Charles J.
Scout
ScoutVirginia Beach KOA
Awesome place
Very clean. Very quite. Will be back more.
Tent Camping near Moyock, NC
4 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Search destinations
Add dates
Tent camping options near Moyock, North Carolina include established campgrounds within driving distance at False Cape State Park in Virginia Beach and Merchants Millpond State Park in Gatesville. These parks offer varied tent camping experiences, from oceanfront sites to canoe-in primitive camping, providing tent campers multiple environments to explore within 30-60 miles of Moyock.
False Cape State Park provides primitive tent campsites that can only be accessed by hiking, biking, or boating 5-9 miles through Back Bay Wildlife Refuge. The park offers both oceanside and bay side tent sites with picnic tables and drinking water available. Sites are reservation-required and no campfires are permitted, though small camping stoves are allowed. According to one visitor, "The Park is a serene oasis away from traffic, no RV's, not a lot of people. A great place to get away from it all." Tent campers at oceanside sites have the unique option to set up directly on the beach in designated areas or behind the dunes in more sheltered tent pads.
Merchants Millpond State Park features several tent camping options including backpack sites, canoe-in campgrounds, and walk-in group sites. The canoe-in tent sites require paddling up to 4.5 miles through a cypress swamp environment with wildlife including alligators, turtles, and various bird species. Tent sites include fire rings, grills, and picnic tables with pit toilets available. A review mentioned, "Sites are well maintained and not right on top of each other." For tent campers seeking easier access, Sandy Bottom Nature Park in Hampton offers walk-in tent sites approximately a quarter-mile from parking, featuring sand platforms, picnic tables, and fire rings with grates. While closer to urban areas, these sites provide a convenient tent camping experience with flush toilets and running water available near the parking area.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Moyock (5)
1. False Cape State Park Campground
"We hiked in on the East Dike trail through Back Bay, about 5.4 miles, with everything for the weekend on our backs."
"False Cape is a primitive campground that can only be accessed by walking or biking through the Back Bay Wildlife Refuge along the southern coast of Virginia."
20 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $21 / night
2. Merchants Millpond Canoe-In Campground — Merchants Millpond State Park
"We did the canoe-in camping and brought out Hobie kayaks (beware if you bring them our mirage drive seemed to find every downed tree or cypress knob under the water 😜) Buoys marked the different routes"
"We were looking for a reasonably quick (one overnight) camping trip that was different, but within a 2ish hour drive."
Check Availabilityfrom $17 - $57 / night
3. Bennetts Creek Canoe In Campground — Merchants Millpond State Park
"The campsights are pretty close together so don't expect privacy on a busy weekend. The scenery is TOP KNOTCH!"
"My group and I stayed at the Benett’s creek high ground primitive camp sites 1-3. It was a 4.5 mile paddle to the site, then roughly 1.5 down to the dock with a staged vehicle."
Check Availabilityfrom $17 / night
4. Merchants Millpond State Park Backpack Campground
"Around 7pm because we had a late start. Unfortunately we didn't stay because our site was hike in and I thought I did drive in. So we ended up getting a hotel instead."
Check Availabilityfrom $17 / night
5. Merchants Millpond Group Walk-In Sites — Merchants Millpond State Park
Check Availabilityfrom $72 / night
Drive Time
- 1 hr 58 min from Greenville, NC
- 2 hrs 7 min from Rocky Mount, NC
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Moyock, NC
9 Photos of 5 Moyock Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Tent Camping Reviews near Moyock, NC
475 Reviews of 5 Moyock Campgrounds
- A
Angela C.ScoutKiptopeke State Park Campground
Camping in high winds
This campground was very enjoyable. I spent a lot of time at the fishing pier, learning to ID birds I had never identified before. Brown pelicans were everywhere near the sunken ships. I also talked to the Hawkwatch people for a bit.
My campsite was far enough from the bathroom I couldn't hear the door slam, but since I was the only one in the F loop, that wouldn't have mattered. Since the loop was so empty, it was an absolute pleasure.
Had the campground been full, I would have felt too close to the people in tents in the sites next to me.
One great thing was that there weren't tent pads so we didn't have to worry about how to fit two tents on to one tent pad.
- AAlexandra S.
TravelerOuter Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA
Holy DRAMA
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.
- JJoel D.Scout
Davis Lakes Resort
The Little Canping Gem of Suffolk
We stumbled across Davis Lakes Campground last year when we brought our camper down to visit our son and grandchildren. Originally, we planned to stay closer to Virginia Beach, but after finding Davis Lakes, we decided to give it a try. We were lucky enough to get site F28 right on the lake, and we enjoyed it so much that we came back this year—and even booked the exact same site.
After reading some of the other reviews, I wanted to share our experience because it was very different. Yes, there are some rules regarding dogs at the beach, but they never interfered with our stay. We enjoyed walking our dogs every morning around the campground and lakes, and it was a wonderful way to start each day.
The beach itself was clean, had plenty of nice chairs, and the AquaGlide was an absolute blast. We spent 5–6 hours a day swimming, and surprisingly, the beach never felt crowded.
One thing that really stood out was how fair the prices were. The campground store was stocked with essentials, and unlike many campgrounds, the prices were very reasonable. If you forgot a loaf of bread or wanted to grab a pool float, you didn’t feel like you were being gouged. They also have a cute snack shop, a spacious game room, and an impressive movie selection, making it a great place to spend a rainy afternoon.
The campground itself was clean and very well maintained. Although many of the sites are seasonal, they were neat, well cared for, and nothing like some seasonal campgrounds where sites become cluttered or run down. It was obvious that both the staff and the campers take pride in the campground.
The nightly rates were very reasonable, and while there is a visitor fee, we found it to be completely fair considering the amenities. We had an amazing time with our son and his family, and the campground played a big part in making those memories.
Davis Lakes isn’t a luxury resort, and that’s part of its charm. Its focus is on beautiful lakes, swimming, friendly service, and providing a relaxing camping experience. It reminded me of the kind of campgrounds I grew up enjoying—simple, welcoming, and centered around making great memories.
We’ll absolutely be back. If we lived closer, I’d seriously consider getting a seasonal site myself. In fact, my son is even talking about buying a camper just so he can keep it nearby and enjoy Davis Lakes more often. Many of the employees and seasonal campers are locals who return year after year, and I think that says everything you need to know about this place.
I K.TravelerFirst Landing State Park Campground
Very quiet all stuff are so earthy, very kind.
It was very nice visit.
- I K.Traveler
Sandy Bottom Nature Park
Nicer than expected
Park stuff are very friendly, sweet, I live the quietness of night time.
Debra W.ScoutFirst Landing State Park Campground
Great for Beachside Camping
This campground was a great location for a Virginia Beach vacation. It’s in the Chesapeake Bay so the water is calm and there is a large sandbar making for shallower waters which is great if you have littles in your trip. It was calming to stay there and spend everyday at the beach. There is hiking and biking paths as part of the park as well. I love that the shower rooms are not gendered so you don’t have a long wait to use one. I went for July 4th and was able to watch the fireworks right from the beach. So that was awesome. Overall good stay.
- AAlexandra S.Traveler
Rocky Hock Campground
It’s just OK.
It did say that the laundry area was renovated and I was highly disappointed to see that it does not show any signs of remodeling. The shower house is tolerable but also I will NOT be using the area. They are not strict enough about kids and the crap they leave everywhere. There is a house near the property where they keep dogs out in a kennel all day in the summer heat who bark (understandably) all day. That’s not their fault. They’re strict about where you stay long term and won’t let you near the pond which is also underwhelming. The front desk girl is very sweet and welcoming. Would have liked to have the same opportunity to be by the water as everyone else. We travel for work- all stays are long term.
- I K.Traveler
Sandy Bottom Nature Park
Very quiet
I felt serenity and hospitality at this site.
Guide to Moyock
Tent campsites near Moyock, North Carolina are part of the coastal plains region with an average elevation of just 7 feet above sea level, contributing to its swampy, wetland terrain. Primitive camping options include oceanfront sites, cypress swamp environments, and nature park settings within 30-60 miles of town. Summer conditions typically feature high humidity with temperatures in the 80-90°F range, requiring additional planning for bug protection and hydration.
