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Cedar Point Tideland Trail

Croatan National Forest, North Carolina · 3 min read

Distance
2 mi
Elevation Gain
5 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
year-round
Est. Time
1-1.5 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
None
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Saltmarsh boardwalk through Spartina grass and tidal flat habitat
  • White Cedar Swamp, a rare Atlantic white cedar bog visible from the trail
  • Access to the White Oak River estuary with water views
  • Interpretive signs explaining saltmarsh ecology and tidal systems
  • One of the most accessible saltmarsh walks in the Croatan
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Overview

The Cedar Point Tideland Trail loops through saltmarsh, tidal flat, and Atlantic white cedar swamp at the confluence of the White Oak River estuary in Croatan National Forest. The 2.0-mile loop includes boardwalk sections over the Spartina marsh, interpretive signs explaining coastal plain ecology, and estuary shoreline access. This is the most accessible introduction to the saltwater side of the Croatan's diverse habitats.

No permit required. Dogs are welcome on leash.

The Route

Full loop (2.0 miles). From the SR-1114 trailhead, the trail follows a combination of boardwalk and natural surface path through the marsh fringe and into the interior cedar swamp area. The White Cedar Swamp section features stands of Atlantic white cedar, a rare coastal tree, in a saturated peat environment. The trail reaches the estuary shoreline for water views before looping back through the Spartina marsh. Most visitors complete the loop in 45 to 60 minutes.

When to Hike

Year-round accessibility makes Cedar Point one of the few Croatan trails suitable for any season.

Fall and winter for migratory waterfowl on the estuary and cooler, drier conditions.

Spring for marsh bird activity and the fresh Spartina green of new growth.

Summer is possible but heat and insects (particularly no-see-ums and mosquitoes near the marsh) are intense.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 0.5 to 1 liter of water for this short loop. Insect repellent is strongly recommended from May through October. Binoculars for estuary bird watching.

Trailhead Access

SR-1114 near Swansboro, accessed from NC-24. About 15 miles southwest of Morehead City and 10 miles east of Jacksonville. The trailhead is well signed.

Nearby

The Long Point Trail provides the peninsula estuary experience from the New Bern side of the forest. See the full Croatan National Forest guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles in the saltmarsh and boardwalk areas.

Before any outing in East Texas national forest terrain, review the checking conditions guide for current information on trail conditions, fire restrictions, and wildlife alerts from official USFS sources.

The America the Beautiful pass covers day-use fees at developed recreation areas throughout the national forest system. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in the veteran benefits guide.

East Texas national forests experience hot and humid conditions from May through September, with mosquito and tick activity year-round. Checking the Leave No Trace seven principles before any visit helps preserve the forest for the next visitor.

Trailhead Parking

Cedar Point Tideland Trailhead off SR-1114 near Swansboro. Paved lot. No fee. Pit toilet at trailhead.

← Back to Croatan National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the White Oak River estuary?
The White Oak River flows through the Croatan National Forest before entering the White Oak River estuary near Swansboro. The estuary is a productive transition zone between fresh and saltwater, supporting extensive saltmarsh, oyster reefs, and nursery habitat for commercially important fish and shellfish. The Cedar Point Trail provides shoreline access to the estuary.
Is Cedar Point Tideland Trail good for children?
Yes. The Cedar Point Tideland Trail is one of the better options in the Croatan for families with young children. The boardwalk sections provide stable footing over the marsh, the distance is short, and interpretive signs explain the ecology in accessible language. The flat terrain and clear destination keep the walk engaging for younger hikers.
Are there alligators near Cedar Point?
American alligators are present in the freshwater and brackish water areas of the Croatan, including near Cedar Point. They are a normal part of the coastal plain ecosystem. Alligators typically avoid humans but should not be approached or fed. The USFS recommends staying on the trail and boardwalk and keeping dogs on leash near any water.