From the shores of Cape Hatteras to the ancient mountains of Great Smoky Mountain National Park, North Carolina is a state that is as beautiful as it is diverse in natural wonders. Whether you fancy a day of surfing in the waves of the Atlantic Ocean or a climb up Mount Mitchell, the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi, there’s an outdoor adventure waiting for you. So grab your bathing suit or your hiking poles (or both!) and find the best camping in North Carolina. 


The pristine beauty of North Carolina’s Outer Banks have always drawn vacationers looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives. Fortunately for those that like sleeping under the stars, camping in North Carolina at one of the state’s many beaches is a great way to experience the sun and sand without the expense of a vacation rental. With over 300 miles of coastline, there are dozens of state and private campgrounds to choose from. 


If pitching your tent in coastal sand dunes isn’t your cup of tea then pack your bag and head to the mountains of Western North Carolina—a region known throughout the southeast for its abundant opportunities to recreate outdoors. Whether you’re rafting down the Nantahala River that winds through the beautiful and remote Nantahala National Forest or hiking on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, a 1,175 mile footpath that spans the width of North Carolina, you won’t run out of reasons to be outside. 


North Carolina has 40 mountains that rise above 6,000 feet (aforementioned Mount Mitchell is the tallest, clocking in at 6,684 feet) and 100 that stand more than 5,000 feet. Camping in the shadows of these peaks is just one thing that makes camping in North Carolina so special. And with 2.1 million acres of public land in the state, finding a campground is as easy as pulling out a map. 


Whether it’s saltwater waves, pristine peaks or rushing rivers that excite you, let The Dyrt help you discover the best camping in North Carolina. 

North Carolina

The Best Camping in North Carolina | 100+ NC Campgrounds

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Frisco. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Frisco. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Frisco

The Best Camping Near Frisco, North Carolina

Frisco Campground is part of Cape Hatteras National Seashore on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Cape Hatteras camping here will put you in a prime location to experience the history, culture, and breathtaking beauty of North Carolina's barrier islands. Recreation On a walk around the Frisco Campground visitors can enjoy the rolling topography, views of the Atlantic Ocean, and at night, the sweeping beacon of the nearby Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Boardwalks from the campground to the beach give pedestrians easy access to enjoy activities such as surfing, swimming, and fishing. There is also an off-road vehicle (ORV) ramp at the entrance of the campground for beach driving with a Cape Hatteras ORV permit. Facilities Campers have access to modern restrooms with flushing toilets, potable water, and outdoor unheated showers. Each campsite is equipped with a paved parking pad, picnic table, and a charcoal grill for cooking. There are no RV hook ups in the campground. Dumpsters and a recycling center are located at the entrance of the campground. Wooden boardwalks make it easy for campers to travel to and from the beach. Natural Features The elevated dunes in Frisco Campground afford campers the opportunity to have an ocean view from some of the campsites. Dense vegetation creates a sense of privacy not present in the other campgrounds on Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Nearby Attractions Frisco campground is within a short drive of the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. The beacon gained fame in 1999 when it was picked up and moved 2900 ft. to its current location. It is also the tallest brick lighthouse in the country. From the third Friday in April until Columbus Day it can be climbed with a ticket purchased on-site.

Frisco Campground - Cape Hatteras

Avon by the Sea is an oceanfront RV Park that allows you the freedom to park your vacation in the ultimate destination.

Located in the heart of Avon, NC and steps away from the Atlantic ocean, the Avon Fishing Pier, and the Beach Klub’s oceanfront pool; Avon by the Sea is the Outer Banks RV experience you have been dreaming of.

Avon by the Sea

## Overview

Cape Point Campground sites have a shortened reservation window. Due to the ground saturation and potential for flooding we encourage you to check the sites prior to paying. Cape Point Campground is centrally located to all of the attractions on Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The campground puts you within walking distance of arguably the best fishing and surfing on the east coast.

## Recreation

A short walk through the dunes leads you to the beach at the infamous Cape Hatteras. Many trophy fish have been landed from the point, and it has been a surfing destination for decades. If you prefer to drive to the beach you can access one of the many off-road vehicle ramps within a short distance of the campground. Exploration of the barrier islands beyond their beaches is possible on a hike through the nearby maritime forest. The Buxton Woods Trail is a 3/4 mile loop that can be accessed just north of the campground at the Buxton Woods Picnic Area on Lighthouse Road. 

## Facilities

Cape Point Campground is the largest campground on Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Each campsite is equipped with a paved parking pad, picnic table and charcoal grill. Rows D, E, and F are reserved for tent camping only. There are no hook-ups in the campground for RVs. Four sets of restrooms and outdoor shower facilities are dispersed evenly throughout the campground. Water spigots providing potable water are readily available. 

## Natural Features

The campground is nestled between rolling dunes to the south and the largest remaining tract of maritime forest on the North Carolina coast to the north. The environment is naturally suited to accommodate many bird and mammal species. A large heard of white tail deer frequent the area. 

## Nearby Attractions

The iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is located just north of Cape Point Campground on Lighthouse Road. From the third Friday in April until Columbus Day visitors can climb the lighthouse with a ticket that can be purchased from a kiosk on the walkway leading to the lighthouse. Standing at 198 feet, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States. It has undoubtedly saved the lives of many mariners navigating around the treacherous Diamond Shoals.   
  
Buxton Beach is a family friendly swimming destination staffed with lifeguards from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It is a short walk or bike ride from the campground. Parking is available at the old lighthouse site adjacent to the current location of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.

