Rodanthe Watersports & Campground
Relaxed sound-side stay
Easy access to the sound, great rental gear pricing, beautiful campground with native plants and pollinators. Clean facilities. Mike at the office was friendly and accommodating
6 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA Resort and Rodanthe Watersports & Campground offer premium glamping accommodations along North Carolina's stunning Outer Banks coastline. Both locations feature upscale glamping tents and safari-style canvas accommodations with comfortable beds, electricity, and private outdoor spaces. The Outer Banks KOA Resort provides glamping options with modern conveniences including climate control systems and proximity to beach access points. One guest shared, "The beach was absolutely amazing. By far 10/10 for camp ground beaches. We camped on the dunes and had the perfect vacation." These glamping sites boast stylish interiors with real furniture and bedding, providing a luxurious camping experience while maintaining close connection to the coastal environment.
Situated directly on Pamlico Sound, Rodanthe Watersports & Campground combines upscale glamping accommodations with direct access to water sports equipment rentals at discounted rates for guests. The property features incredible sunset views and immediate water access, with glamping structures strategically positioned for optimal views. "Gorgeous view of sunsets and water sports. Water is a leg high walk to the hammock," noted one reviewer. Watersports enthusiasts can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and kiteboarding with equipment conveniently available on-site. The glamping experience extends beyond accommodations with sound-front dining options nearby, including Lisa's Pizzeria adjacent to the property, and the Atlantic Ocean beach just a five-minute walk across the road.
"There is a freshwater shower at the entrance to the beach so that you can rinse off when you’re done. The bathhouse was nice and clean. The shower area is co-Ed."
"Super close to a beautiful beach, there really are no bad spots, but you are very close to your neighbors and no shade."
"Has fire pit and wooden picnic table. Gorgeous view of sunsets and water sports. Water is a leg high walk to the hammock. Bathroom: showers were clean!"
"We stayed in site #4, which is one of the water/electric sites right on Pamlico Sound. Very level, and the view was amazing."
"Plenty of room on site. Clean and organized. View of Currituck Sound is beautiful."
"Closes super early so don't forget anything if you plan on arriving after 5pm. No propane. THEY NEED A POOL! THIS PLACE WOULD BE THE SH@T"
"This location was PERFECT! It warmed up enough to enjoy the beach which was a 5 minute walk from cabin."
"RV sites range include water, electric, pull-through and full amenities. There is a large outdoor entertaining pavilion as well as a smaller, indoor event space with full kitchen."
"The walk to the beach is a bit long, maybe about 1/2 mile or so. We stayed here for a night in early November and the place was nearly empty."
"This campground is right next to several beach access where you can drive your car onto the beach and fishing is good near the point."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Staff at the store were friendly and were pretty lenient to letting me use the fire pits since there was no one else at my site. Will definitely stay again if I’m ever passing through the area."
"Liz’s husband(remember, not an employee) started in on us, he was rude, he looked like he was ready to fight and as I’m walking toward the store to get the day pass he was following and harassing me."
from $20 - $60 / night
Check AvailabilityEasy access to the sound, great rental gear pricing, beautiful campground with native plants and pollinators. Clean facilities. Mike at the office was friendly and accommodating
This is a long one! Here we go. My partner and I travel for work, we went out of our way to move to this location based on reviews saying this is a great place. We have paid in full for the whole stay which is about little over 2 months. We have been here approx 2 weeks give or take. We work night shift. No activity during the day. Simple easy. Not our first campground by any means. At first, we were excited to experience the amenities and such. Now we’re uncomfortable to try anything out. Why you ask? Situation: first day we move in, we end up next to what seems like the literal only other long term or possibly even permanent resident on the grounds. My service animal alerted me to a trigger, which she left the front door of the camper before we walked out. Recalled her to me once we saw that the perm resident (our neighbor) had what presented as an aggressive dog. (Husky maybe?). Within not EVEN 5 minutes of this event, someone was at our door- instead of asking what is going on we were immediately accused of her running around off leash I guess? We had just woken up from sleeping and it was evening time, time to go to work. Instead of arguing or even offering up ANY facts related to the situation I simply said got it thanks and the interaction ended. I’m thinking to myself well damn. Okay. A week or so maybe goes by? Leash in hand VISIBLE -at the door my dog steps out, I step out behind her- same time same situation. She walks ahead of me to where she will relieve herself, I ask for her to come back next to me, she recalls- neighbors dog loses its mind again. I look up at neighbor and say “just go ahead and call man, I get it”. She calls. This time THREE employees are driving on carts to our site, at this point we’re already leaving for work. I knew it was coming, figured they would for sure ask what’s going on this time. They don’t. The older woman accompanied by two men behind her- simply says “you have been told