Dispersed camping near Morehead City, North Carolina offers rustic outdoor experiences in maritime forest and coastal environments. The region sits at sea level with average summer temperatures of 85-90°F and winter lows of 35-45°F. Weather conditions change rapidly in this coastal area, with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months and potential for strong northeasterly winds during fall and winter.
What to do
**Kayak fishing: Access Great Lake through trails past concrete barriers in Croatan National Forest. "You can access Great lake with an Atv or SXS. There are passable trails past the barricades but you will need a capable 4x4 to get thru. The lake is virtually untouched and the roads were still in good shape," notes a visitor to Great Lake Dispersed Site.
**Lighthouse visits: Take time to visit Cape Lookout Lighthouse when camping at South Core Banks. "We befriended our neighbors who took us to the lighthouse at the southern end of the island, which was beautiful! Currently closed for renovations, and the lightkeeper's house was closed due to the government shutdown," reports a camper at South Core Banks Beach Camping.
**Wildlife observation: Look for native coastal species, including nesting sea turtles. "Show up in October and you may get to help the rangers protect the sea turtles as they hatch," mentions a camper about South Core Banks. Long Point Boat Launch offers additional access points for wildlife viewing in less crowded areas.
What campers like
**Beach solitude: Find uncrowded stretches of sand at South Core Banks. "No crowds, lots of open beach, and plenty of fish! If you're looking to camp on the beach and escape the crowds, you've found your spot," shares a visitor about primitive beach camping.
**Natural phenomena: Experience bioluminescent plankton in spring months. "Show up late in April, early may and you will get to see the bioluminescent plankton wash up sound side, and a hike will leave glow in the dark foot prints," explains a camper about South Core Banks.
**Horse sightings: Observe wild horses in their natural habitat. "We had three young male horses that were always roaming within sight. They even walked close by our campsite," notes a visitor at Shackleford Island.
What you should know
**Road conditions: Many forest roads remain damaged and closed. "Lots of roads closed from hurricane damage, so don't trust Google maps. The dirt roads were not maintained and ridiculously bumpy and unmanageable for smaller cars," warns a camper about Croatan National Forest.
**Ferry reservations: Book transportation to islands well in advance. "Only accessible by ferry/boat, call a few weeks ahead to reserve a spot on the ferry cause they fill up quickly," advises a South Core Banks visitor.
**Water safety: High tides can affect beach camping and travel. "Just be sure you know it's on an island, and read the tide tables so you aren't surprised," cautions a camper about South Core Banks.
**Wind preparation: Secure tents thoroughly for coastal conditions. "Waterspouts are extremely common here, so use sandbags with your tent and make sure the tent can handle heavy winds if the storms blow in over night," notes a South Core Banks camper.
Tips for camping with families
**Beach driving awareness: Keep children away from vehicle paths on South Core Banks. "The South Core banks are the only location in NC where you're allowed (with a $25 permit - 2021 rules) to drive right on the beach and camp overnight without the caveat of having the be actively fishing," explains a visitor to Cape Lookout National Seashore.
**Wildlife safety: Maintain distance from wild horses and alligators. "There are alligators, bears, way too many ticks, mosquitos and a ridiculous amount of shotgun shells. It definitely felt dangerous," warns a camper about primitive camping in Croatan.
**Insect protection: Choose camping locations based on wind patterns to minimize bugs. "The constant breeze on the beach side keeps the mosquitos at bay, and you will get eaten alive on the sound side," advises a South Core Banks camper.
Tips from RVers
**Recovery equipment: Carry towing gear when taking RVs to beach locations. "You should also prepare everything in advance - food, water, essentials. There ain't no corner market here. That includes 4x4 AND recovery equipment. Tow service ain't nowhere to be found," warns a South Core Banks visitor.
**Alternative parking: Dixon Landing provides mainland access for those with unsuitable vehicles. "We got by without 4wd, but we didn't explore beyond finding a spot not too far from the ferry drop off," reports a visitor about camping at South Core Banks in a VW Vanagon.
**Cost considerations: Budget for permits and transportation. "The ferry is $135+ for vehicles, plus $20 per person roundtrip. The beach driving permit is $75 unless you buy it by March (I think)," notes a South Core Banks visitor.
