Cape Lookout National Seashore offers several cabin options across barrier islands with varying levels of accessibility and amenities. These rustic accommodations sit on narrow stretches of land between the Atlantic Ocean and inland sounds, creating unique camping environments. The cabins near Gloucester, North Carolina can only be accessed by ferry or private boat, requiring visitors to plan transportation in advance. Weather conditions change rapidly in this coastal region, affecting both comfort and travel logistics.
What to do
Beach exploration on foot or vehicle: At Cape Point, visitors can access miles of undeveloped shoreline. "Take bikes and enjoy riding to the beach!" recommends one camper, who appreciated the combination of "wildlife, privacy, boon docking with cold showers and flush toilets."
Fishing in diverse waters: The convergence of ocean and sound creates productive fishing environments. At Cedar Creek Campground & Marina, anglers have convenient access to both types of water. "Fish were hitting 2 Klicks north of the marina," reported one visitor who appreciated the "great-sized RV site with plenty of additional parking."
Historical site visits: Portsmouth Island near Great Island Cabin Camp offers abandoned village exploration. "The (abandoned) Village of Portsmouth is a must see! Bring lots of bug spray... the mosquitos are relentless!" writes a camper who tent camped on the beach in early October.
What campers like
Uncrowded beaches: Many visitors appreciate the solitude of these barrier island locations. At Great Island Cabin Camp, one camper noted "Great Island has become my family's favorite places, having The Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Core Sound on the other of this narrow barrier island is our paradise."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe coastal wildlife. "Abundant wildlife, empty beaches, our kind of heaven in the summer months, hot fishing spot in the fall," explains a Great Island visitor who brings their family regularly.
Family-friendly amenities: New Bern KOA Holiday offers activities for children in a more developed setting. "They have gem mining. You buy the bags of dirt in the camp store. The bathhouses are all very new due to a recent hurricane and they were kept clean. The dock/pier was picture perfect as the sunset over the Neuse river."
What you should know
Limited supplies and services: Pack accordingly for remote cabin locations. On Great Island, "The only on-island supplies are ice and gasoline, so you must pack in everything. Tap water is potable but tastes very desalinated, so bottled water is recommended."
Transportation requirements: Four-wheel drive vehicles are often necessary for barrier island exploration. "It is boat in only and only 4 wheel drive accessible, no paved roads. You can camp on the beach or stay in one of the NPS cabins," explains a Great Island visitor.
Weather preparedness: Conditions change quickly and affect comfort. "As nice as it was the first day, I had to take down my tent the next day due to the harsh winds and rainstorm," reported a visitor to Long Point Cabin Camp who initially tried tent camping before using the cabin.
Off-season benefits: Visiting during fall or spring means fewer crowds. "We went in early October and had the beach to ourself, as far as the eye could see," noted a Portsmouth Island camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pest protection: Insects can be problematic, especially in warmer months. "Bring lots of bug spray... the mosquitos are relentless!" warns one visitor to Portsmouth Island.
Food and water planning: Black Barn Farm offers cabins with easier access to supplies. A visitor notes the property includes "animals, ziplines and playgrounds, plus the friendliest and most accommodating hosts I've ever camped with," making it suitable for families needing more amenities than remote cabins.
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with built-in activities when traveling with children. At New Bern KOA Holiday, families enjoy "a pool, a bouncer, horseshoes, and pedal bike rentals" according to visitor reports.
Wildlife awareness: "There is a large raccoon population on the island so store your food and water accordingly. We did experience a raccoon running off with a dry bag full of food that wasn't secured to a permanent structure," cautions a Great Island camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Goose Creek Campground provides more substantial amenities for RV campers. "Very nice place, well keep, nice paved streets, nice boat ramps, nice piers, nice laundry room, good cell service," reports one visitor, though they noted Wi-Fi costs extra.
Seasonal considerations: Heat can be challenging at certain locations. One Goose Creek camper advised, "Nice overnight stay RV Campground new with no shade. Very clean. Beautiful river but not walking distance from campground. I'd say much better in the early spring or fall."
Site selection: At Cedar Creek Campground & Marina, "The spots are a little small but we had more than enough room for our 18 TT and truck. The roads on the property are a little rough and could use some grading, but they have obviously had some bad weather recently that hasn't helped."
