Best Camping near Emerald Isle, NC

Are you in need of a campground near Emerald Isle, NC? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Emerald Isle, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Emerald Isle, NC (65)

    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground

    1. Cedar Point Campground

    27 Reviews
    106 Photos
    145 Saves
    Swansboro, North Carolina

    Overview

    Cedar Point Campground and Recreation Area is located in eastern North Carolina at the junction of the White Oak River and the Bogue Sound, immediately adjacent to the Swansboro Inlet. It is within 1 mile of full service shopping, and within 2 miles of NC's Crystal Coast and the barrier island beach community of Bogue Banks. The campground is extremely busy and reservations are recommended but must be made 3 days in advance. Of the 36 campsites, 4 are considered first-come, first served campsites that cannot be reserved or held, so a person must physically be there with their camping equipment to purchase the campsite. Cedar Point campground has the option to use Scan & Pay system, but by the rules of recreation.gov it may only be used for first-come, first served sites. Please make sure to contact a campground host to ensure availability before paying for any campsite. Failure to check with the campground host for availability may result in the loss of your camping fee.

    Recreation

    Canoeing and fishing are popular options. Power boating is allowed on the White Oak River. Visitors can hike the Tidelands National Trail, a 1.9-mile path divided in two loops that lend themselves to wildlife viewing. Ospreys and the occasional dolphin can be viewed along the loops. The recreation area is also home to a picnic area and shallow draft boat launch.

    Natural Features

    Cedar Point, at the mouth of the White Oak River, is bordered by a salt marsh and a coastal forest. The salt marsh, where fresh water meets salt water, stretches out like a sea of grass. This nutrient-rich wetland is a valuable habitat for commercial seafood, including fish, shrimp, crabs and oysters. The recreation area is part of the Croatan National Forest, a 160,000-acre tract on North Carolina's coast, bordered on three sides by tidal rivers and Bogue Sound.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (252) 638-5628.

    Nearby Attractions

    The campground is a short drive from the developed barrier island town of Bogue Banks.

    Charges & Cancellations

    There is a $10.00 fee to cancel Reservations. Reservations canceled within the 3 days of arrival may result in the loss of the fee for one or more nights stay. Refunds for weather or checking out early will not be considered

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $27 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oyster Point Campground

    2. Oyster Point Campground

    22 Reviews
    49 Photos
    130 Saves
    Morehead City, North Carolina

    Overview

    Oyster Point Campground is located on the banks of the Newport River, near the town of Newport, NC. The campground is just a short drive to the beaches of Atlantic Beach, NC and other coastal fishing destinations. The campground can get very busy and reservations are reccamended but must be made 3 days in advance. Of the 15 campsites, 1 are considered a first come-first served campsite that cannot be reserved or held, so a person must physically be there with their camping equipment to purchase the campsite. Oyster Point campground has the option to use Scan & Pay system, but by the rules of recreaiton.gov it may only be used for first come-first served sites. Please make sure to contact a campground host to ensure availability before paying for any campsite. Failure to check with the campground host for availability may result in the loss of your camping fee.

    Recreation

    Canoeing and fishing are popular options. Power boating is allowed on the Newport River, however, the boat lanch at this location is a small hand launch with no vehicle access that you may use a canoe or kayak cart/dolly for assistance to get your boat to the water if desired. The Croatan Saltwater Trail weaves south between the barrier islands of the Bogue Sound and north on Adams Creek connecting to the Neuse River. This campground is also the trailhead for the Neusiok trail which is a 21-mile hiking trail that meanders through cypress swamps, loblolly pines and vast bogs of thick vegetation.

    Facilities

    Canoeing and fishing are popular options. Power boating is allowed on the Newport River, however, the boat lanch at this location is a small hand launch with no vehicle access that you may use a canoe or kayak cart/dolly for assistance to get your boat to the water if desired. The Croatan Saltwater Trail weaves south between the barrier islands of the Bogue Sound and north on Adams Creek connecting to the Neuse River. This campground is also the trailhead for the Neusiok trail which is a 21-mile hiking trail that meanders through cypress swamps, loblolly pines and vast bogs of thick vegetation.

