RV camping near Gatesville, North Carolina sits in the northeastern part of the state within the Coastal Plain region, where flat terrain and numerous waterways characterize the landscape. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching 90°F, while winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F. Many campgrounds remain accessible year-round with varying seasonal activities centered around nearby rivers and sounds.
What to Do
Kayaking water access: Rocky Hock Campground provides direct water access for exploring local waterways. "We kayaked in their creek that goes out directly to the Chowan River. Large fishing pond, firewood available, clean shower house, game room and tidy clean sites," notes one camper at Rocky Hock Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Davis Lakes Resort offers year-round fishing across multiple small lakes. "Fishing in the ponds was good. Store is very limited on what it has," mentions a visitor who stayed in one of their cabins.
Swimming options: North Landing Beach features both a beach area and pool facilities. "The beach was quiet and relaxing with beautiful sunsets," reports one camper, while another mentions, "We enjoyed the pool, kayaking & the activities."
Recreation facilities: Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA provides various on-site activities despite being relatively new. "Our boys enjoyed kayaking around the sound and riding their bikes to the playground. It seemed like they are working to add more amenities and upgrades," shares one family who appreciated the waterfront location.
What Campers Like
Waterfront views: Campers consistently highlight the scenic water views at North Landing Beach, where "the view on the beach is breathtaking" and many appreciate watching "beautiful sunsets" over the water.
Entertainment options: Several campgrounds offer organized activities and entertainment. "Movie time in a drive in theatre atmosphere. Had a shrimp boil while we were there," reports one North Landing Beach visitor, while another mentions, "They are always throwing special events."
Clean facilities: Rocky Hock Campground receives praise for its well-maintained grounds. "The grounds are immaculate, sites are level and very well designed for optimal privacy," notes one visitor who initially had reservations about staying there.
Fishing access: Davis Lakes Resort provides fishing opportunities that appeal to many campers. One visitor reports, "Fishing in the ponds was good," while the campground maintains year-round fishing access according to another review that states, "There are no amenities in the fall and winter but in the summer there is a lake with a swimming area and a snack bar. The fishing is year round."
What You Should Know
Bug issues: Some campgrounds experience significant insect activity. At Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA, one visitor reported, "When we were there the midgets were so bad our RV was covered in them at night."
Limited amenities: Treeside RV Park has 51 sites with electric and water but lacks some basic facilities. As one visitor noted, this campground is "Clean, safe, affordable" but has limited amenities for those seeking full-service facilities.
Pet restrictions: Some campgrounds have significant limitations for pet owners. At Davis Lakes Resort, a visitor warned, "But really not dog friendly....no dogs allowed signs posted all over and no where to really walk or hike due to private camping areas/roads."
Variable site quality: When booking waterfront sites, be aware that views may vary. "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 one KOA visitor, while another noted, "Paid for a water view spot, got a spot obscured by trees."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: Davis Lakes Resort offers family-friendly water features. "There is a lake with a swimming area and a snack bar," notes one visitor, while another mentions it's a "Nice clean family campground near home, lots to do for the kids."
Kid-friendly programming: North Landing Beach provides organized activities for children. "They are always throwing special events," mentions one family, making it ideal for keeping younger campers entertained.
Playgrounds and recreation: Multiple campgrounds feature playground facilities. At Outer Banks West KOA, families appreciate that children can enjoy "riding their bikes to the playground," while the "big play ground" is listed as a pro by another visitor.
Swimming options: Rocky Hock Campground offers swimming in their pond. "We loved staying here for the weekend! We were the only ones in the tent area underneath beautiful trees," reports a family who enjoyed multiple water activities during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: RV Resort At Carolina Crossroads provides concrete pads but has some navigation challenges. "Park had a tight turning radius and we struggled turning down aisle D in our 42 ft 5th wheel. Despite it saying it was 60 ft, spot was still tight," notes one RV owner.
Hookup placement: Be prepared with extra-long cords and hoses at some campgrounds. At Little Creek MWR RV Park, "the connection boxes are set back pretty far on the sites, so you need longer hoses/cords. We had a long electric cord that reached and had to add a second water hose and second section of sewer hose to connect."
Leveling considerations: Davis Lakes Resort offers level sites with additional features. "Campsites had wood decks which would be nice in warmer weather," notes one RVer who appreciated this unique feature despite the campground's proximity to the highway.
Site privacy: Rocky Hock Campground earns praise for thoughtfully designed RV sites. "The grounds are immaculate, sites are level and very well designed for optimal privacy," reports one RVer who was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the campground.
