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Best Campgrounds near Emerald Isle, NC

227 Reviews

Campgrounds near Emerald Isle, North Carolina range from beachside RV parks to wooded national forest sites, providing varied camping experiences along the Crystal Coast. Cedar Point Campground in the Croatan National Forest offers spacious, shaded sites with electric hookups, while Emerald Isle RV Resort provides direct beach access. Accommodation options include tent camping at Hammocks Beach State Park's Bear Island, full-service RV sites at Goose Creek Campground, and glamping opportunities at Camp Ocean Forest. Most locations support both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort.

Access to developed campgrounds in the area varies by season, with many facilities open year-round despite the region's popularity during summer months. Most sites require advance reservations, especially at beachfront locations during peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "The location is awesome, close to everything," noted one camper about the convenience of Emerald Isle's camping options. Cedar Point Campground provides first-come, first-served sites, though these fill quickly on weekends and holidays. Campers should be prepared for hot, humid summer conditions and potential hurricane threats from June through November. Many campgrounds offer direct water access to sounds, rivers, or the Atlantic Ocean, making them popular with boaters and paddlers.

The waterfront setting defines many camping experiences in this coastal region. Hammocks Beach State Park provides primitive camping on Bear Island, accessible only by boat or ferry, creating a uniquely secluded beach camping experience. Campground reviews consistently highlight water access as a major attraction, with fishing opportunities and sunset views mentioned frequently. "We stayed in site 17. It is a great site with lots of room between you and the next camper," shared a visitor to Cedar Point Campground, reflecting the spacious nature of national forest sites compared to more compact private campgrounds. Bathroom facilities and amenities vary significantly between locations, with some offering full hookups, swimming pools, and showers, while others provide more basic services with an emphasis on natural surroundings.

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Best Camping Sites Near Emerald Isle, North Carolina (71)

    1. Cedar Point Campground

    28 Reviews
    Swansboro, NC
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 638-5628

    $27 - $54 / night

    "Plenty of hiking trails, boat access and woods all right here in this park. The boat access and pier are just a brief walk away from the campground."

    "Great place to hangout and it’s near Emerald Isle and the Crystal Coast. Nice place to throw a line into the water and relax!"

    2. Oyster Point Campground

    23 Reviews
    Morehead City, NC
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 638-5628

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Fun place to camp, water close by, picnic table and fire ring. Tent pads are pretty big. Host is very nice and cheap."

    "We found a few paths to the river but the river access was very small. There is a Mountain-to-Sea path nearby as well."

    3. Hammocks Beach Bear Island Campsites — Hammocks Beach State Park

    9 Reviews
    Swansboro, NC
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 326-4881

    $17 - $72 / night

    "Our campsite was tucked behind the first dunes, which we thought would keep us out of the wind... until the wind changed direction."

    "It’s a long walk! We took a private ferry (Pogie’s in Swansboro 5/5 stars) so we could bring what we wanted. We took a lot!"

    4. Goose Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    Emerald Isle, NC
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Great location, can’t wait to come back!"

    "My wife and I spent a few days here while searching the area for potential retirement location. It's also a seasonal campground."

    5. Emerald Isle RV Resort

    6 Reviews
    Emerald Isle, NC
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 570-2267

    "Emerald Isle is a favorite vacation spot for my family and when we aren't renting a house, this campground is a great alternative."

    "Steps to the beach. Could watch dolphins from the overlook. Super clean and staff were always so friendly. Pool was super nice. I always recommend that friends stay here when traveling."

    6. Onslow Beach Campsites

    15 Reviews
    Hubert, NC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (910) 440-7502

    "I love that we were so close to the beach. The bathrooms were clean and the common areas were very clean as well. If you love fishing and the beach, look no further!"

    "Love that it’s close to the beach. The bathrooms were very clean."

    7. Whispering Pines Campground

    4 Reviews
    Newport, NC
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    8. Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground

    8 Reviews
    Morehead City, NC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 638-5628

    "The 24 hour campground park ranger stays on the first site of the right side entrance. There is a oyster fishery nearby."