    Natural Features

    Situated in the coastal pine forest and intercostal waterway of the Croatan National Forest, which encompasses 160,000 acres in eastern North Carolina, the Newport River is 12 miles long and opens into the Bogue sound. It is popular with anglers and flatwater paddlers.

    Nearby Attractions

    The campground is just a short drive to the towns of Newport, NC and Morehead City, NC. These towns offer full service grocery, retail, and an abundant selection of restaurants.

    Charges & Cancellations

    There is a $10.00 fee to cancel Reservations. Reservations canceled within the 3 days of arrival may result in the loss of the fee for one or more nights stay. Refunds for weather or checking out early will not be considered

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Onslow Beach Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Onslow Beach Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Onslow Beach Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Onslow Beach Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Onslow Beach Campsites
    Camper-submitted photo from Onslow Beach Campsites

    3. Onslow Beach Campsites

    15 Reviews
    34 Photos
    104 Saves
    Hubert, North Carolina
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammocks Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammocks Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammocks Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammocks Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammocks Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hammocks Beach State Park Campground

    4. Hammocks Beach State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    64 Photos
    165 Saves
    Swansboro, North Carolina

    Primitive campsites are located near the beach and the inlet at Bear Island. Fourteen family campsites accommodate up to six people and two tents each. Campsites 1 to 11 are accessible via ferry, private boat or paddling only. Campsites 12 to 14 are accessible by private boat or paddling only and are not hikeable.

    Sites 1 to 11 have a picnic table, while sites 12 to 14 do not. Fires are not permitted at Bear Island, but campers may bring propane or backpack camp stoves.

    Water and a bathhouse with hot showers is located at Bear Island, but is available from only mid-March through mid-November. There is no water at Bear Island when the facilities are winterized.

    Hike-In Distance Light and simple is the way to travel, as campers must carry all provisions to the campsites from the beach or ferry dock.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table

    $12 - $52 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Goose Creek Campground

    5. Goose Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    25 Photos
    94 Saves
    Emerald Isle, North Carolina

    Located along North Carolina's Crystal Coast, Goose Creek RV Resort family campground is conveniently located on Bogue Sound along the Intracoastal Waterway. Goose Creek RV Resort is only minutes away from the ocean by land or by water. This Crystal Coast RV resort offers a serene atmosphere in what may be one of only a very few undisturbed beach vacation spots left. Lack of any high density commercialization offers our campers a true family atmosphere. Your trip to Goose Creek RV Resort will occupy you with a large choice of activities offered at Encore's Crystal Coast RV resort throughout the year. Goose Creek RV Resort borders waters that are known for some of the best saltwater fishing anywhere. A Crystal Coast RV resort in a serene and undisturbed beach vacation spot Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Goose Creek RV & Camping Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Isle RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Isle RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Isle RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Isle RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Isle RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Isle RV Resort

    7. Emerald Isle RV Resort

    6 Reviews
    7 Photos
    114 Saves
    Emerald Isle, North Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Lake Dispersed Site - Croatan National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Lake Dispersed Site - Croatan National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Lake Dispersed Site - Croatan National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Lake Dispersed Site - Croatan National Forest

    8. Great Lake Dispersed Site - Croatan National Forest

    6 Reviews
    4 Photos
    101 Saves
    Havelock, North Carolina

    Welcome to the Croatan National Forest, one of four National Forests in North Carolina and the only true coastal forest in the East. The Croatan National Forest's 160,000 acres have pine forests, saltwater estuaries, bogs and raised swamps called pocosins. Bordered on three sides by tidal rivers and the Bogue Sound, the forest is defined by water. All this water provides a variety of recreation and diversity of wildlife- from deer, black bears and turkeys to wading birds, ospreys and alligators. Canoeing and fishing are popular on blackwater creeks and saltwater marshes. The Croatan is also home to the carnivorous Venus fly-trap, sunder and pitcherplant. The Croatan National Forest has one Ranger District, the Croatan Ranger District. Please contact the District for more information. Camping and Day-use Information Enjoy camping or a picnic at one of the many day-use areas. A list of camping and day-use areas in the Croatan National Forest can be found here. Recreation Maps Croatan National Forest Maps Be Safe The national forests in North Carolina offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. From the mountains to the sea, there are many exciting adventures awaiting your visit to these national forests. Please keep in mind that all outdoor recreational activities on the Croatan, Pisgah, Nantahala and Uwharrie national forests, including activities at recreation sites, have inherent risks due to the natural setting in which they occur. Always remember, your safety is your responsibility.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Family Campground

