Cabin accommodations near Manteo, North Carolina range from rustic camping structures to fully equipped waterfront cottages. Located on the eastern edge of North Carolina's Outer Banks, this coastal region experiences warm summers with temperatures often reaching into the 90s and mild winters averaging in the 50s. Most cabins in this area sit at near sea level, providing easy access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the calmer waters of Pamlico Sound.
What to do
Beach access from cabins: Several campgrounds offer direct water access without crossing roads. At Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA Resort, "We stayed in space 107 which was 200 yards to the waters edge. It is very expensive but you pay for what you get," notes one visitor. The campground's oceanfront location means "there are no roads to cross so the campground is oceanfront."
Lighthouse viewing: Cabins near Currituck Sound offer unique lighthouse views. 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." The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is visible from many campsites at Cape Point Campground, where one reviewer mentioned having "a beautiful view of the lighthouse from our specific spot."
Water sports: Sound-side cabin locations provide ideal conditions for various water activities. Frisco Woods Campground features "a nice water front area" with "access to the sound side of the island," while several reviewers mention bringing kayaks to explore the sheltered waters around cabin sites.
What campers like
Sunset views: Waterfront cabin sites offer spectacular evening views. At Frisco Woods Campground, "Our campsite was just feet from the shore of the Pamlico Sound. Beautiful sunsets. Shallow water for play, fishing, and water sport." Another camper noted, "The sunsets over the sound are spectacular."
Cabin variety: Options range from basic sleeping quarters to fully-equipped cottages. At North Landing Beach, "Several configurations are offered including studio, one and two-bedroom" cottages. Their cabins have replaced waterfront tent sites, providing more comfortable accommodations with ocean views.
Recreation facilities: Many cabin-oriented campgrounds maintain extensive on-site activities. Camp Hatteras offers "tennis, put put, shuffleboard, dog park, and playground" all within the property. One reviewer mentioned that "All were fun. The only downside was the equipment for the sports area was not in good condition."
What you should know
Air conditioning importance: Summer heat makes climate control essential in cabins. At Hatteras Sands Campground, "Cabins are just beds and a couple outlets. Picnic table and charcoal grill outside. AC is the big draw since summer can be brutal." Most basic cabins throughout the region include air conditioning as a standard feature.
Limited grocery options: Food shopping requires planning ahead. One camper at Camp Hatteras advised, "The nearest town was Nags Head about 30 miles has all the usual restaurants and shops, grocery stores and Walmart." Another reviewer noted, "Getting groceries is difficult. There aren't many options. Bring supplies if you can."
Seasonal pricing variation: Cabin rates fluctuate significantly throughout the year. Off-season stays can offer substantial savings, with one visitor reporting, "We stopped for one night and wish it was longer. Off season and quiet, but very easy access in and out and a dune away from the Atlantic."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Cabin campgrounds typically provide organized activities for children. At North River Campground, "my son enjoyed biking in the campground, it has 5acre lake that allowed for fishing, small playground and pool." Many campgrounds offer scheduled events during peak season.
Cabin spacing considerations: Proximity between units varies by location. Some cabins are "very close together, but it wasn't an issue," while waterfront sites generally offer more separation. One family mentioned, "The sites are very, very close. But they do have some with water view along the canal where children can fish."
Pool facilities: Many cabin campgrounds maintain pools as alternatives to ocean swimming. One visitor noted, "They have a really nice pool area with zero entry and two small waterslides for the kids. Plenty of chairs on the pool deck, and a small area of shade where you could eat or get out of the sun."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Waterfront cabin locations often provide the best experience. At Sandy Point Resort Campground, "We had such a great time at Sandy Point. A little hiccup in the beginning with our site but Liz saved the day and gave us another great site on the water with an amazing view." Carefully review site maps when booking.
Weather considerations: Coastal locations experience frequent wind and occasional flooding. "Our neighbor was inconsiderate and blasted the outdoor tv past quiet hours," mentioned one camper, highlighting how sound travels in open coastal settings. Another noted, "The area along the sound can flood with stormy weather, so would recommend not staying on the edge during bad weather."
Arrival timing: Many cabin check-ins require daylight for optimal setup. "I would recommend you get here before dark. Check in staff are not available in the late evening and there are no street lights on the road," advised one visitor, highlighting a common issue at more remote cabin locations.