before you need to leash your dog”. We reply yes we understand. Nobody asks for a description of the events, what’s going on, or if this even happened. The female voice is raised and hostile presenting towards both of us. The man behind her approaches our car and peers into the vehicle I’m not sure if to intimidate or what, but that action was also very ineffective in diffusing the situation and instead very intimidating. And now making us both VERY late to work as this is an extra 15 minute drive to the hospital in which we work at. Seemingly, the word of this permanent resident is all they needed to full on accuse the two of us… of what? I am not sure. My animal has resided all over the country in countless locations, all while working and we have had no issues to date. At this point I am still remaining silent as the female worker continues to educate us on our alleged actions. My concern is that there has been ZERO questioning, only full on accusations. We’re highly uncomfortable at this point. They say “we will be speaking with the general manager tomorrow”, Which also felt threatening. I’d like to add that given the whole situation this wouldn’t matter but since this is happening: earlier that morning after work I had stopped by the front desk, to ask about a package I thought that I sent to the wrong place, but didn’t. The same female was there. I remember thinking wow she’s actually so rude. But I brushed it off. Now looking back she must have some kind of prejudice toward myself and my dog. I’ve never been threatened / accused so one-sidedly in my entire career such as what has been happening at this campground. Our resolution was to request moving sites, however nothing was asked of us WHATSOEVER. As stated we were not given any opportunity to speak on the situation. Will attempt to update review whenever we speak with management of this location. Warning is to be wary of implicit bias in staff, potential favoritism, and inconsistent / unfair conflict resolution, aggressive long term campers, and lack of communication from staff.
4 OUT OF 5 STARS! Sandy Point Resort Campgrounds is a great place to bring your kids/grandkids for camping, fishing and swimming but stay to the front of the campgrounds, the back area by the shower house where the permanent residents live is sketchy balls. I am a retired military Veteran and we have been bringing our family and friends here for 15+ years. My daughters are in their mid-20s now and they still love camping here. They have so many fun memories whether it was catching frogs, catfishing at night, playing cornhole or swimming off the pier. To this day we still laugh about our fun times.
Unfortunately our time at Sandy Point has ended, I have been banned. Yes banned. My wife and I went fishing there one weekend afternoon and did not buy the day pass,$7.50 per person. We have been fishing like this over the years and had never been charged or told we needed a day pass. In all honesty we did not know. We always bought our bait at the onsite store and from the store you can see the fishing area we always went to so it wasn’t like we were sneaking on. On this particular day we had just started setting up to fish when Liz, an employee that works in the store and lives in the back area of the campground(sketchy balls) pulled up to where we were at. Accompanying Liz was her husband who my wife and I thought was also an employee of the campground. He is not. When Liz asked if we had a day pass I said no and did not know we needed one because we had been coming here for so long. I said no problem I’ll go get one. I never stopped smiling and never raised my voice. It was not an issue to get the pass. Liz’s husband(remember, not an employee) started in on us, he was rude, he looked like he was ready to fight and as I’m walking toward the store to get the day pass he was following and harassing me. Earlier when I was in the store buying bait Liz came in and told the employee working that they(Liz and husband) needed more beer. So Liz and husband had been drinking before coming over to ask if we had gotten the day pass. No issue with Liz talking to us, she’s an employee but husband…no, he should not have said a word. He was downright harassing us. Forward ahead about 4 or 5 weeks, my wife and I go back for another weekend afternoon to fish. I went in the store to buy bait and the day pass, Liz is working. She asked if I was Kevin and then told me I have been banned from the park. When I asked why she said that I had come back to fish and did not buy the pass. I told her I had not been back since the last time when she told us about the pass. She then said well you were confrontational that day. I told her I never stopped smiling or was not even close to confrontational. She then said well your wife ran up on me. Now folks, this is one of the funniest things I’ve ever heard about my wife. She does not run….anywhere….hahaha. I told Liz my wife does not run and Liz said well she jogged up on me. Again folks…this did not happen. The reason for being banned changed four times while I stood there. Liz has been working at Sandy Point for a few years and I always…repeat always tried to make her laugh or smile when I saw her. I have never done anything to make her or any employee feel threatened or uncomfortable. I am always smiling and always in a great mood. Liz on the other hand will remind you of a disgruntle Eeyore, never happy or smiling. Always seeming as if she hates being there and has no joy in life. I never understood this because she gets to live on the campground. But because of not buying a day pass to fish(didn’t know), being accused of doing it again after being told(didn’t do it), being confrontational(nope), my wife running/ jogging toward Liz(hahahaha), I have been banned. So unfortunate.
