RV campgrounds near Atlantic Beach, North Carolina provide waterfront access along the southern Outer Banks barrier islands where the average elevation is less than 10 feet above sea level. The coastal climate features hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 40°F. Most campgrounds in the region remain operational year-round, though seasonal facilities typically close from December through February when tourist traffic diminishes.
What to do
Fishing access: Seahaven Marine RV Park provides direct marina access for anglers seeking inshore species. "You can fish off the dock," notes one camper, highlighting the convenience for those without boats.
Beach exploration: Camp near Fort Macon State Park, a Civil War fort with museum exhibits and protected beaches. "We enjoyed visiting Fort Macon, Patsys pond national Forest, Shackleford Banks and the beach," reports one camper at Waters Edge RV Park, which offers convenient access to multiple coastal attractions.
Wildlife viewing: Visit nearby Shackleford Banks to observe wild horses from designated viewing areas. "The ferry dropped us off for 2 hours to walk the beach, hike and view the wild horses on Harker's Island," shares a camper who stayed at Dixon Landing RV Resort, noting the 90-minute journey including two ferry rides.
What campers like
Waterfront sunsets: Many campgrounds offer water views with memorable evening skies. "We loved walking to the dock on the property where you could see the sunrise and sunset," writes a Waters Edge RV Park guest who appreciated the waterfront amenities.
Family-friendly pools: The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort maintains a pool that receives positive reviews from families. "We stayed from Fri to Sun and we enjoyed every moment we stayed. Caught fish and enjoyed the pool," shares one camper who took advantage of multiple recreational options.
Peaceful atmosphere: Smaller campgrounds provide quieter experiences away from busier tourist areas. "We enjoyed the absolute quiet, waking up to sunrise glinting off the wide river in every window, fishing from the banks, land and sea wildlife, gorgeous sunsets over the river, and hearing whip-or-wills serenade after sunset," notes a Dixon Landing visitor describing the natural surroundings.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Summer brings significant tourist traffic to coastal campgrounds. "This place is always busy and I would avoid it on holidays or weekends if you can," advises one camper about Seahaven Marine RV Park, suggesting off-peak visits for a more relaxed experience.
Mixed site quality: Some campgrounds reserve premium spots for long-term guests. "The biggest downfall to this facility is that the nice campsites are only reserved for seasonal or year-round campers. Anyone there for days - weeks stay get a full-sun site," explains a visitor to Whispering Pines Campground.
Internet connectivity: Wi-Fi quality varies significantly between properties. "The only real downside was the Wi-Fi. It's pretty slow (under 2 Mbps) and gets worse on weekends," reports a camper who stayed at Emerald Isle RV Resort during the off-season.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Several campgrounds feature swimming pools as alternatives to ocean swimming. "The pool is amazing! The slide is so fun! It has 3ft all the way to 6ft roped off sections in the pool!" exclaims a visitor to Goose Creek Campground, describing the family-friendly aquatic facilities.
Recreation planning: Consider campgrounds with on-site activities for children. The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort offers fishing ponds and golf cart rentals, with one camper sharing: "Caught fish and enjoyed the pool. And the golf cart rental was awesome too."
Pest awareness: Prepare for common coastal insects. "Ant piles everywhere and ants all over our chairs and outdoor rugs. Dogs couldn't get a spot without ants," warns a Whispering Pines Campground visitor, suggesting campers bring appropriate pest control products.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare leveling equipment for unpaved sites. "Un-level gravel camper parking areas made it hard to get our camper level," reports a Whispering Pines Campground visitor, highlighting a common challenge at coastal campgrounds with sandy or gravel pads.
Beach proximity considerations: Oceanfront RV sites offer convenience but may lack protection from elements. "We camped right up against tall grassy dunes so we were protected from the wind. Could hear the ocean at night," shares an Emerald Isle RV Resort camper who appreciated the natural windbreak.
Seasonal pricing variations: Many RV campgrounds implement significant price increases during peak season. Off-season stays offer better value for budget-conscious travelers, with one visitor noting they "stayed at Emerald Isle RV Park for a full month right after Labor Day" when the property was "quiet and relaxing, mostly just the permanent sites around."
