Best Campgrounds near Kill Devil Hills, NC
The Outer Banks region surrounding Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina features a mix of oceanfront and sound-side camping options spanning from basic tent sites to full-service RV resorts. OBX Campground, located on Colington Island within Kill Devil Hills, provides a central base for exploring the area's attractions, while Oregon Inlet Campground in Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers sites within walking distance of Atlantic beaches. Campgrounds in this coastal region typically accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some locations like Camp Hatteras in Rodanthe also offering cabin rentals. Most established campgrounds provide water and electric hookups, with full-service options available at several private facilities within 15-20 miles of Kill Devil Hills.
Reservations are essential throughout the Outer Banks, particularly during the peak season from May through September when sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, with Oregon Inlet Campground typically open March through November. Weather conditions significantly impact the camping experience, with strong coastal winds being a constant consideration. As one camper noted, "The wind was so strong for two nights that our pop-up was shaking most of the night. The good thing about the wind was it kept the bugs away, because mosquitoes here are brutal when there is no breeze." Summer brings hot, humid conditions with limited natural shade at most campgrounds, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Road noise can be an issue at campgrounds near Highway 12, the main thoroughfare through the Outer Banks.
Beach access varies significantly between campgrounds, with some requiring short walks over dunes while others necessitate driving to public beach access points. Campers consistently praise the proximity to attractions like the Wright Brothers National Memorial, Bodie Island Lighthouse, and Jockey Ridge State Park. Site spacing tends to be tight at most facilities, reflecting the premium on coastal real estate. According to one visitor at Oregon Inlet, "The campsites are not very big and hardly separated from each other, especially those on inside of the loop." Wildlife viewing opportunities include dolphins offshore, shorebirds, and potential bear sightings at nearby Alligator River Wildlife Refuge. Many campgrounds prohibit ground fires due to frequent high winds, though some permit raised fire pits. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with most campgrounds reporting 2-3 bars of coverage.
