I’ve been exploring some of the trails and waterways near Dixon Field Landing (also part of the Croatan National Forest). I decided the best swimming hole is still at the sharp bend just north of the landing. However, there are some really nice places to hang out and camp a bit further up river. It’s a super short walk from the parking lot (under a 1/2 mile) and it’s fairly remote. My only complaint about that area is the noise from the motocross park that is a little further up HW58 towards Maysville. It’s not a huge deal, but you can hear the ATVs and dirt bikes. I think it’s just far enough from where vehicles can navigate that you’d enjoy a reasonably private camping experience, but it is closer to the road than I usually camp. Definitely a great spot for an overnight, group camp and the river views are very nice.
I also did some exploring along the streams that feed into the White Oak just north of the landing. Sadly, almost everything is dried up. Streams I’ve kayaked in the past are now just a series of muddy puddles … complete with sunbathing water moccasins!
If you were looking to explore the beaver pond on foot, now would be the time. It’s a little muddy in places, but those are easy to avoid. The young cypress trees are a beautiful shade of green and the entire scene is very lush and green.
I threw my hanging hammock chair up by the river and took a dip to cool off. The river near the stream isn’t as good for swimming, but it’s deep enough to get completely immersed … if you dare to temp the giant alligators I keep hearing about.
There are many places to explore in the Croatan, and they vary so much in terrain, flora and fauna. I am so grateful to have such a place to spend time, so close to home. I am planning a couple trips to the mountains this summer (near the Blue Ridge Parkway), but I’d be happy, even if I couldn’t make it. I can still find places to get lost, right here in my local forest.
There is no such thing as a bad day on the trail … well, that’s not entirely true, but it sounds good.
