Covering 159,586 acres of New Bern, Croatan National Forest consists mostly of pine and swamp hardwoods. It contains many estuaries and waterfowl nesting areas, as well as public beaches. Three designated areas within the forest provide recreational facilities. Canoes or small boats are suited for navigation of the White Oak River and other coastal waterways. Cedar Point Tideland Trail, an elevated boardwalk, winds through tidal marsh areas and forests. Interpretive signs are found along both the 1- and 2-hour loops of the trail. Open Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm, March 14-December 1; closed holidays.