Located at the southern end of Hatteras Island, Frisco offers prime access to uncrowded beaches and spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities. The area sits between the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound with salt marshes and maritime forests creating diverse ecosystems for camping. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with consistent ocean breezes that help minimize mosquitoes when winds exceed 10 mph.
What to do
Lighthouse exploration: Visit the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse near Cape Point Campground, where you can climb the tallest brick lighthouse in North America at 198 feet tall. "Be sure to check out the lighthouse and make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons!" advises camper Bran P.
Water activities: Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or kiteboarding directly from your campsite at Rodanthe Watersports & Campground where equipment rentals are discounted for campers. "We enjoyed the pizza at the local Italian place right next door. Note: there is a ice vending place that charges affordable rate... you have the option of ice in a bag or fill up your cooler there," shares Amber.
Beach time: Walk to pristine, uncrowded beaches within minutes of most campgrounds in the area. "Site had a great view of the water and for sunsets, the sunrise was a 5 min walk across the road with the beach right there as well," notes Taylor T. about Rodanthe Watersports & Campground.
What campers like
Serene settings: Luxury glamping in Frisco, North Carolina offers unique soundside and oceanfront locations with unmatched sunset views. "We picked this campground over the state park because we wanted to be able to walk into town, rent bikes, and generally explore by foot," explains a camper at Teeter's Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Observe local wildlife including shore birds, dolphins, and sea turtles from your campsite. "This campground is absolutely gorgeous and quite the change from the other campgrounds at the OBX. It was quiet and peaceful," shares Kaitlyn F. about Cape Point Campground.
Off-season tranquility: Consider upscale glamping experiences near Frisco during shoulder seasons when crowds thin but weather remains pleasant. "We stopped for one night and wish it was longer. Off season and quiet, but very easy access in and out and a dune away from the Atlantic," reports Joe R. about Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA Resort.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Strong winds can impact tent camping, especially along the sound. "The wind was really strong and it made setting up our tent a challenge! Thanks to our friendly neighbors, they were able to get it grounded for us. Bring rope/canopy weight in case this happens," advises Amber about camping at Rodanthe Watersports & Campground.
Limited amenities: Some campgrounds offer basic facilities only. "No frill amenities. Great location close to town. Some site will hold water in lots of rain so be on the lookout," notes Cody B. about Teeter's Campground.
Seasonal pricing variations: Expect significant price differences between peak summer and off-season periods for glamping options near Frisco. "I had looked into tent camping over the Fourth of July weekend and they wanted $150 a night for a TENT site," reports Rachael H. about Cape Hatteras KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Choose campgrounds with activities specifically designed for children. At Cape Hatteras KOA, "The kids had plenty of room to ride their bikes and enjoyed the jump pillow. While too cold, the pool looks great," according to Joe R.
Beach safety awareness: Teach children about rip currents and supervise them closely during ocean swimming. "If you like national seashores, camping and surfing. Then this beautiful gem is for you! Mosquitos might be a problem! Deet is a solution," recommends Megan B. from Cape Point — Cape Lookout National Seashore.
Sound-side swimming: For younger children, the calm, shallow waters of Pamlico Sound provide safer swimming options than the Atlantic beaches. "The sound is great for wading and cooling off, especially for kids, since it's so calm and shallow," explains Jen V. about Rodanthe Watersports & Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose your site carefully as some locations may have drainage issues. "Level spot, but too crowded. Our neighbor was inconsiderate and blasted the outdoor tv past quiet hours," warns Lucy M. about Cape Hatteras KOA.
Utilities awareness: Note that hookup options vary significantly between campgrounds. "Serious water and drainage issues, sewer dump station was a joke. Do yourself a favor and stay at nps campground up the road if u don't need full hook ups," advises Charlie about Teeter's Campground.
Size restrictions: Many Outer Banks glamping sites and campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "Very nice campground. Sites are small but manageable. The staff is great. $60 for peak season. Hook ups are well maintained," notes Matt T. about Teeter's Campground.
