Typically, when people think of camping, they imagine going out into the woods and hunkering down for a few days (or weeks) while hiking and exploring the great wilderness. However, if you’re in North Carolina, you can trade the forest for the beach at one of the several, beautiful Outer Banks campgrounds.
Fortunately,beach camping in North Carolinais easy if you head over to the Outer Banks. This strip of islands off the coast offers some incredible views and lots of natural beauty to enjoy during your stay. Best of all, there are tons of different campgrounds available, so you’re not lacking in options. We’ve compiled a list of the top nineOuter Banks campgroundsfor your convenience.
A Brief Introduction toOuter Banks Camping
Before packing your bags and pitching a tent on the sand, you need to know what to expect before heading to the Outer Banks. Here are some top tips from insiders on what to do to make camping in the Outer Banks more enjoyable:
- Book Early–Outer Banks campgroundscan fill up fast, particularly during the hot summer months. While you may be able to get lucky with a last-minute booking, it’s much better to reserve a spot well in advance.
- RV vs. Tent Camping– Almost all of the campgrounds in this area can accommodate both RVs and tents, so you can decide whether you want to experience the beach from the comfort of a motorhome or by sleeping on the sand. Also, there are RV and cabin rental options along the strip, so you don’t even need to bring your own accommodations.
- Amenities Vary– SomeOuter Banks campgroundsare “no frills,” meaning you get little more than a patch of land for your stay. Other sites may have showers, hot water hookups, and other amenities to make your stay more enjoyable. Know your needs and plan accordingly.
- No Permits Required– As long as you stay in officialOuter Banks campgrounds, you don’t need a camping permit. You may also be allowed to bring dogs, but you might have to pay an extra fee. Camping on the beach is not allowed.
The 9 BestOuter Banks Campgrounds
Whether you want to camp in paradise or prefer something a bit more rustic,Outer Banks campinghas it all. Here are our top nine picks, although there are more spots available if you know where to look.
Camp Hatteras RV Resort and Campground
When looking at differentOuter Banks campgrounds, you’ll notice that they’ll often be “oceanside” or “sound side,” but never both. However,Camp Hatterasspans the entire width of the island, so you can choose on which side you’d like to stay. As an RV resort, you get access to amenities like showers, laundry services, and even a pool. There’s also a playground if you’re traveling with kids, along with a mini golf course and a game room.
Although Camp Hatteras caters to RVers, you can also reserve tent sites. However, since the campground is comprised of RV sites, each location is a concrete pad, so you won’t be camping on sand. Some people prefer this type of setup while others would prefer more of a natural setting.
Oregon Inlet Campground
If you’re into fishing, you should book a spot in the Oregon Inlet Campground. This site is located at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, which is one of the prettiestOuter Banks campgroundsin the region.
What makes this spot perfect for anglers is that the inlet has a fishing center, where you can book charters or rent a boat if you have your own fishing equipment. But, if you’re not interested in fishing, the site is still gorgeous and offers some of the best beach camping around. If you want to sleep next to the sand, this site is perfect for that.
As far as amenities,Oregon Inlethas showers and restrooms with potable water. Each campsite also includes a parking pad, charcoal grill, and a picnic table. If you’re coming in an RV, there are limited hookups, so you have to book well in advance to ensure you can reserve a spot.
READ MORE: Best Campgrounds Near Emerald Isle, North Carolina
Cape Hatteras KOA Resort
If you’re an avid camper, you’re already familiar with KOA campsites, which offer basic amenities and affordable reservation rates. This spot, however, is a full-on resort with a swimming pool and clubhouse. It’s situated between Camp Hatteras and Ocean Waves, so it’s next to the highway and is close to many other amenities and restaurants nearby.
This Outer Banks campground also has a fewunique amenitiesto make your stay more convenient and enjoyable. Examples include a fish cleaning station, water slides, an express fun train, and an outdoor cinema. The KOA often hosts movie nights throughout the summer as an ideal family activity.
