Manns Harbor camping options feature both oceanfront and sound-side accommodations in this unique North Carolina coastal area. Temperatures range from 37-77°F seasonally with winds averaging 7-10 mph, creating excellent conditions for water sports but requiring secure tent setups. Many campgrounds provide direct water access on either the Atlantic Ocean or Pamlico Sound side.
What to do
Beach exploration: Cape Point Campground offers easy access to pristine beaches. "Wildlife, privacy, boon docking with cold showers and flush toilets. The best of simplicity. Take bikes and enjoy riding to the beach!" notes Tabitha, highlighting the natural experience at Cape Point Campground.
Water activities: Rodanthe offers ideal conditions for water sports enthusiasts. "Site: mixture of grass and sand. Has fire pit and wooden picnic table. Gorgeous view of sunsets and water sports. Water is a leg high walk to the hammock," shares Amber about her experience at Rodanthe Watersports & Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The area provides excellent fishing spots along the sound. "I went tent camping and fishing in the sound they have much to offer. Enjoyed a nice night with a buddy. Polite people and not loud," reports Mason K. about Sandy Point Resort Campground.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Outer Banks West KOA offers quiet retreats away from busier areas. "We came for a weeklong working trip. I brought my laptop to work from home and this place was perfect. The view was beautiful and the weather was great at night to just sit outside and enjoy the view," shares Bethany I. about Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA.
Family facilities: North Landing Beach campground provides extensive family amenities. "Great place to go camping. Nice beach. Great pool. Plenty to do. Best pizza around!" writes Leonard M. about North Landing Beach.
Local hospitality: Smaller campgrounds often provide personalized service. "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. It's a very typical southern campground with lots of people who stay there for long periods of time. Lots of southern hospitality!" notes Sofia S. about Sandy Point Resort.
What you should know
Weather conditions: The Outer Banks experiences strong winds that affect camping. "The wind was really strong and it made setting up our tent a challenge! Thanks to our friendly neighbors, they were able to get it grounded for us. Bring rope/canopy weight in case this happens. There were no bugs due to the wind," advises Amber about Rodanthe Watersports.
Seasonal variations: Off-season visits offer different experiences. "Went in November which is off season. Very quiet. People were super friendly. Steps from beach. Beautiful pool and huge hot tub. Bar and cafe were closed for season," reports Sandy G. about Cape Hatteras KOA.
Site spacing: Many waterfront locations feature close quarters. "Bath house was ok. Cleanliness was so-so, depending on the day, but the biggest issue was it was not air-conditioned, so using the restroom was generally a pretty muggy and unpleasant experience," shares Jen V. about Sandy Point Resort Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "We had a great time and enjoyed our stop here. Our boys enjoyed kayaking around the sound and riding their bikes to the playground. It seemed like they are working to add more amenities and upgrades so I'd stay again next time we make it that way," shares Stephen B. about Outer Banks West KOA.
Beach safety: Bring proper equipment for children near water. "Bring water shoes to be able to walk in the sound. Water was at perfect temperature. Dogs are allowed, even in the water!" advises Amber about camping at Rodanthe Watersports.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate lighthouse visits into your stay. "Our site had a great view of the water and we could see the Currituck lighthouse at night," notes Stephen B., highlighting one of the area's cultural attractions from Riverside Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully when booking waterfront RV spots. "Paid for a water view spot, got a spot obscured by trees. Internet kept cutting out TV last night. Other than that it has been ok so far," warns Tom P. about Outer Banks West KOA.
Hookup considerations: Not all sites offer full hookups. "Cape Point is closer to the light house and frisco is closer to the cold showers. Both are solid," explains Michael K. about Cape Point Campground.
Space limitations: Check site dimensions before booking. "Level spot, but too crowded. Our neighbor was inconsiderate and blasted the outdoor tv pst quiet hours," notes Lucy M. about Cape Hatteras KOA, highlighting potential challenges with cramped camping areas.