    9. Dogwood Family Campground

    4 Reviews
    18 Photos
    2 Saves
    Newport, North Carolina

    We are a cozy, family-friendly campground in Newport, NC. Enjoy being tucked away beside the Croatan Forest and only a short drive (30 minutes) away from all the Crystal Coast beaches, 10 minutes to MCAS Cherry Point, 30 minutes to Historical New Bern and many other local attractions. Close enough to be away from it all. We offer daily, weekly and monthly sites, all with FHU's, monthly sites pay for the electric that they use during that time. We have a catch and release fishing pond, walking trails, a dog area, playground area and Wi-Fi.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $66 - $80 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from New Bern KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New Bern KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New Bern KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New Bern KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New Bern KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from New Bern KOA

    10. New Bern KOA

    12 Reviews
    47 Photos
    78 Saves
    Bridgeton, North Carolina

    Nestled on the tranquil banks of the Neuse River and minutes from historic downtown New Bern, this quiet campground is the perfect setting for a peaceful retreat. Enjoy a day of fishing or watch a beautiful sunset from the 100-foot pier. The boat slips, ramp, kayaks and paddleboats welcome campers who yearn to get out on the water. A catch-and-release fish pond and a group-outings pavilion round out this haven for extended relaxation. The kids can enjoy our playground with a jump pad & swing set. New to our campground is our Gem Mine and Gaga Ball. Browse the many antique shops and boutiques in North Carolina's second-oldest city. Step into the past at Tryon Palace Historic Sites & Gardens, the former state capitol, historically regarded as the most beautiful public building in Colonial America. Pool: May 1 - October 1. Max pull thru: 128 feet.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 65 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Emerald Isle

Recent Reviews in Emerald Isle

218 Reviews of 65 Emerald Isle Campgrounds


  • Youssef S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground
    Nov. 8, 2024

    Croatan National Forest Oyster Point Campground

    Will be back!

    Fantastic experience. I am a seasoned back woods camper, and brought along two first timers. This was the perfect middle ground. Beautiful views with an isolated area. Rustic feel, but still had the comfort of bathrooms, running water, fire pits, and nearby cities.

  • Mambo M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Cedar Point Campground

    HOSTS DO NOT FOLLOW RULES

    Do NOT stay here!! The hosts do not follow the published USFS/recreation.gov rules, oe even their own posted rules. FFS sites are in fact booked IN ADVANCE. You can book them for days at a time, anytime. The app is INACCURATE. The hosts simply do whatever they want, then argue when presented with published rules and policies. Additionally, no handicapped placard or other disability proof is required to rent the wheelchair accesssible sites across from the bath house and all were filled with able-bodied persons in huge RVs. Horrible experience and OUTRAGEOUS $8 reservation fee and $10-$18 cancellation fee. Furthermore, there are serious issues with the electric connections, which you have no choice but to pay for. We were only able to occasionally have reliable electricity, resulting in even small 5V items not charging. The biggest issue was inconsistent/incomplete charging of wheelchair batteries. We had to rely on vehicle power charging for most things. The campsites are also poorly arranged, forcing tents to be placed within 2-3’ of fire rings, which is ridiculously unsafe. The sites are also full of fire ant beds - including on the tent/table pad itself. One of the poorest managed campgrounds I have ever stayed in.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Nick’s Nook Family Campground
    Oct. 30, 2024

    Nick’s Nook Family Campground

    Small quiet Campground A++

    Small quiet campground that has some adorable amenities. Pet and child friendly. Nick (the owner) is super helpful and they even have item you may have forgotten they will lend out. Firewood is provided. We stayed I. Their little cabin on a whim. Cozy but small. AC and heat both worked well. Their camp store has very affordable gifts and some supplies one might need. We came to this area to try some unique restaurants. The cabin allowed us to stay and try all of them. We went to the Mad Boar on Friday night for some amazing prime rib and unique appetizer. We went to The Country Squire and enjoyed a wine tasting before a dreamy colonial meal. The atmosphere here was so realistic. They even have an inn. And of course we had to go to the Duplin Winery. Next time we will bring the kids to enjoy the craft hour and playground.

