Within 30 miles of South Mills, North Carolina, campers can access a diverse range of camping options along the Intracoastal Waterway and Currituck Sound. This coastal region sits near sea level with wet, humid summers where temperatures typically reach 90°F from June through August. