Camping near Frisco, North Carolina primarily centers around the barrier islands of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, with sites sitting between 1-3 feet above sea level. The area's camping season runs strongest from April through November, with summer temperatures regularly reaching into the 90s with high humidity. Wind patterns frequently change across the narrow islands, creating variable conditions that impact tent camping comfort.
What to do
Beach driving access: Frisco campers can access designated ORV (Off-Road Vehicle) ramps for beach driving with proper permits. "I walked over the dunes to the beach, water was warm but the surf was a bit rough so I only went out about waste deep (Rip current). Wind was up that day too, a lot of sea shells on the beach if your into that," notes a visitor at Ocracoke Campground.
Kayaking in protected waters: The sound side offers calmer waters for paddling. A camper at Frisco Woods Campground shared, "Our campsite was just feet from the shore of the Pamlico Sound. Beautiful sunsets. Shallow water for play, fishing, and water sport."
Lighthouse exploration: The area's historic lighthouses provide both educational value and photo opportunities. "The camp info is under the covered porch. There is ONLY cool water for showers. It's not so bad considering the heat of the day. We did not use the grill much because it was too hot," mentions a visitor to Cape Point Campground who appreciated the lighthouse views.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer the best opportunity for wildlife sightings. "We enjoyed deer stopping by our camp site, and the wild, remote feeling here. It is dependent on the site you choose. Some are much more secluded than others," notes an experienced Frisco visitor.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The relative darkness of the outer islands creates excellent night sky viewing. At Cape Point Campground, a camper reported, "You'll hear the ocean waves pretty much all night from all or most sites, and the star viewing is also great here."
Winter and shoulder season camping: Lower crowds and fewer insects make off-peak visits appealing. "I had a wonderful late November five night, tent camping, surf fishing week at a wonderful, clean, quiet campground. I stayed in site D-17 and recommend any of those sites on the outer perimeter of D loop," shares an Ocracoke camper.
Sound-side sunsets: Western-facing campsites along Pamlico Sound offer spectacular evening views. A Frisco Woods visitor noted, "I've been here a few times and the sound side sites are amazing. They also have sites up in the trees that are more private which I really enjoyed."
Beach proximity: Most campgrounds offer relatively short walks to beaches. A visitor to Oregon Inlet Campground shared, "Facilities were clean, showers were warm, sites were spacious! The walk to the beach was a little longer longer than expected but not terrible (took 10-15 minutes carrying a 25 lb toddler)."
What you should know
Sand spurs and cacti: These painful plants grow abundantly throughout campgrounds. "Sites are on the larger side for the most part and many have some sense of privacy. This is the only Park run campground in Cape Hatteras National Seashore that has any bit of shade," notes a camper who also warned about ground vegetation hazards.
Flooding concerns: Heavy rainfall can quickly saturate camping areas. An Hatteras Sands Campground visitor reported, "The campsite was nice with clean bathrooms and toilet facilities. But during my first nights stay we had a very heavy thunderstorm which lasted several hours. This caused my tent to flood as the grass fields of the campsite were totally waterlogged. The site was closed next day due to flooding."
Temperature extremes: Summer heat can be intense with limited shade. A Frisco Woods camper advised, "Employees are incredibly nice. Store is well stocked. Cabins are just beds and a couple outlets. Picnic table and charcoal grill outside. AC is the big draw since summer can be brutal."
Variable shower temperatures: National Park campgrounds typically only offer cold water facilities. "Bathrooms are basic but clean. The showers appeared to be beach showers. Didn't test them, but I doubt there would be hot water as they were more outdoor showers," explains an Ocracoke visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly pool options: Several private campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to ocean swimming. A visitor to Cape Hatteras KOA shared, "They have a really nice pool area with zero entry and two small waterslides for the kids. Plenty of chairs on the pool deck, and a small area of shade where you could eat or get out of the sun."
Biking safety: Some campgrounds offer protected cycling environments. "The grounds were very well-kept. Their property is Right on the beach and has direct access. Nice sandy beaches. There is a freshwater shower at the entrance to the beach so that you can rinse off when you're done," notes a KOA visitor who appreciated the safe biking environment.
Dunes as natural playgrounds: Sand dunes adjacent to campsites provide entertainment for children. A camper at Oregon Inlet commented, "The dunes are right next to the campsites and provided hours of fun—running, climbing, sliding, and just being wild and free. It's not every day your campsite is just steps away from natural sand playgrounds!"
Timing considerations: Families should avoid peak summer heat. "It's a little too hot in July and august so we tend to avoid it during those months," advises a Frisco camper who prefers spring and fall visits.
Tips from RVers
Site orientation considerations: The placement of utilities can impact comfort. "Cons: small spaces with little room to spread out. Picnic and grill were on the opposite side of our travel trailer door so not ideal setup at all. Major drop off on side and back of our space," notes a Frisco Campground visitor who rated their experience 3 stars despite proximity to beach.
Site selection strategy: End sites and corner locations often offer more space. "It's neat and clean and close to the ferry. Paved pads with FHU. Some are pull-thru. Very friendly staff! Booking was easy. The spaces are VERY TIGHT! Our 37' motorcoach was about the biggest is like to pull in," explains a Hatteras Sands visitor.
Navigating narrow campground roads: Large rigs may face access challenges at some campgrounds. An RV owner at Avon by the Sea noted, "We were in site 25, which was back against the dune and next to the fence. It was one of the larger back in sites, that was deep and private (fairly narrow though). Overall great location!"
