Tent camping near Atlantic Beach, North Carolina requires preparation for coastal conditions. The area experiences humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F and moderate winters around 50-60°F. Campsites frequently experience strong coastal breezes, and salt spray affects gear even at inland locations. Most tent sites near Atlantic Beach lack natural shade, requiring campers to bring portable shade options.
What to do
Beach activities at dawn: Onslow Beach Campsites offers excellent early morning shelling opportunities. "We have found many shark teeth on the beach and made great memories wake boarding and relaxing," reports one visitor to this military-access campground.
Fishing from multiple locations: White Oak River Campground provides access to freshwater fishing in addition to coastal options. "Multiple ponds and frisbee golf course" are available according to a camper, making it versatile for different outdoor interests.
Paddle to remote sites: Hammocks Beach Bear Island Campsites offers kayaking routes for experienced paddlers. "We kayaked from the park office and boat launch. The route was difficult for me, the tide was coming in plus a strong wind, it took us about an hour to get to the island," notes one camper who reached the paddle-in sites.
What campers like
Privacy behind dunes: The campground layout at Onslow Beach Campsites provides shelter from constant winds. "Nice and quiet" with sites positioned strategically for comfort according to a camper who appreciated the protected setting.
Extended beach access: Many campers value the ability to enjoy the beach beyond typical day-use hours. "This is a great place for any military or retired military member to go. The beach is amazing and the sights are nice too," explains a visitor to Onslow Beach.
Vineyard camping atmosphere: Phoenix Farms Vineyard offers an alternative to beach camping with unique agricultural surroundings. "The hosts are friendly, and the fire is warm. It's so fun to see all of the animals. The property is beautiful, and the camp spot is private," notes a recent visitor.
What you should know
Military ID requirements: Access to certain prime camping areas is restricted. "You must have a DOD ID for access," explains a visitor to Onslow Beach Campsites, adding "No service for AT&T or WiFi" regarding connectivity limitations.
Changing campground status: Always call ahead to confirm operational details. "Called the number for information. She said this campground was sold and is now called Coastal Carolina Campground," reports a visitor to Coastal Riverside Campground, highlighting the importance of verifying current information.
Transport logistics: Beach island camping requires considerable planning. "Access will be a challenge for some. There is a state ferry that runs through the day (in season), but does not allow a cart to carry stuff. It's a long walk!" explains a camper at Bear Island who recommends bringing a utility cart for gear transport.
Tips for camping with families
Prepare for hot conditions: Tent camping in central locations often lacks shade. "We were in the center section, no tree coverage, so it was really hot and there was no breeze. Our tarp and awning really helped," advises a family who stayed at Onslow Beach Campsites during summer.
Consider alternative accommodations: White Oak River Campground provides options for families who prefer tree coverage. "Most of the tent sites are out in the open. We got lucky and got one," notes a camper who secured one of the limited shaded sites.
Plan for insects: Coastal areas have significant mosquito populations. "The mosquitos are horrible so bring bug spray," warns a camper at Haywood Landing Recreation Site, emphasizing the need for appropriate insect protection at all coastal tent sites.
Tips from RVers
Limited access for large RVs: Camping areas often have size restrictions. "Great for a weekend tent trip, most RV spots are used by permanent users," explains a visitor to White Oak River Campground noting the limited availability.
Hookup variability: Haywood Landing Recreation Site offers primitive sites without standard RV amenities. The free camping comes with vault toilets but lacks water hookups, requiring complete self-sufficiency for campers in RVs.
Shower facilities: Many tent-focused campgrounds provide limited or no shower facilities. At Phoenix Farms Vineyard, campers report having "plenty of space for our RV" but note the absence of shower facilities, requiring alternative hygiene planning.