    "Great location off the beaten path on a dirt road. Campsite 9 backs up to the marsh andhas a great area for watching the sunset. You can also kayak or canoe here."

    9. Dogwood Family Campground

    4 Reviews
    Newport, NC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 777-4343

    $66 - $80 / night

    "This spot is close to everything without being on top of it all! Kid friendly, pet friendly, and very clean! All of the lots are level making for an easy setup!"

    10. Camp Ocean Forest

    2 Reviews
    Emerald Isle, NC
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (252) 354-3454

    "Clean family friendly bath houses and receptacle outlet near ur personal waterfront tent camping spot. They have a little something for everyone"

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Recent Camping Photos near Emerald Isle, NC

77 Photos of 71 Emerald Isle Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Emerald Isle, NC

227 Reviews of 71 Emerald Isle Campgrounds

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Hawkins Creek Campground

    Avoid the drama!

    The last reviews of this campground were in 2021. A lot has changed since that time. This is a cheap place to stay. There are no background checks. All sorts of characters stay at this location. I had trouble after six months of staying at this campground. To avoid any trouble, I left halfway through my month of prepaid time. This worked out to approximately $302 or 16 days. They refused to give me a refund or even a pro rate from the owner. Instead, they gave it to a guy staying in a tent on the property. They are thieves!

    In my vicinity that I was staying, there were four known listed Illegal sex act males. Two left the site. One of the remaining males was hired by the management for maintenance.

    The property manager didn’t seem to care about a lot of things around the property. The property appearance was not taken care of. Signs, mailboxes, and other related objects were covered in mold and never cleaned or in need of repair (see pictures). Residence were cutting their own grass. Drainage ditches, and culvert areas had extremely high grass (see pictures). Perfect for snakes.

    The bathhouse was not properly maintained. A male person who lived there only cleaned the floors once or twice a week. That seemed about it. The showers were brown, and the bathrooms were not cleaned properly. I personally cleaned the male bathroom several times during my six months. The sink continually leaked underneath. When I discovered mold, I asked for a mold killer from the bathroom guy. He was having a bad day apparently and flipped out on me. I told him I would clean the mold if he had any chemicals. He cursed at me and walked inside to his residence. Management did nothing about this incident (see pictures).

    There was always trouble with dogs at the campground. Management never did anything about the dog issues. I was told to “shoot the dog if it bites you “. Unbelievable !

    There were no standards for the campsites. Anything went! Make shift structures could be put up with no problem (see pictures). Also a lot of trash and debris around the campground.

    I would not recommend this campground to anyone. Pay the extra money for a better place!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    New Bern KOA Holiday

    Our first trip in the camper

    Our first trip in our new to us camper and found the campground very nice. The bathhouses were the cleanest and best equipped. Some shade. Nice dog park. Plenty of amenities.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2025

    Magnolia Lane Campground

    Overpriced and bath house heavily molded.

    I contacted the campsite via phone. They said there was two spots available for my rig. The monthly rate quoted was $895. I told the office that I was going to drive up the following morning to check the site and if I liked it, I would go ahead and rent it. The manager said OK. I explained I would come back and get my rig if it was acceptable. She told me to call her once. I looked at the site and we could complete the transaction when she came over to the site from the office.

    I drove an hour from my current site to look at that site. The secluded campground only had one bar on Verizon. It was also small. I called two separate numbers and texted. I waited on site for roughly 30 minutes with no callback.
    While I was looking at the campground, I went to the bathhouse. All three bathrooms were covered with suspect, microbial growth and had a strong mold smell. I can’t say for certain without testing it, but if it looks and smells like a duck, it’s probably a duck. People with breathing issues or allergies to this problem would have a bad day in these bathrooms.