I have reached out to Janice, the owner, by phone and email. No return calls back and no response to my email. All my wife and I are asking for is a sit down with Janice and Liz so we can tell our side of what happened. I assure you Janice what you are being told by Liz is not what the truth really is. I am a 24 year Veteran, family man and good person. I guarantee my character references will blow the doors off of Liz’s.
So I would give the campground 5 stars but because the shower house needs a little cleaning up and sometimes it gets rowdy after quiet hours on the weekend from other guest I can only give it 4 stars. Still a fun place to camp and enjoy time with family and friends as long as you don’t run up on Liz.
Has a nice pool and access to ocean. Fun activities for the kids.
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. The kids had plenty of room to ride their bikes and enjoyed the jump pillow. While too cold, the pool looks great. NC was under a burn ban, so no fire for us. But they do deliver wood and ice. Great staff of work campers were all super friendly. Easy access to outer banks points and plenty of dining options near by.
We stayed here for two nights during our trip along the Outer Banks. We had a great time and enjoyed our stop here. 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. It seemed like they are working to add more amenities and upgrades so I’d stay again next time we make it that way. Also, Diggers Dungeon is only a few miles away so if you have kids make sure to stop and let them see the monster trucks.
Great KOA park with one row of dunes to cross to the ocean beach that depending on your site is only about 5 min walk. The park is well kept with clean bathrooms and showers. The have laundry and a very nice camp store with groceries, camping essentials and gifts. Sites are level with full hookups including cable that worked well. Wifi is marginal but they reported they have equipment on order to improve. We had spot along the dunes with covered patio with picnic table and a fire ring (no barbeques). The beach is wonderful. Great restful destination. We will definitely return.
Campground is 1 of the 4 within the Cape Hatteras Nat’l Seashore. Cost here is only $20/night (the others are $28). No hookups available, but there is a dump station and potable water fill on your way out. Cell service is good. The walk to the beach is a bit long, maybe about 1/2 mile or so.
We stayed here for a night in early November and the place was nearly empty. There were one or two campers per loop, so the campground was nice and open and quiet. I think that during the busy season it would be an unpleasant stay, as the sites are all right next to each other, side by side, just big grassy area. Sites are large though, which was nice.
We didn’t use the showers but I believe they are cold showers. The set up is almost like an outdoor shower, with a short door and a pull rope for the water. Watch out for spiny sand spurs (?) that stick in your dog’s paws and your socks- very painful and they’re all over the grassy areas.
Sites must be reserved through recreation.gov. It was easy to pull up with no reservation, pick a site, then reserve and pay online. No service fee through this site.
No wood fires allowed here. Each site has a picnic table and grill, nothing else.
Dumpsters available, but no recycling bins. Not sure if North Carolina segregates recycling after pickup.
KOA Cape Hatteras Outer Banks Campground (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good
(70 yr olds in 17’ trailer with a desire for a campsite that has at least some visual privacy offered - after the trailer is in the spot.)
Weather: 60s Bugs: Gone for the winter Solar: Plenty Rig size: Big rig friendly Road Noise: For sites near the highway 12 Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: Some full hookups Dump Station: Yes Potable Water Available: Yes Bathroom: Yes Showers: Yes Cell Service (AT&T): 3 - 4 bars Setting: Open park area between highway and the dunes Weather: 60s during our visit Bugs: Gone for the winter Host: Yes Rig size: Big rigs Sites: Those in the back along the dunes would be nice to have. See pics.
Glamping near Manteo, North Carolina brings visitors close to both the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound. The Outer Banks area experiences warm summers with average highs of 85°F and cooler winters around 55°F, with strong coastal winds common year-round. Sand-based camping sites across the region require special preparation for stakes and anchoring during the frequent wind conditions.
