Camping near Ocracoke, North Carolina, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With stunning beaches and a variety of campgrounds, it’s a great spot for families, RVers, and anyone looking to escape into nature.
What to do:
- Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Ocracoke Campground, provide easy access to the beach. One camper mentioned, “Really easy access to the beach. Campground was quiet and peaceful.”
- Fishing and Kayaking: The area is perfect for fishing and kayaking. A review noted, “The campground staff went above and beyond to ensure our stay was enjoyable. Our kids were ecstatic about the pool, spending hours there.”
- Hiking Trails: Explore local trails, such as those near Pettigrew State Park Campground. One visitor shared, “The trail was a nice walk along the lake, but sure wasn't dull for us!”
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Frisco Campground stated, “The bathrooms were clean and tidy and free of bugs, webs and mess.”
- Secluded Spots: Many enjoy the privacy offered at certain campgrounds. One camper at Hatteras Sands Campground mentioned, “The sites along the waterway would be nicest. They are very cute cabins and some with water view.”
- Friendly Hosts: Campers often rave about the helpful staff. A review highlighted, “The host was delightful and made us feel welcome.”
What you should know:
- Bugs and Weather: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. One camper warned, “Bugs: Not this time of year,” but noted that they can be an issue during summer.
- Reservations Required: Most campgrounds, like Oregon Inlet Campground, require reservations. A visitor shared, “All reservations must be made via recreation.gov.”
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain amenities like showers or electric hookups. A review from Cape Point Campground noted, “No hookups available, but there is a dump station and potable water fill on your way out.”
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like Camp Hatteras. One parent said, “The kids were ecstatic about the pool, spending hours there.”
- Pack Bug Spray: Be ready for bugs, especially if you’re camping in warmer months. A camper advised, “Bring plenty of bug spray.”
- Plan for Beach Days: Make sure to schedule beach time. A review mentioned, “The beach is right behind the campground, easy access with several trails leading right from the campsites.”
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review from Goose Creek State Park Campground noted, “Large rigs can fit in many spots.”
- Be Mindful of Road Noise: Some campgrounds have noticeable road noise. A visitor at Ocracoke Campground mentioned, “You hear road noise throughout the night.”
- Use Recreation.gov for Reservations: It’s the easiest way to secure your spot. A camper shared, “Recreation.gov is nice in that there are no processing fees.”
Camping near Ocracoke, North Carolina, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique challenges of the area!
