Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Currituck Sound, the beautiful chain of barrier islands known as the Outer Banks (OBX) offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure. With over 100 miles of pristine beaches, pristine maritime forests, and abundant wildlife, the OBX is an ideal destination for camping enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience.
To help you plan your camping getaway, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide featuring the 10 Best Campgrounds in the Outer Banks. From secluded waterfront spots to family-friendly campgrounds, this guide has something for every camper. So, pack your tent, gather your camping gear, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the breathtaking Outer Banks.
The Outer Banks boasts a vibrant culture deeply rooted in its maritime heritage. The local communities celebrate their rich history through festivals, seafood-centric dining options, and traditional crafts. The locals are known for their warm hospitality and genuine Southern charm, ensuring that visitors feel welcomed during their stay.
To experience the best weather conditions and avoid large crowds, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). During these months, the temperatures are pleasant, and the beaches are less crowded, providing an ideal setting to fully appreciate the pristine beauty of the OBX.
The Outer Banks is conveniently accessible by car via US Highway 64 or by plane into the Dare County Regional Airport (FFA). Once on the islands, visitors can take advantage of the local transportation system, which includes buses, taxis, and ferries. The Outer Banks has a wide range of local food options, from casual seafood shacks to fine-dining establishments. Be sure to sample the local delicacies, such as fresh oysters, steamed shrimp, and North Carolina-style barbecue. For those seeking upscale accommodations, various hotels and resorts offer luxurious amenities and stunning ocean views.
1. Coquina Beach Campground
Secluded Waterfront Haven
Coquina Beach Campground, situated on the northernmost tip of Ocracoke Island, offers a secluded and tranquil camping experience. Nestled amidst towering maritime forests and overlooking the picturesque Pamlico Sound, this campground is a haven for nature lovers and water enthusiasts. Campers can choose from a variety of campsites, including waterfront sites with stunning views of the sound. With its pristine beaches just steps away, Coquina Beach Campground provides an ideal setting for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
2. Cape Point Campground
Family-Friendly Adventure
Cape Point Campground, located on the southern tip of Hatteras Island, is a popular destination for families seeking a fun and adventure-filled camping experience. This campground boasts a wide range of amenities, including a large playground, a splash pad, and a dog park. The spacious campsites offer ample room for tents and RVs, and the campground’s central location provides easy access to the beach, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and other attractions. Cape Point Campground is perfect for families with diverse interests, as it offers something for everyone.
3. Jockey’s Ridge State Park Campground
Camping at the Edge of Adventure
Jockey’s Ridge State Park Campground is nestled amidst the towering sand dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast. This campground offers a unique and exhilarating experience, with campsites located on the edge of the dunes. Campers can enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Roanoke Sound, and the surrounding maritime forest. The campground is also a popular spot for hang gliding and kite flying, providing an unforgettable blend of camping and adventure.
4. Frisco Woods Campground
Tranquil Oasis in the Forest
Tucked away in a tranquil maritime forest on Hatteras Island, Frisco Woods Campground offers a serene and peaceful camping experience. Surrounded by towering pine trees and the soothing sounds of nature, this campground provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Campers can choose from a variety of campsites, including secluded sites nestled among the trees and open sites with ample sunlight. The campground’s central location provides easy access to nearby beaches, shops, and restaurants, making it an ideal base for exploring the southern Outer Banks.
5. Oregon Inlet Campground
Gateway to Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
Oregon Inlet Campground is situated on the northern tip of Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. This campground offers a unique opportunity to camp amidst the diverse ecosystems of the refuge, including maritime forests, marshes, and beaches. Campers can choose from campsites surrounded by towering trees or open sites offering stunning views of the Pamlico Sound. The campground is also adjacent to the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center, providing easy access to fishing and other water activities.
6. Waves Village Campground
Oceanfront Camping Paradise
Waves Village Campground is an oceanfront paradise located on Hatteras Island. This campground offers a variety of campsites, including spacious RV sites with full hookups and tent sites just steps from the beach. Campers can enjoy stunning sunrise and sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean, as well as easy access to swimming, surfing, and fishing. Waves Village Campground also features a large pool, a playground, and a camp store, providing a convenient and comfortable camping experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Seagull Landing Campground
Secluded Beachfront Retreat
Seagull Landing Campground, nestled on the northern tip of Roanoke Island, is a secluded beachfront retreat surrounded by pristine maritime forests. This campground offers a variety of campsites, including oceanfront sites with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, and kayaking right from the campground, as well as access to the nearby Roanoke Island Festival Park. With its tranquil setting and convenient location, Seagull Landing Campground is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating camping experience.
8. Bodie Island Lighthouse Campground
Historic Charm by the Sea
Bodie Island Lighthouse Campground is located on the northern tip of Bodie Island, overlooking the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. This campground offers a unique opportunity to camp near the iconic Bodie Island Lighthouse, a historic landmark dating back to the mid-19th century. Campers can choose from campsites nestled among towering pine trees or open sites with stunning water views. The campground also features a bathhouse with modern amenities and a camp store providing basic supplies. Bodie Island Lighthouse Campground is a perfect blend of history and nature, offering a memorable camping experience.
9. South Beach Campground
Unwind in Nature’s Embrace
South Beach Campground, situated on the southern tip of Ocracoke Island, offers a secluded and serene camping experience. Surrounded by pristine beaches, maritime forests, and the tranquil waters of the Pamlico Sound, this campground is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Campers can choose from a variety of campsites nestled among the trees or open sites with stunning water views. The campground also features a bathhouse with modern amenities and a camp store providing basic supplies. South Beach Campground is perfect for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating camping experience in the heart of nature.
10. Cedar Island Campground
Coastal Paradise with Modern Amenities
Cedar Island Campground is located on the quiet and charming Cedar Island, surrounded by the pristine waters of the Pamlico Sound. This campground offers a variety of campsites, including spacious RV sites with full hookups and primitive tent sites amidst the maritime forest. Campers can enjoy easy access to the nearby beach, as well as a variety of water activities such as fishing, crabbing, and kayaking. The campground also features a modern bathhouse, a playground, and a camp store, providing a comfortable and convenient camping experience. Cedar Island Campground is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the Outer Banks while enjoying modern amenities.
Whether you seek a secluded waterfront haven, a family-friendly adventure, or a tranquil retreat amidst nature, the Outer Banks has a campground to match every preference. From the pristine beaches of Cape Point to the towering sand dunes of Jockey’s Ridge, the diverse landscapes of the OBX provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable camping experience. So gather your loved ones, pack your camping gear, and embark on a journey filled with adventure and cherished memories in the 10 Best Campgrounds in the Outer Banks.
