Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers several glamping and camping options close to Buxton, North Carolina. The area sits at the southern portion of the Outer Banks, roughly 55 miles from the mainland. Weather conditions can change rapidly with strong winds common throughout the year, particularly during fall and spring seasons. Campgrounds in this area typically operate seasonally from April through November due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Beach activities: Cape Point Campground provides direct access to prime fishing spots. One camper noted that if you "like national seashores, camping and surfing. Then this beautiful gem is for you! Mosquitos might be a problem! Deet is a solution. Climb the lighthouses!!"
Water sports rentals: Rodanthe Watersports & Campground offers equipment at discounted rates for campers. "They also had kayaks, surfboards and stand up paddle boards for rent! The rental hut was precious and the employee just as kind as can be," one visitor mentioned.
Island exploration: Take a ferry to Ocracoke Island where Teeter's Campground serves as a base for exploration. A camper shared: "I loved every bit of camping here, truly! Even the man who runs the camp ground was so kind. It's a true adventure coming into this island on a ferry and then camping in sand, very nice time!!"
What campers like
Sunset viewing: At Rodanthe, campers can watch the sun set directly over the sound. "Site had a great view of the water and for sunsets, the sunrise was a 5 min walk across the road with the beach right there as well," one reviewer wrote.
Lighthouse proximity: Cape Point — Cape Lookout National Seashore offers unique nighttime views. A visitor shared: "Had a beautiful view of the lighthouse from our specific spot. No power and cold showers, but worth it!"
Pet-friendly options: Dogs are welcome at most campgrounds with specific amenities for them. "Dogs are allowed, even in the water! They require pet deposit," noted one Rodanthe camper, while another mentioned the Cape Hatteras KOA has "a dog play area and a dog bathing area."
What you should know
Weather conditions: Wind can be intense and affects camping comfort. "The wind was so strong for two nights that our pop-up was shaking most of the night. The good thing about the wind was it kept the bugs away, because mosquitoes here are brutal when there is no breeze," reported a camper.
Shower facilities: Most campgrounds have basic facilities. At Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA Resort, "the shower area is co-Ed. They have a cute little play area for the kids, and had scheduled fun activities throughout the week."
Seasonal considerations: Off-season camping offers quieter experiences but limited amenities. "Went in November which is off season. Very quiet. People were super friendly. Steps from beach. Beautiful pool and huge hot tub. Bar and cafe were closed for season," one visitor noted.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Kids enjoy on-site activities at some campgrounds. "Has a nice pool and access to ocean. Fun activities for the kids," shared a KOA visitor, while another mentioned, "Nice playground and bounce place where many kids were present."
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds offer rental options for family exploration. A Teeter's Campground visitor mentioned: "You can rent bikes next door at the Dockmaster. $10/bike for 2 hours. Total deal. Also close to the ferry."
Safety considerations: Rodanthe Watersports & Campground offers shallow water access ideal for children. "Water is a leg high walk to the hammock," noted one camper about the sound-side location, making it safer for younger visitors.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: Many glamping options close to Buxton, North Carolina have space limitations. A Cape Point camper advised, "can accommodate larger rigs," while noting sites are "about the best it gets here."
Hookup availability: Services vary widely between campgrounds. At Teeter's Campground, "we paid $60 for w/e/s and two kids. A bit spendy for sure, but nice to have water and dump at the site so we could all take showers to get the sand off."
Reservation timing: Peak season requires advance planning. "We stayed here over Memorial Day weekend and the place was packed...but somehow the facilities did not look like they had been through World War-3," reported one Cape Hatteras KOA visitor, highlighting the importance of early reservations during holiday weekends.