Cape Hatteras and Rodanthe offer glamping options close to Nags Head, North Carolina where the Outer Banks peninsula shields Pamlico Sound from the Atlantic Ocean. The region's barrier island geography creates unique camping conditions with significant wind patterns, often providing natural bug control during breezy days. Weather changes quickly in this coastal environment, requiring campers to secure tents and equipment properly.
What to do
Water activities on Pamlico Sound: At Sandy Point Resort Campground, campers enjoy the calm waters ideal for beginners. "Lots of fishing in the sound," notes Mason K., who went "tent camping and fishing in the sound." The protected waters make it a good spot for those new to paddling.
Winter beach access: Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA Resort offers year-round ocean access with fewer crowds during winter months. "Went in November which is off season. Very quiet. People were super friendly. Steps from beach," reports Sandy G. Winter visitors can enjoy peaceful beach time without summer crowds.
Lighthouse views: Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA provides unique evening views. "Our site had a great view of the water and we could see the Currituck lighthouse at night," shares Stephen B. The lighthouse visibility creates distinctive nighttime scenery not found at other campgrounds.
Monster truck exhibits: Located a short drive from Outer Banks West KOA, Diggers Dungeon showcases monster trucks. "Diggers Dungeon is only a few miles away so if you have kids make sure to stop and let them see the monster trucks," recommends Stephen B. This offers a land-based activity option when weather prevents beach time.
What campers like
Sound-front sunsets: The western-facing campsites at Rodanthe Watersports & Campground provide direct sunset views over Pamlico Sound. "The sight had a great view of the water and for sunsets, the sunrise was a 5 min walk across the road with the beach right there as well," notes Taylor T. This dual-access layout gives campers both sunset and sunrise options.
Spacious beach sites: North Landing Beach offers uncrowded beach access. "The beach was quiet and relaxing with beautiful sunsets. We will go back!" writes Brandi I. The beach areas remain less congested than public beaches closer to Nags Head.
Outdoor showers: Campers appreciate the full-sized outdoor shower facilities at Rodanthe. "Loved having the option of using outdoor shower (yes even had hot water option). I was able to enjoy a brew in the shower and get dressed and ready in front of a mirror was was provided in the same outdoor shower space," explains Amber.
Affordability: The glamping accommodations near Nags Head provide good value compared to traditional hotels. "We stayed in site #4, which is one of the water/electric sites right on Pamlico Sound. Very level, and the view was amazing," mentions Jen V. at Rodanthe Watersports, noting the prices are "much lower than the big RV resorts a few blocks away."
What you should know
Site availability challenges: North Landing Beach has transformed many waterfront sites to accommodate glamping units. "North Landing has had quite the facelift since our first visit in 2015. Tons of cottages have replaced the coveted waterfront tent sites," reports Teresa C. Booking well in advance is essential for premium locations.
Wind considerations: The constant winds affect camping setup and experience. "Pretty windy area being right on the water," notes Jake about Sandy Point Resort Campground. Amber adds at Rodanthe: "The wind was really strong and it made setting up our tent a challenge! Thanks to our friendly neighbors, they were able to get it grounded for us."
Variable bathhouse conditions: Facilities can fluctuate in cleanliness. At Rodanthe Watersports, Jen V. notes: "Bath house was ok. Cleanliness was so-so, depending on the day, but the biggest issue was it was not air-conditioned, so using the restroom was generally a pretty muggy and unpleasant experience."
Pricing inconsistencies: Some campgrounds have pricing discrepancies between websites and actual costs. At Sandy Point, Donna W. warns: "The pricing is incorrect on The Dyrt and their website. The Dyrt states $20-$60 then I went to their business website and the cheapest (tent no hookup) was $40."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-focused amenities: Cape Hatteras KOA offers structured activities for children. "Has a nice pool and access to ocean. Fun activities for the kids," mentions Justin B. The KOA provides organized programming during peak season that parents can join or use as supervised activity time.
Space consideration: Sites at some campgrounds offer limited privacy between campers. "All the sites were very small and tightly spaced, with zero privacy, which is pretty standard for such prime waterfront real estate," explains Jen V. about Rodanthe Watersports. Families needing more separation should request specific sites when booking.
Dog-friendly options: Many glamping locations near Nags Head allow pets. "Dogs are allowed, even in the water! They require pet deposit," notes Amber about Rodanthe Watersports. This allows families to include pets in water activities rather than leaving them at the campsite.
Safety considerations: Rodanthe's sound-side location offers safer swimming conditions for young children. "The sound is great for wading and cooling off, especially for kids, since it's so calm and shallow," explains Jen V. Parents prefer the protected water over ocean swimming for inexperienced swimmers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Outer Banks West KOA, verify water view sites aren't obscured. "Paid for a water view spot, got a spot obscured by trees," cautions Tom P. RVers should specifically request unobstructed views when booking premium sites.
Size limitations: Rodanthe Watersports Campground works best for smaller rigs. "Since the sites were so small, this place was really geared more toward tent campers and those with shorter RVs (25' or less, I'd say)," advises Jen V. Larger units should seek alternative campgrounds with deeper sites.
Weather protection: The coastal position creates challenging conditions for RV stabilization. "The wind was so strong for two nights that our pop-up was shaking most of the night," warns Jen V. about Rodanthe. RVers should bring additional stabilizing equipment beyond standard leveling jacks.
Hookup variations: Cape Hatteras KOA has inconsistent utility placements. "Black water Hook ups are on every other row," notes Matt T. RVers need to verify specific utility locations before selecting sites, as some require longer hose and cable connections than standard.
