Glamping options near Emerald Isle, North Carolina combine rustic and upscale camping experiences across the Crystal Coast region. The area sits at sea level with nearby barrier islands protecting the mainland, creating diverse camping environments from maritime forests to riverfront settings. Winter temperatures average 40-60°F while summer brings 80-90°F heat with high humidity.
What to do
Kayaking at riverside spots: Oyster Point Campground offers direct water access with several campsites featuring private paths to the shore. As one reviewer noted, "We were able to launch kayaks almost directly from campsite #11" and another mentioned "It's a nice little campsite by the river, the campsite was very clean, and there are a few trees providing cover, but still enough sun to get some solar."
Beach exploration at Cape Lookout: South Core Banks -- Beach Camping provides unique oceanfront camping on undeveloped barrier islands. "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," explains one camper. The area requires 4WD vehicles with a special permit ($25 in 2021).
Farm activities for children: Wallace Meadows Farm offers agricultural experiences alongside camping. A visitor shared, "My grandkids got to feed the cows and the walk around the farm was very nice." The farm also sells fresh products directly to campers, with one reviewer commenting they purchased "fresh eggs from their farm, beautifully packaged and delicious!"
What campers like
Clean facilities at affordable prices: White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort earns praise for its maintenance standards. "The whole place is so very clean: the bathrooms, camping areas, swimming pool area, even the dumpsters area. The grass is very well kept, the roads and signage, well maintained," according to a recent visitor.
Waterfront views from campsites: Rivers Edge Family Campground features "beautiful location on river with very nice peer and green space" as one camper noted. The campground offers full hookups with cement pads for picnic tables, with reviewers appreciating the "secluded" setting that opens to "very big open land that is well maintained."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camping on South Core Banks provides chances to see wild horses and other coastal wildlife. A visitor reported, "We had three young male horses that were always roaming within sight. They even walked close by our campsite." The island is described as "almost completely absent of anything man made, just sand dunes and horses."
What you should know
Bug challenges at coastal sites: Prepare for insects, especially in warmer months. A visitor to Oyster Point Campground warned, "The flys are insane but you'll quickly learn to ignore them - aside from a few bites here and there. We smoked them out and it was fine for the most part."
Limited amenities at remote locations: South Core Banks offers primitive camping with minimal facilities. "No power, water or hookups. Bath house decent, and on the ocean. Take plenty of bug spray. View is stunning. Just be sure you know it's on an island, and read the tide tables so you aren't surprised," advised one camper.
Limited shade at newer sites: Some campgrounds lack mature trees for shade. A visitor to Goose Creek Campground noted, "Nice overnight stay RV Campground new with no shade. Very clean. Beautiful river but not walking distance from campground."
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities for children: Goose Creek Campground features water recreation options popular with families. A visitor wrote, "The pool is awesome! Great location, can't wait to come back!" The campground maintains a family-friendly atmosphere that receives consistent praise.
Water safety awareness: Beaches and waterfront camping areas require supervision. At Cape Lookout, "Waterspouts 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," a camper advised.
Small campgrounds for quieter stays: Smaller properties often provide a more peaceful experience for families. One visitor to Camp Ocean Forest noted it's "Right next to the pier, walking distance to the water, and amazing views" while another praised its "Clean family friendly bath houses and receptacle outlet near ur personal waterfront tent camping spot."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup limitations: Not all glamping sites offer complete RV connections. A visitor to Rivers Edge commented, "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."
Big rig accessibility varies: Check site specifications before booking. At Hawkins Creek Campground, RVers appreciate the practical amenities: "This is a great place to stay stocked catch and release fishing ponds. Storage units available on sight. Bath house fire pits level high lots shaded lots and much more."
Weather preparation essential: Coastal camping brings unique challenges. One long-term camper at Oyster Point noted, "Primitive campground with no frills. Dirt road in and gravel on site drives. Water spigots spread out between the campsites. Vaulted toilets were clean."