Cape Point Campground

Located on the Pamlico Sound on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Frisco Woods Campground is your waterfront destination. Whether you're looking for a great family getaway or a romantic weekend, we can accommodate all your camping and lodging needs.  We offer 30-50 amp service for RV camping, secluded campsites for your tent or pop-up and, for the not so adventurous, we offer camping cabins with electricity and air conditioning.

Frisco Woods Campground 

This National Park Sevice campground is located on Cape Hatteras National Seashore on 13 miles of pristine beach. The Atlantic Ocean and the Pamlico Sound are both within walking distance. The quaint village of Ocracoke is nearby with many historic homes and buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Ocracoke Island camping options include this large, well-maintained campground with a total of 136 campsites to choose from. Usually, the campground is open from early April through late November.

Ocracoke Campground

Island Hide-A-Way Campground

Hatteras Island’s only campground located in the heart of Hatteras Village, in the scenic Outer Banks area of North Carolina.

Set among beautiful canals and grassy fields, our resort has over 60 paved RV sites. Hatteras Sands Campground welcomes “big rigs” with many sites featuring water, sewer and electric hookups, cable and WiFi.

On Hatteras Island, you can fish right from the beach or take a charter boat out to the deep blue water of the Gulf Stream. Take in the soulful coastal restaurants and interesting mom-and-pop shops. While your setting will be a bit more on the untamed side of nature, it will be a simpler and quieter part of the barrier islands.

Hatteras Sands Cottages offer comforts while providing a camping experience. For a truly unique accommodation, stay in one of our newly renovated cottages.

Hatteras Sands Campground

Sands of Time Campground

Cape Woods Campground

Teeter's Campground

Dallas, NC is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Dallas, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Dallas. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Dallas

The Best Camping Near Dallas, North Carolina

Though it doesn’t offer much within its city limits, the outskirts of Charlotte, North Carolina, and surrounding cities more than make up for it. With Lake Wylie and Mountain Island Lake outside of the city, travelers looking for waterfront camping and hiking won’t be disappointed.

The best camping near Charlotte is on Copperhead Island. This spot offers affordably-priced lakefront campsites, perfect for a relaxing weekend. If you’re willing to make a bit of a drive, head easy to the Uwharrie National Forest, on the other side of Badin Lake near Eldorado, NC. Badin Lake is another fantastic option for a camping weekend with several picturesque campgrounds. Whether in an RV or tent, you’ll love Badin Lake!

Charlotte

Charlotte is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Charlotte is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Charlotte, NC. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

The Best Camping Near Charlotte, North Carolina

Looking for the best campgrounds near Raleigh, NC? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Raleigh. Find the best campgrounds near Raleigh, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Raleigh

The Best Campgrounds Near Raleigh, NC | NC Camping

Looking for the best campgrounds near Greensboro, NC? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Greensboro camping trip.

Greensboro

The Best Campgrounds Near Greensboro, NC | NC Camping

Greensboro is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Greensboro is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Greensboro camping trip.

The Best Camping Near Greensboro, North Carolina

Join the fun near Winston-Salem. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Winston-Salem camping trip.

Winston-Salem

The Best Campgrounds Near Winston Salem, NC | NC Camping

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Durham. Durham is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Durham and user-submitted reviews.

Durham

The Best Camping Near Durham, North Carolina

Join the fun near Fayetteville. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that North Carolina camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your North Carolina camping adventure.

Fayetteville

The Best Camping Near Fayetteville, North Carolina

Wilmington is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Wilmington campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Wilmington, NC. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Wilmington

The Best Camping Near Wilmington, North Carolina

High Point is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. High Point is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near High Point, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

High Point

The Best Camping Near High Point, North Carolina

Looking for the best campgrounds near Uwharrie National Forest, NC? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Uwharrie National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Uwharrie National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Uwharrie National Forest

The Best Camping Near Uwharrie National Forest, North Carolina

North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains National Park draws millions of visitors annually for its unbridled beauty and free admission. Expect long entrance lines but know that your experience will make it all worthwhile.

Great Smoky offers 10 front-country camping locations for tents and RVs. For those looking for a longer trek, the park has a host of backcountry campgrounds at just $4 per night. Ideally, you camp in the park. However, as this is the most visited national park, you may have to make other plans. If you can’t stay in the park, the best camping near the Great Smoky Mountains is usually found in the nearby national forests. If you’re looking for something with more amenities, the eclectic city of Asheville, NC is where you’ll want to be.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your North Carolina camping adventure.

The Best Camping Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Croatan National Forest, NC is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Croatan National Forest is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Croatan National Forest camping trip.

Croatan National Forest

The Best Camping Near Croatan National Forest, North Carolina

Appalachian National Forest, NC is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Appalachian National Forest. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Appalachian National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Appalachian National Forest

The Best Camping Near Appalachian National Forest, North Carolina

Searching for the best camping near Pisgah National Forest, NC? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Pisgah National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Pisgah National Forest

The Best Camping Near Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina

Join the fun near Cape Hatteras National Seashore. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Cape Hatteras National Seashore, NC. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

The Best Camping Near Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina

Looking for the best campgrounds near Tusquitee National Forest, NC? Tusquitee National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Tusquitee National Forest, NC. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Tusquitee National Forest

The Best Camping Near Tusquitee National Forest, North Carolina

Looking for the best campgrounds near Nantahala National Forest, NC? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Nantahala National Forest. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Nantahala National Forest

The Best Camping Near Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, National Forests in North Carolina, NC is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—National Forests in North Carolina is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near National Forests in North Carolina. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

National Forests in North Carolina

The Best Camping Near National Forests in North Carolina, North Carolina

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir, NC has a lot to offer. W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Get the dirt on all the best camping near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

The Best Camping in Frisco

Top Campgrounds in Frisco (27)

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