Lighthouse visits: At Cape Point — Cape Lookout National Seashore, campers can explore the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse nearby. "Beautiful campground. Breezy since it is right off the beach. Had a beautiful view of the lighthouse from our specific spot," reports Alycia S., highlighting the unique experience of seeing this landmark from camp.
Water sports equipment rental: Watersports enthusiasts staying at the Outer Banks can take advantage of on-site equipment. "This place is amazing! The staff is so friendly. They are always throwing special events, we cannot wait to get back here!" says happy_champers about North Landing Beach, where kayaking and fishing opportunities abound.
Beach access: Many glamping options provide direct beach access for swimming and sunbathing. According to Joe R., "Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA Resort is "great value right on the ocean! Off season and quiet, but very easy access in and out and a dune away from the Atlantic."
Sunset viewing: For impressive sunset views, waterfront sites are worth the premium. Mary G. notes that at Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA, "We had beautiful views, a lot of space, didn't feel cramped or crowded. The sound was fun to float in."
Clean shower facilities: Outdoor showers at luxury camping sites receive positive feedback. "The amazing outdoor showers made up for it. They were huge, with great water pressure, and felt wonderful after a long, hot day in the sun," shares Jen V. about Rodanthe Watersports & Campground.
Pet-friendly policies: Dog owners appreciate accommodations that welcome their pets. Rachael H. observed at Cape Hatteras KOA, "Oh, dogs are welcome year round on the beach, only restriction being they have to be leashed. They are also welcome at the campground and there is a dog play area and a dog bathing area."
Pool amenities: Swimming pools provide an alternative to ocean swimming. "Nice large facility on the coast. The pool area is really nice. Several laundry places and the shower facility was spotless," notes Matt T. about Cape Hatteras KOA.
Proximity to food options: On-site and nearby dining receives positive mentions. "Watersport rentals at great prices. Delicious fresh seafood next door. Would recommend 100%," says Jon S. about Rodanthe Watersports & Campground, highlighting the convenience of having food options nearby.
Seasonal differences: Off-season visits offer different experiences. Sandy G. reports, "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."
Site selection tips: When booking, research specific site locations. One reviewer warns about Outer Banks West KOA: "Check your site carefully if you pay for a water site, some have trees covering the view and a lot have a big marsh area."
Cancellation policies: Some locations have strict cancellation terms. A Cape Hatteras KOA visitor noted, "It is very expensive but you pay for what you get. Black water hookups are on every other row. Cancellation policy is strict so place accordingly."
Weather considerations: The Outer Banks area experiences significant wind. At Sandy Point Resort Campground, one camper observed, "Nice and windy! Kept the bugs away for sure." Another noted it as a "Pretty windy area being right on the water."
Child-friendly activities: Organized events keep kids engaged. A Cape Hatteras KOA visitor mentions, "Fun activities for the kids. The kids had plenty of room to ride their bikes and enjoyed the jump pillow."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Stephen B. shares about Outer Banks West KOA: "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."
Safe biking opportunities: Parents appreciate campgrounds where children can bike safely. Steve C. notes about Cape Hatteras KOA: "The pool is really nice and my wife and I feel comfortable with the kids riding their bikes all over the facility."
Educational opportunities: Consider sites near historic landmarks. "Be sure to check out the lighthouse and make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons!" advises Bran P. about Cape Point Campground, suggesting an educational component to family camping trips.
Site dimensions: Large RVs need specific information about space. Eric R. reports about Cape Hatteras KOA: "The sites are definitely wide and deep enough for the biggest and baddest of rigs. We stayed here over Memorial Day weekend and the place was packed...but somehow the facilities did not look like they had been through World War-3."
Hookup locations: Be aware of utility placement when selecting sites. One camper notes, "Black water hookups are on every other row," indicating the importance of checking hookup locations before booking.
Off-season considerations: RV campers should note seasonal facility closures. "We were there mid-summer, picked a premium waterfront spot, so, yes, expensive. Would be an awesome campground if it had a pool," shares Mary G. about Outer Banks West KOA.
Power requirements: Check that the available electrical service meets your needs. Harold E. mentions about Outer Banks West KOA: "Full hookups with WiFi and cable. Drive through and back in sites with water views all around."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Manteo, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Manteo, NC is Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA Resort with a 4.4-star rating from 29 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Manteo, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 glamping camping locations near Manteo, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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