False Cape State Park Campground requires significant preparation for tent camping near Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. Located approximately 30 miles north in Virginia Beach, the primitive camping area demands a 5-7 mile hike or bike journey through Back Bay Wildlife Refuge. The campground features sites on both the bay and ocean sides, with temperatures typically ranging from 60s at night to 80s during daytime in summer months.
What to do
Explore historical sites: Hikers can discover remnants of the past within the park boundaries. "We saw an old graveyard and church steeple at Wash Woods, that's definitely worth the hike. We walked to the North Carolina border. There's a Loveworks and a buoy that marks the southernmost Virginia State Park," shares Katie M. who hiked over 30 miles during her weekend stay.
Wildlife viewing: The protected coastal habitat supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "Wildlife is in great abundance. Shorebirds and waterfowl with the setting or rising sun make for beautiful pictures!" notes Julie A., a frequent visitor who recommends stomping feet on trails to alert snakes of your presence.
Fishing: The coastal waters provide productive fishing opportunities. "The saltwater fishing in the area was great. My cousin even caught a few baby sharks," reports Sam M., who appreciated the chance to fish away from crowded beaches.
What campers like
Beach camping options: Ocean-side campers appreciate the dual-site arrangement. "What we didn't know when we made reservations here is that you actually have two sites to choose from at this campground. There is the #12 in the live oaks site and then if you walk a short distance to the Beach, you have a designated #12 spot on the beach that you can choose to camp at as well!" explains Katie M., who utilized both sites during her stay.
Isolation despite peak seasons: The required hike-in access creates unusual solitude for coastal camping. "Even on the fourth of July weekend, with every campsite booked, this place was quiet and felt very removed from the beaches several miles north in Virginia Beach," shares Tim R., who successfully brought children aged 9 months and 2 years using a bike trailer.
Protection from elements: While beach sites offer direct ocean access, the tree-covered sites provide shelter from coastal conditions. "It was super windy at the beach but at our campsite under the trees it felt great. Spacious enough we weren't right on top of each other," notes Kailyn U., highlighting the practical advantages of the wooded sites.
What you should know
Access restrictions: Multiple access routes exist, but they have different regulations. "Pets are allowed, but they are not allowed through Back Bay. You either have to bring them in via boat, or coming up south from North Carolina," advises Tim R., providing crucial information for dog owners.
Visitor center amenities: The park maintains limited facilities at the visitor center. "The visitors center is a great spot to stop and rest for a while. It is air conditioned, and they have a small gift shop with cold drinks and ice cream available," reports Tim R., noting this convenience approximately 2 miles from his campsite.
Water planning: Access to drinking water requires planning. "We brought a collapsible 5 gallon jug that I had to ride back to the visitors center to fill up," explains Tim R., highlighting the need for water transport solutions when tent camping near Kill Devil Hills.
Tips for camping with families
Bike transportation: Cycling provides an efficient way to transport children into this remote camping area. "My husband and I each hooked a trailer to our bikes, and I towed the kids and he towed our gear. The kids loved riding through Back Bay," shares Stephanie J., who brought 2 and 4-year-old children.
Natural playgrounds: The beach setting offers built-in entertainment for children. "This was exceptionally kid-friendly as there is plenty of sand for kids to play in right at the campsite, and there are very few hazards for small children aside from the ocean itself," continues Stephanie J., emphasizing the family-friendly environment.
Bug protection: Insect preparation is essential, particularly for families. "Bring bug spray—we went in May and the bugs were already overwhelming—including many, many ticks," warns Stephanie J., highlighting a critical consideration for the best tent camping near Kill Devil Hills, especially with children.
Tips from RVers
No RV access: This primitive camping area accommodates tent camping only with no vehicle access to campsites. "This park is 5+ miles from the Little Island Park Parking lot, where you have to park if you're staying overnight. So, you have to hike, bike or boat into the primitive campground because its access is blocked by Back Bay Wildlife Refuge," explains Katie M., clarifying why RVs cannot use this location.
