Camping cabins near Gatesville, North Carolina offer overnight stays on the western edge of the Great Dismal Swamp region. Located approximately 35 miles inland from the Atlantic coast, this area experiences mild winters with occasional frost and humid summers averaging 85-90°F. Most rental cabins in the region remain open year-round, though some facilities like North Bayshore Campground operate seasonally from May through October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Visitors to Davis Lakes Resort can fish in the property's small lakes. "Fishing in the ponds was good," notes one visitor who stayed in the Eagles Nest cabin. The campground's natural water features provide catch-and-release options throughout the year.
Kayaking on waterways: Northwest River Park & Campground offers kayak rentals and launching areas for water exploration. "There are a few hikes leading back to the river. Canoes and paddle boats are available to rent for use in black water," explains a camper who visited the park. Water activities become especially popular during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
Local exploration: The cabin rental at DeVane and Co. provides a convenient base for regional exploration without requiring personal camping equipment. Located within 25 miles of several wildlife management areas and preserves, these accommodations allow visitors to experience the coastal plain ecosystem while returning to solid shelter each night.
What campers like
Clean facilities: North Landing Beach maintains well-kept grounds and cabins according to multiple reviews. "The bathhouse is clean, climate controlled, and never too busy. There's a game room for relaxing or playing air hockey, pool, and fussball," reports a repeat visitor. The campground also features a swimming pool as an alternative to beach activities.
Privacy options: Isle of Wight Family Campground offers wooded settings for a more secluded cabin experience. A camper describes the appeal: "We stayed in the Eagles nest cabin. It had plenty of room for 5 adults and 2 teenagers. The cabin was very clean and offered everything that you would need." Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table.
Water views: Many visitors appreciate waterfront cabin options at Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA, which provide scenic vistas. "We had a great view of the water and we could see the Currituck lighthouse at night," shares a family who stayed for two nights. This location balances natural setting with access to Outer Banks attractions.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings increased insects to many campgrounds in the region. "When we were there the midgets were so bad our RV was covered in them at night," reports a July visitor to Outer Banks West KOA. Bug spray with DEET becomes essential equipment during warmer months.
Reservation timing: Advance booking becomes crucial during peak periods from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Most campgrounds require deposits ranging from one night's stay to 50% of the total reservation cost.
Cabin amenities vary: Chesapeake Campground offers different cabin styles with varying comfort levels. "Several configurations are offered including studio, one and two-bedroom," notes a visitor who observed the campground's renovation. Some units include full kitchenettes while others provide only microwave/refrigerator combinations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and recreational facilities enhance family stays at several locations. "There is a large outdoor entertaining pavilion as well as a smaller, indoor event space with full kitchen. A decent-sized pool with outdoor shower, a newly-constructed hot tub, miniature golf, basketball, horseshoes, pickle ball, and playground round off the outdoor fun," describes a visitor to North Landing Beach.
Cabin size requirements: Families should verify sleeping capacity before booking. The Eagles Nest cabin at Davis Lakes Resort receives positive reviews specifically for group accommodations: "We stayed in the Eagles nest cabin. It had plenty of room for 5 adults and 2 teenagers."
Activity planning: Some campgrounds organize regular children's events. At Outer Banks West KOA, a visitor noted the staff involvement: "Lexi did an amazing job with the kids keeping them busy." Scheduling around these planned activities can enhance family camping experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When converting from RV to cabin camping, experienced RVers recommend examining site surroundings carefully. "Check your site carefully if you pay for a water site, some have trees covering the view and a lot have a big marsh area," advises a visitor to Outer Banks West KOA who paid premium rates for a waterfront location.
Supply availability: Camp stores vary widely in inventory. "Store is very limited on what it has," mentions a reviewer of Davis Lakes Resort. RVers accustomed to self-sufficiency recommend maintaining this approach even when staying in cabins by bringing essential supplies from larger towns before arrival.
Internet connectivity: Wi-Fi quality fluctuates throughout the region. A visitor to Davis Lakes Resort commented, "The only reason that it doesn't get 5 stars is the WiFi was very limited." Those requiring reliable connectivity should consider cellular data backup options or plan for digital disconnection during their stay.