READ MORE: Best Beach Camping in North Carolina
Cape Point Campground
Hatteras Island is a major tourist destination, even when you’re not talking aboutOuter Banks camping.Cape Point campgroundis at the southern tip of the island, so it has some of the best views in the area. However, the campsite is also on a salt marsh, so flooding is common at different times of the year.
This campground has basic amenities, including bathrooms and showers, but it’s not a resort like Camp Hatteras. Beach access is abundant, and you’ll be within walking distance of Cape Point, which is a perfect place to launch watercraft or go windsurfing.
If you go a little way north, you can also check out the Cape Hatteras lighthouse. There are actually two lighthouses – the original and the replacement. So, feel free to visit both if you have some extra time.
READ MORE: Best Hiking Trails Near Hendersonville, North Carolina
Frisco Campground
As with other campsites in the region, Frisco is a National Park Service campground, so you can only book a reservation via thestate-run website. However, the advantage of camping at one of these sites is that they’re often cheaper and more “rugged.” So, if camping at a resort doesn’t interest you, choosing something like Frisco makes sense.
This campground is also on Hatteras Island on the western edge, so it’s not ideal for watching the sunset. However, it’s still close to the beach and has lots of natural scenery surrounding it. In fact, the Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve is right next door.
OBX Campground
So far, we’ve been looking atOuter Banks campgroundson the Atlantic Ocean side of the islands. OBX Campground, though, is on the Sound side, so it’s a different environment. However, this particular spot is unique because it’s close to Kitty Hawk (where the Wright Brothers first flew), and you can even visit the Wright Brothers Memorial next door.
This campground is next to a small chain of islands and Kitty Hawk Bay, so there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you and your family occupied. One thing to keep in mind is thatOBXonly has RV sites, so you can’t book a reservation if you’re planning to sleep in a tent.
READ MORE: 8 Best Campgrounds Near Wilmington, North Carolina
Ocean Waves Campground
This campsite is just a bit south of Camp Hatteras along Highway 12. Most campgrounds along this section have amenities and are similar to an outdoor resort more than a traditional campsite. It’s also smaller than Camp Hatteras, so spots can book up fast.
As the name suggests,Ocean Wavessits on the Atlantic ocean side of the island, and it comes with restrooms, hot showers, a game room, cable TV, and a swimming pool. At this campground, you can’t have any campfires or shoot off fireworks, so keep that in mind depending on the time of year you’re visiting.
Ocraco*ke Island Campground
As you may have guessed, this campground is situated on Ocraco*ke Island, which is almost at the southernmost tip of the Outer Banks island chain. Unlike other spots on this list, the only way to get here is by boat or air, so you either have to take the ferry over or charter a small boat to bring you and your supplies. However, this setup means you can feel more isolated from the hustle and bustle of the mainland, which many campers prefer to something that’s close to the city.
Although Ocraco*ke Island Campground allowsRVs under 40 feet, they can be expensive to ferry across, and there’s no electricity at the campground, so you can’t plug in. For that reason, we recommend booking a tent site so you don’t have to worry about draining batteries. Another point to consider is that there’s no shade on the island, so plan accordingly.
The Refuge on Roanoke Island
If you’re familiar with American colonial history, you know that Roanoke Island was the site of one of the first settlements. Although the settlers here disappeared suddenly, the island is still a wonderful place to visit, particularly if you enjoy nature. This campground is on the southern tip, and the Roanoke Nature Preserve is just a short distance north.
The Refugeis an RV park near the Outer Banks, so it doesn’t allow tent camping, but it includes various amenities like water, electricity, showers, a pool, a clubhouse, and trash service. You can also book an extended stay if you decide you like the island and want to stay for more than a weekend. Although it’s not Oceanside, you still get incredible sunset views, and you’re next to Roanoke Sound, so you’re still on the water.
Explore Other Campgrounds in North Carolina
The Outer Banks offers a variety of excellent campgrounds for both tent and RV enthusiasts. From the serene sounds of the ocean or the sound, these nine campgrounds provide the perfect escape for those looking to connect with nature.
While these campgrounds may be some of the best in the state, there are plenty of other great options throughout North Carolina. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the scene, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful state. Read our guide on the best campgrounds in North Carolina to plan your next trip!
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