Camping options near Leland, North Carolina extend beyond the immediate area to include diverse sites across Brunswick County and neighboring New Hanover County. The region sits at low elevations, typically less than 25 feet above sea level, with coastal plain terrain characterized by sandy soils and maritime forests. Winter camping temperatures average 40-60°F, while summer months regularly exceed 85°F with high humidity.
What to do
Beach access and 4x4 driving: At Freeman Park, campers can drive directly onto the beach with 4WD vehicles. "This is a great place where you can camp directly on the beach... We were almost alone, only one other vehicle. Two nice guys just there to night fish," notes camper Phillip C. Beach access varies by season and tide conditions.
Hiking through coastal ecosystems: Carolina Beach State Park Campground offers several hiking trails through maritime forest. "Within the park, there are tons of hiking trails through a really beautiful area. I hear the fishing is also really good within the park," explains Sam M. The park features trails where visitors can observe native Venus flytraps and other carnivorous plants.
Water activities on Lake Waccamaw: For freshwater alternatives, Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground provides shallow, warm waters ideal for swimming and fishing. "The lake is beautifully kept and clean. Very shallow. You can walk out a good 300 meters. We kayaked and fished while we were here," shares Sara H. The lake features a swimming dock accessible from several of the campsites.
What campers like
Off-season camping: Many campers prefer visiting in cooler months. "I've been here at different times of the year. I really enjoy camping here in December and January. Less people and the park is so nice," says Ms P. about Carolina Beach State Park. Freeman Park also receives positive reviews for off-season visits when crowds thin considerably.
Private, secluded sites: Holden Beach RV Campground earns praise for its layout. "The sites are far enough apart you don't get interrupted by the neighboring campsites but the campground isn't so big you have to drive everywhere. We had a shaded site, which most of the sites there are shaded," explains Caleb S. Many campers appreciate the wooded setting that offers privacy.
Beach proximity without crowds: Several campgrounds offer convenient beach access without the tourist atmosphere of more popular destinations. "I like it because it's not really touristy like the outer banks or myrtle beach. Not a whole lot of people come to it, so it's always pretty secluded and clean," notes Sam M. about beaches near Carolina Beach State Park. The relative seclusion appeals to campers seeking quieter coastal experiences.
What you should know
Military-only facilities: Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area requires military identification. "You need a DOD ID card to stay here. It is affordable if you qualify to stay. They will check and make you leave if you are not a card holder," warns Lacey B. The campground offers significant discounts to qualifying military personnel.
Beach camping tides: High tides significantly impact beach camping areas. Greg T. cautions about Freeman Park: "High tide floods all the way to the dunes. So hard to cross once it's high tide so it's dangerous." Campers must check tide charts and position tents accordingly to avoid overnight flooding.
Long walks at primitive sites: Some campgrounds require substantial walking from parking areas. "Sites 2-5 are a quarter mile plus from the parking area... especially sites 4 and 5 are very far from the bathroom. Don't forget anything in the car," advises Kristin T. about Lake Waccamaw State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wilmington KOA features family-friendly amenities. "The playground was awesome and included a cool wooden pirate ship. The grandkids loved it!" shares Bridget H. The campground also offers a swimming pool and recreational activities.
Aquarium visits: Fort Fisher offers educational opportunities. "There is also an aquarium down the road if you need a history or education fix," notes Tony B. The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher displays native marine life and offers educational programs for children.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Holden Beach RV Campground accommodates family cycling. "There is a playground for kids and I could see our kids riding their bikes around with no issues at all," observes Caleb S. The campground's layout provides safe riding spaces for children.
Tips from RVers
Site hookup placement: When camping at Fort Fisher, be aware of site layout challenges. "The sites themselves are extremely long, but for some reason the hook-ups are all near the front of the site, so you can't take advantage of the length," explains Erin S. This requires careful parking to reach utilities.
Check-in logistics: Several campgrounds have specific check-in procedures. At Fort Fisher, "I recommend calling ahead to know your site, unhook, then drive to check-in. There isn't a playground, but there is an aquarium down at Fort Fisher State Rec Area," advises Erin S. Prior planning prevents difficult turn-arounds with large rigs.
Urban accessibility: For RVers needing city access, campsites provide convenient bases. "Less than a few miles to downtown Wilmington," notes Robert D. about Castle Hayne Farm Park. This location allows RVers to balance nature with urban amenities and services.
