Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA Resort and Rodanthe Watersports & Campground house premium glamping accommodations along North Carolina's scenic Outer Banks. The Cape Hatteras KOA boasts oceanfront glamping units with direct beach access, featuring fully-furnished interiors, climate control systems, and private outdoor spaces with fire rings. "Breathtaking! We camped on the dunes and had the perfect vacation. This KOA is wonderful and the staff made this a wonderful trip," noted one visitor about their glamping experience. Rodanthe Watersports offers sound-front eco-friendly glamping options with spectacular water views, comfortable accommodations, and access to watersports rentals at half price for overnight guests. Both locations provide picnic tables, electricity, and water hookups, with the KOA adding cable TV, WiFi, and proximity to their resort-style pool complex with hot tub.
The sound-front setting at Rodanthe creates unique glamping experiences where guests witness stunning sunsets directly from their accommodation. According to one camper, "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." Water activities dominate the experience, with kayak, paddleboard, and surfboard rentals available steps from glamping units. Cape Hatteras KOA offers family-friendly amenities including a pirate ship playground, jumping pillow, and seasonal live music at their on-site café. Winter visitors enjoy tranquil beach access with fewer crowds, while summer brings full programming with organized activities. Both locations welcome pets in designated glamping accommodations, with Cape Hatteras KOA featuring a specialized dog park area with sand for off-leash play and Rodanthe offering sound access for dogs to swim.
"There is a freshwater shower at the entrance to the beach so that you can rinse off when you’re done. The bathhouse was nice and clean. The shower area is co-Ed."
"Super close to a beautiful beach, there really are no bad spots, but you are very close to your neighbors and no shade."
"Has fire pit and wooden picnic table. Gorgeous view of sunsets and water sports. Water is a leg high walk to the hammock. Bathroom: showers were clean!"
"We stayed in site #4, which is one of the water/electric sites right on Pamlico Sound. Very level, and the view was amazing."
"Plenty of room on site. Clean and organized. View of Currituck Sound is beautiful."
"Closes super early so don't forget anything if you plan on arriving after 5pm. No propane. THEY NEED A POOL! THIS PLACE WOULD BE THE SH@T"
"This location was PERFECT! It warmed up enough to enjoy the beach which was a 5 minute walk from cabin."
"RV sites range include water, electric, pull-through and full amenities. There is a large outdoor entertaining pavilion as well as a smaller, indoor event space with full kitchen."
"Staff at the store were friendly and were pretty lenient to letting me use the fire pits since there was no one else at my site. Will definitely stay again if I’m ever passing through the area."
"Liz’s husband(remember, not an employee) started in on us, he was rude, he looked like he was ready to fight and as I’m walking toward the store to get the day pass he was following and harassing me."
from $20 - $60 / night
ScoutEasy access to the sound, great rental gear pricing, beautiful campground with native plants and pollinators. Clean facilities. Mike at the office was friendly and accommodating
TravelerThis 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.
Scout4 OUT OF 5 STARS! Sandy Point Resort Campgrounds is a great place to bring your kids/grandkids for camping, fishing and swimming but stay to the front of the campgrounds, the back area by the shower house where the permanent residents live is sketchy balls. I am a retired military Veteran and we have been bringing our family and friends here for 15+ years. My daughters are in their mid-20s now and they still love camping here. They have so many fun memories whether it was catching frogs, catfishing at night, playing cornhole or swimming off the pier. To this day we still laugh about our fun times.
