Camping near Manns Harbor puts visitors in a prime position to explore both mainland Dare County and the Outer Banks barrier islands. Located along the western shore of Croatan Sound, this area sits at just 10 feet above sea level with water on nearly all sides. Summer humidity levels frequently exceed 80% while winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing, creating a longer camping season than many inland locations.
What to do
Kayaking on Croatan Sound: The protected waters near The Refuge on Roanoke Island provide excellent paddling opportunities. "Located between Wanchese and Manteo, this little RV park is a quiet getaway. A number of sites back up to the water where one can enjoy fishing for flounder or blue crab. Or just enjoy a nice walk around the shoreline and along the piers."
Lighthouse viewing: The Currituck lighthouse is visible at night from waterfront sites at Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA. "Our site had a great view of the water and we could see the Currituck lighthouse at night. Our boys enjoyed kayaking around the sound and riding their bikes to the playground."
Beach access: Oregon Inlet Campground offers easy beach access. "It's a short walk to the beach; I love waking up early and walking down to the beach to see the sunrise. Oftentimes I'll be the only one on the beach. I've seen lots of cool wildlife on the beach and at the nearby Pea Island Wildlife Refuge."
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Sound-side sites at Camp Hatteras RV Resort and Campground offer unique water views. "We got in during a tight time of year in the most sought after spot... Right on the sand just yards away from the water on the sound side. Sunset in your backyard. Was definitely breezy but perfect to bring the heat down a little."
Less crowded beaches: Avon by the Sea offers quick beach access without crowds. "Came here to go surf fishing. 2 minute walk to beach, pier, fishing. Bathrooms and showers very nice- looks new."
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report seeing deer, shore birds, and marine life. "A small group of deer were hanging around our campsite when we drove up and zipped off into the tall sea grass. Once dusk fell and we were set up they came back out to graze."
What you should know
Cell service variations: Mobile coverage can be unpredictable throughout the Outer Banks region. "The internet is terrible so if you're working from home, have a better hotspot. AT&T does much better in this area. We have Verizon and it was spotty. No streaming capability, but that makes for a tech free in the moment experience!"
Bugs can be intense: Midges and other insects are common in marshy areas. "When we were there the midgets were so bad our RV was covered in them at night. Check your site carefully if you pay for a water site."
Site assignments: At OBX Campground, site selection matters for both privacy and access. "This campground is located in a great spot, on Colington Island technically still Kill Devil Hills. We adventured to many local attractions easily from the campground. Highly recommend 4WDing on the beach in Corolla and checking out the lighthouses."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly amenities. "So many amenities and fun things planned for Easter weekend. Staff is super friendly and welcoming. The site is very clean and quiet. Indoor pool was great for the kids on the cool and windy weekend."
Dune exploration: Oregon Inlet Campground provides natural play areas. "The dunes are right next to the campsites and provided hours of fun—running, climbing, sliding, and just being wild and free. It's not every day your campsite is just steps away from natural sand playgrounds!"
Educational stops: Beechland Campground offers close proximity to educational sites. "Beechland is conveniently located within walking distance to downtown Manteo and is only a 10-15 minute drive to Nags Head Beach."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: When booking RV campgrounds near Manns Harbor, North Carolina, consider visibility and privacy. "There are two areas. The area near the water is a good location. Water sites, 10-14, look splendid. Makes up for lack of privacy."
Level sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer level, well-maintained sites for larger rigs. "The sites are all open, so satellite coverage is good. Grounds are kept very clean and mowed. Very conveniently located near the Wright brothers' site."
Local provisioning: Fresh seafood markets near North Landing Beach make meal planning easy. "There is a market on the drive to the campground that has fresh seafood and fish that is very good! We bought fish to cook while we were there and also more to take home."
