Carolina Beach State Park lies about 5 minutes north of Kure Beach on North Carolina's southeastern coast. Camping sites near Kure Beach, North Carolina remain accessible year-round, with January temperatures averaging 50°F during daylight hours. Winter camping offers significantly reduced crowds and improved wildlife viewing opportunities compared to peak summer season.
What to Do
Beach driving at Freeman Park: For a unique coastal camping experience, Freeman Park allows 4WD vehicles to drive directly onto the beach. "You can drive onto the beach - it makes it SO easy!!!" notes Kimberly S. The park requires daily or annual permits with designated camping spaces directly on the beach.
Fishing opportunities: Carolina Beach State Park Campground offers multiple fishing spots along both the Cape Fear River and nearby ocean access. "There are tons of hiking trails through a really beautiful area. I hear the fishing is also really good within the park," reports Sam M. The park's marina provides boat launch facilities for anglers wanting deeper water access.
Winter camping: Several campgrounds maintain year-round operations with reduced crowds during colder months. "I really enjoy camping here in December and January. Less people and the park is so nice," shares Ms P. Winter camping provides easier reservations and more peaceful experiences.
What Campers Like
Beach proximity: Freeman Park offers the closest beach camping experience. "Very nice to fall asleep to the sound of the crashing ocean waves and to wake up to the same," writes one camper. Most sites are within 50 feet of the ocean, providing immediate beach access.
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the space between sites at certain campgrounds. "This campground is well worth the visit! Nicely wooded campsites that are very large and private!" notes a visitor about Carolina Beach State Park. The park's layout maximizes privacy with natural vegetation between sites.
Off-season tranquility: Wilmington KOA maintains year-round operations with different advantages each season. "We loved it here, it was right off a main road but quiet. The deluxe tent sites were very nice with a covered sitting area and soft pads for our tent," reports JoAnne M. Winter camping offers dramatically reduced crowds.
What You Should Know
Military-only facilities: Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area restricts access to military personnel and their families. "Important to note, this location is only open to military members and their family members. So if you qualify, it's a good location for beach activities," explains Paul. Military ID verification occurs at check-in.
High tide awareness: Beach camping requires understanding tidal patterns. "CRITICAL to be educated about beach weather and TIDES!!!! Super high tides were present during my visit. A high Queen tide came near the camp spots at night while a super high king tide COMPLETELY COVERED the camp sites in the morning!" warns a Freeman Park camper.
Seasonal crowds: Summer brings significant visitor increases to all area campgrounds. "This campground is packed on holiday weekends. There were only 2 campsites available when we visited for memorial day weekend," reports Caroline G. Advance reservations become essential between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach accessibility considerations: When camping with children, consider distance to beach access points. "If you're visiting the beach, it's a great spot. You're about a five minute drive to the beach which is very convenient," notes Ryan C. about Holden Beach RV Campground.
Playground options: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. Wilmington KOA features "a cool wooden pirate ship. The grandkids loved it!" according to Bridget H. The playground provides entertainment during non-beach times.
Educational opportunities: Area campgrounds provide access to nature programs and wildlife viewing. "There are lots of short trails to hike on where you can enjoy bird watching and viewing the Venus flytraps and other carnivorous plants native to the area," explains Caroline G. about Carolina Beach State Park's educational offerings.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: In The Pines RV & Cabin Village offers complete amenities for extended stays. "New Park with all the amenities you need, clean well kept facilities and grounds. Dog Park and nice mowed lanes for walks," reports Kristie B. The campground provides 30/50 amp electric service, water, and sewer at all RV sites.
Concrete pads at military campground: Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area features concrete pads for easier leveling. "The sites themselves are extremely long, but for some reason the hook-ups are all near the front of the site, so you can't take advantage of the length," notes Erin S. This affects RV positioning when setting up camp.
Limited RV options near beach: Spaces directly on the beach at Freeman Park accommodate smaller RVs with certain restrictions. "Better to camp here during the cooler weather. If you don't have a yearly beach-access pass, it's expensive," notes Greg T. Beach camping with RVs requires 4WD vehicles and proper tire pressure management.
