Coastal cabin rentals near Marshallberg, North Carolina offer accommodations with direct water access to the Atlantic Ocean and Core Sound. Sites range from primitive fishing cabins requiring boat access to developed campgrounds with modern amenities. Winter temperatures average 40-60°F while summer months reach 80-90°F with high humidity and occasional strong coastal storms.
What to do
Beach exploration: Cape Point, part of Cape Lookout National Seashore, provides miles of undeveloped shoreline for shelling and surf fishing. "If you like national seashores, camping and surfing. Then this beautiful gem is for you! Mosquitos might be a problem! Deet is a solution. Climb the lighthouses!" notes a visitor to Cape Point.
Island village visits: Portsmouth Island near Great Island Cabin Camp offers abandoned historic structures. "Camping on Portsmouth Island is about as off-the-grid as I've ever been! We went in early October and had the beach to ourself, as far as the eye could see. The (abandoned) Village of Portsmouth is a must see!" shares one camper.
Fishing: Cedar Creek Campground provides direct access to prime fishing spots with on-site marina services. "Great-sized RV site with plenty of additional parking. The boat launch went smoothly. Miles of pristine coast. Fish were hitting 2 Klicks north of the marina," reports a fisherman who stayed at Cedar Creek Campground & Marina.
Off-road adventures: Rental cabins provide bases for beach driving exploration. "We rode our 4 wheelers down the 30+ mile beach. On one end of the island there's a historic museum like town and light house," notes a visitor about their stay at Great Island Cabin Camp.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Long Point Cabin Camp offers isolation from crowded tourist areas. "If you are looking for beaches that aren't covered with people, you may have a hard time finding something no matter what state you live in. Luckily, North Carolina has some amazing beaches on the Outer Banks, and Long Point Cabin area should definitely be on your list of spots to check out," explains a camper at Long Point Cabin Camp.
Waterfront locations: Many cabin rentals feature prime waterfront positioning for optimal views. "We stayed in spot w33 which had a beautiful view of the water and plenty of space to stretch out behind the RV. The staff was always friendly and quick to help out was anything we needed," comments a visitor to White Oak Shores.
Varied accommodation options: Rental cabins near Marshallberg range from basic to well-appointed. "If you haven't camped at Black Barn Farm in Newport, you are missing out! One of our party needed lodging while we wanted to tent camp, they put us up in a perfect spot so we could be near her in one of their sweet little cabins right on the water," shares a visitor describing the flexibility at Black Barn Farm.
Wildlife viewing: Coastal cabins provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "Great Island has become my family's favorite places, having The Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Core Sound on the other of this narrow barrier island is our paradise. Abundant wildlife, empty beaches, our kind of heaven in the summer months, hot fishing spot in the fall."
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Reaching island cabins requires planning. "Since this area is on a small barrier island, you have to take a ferry to reach the cabins. Because of this you, and the other temporary residents of these cabins, have the island all to yourselves," explains a visitor to Long Point Cabin Camp.
Weather considerations: Coastal locations experience rapid weather changes. "Although the cabins are a bit older, they are still great for your stay here. As nice as it was the first day, I had to take down my tent the next day due to the harsh winds and rainstorm. Once that cleared up, though, the weather was back to being as beautiful as before," warns another Long Point visitor.
Supply needs: Remote cabins require comprehensive packing. "Being located far from any truly habited land comes with some benefits and issues. The downfall to this seclusion, though, is that you have to bring all of your necessities and recreational gear with you on the ferry," notes the same camper.
Reservation requirements: Securing cabin reservations at popular spots like New Bern KOA Holiday requires advance planning. "This was a very nice, well maintained campground. The staff were extremely polite and helpful. We stayed from Aug 11-14, 2020. We chose this campground for its location near historical downtown New Bern and we would definitely recommend it to others."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreation facilities. "Very family friendly, pool, nice clean sites, cabins, clean shower rooms, tons of activities for the kids and the staff are amazing!" notes a visitor about New Bern KOA Holiday.
Swimming options: Pools provide alternatives when ocean conditions prove rough. "The pool is awesome! Great family atmosphere and clean facilities. The pool is amazing! The slide is so fun! It has 3ft all the way to 6ft roped off sections in the pool!" shares an enthusiastic visitor to Goose Creek Campground.
Adventure activities: Several cabin campgrounds feature recreational amenities. "There were beautiful lights and trails throughout, animals, ziplines and playgrounds, plus the friendliest and most accommodating hosts I've ever camped with," describes a visitor to Black Barn Farm.
Ferry adventure: The boat transportation to island cabins becomes part of the experience. "I sailed over while the group brought their 4 wheel drive vehicle on the ferry. Feels like a world away from populated beaches. Built a fire on the beach at night, sailed and fished the Core Sound by day. We called it the 'down-east hilton' cabin and loved every minute!" shares a Long Point Cabin Camp visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Campgrounds vary in site preparation. "The grounds are well kept and everything is super clean. The sites are easy to get in and close to level," notes a visitor to New Bern KOA Holiday.
Beach proximity: RV sites with cabin rental options offer convenient beach access. "My wife and I spent a few days here while searching the area for potential retirement location. Our site was right on water with a great view of the sunset. The barrier Islands are only 5 minute ride over the bridge," explains a visitor to Goose Creek Campground.
Seasonal pricing awareness: Rate variations occur throughout the year at campgrounds with cabin rentals. "Very nice place, well keep, nice paved streets, nice boat ramps, nice piers, nice laundry room, good cell service. WiFi available for $$ more, cable 👎👎👎 Wanted to stay for a month but only had 21 days opening. $1800 👎," cautions a Goose Creek Campground visitor.
