Tent campsites near Richlands, North Carolina range from military-restricted beach access points to primitive riverside locations. The area sits within coastal plains at elevations below 100 feet, featuring a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Kayaking on the Black River: Black River Camping Ventures offers direct river access where the tea-colored water provides "excellent fishing, exploration by kayak or paddleboard, or it can be your next favorite swimming hole." Many visitors paddle downstream to view some of the oldest cypress trees east of the Rocky Mountains.
Beach exploration and shell hunting: At Hammocks Beach State Park, early mornings provide optimal shelling opportunities. One visitor advises: "Get up EARLY for shelling, as professional shelters get there early to find good specimens." The beach constantly reveals new treasures with each changing tide.
Military training observation: At Onslow Beach Campsites, campers can observe military exercises. One reviewer noted the campground's appeal includes "love watching our Marines training & seeing the Osprey flying."
What campers like
Secluded beach camping: Bear Island campsites offer privacy despite their popularity. "The sites are well spaced and you won't feel on top of one another," notes a visitor to Hammocks Beach State Park. The remoteness creates a genuine wilderness beach experience without crowds.
Riverfront relaxation: The Black River provides peaceful camping with riverside sites. A camper described it as "peaceful, quiet, and tucked away" with "large oaks and pines that provide massive shade in the warmer months and beautiful, colorful foliage in the fall."
Family-friendly swimming areas: Phoenix Farms Vineyard and Black River Camping Ventures feature kid-friendly water access. At Black River, "most was pretty shallow and a huge sand bar area. The kids loved it and dogs too."
What you should know
Access restrictions: Onslow Beach requires military ID. Multiple reviewers confirm this requirement: "You must have a DOD ID for access" and "You have to have been in the Military to get on base!"
Bug preparedness: Coastal camping means insects. At Haywood Landing Recreation Site, campers warn that "mosquitos are horrible so bring bug spray." Black River campers encounter diverse insects: "Not just mosquitoes, but gnats, horse flies, flies, etc. They were terrible."
Limited amenities: Many campsites offer minimal facilities. Haywood Landing provides vault toilets but no potable water. Black River offers "super clean portable bathrooms, non-potable water pumps, picnic tables fishing pier, fire pits, and charcoal grills."
Tips for camping with families
Gear transport planning: For Bear Island camping, prepare for significant hiking with gear. One family notes: "It takes planning to go with kids but it's totally doable. We had a 2 and 9 year old and they did great." Another camper recommends: "A cart ($100 from Harbor Freight) was a key to getting to the site alive!"
Shade solutions: Coastal camping lacks natural shade. For White Oak River Campground, a reviewer notes: "MY PERSONAL OPINION, may not affect others but I like to camp under trees or close to. Most of the tent sites are out in the open." Bring portable shade structures during summer.
Wildlife education: Include wildlife awareness in family preparations. At Haywood Landing, campers should "be cognitive of the wildlife here. Keep food locked inside."
Tips from RVers
Beach proximity advantage: Onslow Beach Campsites provides direct beach access for RVers. A camper notes: "This is absolutely one of my favorite places to stay! It is right on the beach, a little store is right there for your convenience and there is plenty of space for walking, riding bikes, etc."
Communication limitations: Cell service varies throughout camping areas. A camper at Black River notes: "Cell service is spotty however you will not be spending time on your phone I can assure that." Onslow Beach has similar issues: "No service for AT&T or WiFi. Nice and quiet."
Site selection timing: For peak seasons, book RV sites early, especially at popular locations. At Onslow Beach, one camper suggests: "I'm not a fan of the spot we received because we are a pop up camper surrounded by very bright and very large RV's but if next time we get the back circle area where our camper belongs it will be wonderful."
