Camper submitted image from Carova sands - 1

View Photos

Camper submitted image from Carova sands - 2
Facilities
Camper submitted image from Carova sands - 3
Camping
Camper submitted image from Carova sands - 4
Roads
Camper submitted image from Carova sands - 5
Nature
Unlock Planning Tools in App

Verified

Established Camping

Carova sands

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Carova Sands, near the Outer Banks of North Carolina, is a unique camping spot that offers a truly primitive experience. With just three sites available, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in nature.

This campground is all about the wild side of camping. Visitors rave about the chance to see wild horses, deer, and even dolphins during their stay. One camper shared, “I was lucky enough to see the wild horses at camp & at the beach 3 out of 4 days I was there.” Just remember, this isn’t your typical campground—there are no water or toilet facilities, so come prepared with your own supplies.

The location is right on the sound and close to the beach, making it ideal for kayaking and exploring the beautiful surroundings. Campers have enjoyed hiking the beach and biking through nearby trails, with one reviewer noting, “I kayaked on the calm waters of the sound...hiked the beach and biked the trails.”

Greg and Mary, the hosts, are known for their hospitality and helpfulness, ensuring that you feel right at home. As one visitor put it, “Greg is an amazing communicator...he gave great instructions for finding the camp site.” If you’re up for an adventure and have a 4x4 vehicle, Carova Sands is definitely worth checking out for a memorable camping experience.

Location

Carova sands is located in North Carolina

Detail location of campground

Directions

Requires four-wheel-drive to access property. Must drive down Beach to reach campsite.

Coordinates

36.4168633365133 N
75.84055850643706 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

The Dyrt Alerts

Get reservations at sold-out campgrounds.

Learn More
Presented byT Mobile

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Pets

Contact

General Info


2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

100%
0%
0%
0%
0%

5.0

out of 5

5 Reviews

Reviewed May. 28, 2024

Fantastic adventure

That was a great experience! Go there only if Greg says it's ok. He knows how demanding it can be to get to his ground if you're not used to driving off-road. You need a 4x4 car. Wonderful five star primitive campground. No water, no toilet. Bring your own. Explore the property, the sound and the sea. We saw deer, wild horses, coyotes, eagles, turtles, dolphins but also mosquitos and ticks. Bring repellent. I will never forget the two days camping. Greg is a great host! Thank you for this incredible experience!

Siteat the two ponds
Month of VisitMay
  • Can be demanding
    Play button icon
  • Review photo of Carova sands by Bjoern , May 28, 2024
  • Beautiful
    Play button icon
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Apr. 24, 2024

Incredible beautiful place

I am so thankful to Greg and Mary for humbly allowing me to stay on their beautiful property. What a unique and incredible place. The wild horses came to visit me daily, bald eagles, osprey...kayaked on the calm waters of the sound..hiked the beach and biked the trails up through false cape state park. Just an incredible opportunity I am so thankful that I was given, and by the nicest of people you can find. And I'll be back one day for those tires Dave! Haha, thanks to everyone that showed me around, a memory to be cherished.

Siteby the back pond
Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Mar. 17, 2024

The best and most unique camping spot!

I had the privilege of getting to stay on this property for a week while camping and exploring the outdoors in the obx. It was not only beautiful, but felt very safe as well! Greg and his wife Mary were extremely kind! They made an effort to help familiarize myself with the area while checking in and giving tips! I was also lucky enough to see the wild horses at camp & at the beach 3 out of 4 days i was there. This was truly one of the best camping experiences i’ve ever had. If you are ever in the area and craving a unique experience, I recommend reaching out to Greg and considering staying here.

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Carova sands by Taylor P., March 17, 2024
  • Review photo of Carova sands by Taylor P., March 17, 2024
  • Review photo of Carova sands by Taylor P., March 17, 2024
  • (12) View All
Reviewed Feb. 25, 2024

Perfect Getaway

First, Greg is an amazing communicator. He gave great instructions for finding the camp site. Plus, checked in to make sure everything was going ok and gave tips.

It was such a peaceful location and I even had the privilege of seeing a horse on the grounds on 2 different nights.

I’m so glad I had a chance to stay here and hope to have the opportunity to visit in warmer weather.

Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Carova sands by Natasha L., February 25, 2024
  • Review photo of Carova sands by Natasha L., February 25, 2024
  • Review photo of Carova sands by Natasha L., February 25, 2024
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Nov. 5, 2023

First camper

This is a must see spot. It is located right on the sound and the beach. It is located on private property that requires 4 wheel drive capable vehicle to access. You have to drive down the beach to reach this spot. Greg and his wife were extremely friendly and wanted to share the amazing property that they own. They have a dock with access to the sound which I used to explore the sound on my kayak. I recommend giving Greg a call if you want to experience a very unique and amazing camping experience.

Sitedispersed
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Carova sands by Connor D., November 5, 2023
  • Review photo of Carova sands by Connor D., November 5, 2023
  • Review photo of Carova sands by Connor D., November 5, 2023
  • (5) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What permits or passes are required for camping at Carova Beach?

Camping at Carova Sands requires direct permission from the property owners. No formal permits are issued, but you must contact Greg (the owner) in advance to get approval to camp on his private property. He provides detailed instructions for finding the campsite and accessing the area. Since this is private land rather than public beach, standard beach camping permits don't apply to this specific location.

Is camping allowed on Carova Beach?

Yes, camping is allowed at Carova Sands, but it's important to note this is a private property camping area requiring permission from the owners, Greg and Mary. You must have a 4-wheel drive vehicle to access the site, as you'll need to drive on the beach to reach this location. The campground offers a unique experience with its position between the sound and the beach in the Outer Banks.

What amenities or facilities are available for campers at Carova Beach?

Carova Sands is a primitive campground with minimal amenities. There is no running water or toilet facilities, so campers need to bring their own supplies and be prepared for self-contained camping. The location offers natural amenities including beach access and sound access for activities like kayaking. The property's main appeal is its natural setting, wildlife viewing opportunities (including wild horses, bald eagles, and osprey), and the peaceful, remote environment.

What's the best time of year for camping at Carova Beach?

Spring through fall provides the most comfortable camping experience at Carova Sands. The area offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities year-round, including wild horses that frequently visit the property. Summer brings warmer temperatures ideal for beach activities and swimming, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures with fewer crowds. Weather conditions can affect beach driving conditions, so checking the forecast before your trip is advisable. The property's location between the sound and ocean provides diverse outdoor recreational opportunities regardless of when you visit.