What to do
Paddle through cypress forests: At Merchants Millpond State Park, the canoe-in campsites require up to 4.5 miles of paddling through unique cypress habitats. "The cypress trees, swamp flora and fauna are amazing. One of my kids caught a gar, we saw a bald eagle's nest, snakes, frogs, turtles, and lily pads everywhere," reports one camper. Navigation can be challenging as "the kayak/canoe round was not easy to navigate so bring your 3rd party map/GPS."
Wildlife photography: Camping areas around Moyock provide exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. "Lots of hiking trails to walk & turtles in the lake!! Plus you can rent boats for a cheap price," notes a visitor at Sandy Bottom Nature Park. Morning and evening hours yield the best sightings and photography conditions.
Hike to historical sites: Some camping areas contain preserved historical structures. Visitors can walk to state border markers and historic remains. "We saw an old graveyard and church steeple at Wash Woods, that's definitely worth the hike. We walked to the North Carolina border."
What campers like
Privacy of remote sites: At False Cape State Park, the effort required to access the campground creates a unique experience. "Really there wasn't hardly anyone else out there, so it felt like we had our own private beach. We hiked out to our spot, but we saw some people biking into theirs." The isolation creates a rare camping experience unlike typical crowded beaches.
Sunset viewing spots: Coastal campsites provide unobstructed sunset views. "The most stunning part was definitely the sunsets. No two looked the same... Nothing better than a beach sunset. Plus there are a ton of different types of birds out there if you like wildlife."
Well-spaced camping areas: Sandy Bottom Nature Park offers sites "spaced nicely apart and had nice sand tent platforms with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate. Trash cans were very close by, which was super nice." The individual campsites require about a quarter-mile hike and are "placed a short distance from the trail so hikers will not be hiking through the sites."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many camping locations near Moyock require significant effort to reach. "False Cape is a primitive campground that can only be accessed by walking or biking through the Back Bay Wildlife Refuge along the southern coast of Virginia. The first grouping of sites are 6 miles from the closest parking area, and the second grouping are 9 miles away."
Seasonal bug considerations: Summer months bring significant insect activity to the camping areas. "Bring bug spray—we went in May and the bugs were already overwhelming—including many, many ticks." Campers should pack appropriate repellents and protective clothing.
Water navigation limitations: At Bennetts Creek Campground, paddlers face challenging conditions. "This park was great but do recognize that is a true swamp. Alligators included. The water there does not move therefore is not recommended for filtering for consumption." Another visitor warns, "Lots of underwater obstructions so use caution. U DO NOT want to end up in that water."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra gear for longer hikes: When taking children to remote tent campsites near Moyock, prepare for the access requirements. "When we went we brought our 2 and 4 year old children. My husband and I each hooked a trailer to our bikes, and I towed the kids and he towed our gear." Planning these logistics ahead is essential.
Choose sites with natural play areas: Some camping locations provide natural features that entertain children. "The kids loved riding through Back Bay, and all of us enjoyed having the beach essentially to ourselves for the two nights we were there. This was exceptionally kid-friendly as there is plenty of sand for kids to play in right at the campsite."
Consider noise factors: At Merchants Millpond Backpack Campground, sites offer varying levels of seclusion. "Our sites were not directly on the water. At first we were a little bummed the water front weren't available but it worked out for the best. Our sites were more private, a shorter walk to the pit toilet, and the trees provided a slight buffer from the tremendous sounds of the frogs at night!"
Tips from RVers
No direct RV access to primitive sites: The most remote camping experiences near Moyock aren't suitable for RVs. "This park is a serene oasis away from traffic, no RV's, not a lot of people." RV camping requires choosing alternative locations as most primitive tent campsites restrict vehicle access.
Pet access restrictions: RV travelers with pets should note specific rules when visiting certain parks. "Pets are allowed, but they are not allowed through Black Bay. You either have to bring them in via boat, or coming up south from North Carolina." Always check current pet policies before traveling.
Alternative nearby options: For RV campers seeking easier access while still enjoying natural surroundings, several regional campgrounds provide drive-up sites within an hour of Moyock. The closest primitive tent sites with limited RV options offer basic amenities like "flush toilets and running water faucets and located behind the parking lot."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Moyock, NC?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Moyock, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Moyock, NC is False Cape State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 11 reviews.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Moyock, NC?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Moyock, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 5 tent camping locations near Moyock, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring