This could have been a story about an awesome trip to the Outer Banks, the famous barrier islands that are a hugely popular vacation destination and which inspired those ubiquitous OBX bumper stickers. I was planning my list of OBX activities and researching Outer Banks AirBnBs to spend a few days in.
But it takes a long time to drive all the way out there, and during my North Carolina visit, I didn’t have the time to make the extra-long voyage. So after passing through the city of New Bern, a friend and I settled for the next best thing – some camping in Croatan National Forest and a stop in some beach towns on barrier islands near Bogue Sound in the southeast part of the state.
Camping at Croatan National Forest
The camping experience itself wasn’t anything out of the ordinary. We drove up, set up the tent, did a bit of hiking in the woods, enjoyed the scenery, started a fire, roasted marshmallows. The usual. But I loved it because any chance to get out of the sometimes-suffocating city environment for some peace and quiet and nature relaxation is very welcome in my world.
For more specific info on the campgrounds of Croatan National Forest, check out the official page.
Heading to the Beach!
The next morning, we left Croatan National Forest for the town of Atlantic Beach for an ocean visit. The cool thing about this part of North Carolina is that the ocean is less than an hour’s drive from the national forest. Camping and beaches in one day!
So much for that “no dogs allowed” sign.
I cannot overstate how much I love the beach. As someone who grew up inland and only saw the ocean once before age 25, every beach visit is a big deal and something I never take lightly.
Even the simplicity of shells and rocks in the sand can be fascinating. This photo is so artsy. It looks like it should be an album cover or something.
It’s a shame no one was playing volleyball here. I would have joined in and dominated the competition.
Vehicles on the beach. Apparently this is a normal thing in the south. It always seems really odd to me.
Near the beach I encountered my first-ever duck-crossing sign.
Wouldn’t it be great to own a beach house?
I always love all the little surf shops near the ocean.
But this one’s a little lost. The Pacific Superstore. Someone should tell them they’re next to the Atlantic Ocean. What an embarrassing gaffe!
Before leaving the beach, I had to leave evidence of my visit. It didn’t remain intact for long, but that’s ok. I’ll be back.
