The Cedar Island area offers coastal cabin camping options across multiple barrier island environments. Cedar Island itself serves as a gateway to Cape Lookout National Seashore with nearby cabins accessible primarily by ferry or private boat. Situated between the mainland and outer barrier islands, this coastal region experiences significant tidal variations and seasonal weather patterns that affect camping conditions.
What to do
Beach exploration: 5-mile stretch of pristine shoreline at Great Island Cabin Camp provides opportunities for shell collecting and wildlife viewing. "We rode our 4 wheelers down the 30+ mile beach. On one end of the island there's a historic museum like town and light house," reports one camper.
Fishing from designated piers: Many coastal cabin sites feature dedicated fishing areas. At Cedar Creek Campground & Marina, "the small pier would be great to keep the kids entertained with pinfish," while another reviewer noted "Fish were hitting 2 Klicks north of the marina."
Visit Portsmouth Island: Experience abandoned coastal settlements near cabin sites. "Camping on Portsmouth Island is about as off-the-grid as I've ever been! We went in early October and had the beach to ourself, as far as the eye could see. The (abandoned) Village of Portsmouth is a must see!"
Kayaking in protected waters: Several cabin locations offer protected paddling in sound waters with rentals available at some locations. A camper at New Bern KOA noted their campground has "kayak rental" options for visitors wanting to explore nearby waterways.
What campers like
Unobstructed night skies: Remote cabin locations offer exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Long Point Cabin Camp, visitors appreciate "clear night skies for stargazing" away from light pollution, with one camper stating it "feels like a world away from populated beaches."
Wildlife encounters: Barrier island cabin sites provide opportunities to observe coastal wildlife. At Goose Creek State Park, campers report "on our walk with the dogs seen deer and a raccoon visited us during the night." Another camper mentioned, "wildlife walks right by, several deer on our trip."
Waterfront views: Cabin locations typically feature prime views of either ocean or sound. "Our campsite was just feet from the shore of the Pamlico Sound. Beautiful sunsets. Shallow water for play, fishing, and water sport," notes a visitor to Frisco Woods Campground.
Solitude and privacy: Off-season visits to cabin areas provide maximum isolation. A visitor to Cape Point Campground reported, "This campground is absolutely gorgeous and quite the change from the other campgrounds at the OBX. It was quiet and peaceful."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements for barrier islands: Many remote cabin locations require 4WD access. A camper at Great Island advised, "Be sure to bleed your tire PSI all the way down to 18 and drive 10 miles down the dune road to the lighthouse."
Weather vulnerability: Cabins in this region experience rapid weather changes. A visitor to Hatteras Sands Campground reported, "The campsite was nice with clean bathrooms and toilet facilities. But during my first nights stay we had a very heavy thunderstorm which lasted several hours. This caused my tent to flood."
Ferry scheduling: Plan ferry access carefully as schedules vary seasonally. "We stayed here 1 night before getting on the ferry to Okracoke. The owner was very accommodating with a last minute reservation on a holiday weekend," notes a Cedar Creek visitor.
Bug protection essential: Insects can be problematic in warmer months. "Bring lots of bug spray... the mosquitos are relentless!" warns a camper who stayed at Great Island.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak visits for best experience: School calendar shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds at cabin locations. "We went in early October and had the beach to ourself, as far as the eye could see," notes a visitor to Great Island Cabin Camp.
Kid-friendly water activities: Several cabin locations offer shallow-water play areas. At New Bern KOA Holiday, "the pool was nice on a hot humid day. They have gem mining. You buy the bags of dirt in the camp store."
Wildlife education opportunities: Use cabin stays for nature learning experiences. "The campgound has really neat hiking trails and a swimming beach. The park ranger told us about a neat program at the park, where they will loan out fishing poles for free, they are great poles and we ended up catching over 20 fish!" reported a Goose Creek State Park visitor.
Playground access: Several cabin campgrounds provide play structures. "Nice laid back atmosphere. Great amenities such as swimming pool, basketball court, boat ramp and docks," reports a Cedar Creek visitor.
Tips from RVers
Generator requirements: Remote cabins often lack electrical service but accommodate generators. A Great Island Cabin Camp visitor noted, "They have huts for generators to sit in to help with the noise. We brought a window a/c unit and it kept the place cool (highly recommend)."
Limited hookup options: Many barrier island cabins lack traditional RV connections. "Had water, shower, toilet and gas kitchen. We rode our 4 wheelers down the 30+ mile beach," reports a Great Island visitor describing their cabin amenities.
Road condition awareness: Access roads to coastal cabins may be challenging. A visitor to Frisco Woods Campground cautioned, "There are also several speed bumps in the campground that are hard to see as they are not painted yellow."
Seasonal closure planning: Many camping cabins near Cedar Island, North Carolina close during winter months. A Hatteras Sands visitor noted their facility operates "Apr 1 - Nov 1," which is typical for the region.