Unfortunately our time at Sandy Point has ended, I have been banned. Yes banned. My wife and I went fishing there one weekend afternoon and did not buy the day pass,$7.50 per person. We have been fishing like this over the years and had never been charged or told we needed a day pass. In all honesty we did not know. We always bought our bait at the onsite store and from the store you can see the fishing area we always went to so it wasn’t like we were sneaking on. On this particular day we had just started setting up to fish when Liz, an employee that works in the store and lives in the back area of the campground(sketchy balls) pulled up to where we were at. Accompanying Liz was her husband who my wife and I thought was also an employee of the campground. He is not. When Liz asked if we had a day pass I said no and did not know we needed one because we had been coming here for so long. I said no problem I’ll go get one. I never stopped smiling and never raised my voice. It was not an issue to get the pass. Liz’s husband(remember, not an employee) started in on us, he was rude, he looked like he was ready to fight and as I’m walking toward the store to get the day pass he was following and harassing me. Earlier when I was in the store buying bait Liz came in and told the employee working that they(Liz and husband) needed more beer. So Liz and husband had been drinking before coming over to ask if we had gotten the day pass. No issue with Liz talking to us, she’s an employee but husband…no, he should not have said a word. He was downright harassing us. Forward ahead about 4 or 5 weeks, my wife and I go back for another weekend afternoon to fish. I went in the store to buy bait and the day pass, Liz is working. She asked if I was Kevin and then told me I have been banned from the park. When I asked why she said that I had come back to fish and did not buy the pass. I told her I had not been back since the last time when she told us about the pass. She then said well you were confrontational that day. I told her I never stopped smiling or was not even close to confrontational. She then said well your wife ran up on me. Now folks, this is one of the funniest things I’ve ever heard about my wife. She does not run….anywhere….hahaha. I told Liz my wife does not run and Liz said well she jogged up on me. Again folks…this did not happen. The reason for being banned changed four times while I stood there. Liz has been working at Sandy Point for a few years and I always…repeat always tried to make her laugh or smile when I saw her. I have never done anything to make her or any employee feel threatened or uncomfortable. I am always smiling and always in a great mood. Liz on the other hand will remind you of a disgruntle Eeyore, never happy or smiling. Always seeming as if she hates being there and has no joy in life. I never understood this because she gets to live on the campground. But because of not buying a day pass to fish(didn’t know), being accused of doing it again after being told(didn’t do it), being confrontational(nope), my wife running/ jogging toward Liz(hahahaha), I have been banned. So unfortunate.
I have reached out to Janice, the owner, by phone and email. No return calls back and no response to my email. All my wife and I are asking for is a sit down with Janice and Liz so we can tell our side of what happened. I assure you Janice what you are being told by Liz is not what the truth really is. I am a 24 year Veteran, family man and good person. I guarantee my character references will blow the doors off of Liz’s.
So I would give the campground 5 stars but because the shower house needs a little cleaning up and sometimes it gets rowdy after quiet hours on the weekend from other guest I can only give it 4 stars. Still a fun place to camp and enjoy time with family and friends as long as you don’t run up on Liz.
ScoutHas a nice pool and access to ocean. Fun activities for the kids.
LegendWe stopped for one night and wish it was longer. Off season and quiet, but very easy access in and out and a dune away from the Atlantic. The kids had plenty of room to ride their bikes and enjoyed the jump pillow. While too cold, the pool looks great. NC was under a burn ban, so no fire for us. But they do deliver wood and ice. Great staff of work campers were all super friendly. Easy access to outer banks points and plenty of dining options near by.
TravelerWe stayed here for two nights during our trip along the Outer Banks. We had a great time and enjoyed our stop here. Our site had a great view of the water and we could see the Currituck lighthouse at night. Our boys enjoyed kayaking around the sound and riding their bikes to the playground. It seemed like they are working to add more amenities and upgrades so I’d stay again next time we make it that way. Also, Diggers Dungeon is only a few miles away so if you have kids make sure to stop and let them see the monster trucks.
GuideGreat KOA park with one row of dunes to cross to the ocean beach that depending on your site is only about 5 min walk. The park is well kept with clean bathrooms and showers. The have laundry and a very nice camp store with groceries, camping essentials and gifts. Sites are level with full hookups including cable that worked well. Wifi is marginal but they reported they have equipment on order to improve. We had spot along the dunes with covered patio with picnic table and a fire ring (no barbeques). The beach is wonderful. Great restful destination. We will definitely return.
LegendKOA Cape Hatteras Outer Banks Campground (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good
(70 yr olds in 17’ trailer with a desire for a campsite that has at least some visual privacy offered - after the trailer is in the spot.)
Weather: 60s Bugs: Gone for the winter Solar: Plenty Rig size: Big rig friendly Road Noise: For sites near the highway 12 Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: Yes Sewer Hookup: Some full hookups Dump Station: Yes Potable Water Available: Yes Bathroom: Yes Showers: Yes Cell Service (AT&T): 3 - 4 bars Setting: Open park area between highway and the dunes Weather: 60s during our visit Bugs: Gone for the winter Host: Yes Rig size: Big rigs Sites: Those in the back along the dunes would be nice to have. See pics.
GuideWhere else can you watch the sunrise AND the sunset from the same campground? Wow. I give this place an 11 out of 10
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.
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.
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."
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."
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Nags Head, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Nags Head, NC is Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA Resort with a 4.4-star rating from 29 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Nags Head, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 5 glamping camping locations near Nags Head, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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