  • Michelle L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Phoenix Farms Vineyard
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Phoenix Farms Vineyard

    Beautiful

    The hosts are friendly, and the fire is warm. It's so fun to see all of the animals. The property is beautiful, and the camp spot is private. We have plenty of space for our RV. Feeling thankful!

  • Thunderroad 5.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Cedar Point Campground

    Enjoyed our stay

    Stayed 3 nights here. Nice quiet federal campground. Quiet and maintained. Definitely need water at sites. Can't adjust water temp in showers here. Fortunately not freezing water and one night had hot water. With these improvements, would give 5 stars. Can't beat price. Would definitely stay again. Close enough to beach and things we like to do. Had a great breakfast at Angie's Diner near by.

  • Christine The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Surf City Family Campground
    Aug. 10, 2024

    Surf City Family Campground

    Located right on the beach

    The spots are very close together. There is no shade, but a constant beach breeze.

    You can not see ocean from the campground due to the dunes, but it is about 300 feet to the water.

    The owners are very nice. He will even help park your rv with his tractor.

    Same price for full hookups verses no sewer. You will have to go across the street to their other campground to dump and there is no water for rinsing, only a sewer drain.

    The public bathroom stalls only go as high as shoulder level.

  • j
    Camper-submitted photo from Surf City Family Campground
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Surf City Family Campground

    Right on the Beach!

    A gem of a place! Call to reserve a spot. The staff is super helpful and friendly. We loved being right by the beach. There are spots for RVs and tents. You could still hear the waves even with RVs running air conditioners.

  • Flash A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oceans RV Resort
    Jun. 12, 2024

    Oceans RV Resort

    So Awesome We're Staying Another Month

    Pickleball! And there's the bar/lounge, swimming pool, gym, laundry but most of all, space. You're in the south, so friendly folks who give you all the time in the world is a given. Yes, southern hospitality is palpable here. We're just a few miles from the beach, walking distance to a restaurant and or convenience store; crawling distance to Dales Pub across the road. It's like a KOA here, without the big trikes, lake and boats- but there are a couple ponds where the turtles come and go. Highlights for us; 1.) The laundry will run off an app on your phone. 2.) The pool and patio is truly awesome; we hang there almost every afternoon(weather permitting). 3.) Did I mention pickleball?! Downsides? Well, there is the price, but that's relative. We're getting a$1200.00 monthly rate which makes it do-able. Sometimes, when the winds blow out of the east, every camper smells the sewage treatment plant across the back fence- Check Google maps satellite view. Truth be told, it is rare, only a few days out of the month. The large majority of the time we get the cool coastal breeze. We camped at Oceans RV Resort in a Fifth Wheel.

  • P
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Family Campground
    Jun. 9, 2024

    Dogwood Family Campground

    Gravel parking lot

    Full timers and long term on business campers beware! This campground has nothing to offer. The owners of this 1 year old campground are very strict with their rules and regulations. They are very nice in person and when checking in but soon you will find yourself receiving passive aggressive emails from them about rule violation they’ve spotted on the 6 or more cameras throughout the park. They have a very strict leash law here but offer no dog run/park area for your K-9 to play. They claim a dog park is on the list of things to come, but the second half of a drain field will come first. There are no amenities here, other than a very small fishing pond and some poorly maintained walking trails at the rear of the campground that have piles of post construction material scattered about. The campground is on well water and very brown in color so I would not drink or cook with it. Over half of the sites have your living side of the RV facing west and there is not a tree in sight, so in the summer be prepared to bake in the sun. The entire campground is gravel parking lot with 10 foot slivers of grass between each site and god forbid don’t let Sean the owner see you put anything(rug, vehicle, etc…) on his beloved grass. I gave this campground 2 stars… 1 for being dark and quiet at night and the other star for the free and decent wifi. So if you don’t want spied on via cameras, harassed, a dusty rig and a place for Fido to play, I would suggest going 8 miles down the road to an awesome campground called Whispering pines you and your dog will be much happier!