    I had to contact the office the following day around 9:50 AM. They acted like they didn’t care about me driving up for nothing. To add insult to injury, the manager openly admitted they had a mold problem in all the bathrooms at the bathhouse. They were going to deal with it this coming winter.

    So let me get this straight. You were charging almost $900 a month to campers with a bad mold, problem admitted by the office. Is there a problem with this picture? This is not slander. This is what transpired. I turned down the site.

    BE CAUTIOUS!

  • R C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 19, 2025

    Flanners Beach Campground

    Nice forest trails and beach

    Campground is good. Sites are a bit close but generally acceptable for the typical camper. Good showers and toilet, water and garbage available. Forest trail nearby is an intermediate full loop trail (1-1.5 hrs). Beach walking distance. Nice staff. Recommend.

  • Jenna L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 14, 2025

    Oyster Point Campground

    Nice campsite by the river.

    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. There's like a 20 ft path directly from my campsite to the river, which is nice.

  • Rhonda S.
    Apr. 10, 2025

    Dixon Landing RV Resort

    Great area, quiet and very nice owners and campers

    Just far enough away from the noise but close enough to be convenient to everything. Groceries and restaurants, gas and history all within a short drive. Campground is so nice, fish jumping, quiet and relaxing. On the water so you can put your kayaks in and paddle the creek. Very clean bathrooms with showers ice and propane and firewood available. Sites are a good size and easy to get the trailer level.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 26, 2025

    Cedar Island Ranch

    As close as you can get to the ferry!

    We stayed here six years ago and when I knew we’d be returning to the area, I tried to find it on The Dyrt but it wasn’t there (and I could not remember the name). When we were there in 2018, the campground was in transition and our stay was less than optimal, so I figured maybe it was no longer there. I was surprised when we arrived at the ferry terminal to see it was there, open, and looking quite improved. I stopped in at the office to speak to the owner/manager and she was very surprised to find it was not on the Dyrt’s map so I’m glad that now that I finally had a chance to post my review, it had been added! 

    There are 60 sites, including walk-in tent sites, back-in W/E, pull-thru W/E, and FHU pull-thru sites. The prices range from $20-$75. You cannot get any closer to the Cedar Island-Ocracoke ferry terminal from this campground. There is also a motel. The bathrooms are much improved since the last time we were there and there are hot water showers. 

    Activities/Amenities: Playground, dog park, horseback riding, SUP rentals, beach volleyball, community fire pit, boat ramp, dump station, post office. 

    Had we known this campground was still here, we would have stayed!

  • Huggins G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 16, 2025

    White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort

    White Oaks Shore

    The whole place is so very clean: the bathrooms, camping areas, swimming pool area, even the dumpsters area. The grass is very well kept, the roads and signage, well maintained.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 15, 2025

    Cedar Point Campground

    Relaxed Camping.

    The campground was fairly quiet. The few campers were very quiet and respectful to the other campers. I camped for 14 days at this location in January.

    NOTE: There is no public Wi-Fi.

    This location has a bathhouse. The bathrooms are separate from the showers. The bathrooms were slightly heated. The showers, on the other hand, were not heated. All the shower glass units were missing. The water was warm, but not hot. In other words, be prepared to take a warm shower in freezing weather. You’ll take a very short and quick shower under these conditions. But these conditions are better than no showers at all!

    Overall, it is a good camping experience at this location. I will be back.

