Primitive camping at Cape Lookout National Seashore offers direct access to 56 miles of undeveloped beach. The seashore spans across a chain of barrier islands in North Carolina's Southern Outer Banks, with camping areas receiving strong winds due to their exposed coastal position. Cold water showers and primitive toilet facilities are available at the lighthouse area, while most beach camping requires self-contained equipment.
What to do
Beach driving exploration: At South Core Banks, visitors can drive directly on the beach with a permit. "You need 4WD to get around the island but most of the ferry places have atv rentals. Only accessible by ferry/boat, call a few weeks ahead to reserve a spot on the ferry cause they fill up quickly," notes Jason D.
Wildlife observation: Search for the wild horses that inhabit parts of the barrier islands. "We had three young male horses that were always roaming within sight. They even walked close by our campsite," reports Mike H. about his Shackleford Island experience.
Lighthouse tours: Visit the Cape Lookout Lighthouse when open for climbing. "We befriended our neighbors who took us to the lighthouse at the southern end of the island, which was beautiful!" shares Katie B. The lighthouse provides historical context and spectacular views of the surrounding seashore.
Water recreation: Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or kite surfing in the sound. "Love this island! No crowds, lots of open beach, and plenty of fish!" says Jason D. about South Core Banks. The calmer sound side waters contrast with the more dynamic ocean beaches.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Cape Point Campground provides a more remote camping experience. "This campground is absolutely gorgeous and quite the change from the other campgrounds at the OBX. It was quiet and peaceful," writes Kaitlyn F. The campground's position allows campers to escape more developed areas.
Beach proximity: Many campers value having direct beach access from their campsites. "The 268-site resort remains open year-round," reports one visitor of Cape Hatteras KOA. At Rodanthe Watersports & Campground, "The sight 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," explains Taylor T.
Unique camping experience: Camping directly on the sand creates a distinctive outdoor experience. "Camp on the sand - ORV Permit Required!" notes Vince Z. about South Core Banks. "Start your adventure on a ferry, cross an inlet watching all the wildlife play right in front of you, then get off and drive immediately to endless stretches of white sandy beaches."
Evening scenery: The dramatic sunsets over the sound provide memorable camping moments. "The last night had the most amazing sunset that lit up the lighthouse and the clouds above with beautiful pinks, purple and blues," describes Mike H.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Expect strong winds and plan accordingly. "Watersouts are extremely common here, so use sandbags with your tent and make sure the tent can handle heavy winds if the storms blow in over night," advises Avery M. The wind can be beneficial for keeping bugs away but challenging for camping setups.
Limited facilities: Most glamping near Cape Lookout National Seashore requires self-sufficiency. "No power, water or hookups. Bath house decent, and on the ocean. Take plenty of bug spray," warns Cathy L. about beach camping.
Ferry requirements: Plan ferry transportation well in advance. "We spent 3 nights beach camping in our VW Vanagon, and highly recommend this destination if you have the means! The ferry is $135+ for vehicles, plus $20 per person roundtrip," explains Katie B. from South Core Banks.
Vehicle requirements: Four-wheel drive is essential for beach driving. "You will see [the dump station] just before you enter cg," notes Roger W. about Cape Point Campground, highlighting the limited facilities available even at established campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly options: Many campgrounds offer bike rentals for family exploration. "You can walk everywhere you need to go," shares Ashley M. about Teeter's Campground on Ocracoke, making it practical for families to move around without constantly driving.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific facilities for children. At Cape Hatteras KOA, "The kids had plenty of room to ride their bikes and enjoyed the jump pillow. While too cold, the pool looks great," mentions Joe R.
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential, especially when winds are calm. "I absolutely love Ocracoke and Teeter's is the only campground with power and hot showers. Take bug spray! Ocracoke mosquitoes are on steroids," warns Ashley M.
Safety considerations: Understand high tide zones when beach camping with children. "Be sure to camp above the high tide zone, which is black sand," advises Katie B. This knowledge prevents unexpected nighttime surprises from rising waters.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Rivers Edge Family Campground, "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," notes Mary F.
Seasonal considerations: Some RV-friendly campgrounds near Cape Lookout operate year-round while others have limited seasons. "Went in November which is off season. Very quiet. People were super friendly. Steps from beach. Beautiful pool and huge hit tub. Bar and cafe were closed for season," reports Sandy G. about Cape Hatteras KOA.
Size limitations: Many campgrounds have restrictions on RV length. At Rodanthe Watersports & Campground, "All the sites were very small and tightly spaced, with zero privacy, which is pretty standard for such prime waterfront real estate. Since the sites were so small, this place was really geared more toward tent campers and those with shorter RVs (25' or less, I'd say)," explains Jen V.
