The Outer Banks region near Frisco, North Carolina sits on a narrow strip of barrier islands between the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound. This area experiences strong coastal winds that can challenge tent campers, with average summer temperatures reaching 85°F and winter lows around 45°F. Camping options span from oceanside national seashore sites to soundside RV parks with kayak launches.
What to do
Beach driving permits: Cape Hatteras National Seashore requires ORV permits for beach driving access near Frisco Campground. "There is a beach access ramp right next to the ranger station if you want to drive your 4wd vehicle on the beach," notes a visitor.
Sound activities: Pamlico Sound offers calmer waters for beginners. "There are fishing boats and golf carts for access to the nearby 'city center' of the cute town of Ocracoke," mentions one camper about Teeter's Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Deer frequently visit campgrounds in the area. "We enjoyed deer stopping by our camp site, and the wild, remote feeling here," reports a camper. Morning hours provide the best opportunity for wildlife sightings.
Lighthouse tours: The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse stands 210 feet tall as the tallest brick lighthouse in North America. One visitor recommends "Buxton is worth a day trip down for an Apple Ugly at the Orange Blossom, and a tour of the Hatteras Lighthouse and adjacent National Seashore visitor center."
What campers like
Beachfront access: Direct beach proximity ranks high among camper priorities at Frisco Woods Campground. "Our campsite was just feet from the shore of the Pamlico Sound. Beautiful sunsets. Shallow water for play, fishing, and water sport," shares one visitor.
Sunset views: Many sound-facing sites offer unobstructed sunset viewing. At St Clair Landing Family Campground, a guest reports, "The view of the Sound is incredible, particularly during sunset. You can watch kite surfers during the day. They have their own access point for the Sound."
Swimming options: Campgrounds often feature pools as alternatives to ocean swimming. "Swimming pool and deck," notes one visitor about amenities. Another camper mentions, "Indoor pool was great for the kids on the cool and windy weekend."
Beach combing: Shell collecting proves popular among visitors. "The beach was pretty with lots of shells, but tons of 4x4 trucks and jeeps driving around was less than appealing to those who just want to walk on quiet beach," observes one visitor.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Strong winds regularly affect the area and can impact camping equipment. "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," warns a camper at Rodanthe Watersports & Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close between November and March. According to one reviewer, "Open: Mar 1- Dec 1 Rates: 42.00 - $2,025.00."
Vegetation hazards: Prickly plants can create problems for campers and pets. "Watch out for cacti and other prickly things in the grass," cautions a visitor. Another notes, "We could not walk our 3 dogs at all!!! When they did go potty we spent several minutes picking out sands spurs and cacti from their paws and fur."
Flooding risks: Low-lying areas may flood during storms. One camper observed, "The area along the sound can flood with stormy weather, so would recommend not staying on the edge during bad weather as the road sometimes gets covered with water."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some RV parks offer dedicated recreation areas. "There is also a swingset - perfect for younger kids - to be able to play on just a walk away from our site!" shares a visitor to Ocean Waves Campground.
Sound swimming: Pamlico Sound provides safer swimming for children than ocean beaches. "Access to the sound side of the island. Ramp for driving onto the beach or the pedestrian accessed beach requires driving," notes a camper.
Ferry excursions: The Ocracoke Ferry offers a day trip adventure. "Great campground, super close to the Ocracoke ferry," recommends a visitor, mentioning the nearby boat transportation.
Bug preparation: When winds die down, insects become problematic. "Bugs were a big issue so canopy/mosquito net would be wise!" warns an experienced camper. Bringing repellent is essential for evening comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many rv campgrounds in Frisco, North Carolina feature tight spacing between units. At Hatteras Sands Campground, a reviewer notes, "The sites along the waterway would be nicest. They are very cute cabins and some with water view... Very, very close."
Road challenges: Narrow access roads require careful navigation. "A paved road with concrete sites but parking a large rig might be difficult because of the narrow width of the road," cautions a visitor regarding Frisco area RV parks.
Site surfaces: Most RV sites feature concrete pads with limited overflow parking. "Each site has a concrete pad for the trailer," mentions one camper. Another notes, "Concrete pad for rev and nice grassy area to relax."
Internet connectivity: Cell service varies but wifi quality is often limited. "The internet is terrible so if you're working from home, have a hotspot. AT&T does much better in this area. We have Verizon and it was spotty," advises an RVer.