Guide to Emerald Isle

Camping near Emerald Isle, North Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore nature trails: Many campgrounds have trails for hiking. For instance, at Goose Creek State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy a ton of trails with trailheads everywhere. One camper mentioned, "There is a nature center at the entrance of the park."
  • Kayaking and fishing: If you love water activities, check out Cedar Point Campground. One reviewer said, "The nature trail has nice walkways over the marsh. You can walk from the campground to the boat launch, picnic area, and nature trail."
  • Beach access: Campgrounds like Onslow Beach Campsites are close to the beach. A camper noted, "Campground was within close walking proximity to the beach. Beach was clean and we had fun hunting for shark teeth."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Wilmington KOA, one visitor said, "The bathrooms were very clean and each had a shower sink and toilet all to yourself."
  • Friendly hosts: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff. A reviewer at Oyster Point Campground mentioned, "Tonia is a delightful host."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the sites. One camper at Hammocks Beach State Park Campground said, "The site was well-kept, and the bathhouse was warm."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Oyster Point Campground, do not have showers or electric hookups. A camper noted, "No showers, or electricity hookups, and toilets are pretty primitive."
  • Crowded during peak season: Campgrounds near the beach can get busy. A visitor at Onslow Beach Campsites mentioned, "The bridge that is right behind camp about 60 feet was under a full rebuild. Construction noise started a little before 0700 each day."
  • Pack out your trash: Many sites, like Hammocks Beach State Park Campground, require you to take your trash with you. One camper said, "There are NO trash cans or trash collecting points."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Bring bug spray: Some campgrounds can have biting bugs. A camper at Oyster Point Campground advised, "Just get enough mosquito repellent and you’ll be fine."
  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room. One visitor at Cedar Point Campground said, "Lots of space and shade."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have games or activities for kids. A reviewer at New Bern KOA mentioned, "There were activities and a well-stocked store."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Goose Creek State Park Campground noted, "If navigating the tent spot, the road may be tight for larger trucks."
  • Look for electric hookups: Some campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be helpful. A visitor at Wilmington KOA said, "Level spots. Convenient to everything."
  • Be prepared for weather: Bring gear for rain or heat. A camper at Hammocks Beach State Park Campground mentioned, "There is very little shade at the primitive site areas, so hot, sunny days can be challenging."

Camping near Emerald Isle, North Carolina, offers a variety of experiences, from serene beachside spots to family-friendly campgrounds. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any RV campgrounds in Emerald Isle, NC?

Yes, there are RV camping options in Emerald Isle. Emerald Isle RV Resort is a popular choice located in town, offering full hookups, a swimming pool, and family activities like outdoor movies and seasonal events. It's clean and conveniently close to the beach. Another option near Emerald Isle is The Inlet Campground, formerly Laniers Campground, which provides RV sites with coastal access. For those willing to drive a short distance, Wallace Meadows Farm offers spacious RV sites with 50-amp service, water hookups, and a convenient dump station.

Can you go tent camping on Emerald Isle beaches?

Tent camping is not permitted directly on Emerald Isle beaches. The town prohibits overnight camping on its beaches and public areas to protect the natural environment and ensure public safety. For beach tent camping experiences near Emerald Isle, consider Long Point Cabin Camp on Cape Lookout National Seashore, which offers more secluded beach camping opportunities. Another option is Onslow Beach Campsites, which provides beach camping in the region. Always verify current regulations before planning your trip, as rules regarding beach access and camping may change seasonally.

What campgrounds are near Emerald Isle, North Carolina?

Several excellent campgrounds are located within easy driving distance of Emerald Isle. Cedar Point Campground in the Croatan National Forest is a favorite, offering 40 sites with electric hookups, paved parking pads, and access to hiking trails and boat launches. It's well-maintained with manicured landscaping and paved roads throughout. Another option is Camp Ocean Forest, which offers amazing water views and is within walking distance to the pier, though sites are somewhat small. For those seeking additional options, Flanners Beach Campground and Buttons Family Campground are also within reasonable driving distance of Emerald Isle.

Is camping allowed directly on Emerald Isle?

Camping is not permitted directly on Emerald Isle beaches. Emerald Isle has strict regulations prohibiting overnight camping on the beach and public areas. Instead, visitors seeking a beach camping experience near Emerald Isle should consider Hammocks Beach Bear Island Campsites, which offers primitive beach camping a short boat ride away. For those wanting to stay close to Emerald Isle's beaches while camping, established campgrounds like Emerald Isle RV Resort provide proper facilities within a short drive of the shore. Always check current regulations before planning your trip as local ordinances may change.

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