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm / RV site at Wallace Meadows Farm
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm / RV site at Wallace Meadows Farm

    Lovely place to camp!

    We recently stayed overnight at Wallace Meadows and it was one of the most lovely places we've ever been to! Rich was very friendly and welcoming and the hookup & amenities they offered for a fee were excellent. The bath house was spotless and we each enjoyed a nice hot shower! The property is surrounded by trees and it was very tranquil. There's even a guesthouse which could possibly accommodate fellow travelers who may not have an RV. There's also a laundry room but we didn't use it. They have a background in hospitality and it really shows. Before we left, we purchased some fresh eggs from their farm, beautifully packaged and delicious! We will return to North Carolina. There's so much to see here and we'll definitely return to Wallace Meadows Farm.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Landing RV Resort
    May. 16, 2024

    Dixon Landing RV Resort

    Waterfront, secluded, nature, sunsets... what more can you ask for?

    We found Dixon Landing in their initial opening phase and it is lightly booked at this point (they even have openings for the upcoming summer holidays). This is a very secluded campground right on the wide Goose Creek/Neuse River, with access to the ocean varying from 25-50 miles. 

    Every RV site is pull-through with both “waterfront” and “water view” (more of a view of the marsh along the river) sites. Site layout is long, very wide(you have to actually walk over to talk to neighbors) and mostly level side-to-side. Front-to-back was easily compensated with blocks. The road in and the sites are a combination of compacted sand and grass that drained well after a storm. Many sites have shade or afternoon shade. The electric pedestal was new and tall, making it easy to connect the surge protector, and topped with a solar light. 

    Hosts Steve and Joan were themselves RV’rs and park details reflect their experience. Since they are in their opening season they currently offer basic services with electric/water, a dump site(no water) and free on-site pump-out service, picnic tables, firepits, a dog park, kayaks, and a fishing pond for kids(C&R). More services are in the planning or permitting stage. Today they offer a bathroom and just got permits for the full bathhouse. Fiber-optic cable should be run to their area this year. We were amazed at how many TV channels we picked up just on antennae. Verizon, ATT and Sprint service are known to be good. They will have an ice machine, laundry, and a pier eventually. 

    Today you will go to enjoy the absolute quiet, waking up to sunrise glinting off the wide river in every window, fishing from the banks, land and sea wildlife, gorgeous sunsets over the river, and hearing whip-or-wills serenade after sunset. 

    It was about 90 minutes (including 2 ferry rides) to reach the Cape Lookout National Park and lighthouse.  The ferry dropped us off for 2 hours to walk the beach, hike and view the wild horses on Harker’s Island. Gary’s, the local seafood restaurant, was a find! So good we ate there twice. I’m already looking at the calendar to go back.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Feb. 11, 2024

    Cedar Point Campground

    Great place with a great host!

    Camping in the winter and a newbie, but this place was great. Showers and bathrooms were exceptionally clean. Dog friendly, electric and good clean drinking water on site. Can only stay 14 days at a time.

  • Tiffini S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Emerald Isle RV Resort
    Feb. 7, 2024

    Emerald Isle RV Resort

    This place has lost its touch!

    We have stayed at this campground many times since 2016 and always loved it. The location is awesome, the owner, and the staff were so nice and friendly. Its not that way anymore. There are no longer loyalty programs for repeat customers and they dont care if you stay there or not. When this new company bought this campground they decided $55 to $80 a night was not enough, they want to charge $155 and up depending on when you are staying. This is insane! There are other campgrounds we stay at that have a lot of stuff to offer and they are no where near this expensive, you hardly have anything to offer at this campground. You are giving the customer a place to park, water, sewer and electricity for $155 and up a night, and thats it! There is no security at this place anymore so you better change your storage locks on your camper because most are keyed alike, dont leave anything outside like bikes, grills, shoes, clothes, etc... because they will disappear. This never happened before, makes you wonder who is wondering around stealing. I won't be back until the prices come down and improvements are made. I wish everyone would find other places to go for the next few years and these owners would be forced to sell and maybe we could have our campground back.

