Beaufort, North Carolina sits on the state's central coastline where freshwater rivers meet the Atlantic Ocean. Winter temperatures range from 35-60°F while summer months typically reach 75-90°F with high humidity. Camping options include oceanfront sites on barrier islands, riverside spots with water access, and inland farm stays within 30 minutes of downtown Beaufort.
What to do
Kayaking at South Core Banks: Launch directly from campsites at South Core Banks for ocean paddling. "If you're looking to camp on the beach and escape the crowds, you've found your spot. You need 4WD to get around the island but most of the ferry places have atv rentals," notes a South Core Banks visitor.
Wildlife viewing near Oyster Point: Walk the Mountain-to-Sea trail adjacent to Oyster Point Campground for bird watching and coastal fauna. "It's a nice little campsite by the river, the campsite was very clean, and there are a few trees providing cover, but still enough sun to get some solar, if you need that," reports one camper.
Fishing from campground docks: Several riverside campgrounds offer direct fishing access without leaving the property. "The sites are large and there are fishing boats and golf carts for access to the nearby 'city center' of the cute town of Ocracoke," explains a Teeter's Campground guest.
What campers like
Private beach access: Several campsites on South Core Banks provide personal beach frontage. "We had an awesome trip. The ferry operators were great, they answered all our questions and helped us load and unload our gear. The island is almost completely absent of anything man made, just sand dunes and horses."
Well-maintained camping facilities: Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm offers spotless bathhouses and level sites. "Rest rooms well kept, clean with private single shower. Washer and dryer service located at bath house and close to site area for a reasonable price. Wi-Fi service available and ready."
Affordable yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Beaufort, North Carolina provides budget-friendly accommodations with more comfort than tent camping. "The sites are very large with shade and privacy, next to the Newport river, and very quiet," according to a camper who stayed at one of the area's yurt facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Bugs can be intense during summer months, particularly at waterfront sites. "The bugs are bad in June and bug spray didn't really help. The sites aren't in order by number. The gravel road had a lot of ruts in it so getting my trailer with kayaks in and out was a lot of trouble," warns a visitor to Oyster Point.
Ferry reservation requirements: For island camping like at Rivers Edge Family Campground, book ferry passage weeks in advance. "Park is very secluded from the area. As soon as you pull in the driveway it kinda looks scary but after you pass all the trees you get this very big open land that is well maintained."
Off-road vehicle needs: Beach camping often requires 4WD vehicles. "Only accessible by ferry/boat, call a few weeks ahead to reserve a spot on the ferry cause they fill up quickly."
Tips for camping with families
Farm-based camping experiences: Wallace Meadows Farm offers family-friendly agricultural experiences. "My grandkids got to feed the cows and the walk around the farm was very nice. Very hot on the site but refreshing shade by the river."
Pool access during hot months: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools for children when ocean conditions aren't suitable. "The pool is awesome! Great location, can't wait to come back!" shares a visitor to Goose Creek Campground.
Look for established yurt accommodations: Yurt camping in Beaufort, North Carolina provides the perfect middle ground between tent camping and cabins. "These climate-controlled accommodations provide a perfect balance between camping adventure and resort comforts."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for solar power: "Our site would fit a large rig. I took pictures of the sites on the shore side of the campground. They are the best, but all sites here I would be happy with. In site #5 at 9:00 AM we had some solar charge happening," notes an RV camper at Oyster Point.
Campground accessibility considerations: Many Beaufort area campgrounds have varying road conditions. "Really beautiful location on river with very nice peer and green space. Extremely nice and helpful owners. Full hookups and a cement pad for picnic table. Site was fairly level. But campsites are very tight with no landscaping for aesthetics."
Beach driving permits: "The beach driving permit is $75 unless you buy it by March (I think). We lucked out with our dates just preceding a big fishing competition, and there was a LOT of open beach space. Almost everyone is there to fish."
