Cabin camping near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina offers waterfront options along both the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound. Located in the northern section of the Outer Banks, the area sits mostly at sea level with coastal winds that help moderate temperatures throughout camping season. Water levels in this low-lying region can rise significantly after heavy rainfall, affecting some sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: North River Campground provides access to a 5-acre lake for fishing plus concrete patios at their sites. One camper noted, "we stayed here to get closer to friends on Thanksgiving, my son enjoyed biking in the campground, it has 5acre lake that allowed for fishing, small playground and pool."
Water activities: Sandy Point Resort Campground offers direct water access for various activities. "We arrived not sure of where to camp and this lovely guy named Steve who wasn't even an employee showed us a good place to camp and made us a fire. The sunset is beautiful!" one visitor commented.
Beach access: Staying near the water gives campers beach options without the hotel prices. At Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA Resort, "We were in space 107 which was 200 yards to the waters edge. The pool area is really nice. Several laundry places and the shower facility was spotless."
What campers like
Direct water views: Many cabin accommodations offer scenic water views. A visitor to Northwest River Park & Campground mentioned, "Overall amazed at the cleanliness of the campground. The staff is very friendly. The park was very quiet going into the night."
Recreation amenities: Organized activities keep campers entertained. At Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA, "Lexi did a amazing job with the kids keeping them busy... Park was clean, water front, big play ground."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in importance for cabin campers. "The bathrooms are clean and well lit. The restrooms/showers are very nice! Very clean, offer great privacy and the air conditioning keeps it nice and cool," noted a Camp Hatteras visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many cabin facilities in the area operate on limited schedules. At North Bayshore Campground, which operates May through October, guests appreciate the location: "Wonderful spot away from crowds but close to beach. Tent, RV or tiny cabin options. Clean, quiet and pretty. 5 minute drive to Sandbridge."
Weather impacts: Low elevation makes some sites susceptible to water issues. "This is a low lying area and standing water at some sites after heavy rains can be an issue," noted one North Bayshore camper.
Insect preparation: Proximity to water means insects can be prevalent. One Currituck Sound KOA camper mentioned, "When we were there the midgets were so bad our RV was covered in them at night."
Tips for camping with families
Plan daily excursions: The area offers numerous attractions within short drives. At North Landing Beach, a visitor shared, "We stayed at North Landing Beach for a week during the 4th of July holiday and while it was very busy, it was quiet and very family oriented."
Water safety considerations: Water surrounds most cabin camping options in the area. One Camp Hatteras camper noted, "We stayed on the sound side and could hear the waves crashing at night which was very relaxing. Cross the road and there's a shuffle board and mini golf course."
Entertainment options: Look for cabins with on-site activities for children. "They have all kinds of recreational things for children and adults. Bands and comedians also happy hour with free drinks. There is also dinners. Volleyball on the beach they also had a dj on the beach," shared a North Landing Beach visitor.
Tips from RVers
Cabins as alternatives: When RV space is limited, cabins provide comfortable options. A Camp Hatteras visitor reported, "The parking spot for the trailers are paved and that was an easy set up. The beach area has close parking, and beach area was very clean, spacious, and beautiful."
Supply planning: Grocery access can be limited. One camper at Camp Hatteras mentioned, "Getting groceries is difficult. There aren't many options. Bring supplies if you can."
Weather considerations: Weather patterns affect comfort levels in different accommodation types. "It's still very warm at night. So bring a big fan," advised a tent camper who might have been more comfortable in a cabin at Camp Hatteras.
