Cape Lookout National Seashore spans 56 miles along North Carolina's Outer Banks, featuring isolated barrier islands accessible only by ferry or private boat. The region experiences mild winters with temperatures rarely below 40°F and hot, humid summers where temperatures often exceed 90°F. Camping options range from primitive tent sites to full-service RV campgrounds with varying levels of connectivity and amenities.
What to do
Beach driving access: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to designated beach driving areas. "We were in site 25, which was back against the dune and next to the fence. It was one of the larger back in sites, that was deep and private," notes a camper at Avon by the Sea, where the beach is just a 2-minute walk away.
Kite and paddleboarding: The consistent winds along the sound make this area ideal for water sports. "I've just started going here tent camping while down in Hatteras pursuing my kiteboarding passion," shares a visitor at Frisco Woods Campground. The campground also offers SUP rentals for those wanting to explore the calmer waters of the sound.
Sunset viewing: Sound-side sites offer spectacular sunset views over the water. "We got in during a tight time of year in the most sought after spot...Right on the sand just yards away from the water on the sound side. Sunset in your backyard," describes one camper about their experience at Frisco Woods Campground.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: The remote location supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "We enjoyed deer stopping by our camp site, and the wild, remote feeling here," mentions a camper at Frisco Campground, part of Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Stargazing conditions: Limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "The night sky is breathtaking," notes a Frisco Campground visitor about the dark skies found at this National Seashore location.
Shell collecting: The beaches offer abundant shell collecting opportunities. "The beach was pretty with lots of shells," reports a camper. "My hubby and I camped here last summer. We couldn't have been more impressed. It was clean and well ordered. It felt remote and tranquil. We woke up at 5:30 to watch the sunrise over the ocean which was just a hop, skip and jump away from our tent," shares a visitor at Ocracoke Campground.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The exposed coastal location means weather can change rapidly. "It was definitely breezy but perfect to bring the heat down a little," notes a camper about conditions at Frisco Woods. Another mentions, "The area along the sound can flood with stormy weather, so would recommend not staying on the edge during bad weather as the road sometimes gets covered with water."
Internet connectivity: Cell service varies greatly across campgrounds. "The internet is terrible so if you're working from home, have a hotspot. AT&T does much better in this area. We have Verizon and it was spotty. No streaming capability, but that makes for a tech free in the moment experience!" reports a visitor at Camp Hatteras.
Ground hazards: Several campgrounds have natural hazards to watch for. "Watch out for cacti and sand spurs everywhere. We could not walk our 3 dogs at all! When they did go potty we spent several minutes picking out sands spurs and cacti from their paws and fur," warns a Frisco Campground camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Many private rv sites near Cape Lookout National Seashore offer pools for children. "Wonderful campground! Clean, lots of amenities and super friendly staff. Great access to the beach and a great camping section across the street on the sound," shares a visitor at Camp Hatteras RV Resort and Campground.
Family activities: Some campgrounds organize special events for children. "So many amenities and fun things planned for Easter weekend. Staff is super friendly and welcoming. The site is very clean and quiet. Indoor pool was great for the kids on the cool and windy weekend," notes a Camp Hatteras visitor.
Proximity to supplies: Consider campground location relative to stores for family necessities. "If you need ice, gas, basic groceries, a sweatshirt, or fishing gear, Frisco Rod and Gun is only about a mile and opens early and closes late," advises a Frisco Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on specific needs. "Spacious and close beachfront. Room behind site in grass for games and tent, two car maximum space between site entrances, ocean within walking distance," recommends a camper staying at Camp Hatteras.
Ferry planning: For RVers heading to Ocracoke, ferry reservations and timing are crucial. "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," shares a visitor at Cedar Island Ranch.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds near Cape Lookout National Seashore have limited operating seasons. "This is a nice campground. The price is good, it is clean and the spaces are large enough and not too close. It is a bit rustic with no hookups. The ocean is just over the dune. But man, I sure wish they at least had electricity," mentions an Ocracoke Campground visitor who stayed during July.
