Camping near Rodanthe, North Carolina provides direct access to both oceanfront and soundside experiences within a narrow strip of the Outer Banks where Highway 12 serves as the main corridor. The area experiences strong northeast winds from October through April, creating ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing on Pamlico Sound. Most tent sites in the region have limited shade protection due to the coastal geography and prevalent dune vegetation.
What to do
Beach driving permits: Oregon Inlet Campground offers convenient access to beach driving areas where permits are required. "We took the trail between Sites C13 and 15, which led to the road that accesses the beach. This beach is not as walkable as Ocracoke and is more suited for vehicles, and I saw several as I walked. The tire tracks made deep ruts, making walking a bit challenging," notes one camper at Oregon Inlet Campground.
Watersport rentals: Equipment rentals at half-price for campers make Rodanthe Watersports & Campground appealing for water activities. "Site: mixture of grass and sand. Has fire pit and wooden picnic table. Gorgeous view of sunsets and water sports. Water is a leg high walk to the hammock," shares a visitor at Rodanthe Watersports & Campground. The shallow sound waters are perfect for beginners.
Lighthouse tours: Plan a day trip to visit nearby historic lighthouses. "We just got back from a weekend at Oregon Inlet Campground, and it was such a memorable family experience! We took a short drive to Bodie Island Lighthouse and also spent some time exploring the nearby marina and visitor center," mentions a family who stayed at Oregon Inlet Campground.
What campers like
Sound and ocean access: The narrow strip of land allows campers to enjoy both water bodies. "We stayed in the sound front site and paid a premium. Access to the beach. The sites are right. I felt like the neighbors sewer hose was under our picnic table," notes a camper at Camp Hatteras.
Wildlife viewing: The coastal ecosystem supports diverse bird and marine life observation. "We enjoyed deer stopping by our camp site, and the wild, remote feeling here. It is dependent on the site you choose. Some are much more secluded than others," explains a visitor at Frisco Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "The night sky is breathtaking. The beach is usually pretty quiet, more fishermen than anything else. If you want to disconnect and leave with salt still in your hair and lips, this is a great place for it," shares another Frisco Campground camper.
What you should know
Wind considerations: Constant coastal winds can affect camping equipment stability. "Be careful coming here and accepting spot number 5 or 6 if you have a 2 wheel drive vehicle. You'll get sand in your tent if you're in spot five or spot six," warns a visitor at North Beach Campground.
Sand spurs and vegetation: Natural hazards require proper preparation. "WARNING: Bring a pad for your tent. We stayed on two different sites here and the first one had cactus and sand spurs so long they punctured our air mattress, through the bottom of the tent and two blankets," cautions a Frisco Campground camper.
Limited grocery options: Stock up before arriving at your campsite. "Getting groceries is difficult. There aren't many options. Bring supplies if you can," advises a visitor at Camp Hatteras.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Many campgrounds offer swimming pools when ocean conditions aren't suitable. "Very nice pool and access to ocean. Fun activities for the kids," notes a camper at Cape Hatteras KOA. Pools typically operate from May through September.
Sand dune play areas: Natural dunes provide recreational spaces for children. "From the moment we arrived, the kids were thrilled. The dunes are right next to the campsites and provided hours of fun—running, climbing, sliding, and just being wild and free," shares a family at Oregon Inlet Campground.
Beach access timing: Plan beach trips around wind and tide conditions. "The sites on the hill have a breeze and view of the ocean. The ORV just outside the campground makes beach access easy," explains a Frisco Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on exposure and access. "We chose a pull through w electric and water, but wished we had gone with full hookup. Bathrooms are ok - I did see other people's hair and could've been cleaner," advises an RVer at Ocean Waves Campground.
Internet connectivity: Cell service can be unreliable throughout the area. "The internet is terrible so if you're working from home, have a hotspot. AT&T does much better in this area. We have Verizon and it was spotty. No streaming capability," shares a camper at Camp Hatteras.
Concrete pad availability: Some sites offer concrete pads that help with leveling and stability. "Level spot, but too crowded. Our neighbor was inconsiderate and blasted the outdoor tv past quiet hours," notes a Cape Hatteras KOA visitor who experienced the tight spacing common in the area.
