Tent campsites near Marshallberg, North Carolina include several options beyond the immediate coastal area. Phoenix Farms Vineyard offers private tent camping on a historic tobacco farm property approximately 40 miles inland. The surrounding Croatan National Forest provides additional camping opportunities with varying levels of facilities. Most locations require campers to prepare for coastal weather conditions including high humidity in summer months and potential storm impacts during hurricane season.
What to do
Kayaking at multiple access points: The Haywood Landing Recreation Site provides direct boat access to the White Oak River. "Great spot for camping. You can be away from people, but be cognitive of the wildlife here," notes one visitor who recommends securing food properly due to local wildlife.
Disc golf near campgrounds: White Oak River Campground features an on-site disc golf course among multiple ponds. "Multiple ponds and frisbee golf course" are available for campers according to a visitor who noted the campground's compact size but extensive outdoor exploration opportunities.
Farm animal interaction: Phoenix Farms Vineyard offers a unique camping experience with agricultural components. "It's so fun to see all of the animals. The property is beautiful, and the camp spot is private," reports one camper who enjoyed the farm setting.
What campers like
Military beach access: Onslow Beach Campsites provides direct beach access for military ID holders. "We have found many shark teeth on the beach and made great memories wake boarding and relaxing," shares one visitor who appreciates the combination of beach and intercoastal waterway access.
Island camping solitude: Bear Island at Hammocks Beach State Park offers secluded camping with limited visitation, especially outside ferry operating hours. "Bear Island's seclusion and minimalist amenities are what make this place a hidden gem," explains a camper, noting the island remains exclusively for campers between 6pm-9am when the ferry doesn't operate.
Site spacing and privacy: Most tent sites in the region provide adequate spacing between campers. "The sites are well spaced and you won't feel on top of one another," reports a Bear Island camper who appreciated the reasonable prices that include one ferry round trip per day with the camping fee.
What you should know
Military installation requirements: Access to some campgrounds requires military credentials. "You must have a DOD ID for access," states one Onslow Beach visitor, who also notes there was "no service for AT&T or WiFi" but found the campground "nice and quiet."
Shade limitations: Most coastal campsites have limited natural shade. White Oak River Campground has this challenge according to a visitor: "MY PERSONAL OPINION, may not affect others but I like to camp under trees or close to. Most of the tent sites are out in the open."
Insect management: White Oak River Campground and Haywood Landing both report significant mosquito populations. "The mosquitos are horrible so bring bug spray," warns a Haywood Landing camper who otherwise found it a good spot for dispersed camping.
Tips for camping with families
Planning for beach days: For families visiting Onslow Beach, planning for beach outings requires consideration of supplies. "The only downfall is it takes about 20-25 minutes to drive back to civilization. This is bad only if you don't bring enough food/drinks to the beach with you," explains a camper who found this isolation otherwise beneficial.
Child-appropriate shower facilities: Bear Island facilities provide varying levels of privacy. "My only suggestion would be to add an actual door to the camper only shower in the restroom with an interior lock. Having only a shower curtain to block from other people visiting the restroom does not work well," shares a parent who still managed successfully with a toddler and 9-year-old.
Transport considerations: Hammocks Beach State Park requires planning for gear transport. "Access will be a challenge for some. There is a state ferry that runs through the day (in season), but does not allow a cart to carry stuff. It's a long walk!" explains a camper who used a private ferry service to transport their camping equipment to Bear Island.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for pop-ups: At Onslow Beach, smaller campers should consider site location. "I'm not a fan of the spot we received because we are a pop up camper surrounded by very bright and very large RV's but if next time we get the back circle area where our camper belongs it will be wonderful," advises a camper who otherwise enjoyed the beach proximity and clean bathrooms.
Summer heat planning: Tent campers visiting during warmer months should prepare for high temperatures. "We were in the center section, no tree coverage, so it was really hot and there was no breeze. Our tarp and awning really helped," notes a Labor Day weekend camper at Onslow Beach who recommends visiting during cooler months.