  • terri L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Island Ranch
    Nov. 29, 2023

    Cedar Island Ranch

    Beautiful Area

    This campground was great. They have horseback riding on grounds and the ferry to Ocracoke is literally right there. Bath house older but clean. There’s a small beach and store. Staff was outstanding. Only complaint were the ruts in the dirt roads. They need filling in. And don’t stay near trees because the mosquitoes were awful.

  • Timothy M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Closed permanently
    Nov. 24, 2023

    Closed permanently

    Safe and spacious

    Talk about Southern hospitality, the hosts were amazing and the campsite was a safe place for Luna and I to spend the night!

  • Shela C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond
    Nov. 21, 2023

    JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

    1st camping trip

    My husband and I recently purchased a small RV and decided to do a short trip close to home. This campground is amazing. Beautiful views fishing is good and the hosts are very nice and informative. Will be returning to this gem of a campground!

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oyster Point Campground
    Nov. 19, 2023

    Oyster Point Campground

    Water Views and Spacious Sites

    Oyster Point: Great sites. Sites w water view are best.
    (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (70 yr olds in 17’ trailer with a desire for a campsite that has at least some visual privacy offered - after the trailer is in the spot.)

    Overall Rating: 4 Price 2023: $ 5 w interagency pass Usage during visit: Light Site Privacy: Underbrush has been trimmed it looks like. So, there is not as much privacy between sites. Site Spacing: Very wide sites .
    Site surface: Gravel Reservations: Yes Campground Noise: Quiet during our stay.
    Road Noise: Secluded. No public roads nearby. Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: No Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: No Potable Water Available: Yes. One or two spigots. Generators:Allowed Bathroom: Pit toilet is clean and well stocked. Showers: No Pull Throughs: Site 13 is a pull through Cell Service (AT&T): 2 - 4 bars Setting: Pine forest with a more of Newport River Weather: 72 fall day high. Bugs: No mosquitoes. Must be gone for the year Solar: Maybe too forested in some spots. In site # 5 at 9:00 AM we had some solar charge happening Host: Tonia is a delightful host Rig size: Our site would fit a large rig. Sites: I took pictures of the sites on the shore side of the campground. They are the best, but all sites here I would be happy with. Sites #9 and #11 have pathways to a very small private beach. Site 1 is close to a pit toilet. Maybe a smell issue now and then.

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Flanners Beach Campground
    Nov. 19, 2023

    Flanners Beach Campground

    Great Private Sites

    Neuse River Flanners Beach Campground: Most sites have visual privacy (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (70 yr olds in 17’ trailer with a desire for a campsite that has at least some visual privacy offered - after the trailer is in the spot.)

    Overall Rating: 4.5 Price 2023: $ $10 + $5 per night for electricity w interagency pass Usage during visit: Pretty full. Unable to obtain a reservation for an extended period.
    Site Privacy: Almost all sites has a nice degree of privacy with trailer in site.
    Site Spacing: Very good Site surface: Gravel Reservations: Yes. You better. Campground Noise: Quiet. Road Noise: None Through Traffic in campground: None Electric Hookup: Available Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: Yes. At entrance. Potable Water Available: Scattered spigots Generators:
    Bathroom: Yes Showers: Yes Pull Throughs: Not that I saw.
    Cell Service (AT&T): 2 bars Setting: Deciduous forest. Weather: 70 degrees today. Bugs: Not noticeable. Solar: Too much tree cover Host: Yes Rig size: Some sites will fit large rigs. A careful drive in Campground will surely be required. Sites: Almost all sites are good. Some of the least private sites are: 13,20,27,29

  • James R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Oct. 9, 2023

    Cedar Point Campground

    GREAT HANGOUT

    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!



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

  • What camping is available near Emerald Isle, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Emerald Isle, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 65 campgrounds and RV parks near Emerald Isle, NC and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Emerald Isle, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Emerald Isle, NC is Cedar Point Campground with a 4-star rating from 27 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Emerald Isle, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Emerald Isle, NC.

  • What parks are near Emerald Isle, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Emerald Isle, NC that allow camping, notably Cape Lookout National Seashore and Cape Hatteras National Seashore.