Based on 99 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the spacious and private campsites, friendly and helpful campground hosts, and peaceful atmosphere. Access to the Newport River and Neusiok Trail were considered major draws.
Based on 99 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent complaints include the abundance of bugs, especially mosquitoes and flies, during warmer months. Other issues cited were poor road maintenance leading to the campground, litter, and lack of...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing bug spray, preparing for primitive camping conditions, and visiting during cooler months to avoid bugs. The Neusiok Trail and kayak access are noted as highlights.
Based on 99 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter and fall are noted as the best seasons for camping, with fewer bugs and cooler temperatures. Summer camping experiences are commonly marred by high heat, humidity, and bug infestations.
Based on 99 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Loved this campground! The sites were nice and large, the fire pit was nice, and the view of the lake was absolutely gorgeous." — Baylee Jennings
"The camp is nice but it should be closed during...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 is frequently recommended for its proximity to water and privacy. Site 09 is noted for having a path to the water. Site 01 offers a river view and easy kayak access. Site 05 is described as...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews lack detailed accounts of accessibility features for disabled campers, though some mention the presence of a campground host available for assistance.
Based on 99 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but several reviews stress the importance of keeping dogs on leashes, with some users reporting conflicts with other campers over pet management.
Based on 99 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025