Oregon Inlet Campground provides tent camping with spacious sites and short walking paths to the beach. Located within Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the campground has separate loops for tent-only camping and RV sites with water and electric hookups. Sites are paved and level, offering easy setup for families with little shade between sites. The campground's ocean proximity means visitors can hear waves at night while enjoying stellar stargazing opportunities.
What to do
Explore historic lighthouses: Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA offers convenient access to nearby attractions. "We took a short drive to Bodie Island Lighthouse and also spent some time exploring the nearby marina and visitor center. There's a lot to do in the area, especially if you enjoy fishing, boating, or just soaking in the natural beauty of the OBX," shares David N.
Visit monster truck attractions: Take a short drive from Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA to see impressive vehicle displays. "Diggers Dungeon is only a few miles away so if you have kids make sure to stop and let them see the monster trucks," notes Stephen B.
Go kayaking on the sound: North Landing Beach offers water activities directly from the campground. "Kayaking is great. Lots of fishing. Ice cream and pizza place open in the evenings. All in all, love this place," writes Jason B.
Walk the Wright Brothers sites: OBX Campground offers proximity to aviation history. "Very conveniently located near the Wright brothers' site," explains Ray & Terri F., adding that the location makes exploration easy despite being away from the beach.
What campers like
Well-maintained bathhouses: Oregon Inlet Campground offers clean facilities that enhance the camping experience. "The bathhouse was a pleasant surprise. It was very clean during our stay, and the showers were consistently warm (which felt amazing after sandy beach adventures)," reports David N.
Natural wildlife sightings: The Refuge on Roanoke Island offers chances to observe local animals. "A small group of deer were hanging around our campsite when we drove up and zipped off into the tall sea grass. Once dusk fell and we were set up they came back out to graze," explains Sarah C.
Waterfront fishing opportunities: Bells Island Campground provides water access for anglers. "Very quiet park, we do love it here for fishing, swimming and has a boat launch. RVs are welcome with hookups and the price to stay the night is very inexpensive," states TIffany F.
Family-friendly activities: Camp Hatteras offers various recreation options. "The tennis, put put, shuffleboard, dog park, and playground were all fun. Bathrooms were always very clean," notes Melinda K., highlighting the campground's family appeal beyond just beach access.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Oregon Inlet Campground experiences temperature fluctuations. "Definitely stay in the fall or early Spring as it can get very hot at the campground," advises Valerie P., who recommends timing visits to avoid extreme heat.
Beach driving permits required: If you plan to drive on beaches near The Refuge on Roanoke Island, be prepared with proper documentation. "This is due to us having a driving pass to drive on the Cape Hatteras seashore, which is why we go," explains Cody B.
Limited grocery options: Some areas have sparse shopping. "Getting groceries is difficult. There aren't many options. Bring supplies if you can," suggests Jarrett from Camp Hatteras.
Fresh seafood access: Look for local markets near campgrounds. "Billy's Seafood is on the way into the campground and has fantastic local seafood!" recommends Amy E. when discussing OBX Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Try shoulder seasons for fewer crowds: Oregon Inlet Campground offers better experiences outside peak summer months. "We've been here twice now and plan on returning again when I can. It's a short walk to the beach; I love waking up early and walking down to the beach to see the sunrise. Oftentimes I'll be the only one one the beach," shares Valerie P.
Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation options: North River Campground offers diverse activities. "My son enjoyed biking in the campground, it has 5 acre lake that allowed for fishing, small playground and pool," reports Nelma S.
Consider beachfront proximity: Camp Hatteras provides direct beach access that families appreciate. "We stayed on the Atlantic beach side of the campground, sites were just over the dunes from the beach. Beach area was for use by Camp Hatteris customers and was uncrowded the times we were there," notes Bruce B.
Find pet-friendly areas with space: Consider camping options with dedicated pet areas. "The grounds are flat, many sites are private / back up to preserve type landscape," explains Casey W. about The Refuge on Roanoke Island, providing natural spaces where pets can walk.
Tips from RVers
Check site lengths carefully: OBX Campground offers well-sized spots for larger rigs. "The sites are large and there is plenty of room for slide outs and the two vehicles you are permitted to have on site," explains Sharon P.
Look for level pads: Camp Hatteras features concrete pads that make setup easier. "Our 36 ft pull behind fit perfectly on the concrete slab and was level without having to mess with anything," writes Lucy M.
Consider distance from beach: Not all Outer Banks campgrounds offer direct beach access. "We only had bikes so we were limited as the road was narrow and not bike friendly. We decided to go further to a KOA and were very happy we did," shares holly O., indicating transportation planning is important.
Seek water hookups in hot months: Full hookups become essential during summer. "There is a dump station and a potable water fill station, but they are outside the campground and easy to miss as there is no signage at the entrance," warns Lee D. about Oregon Inlet Campground.
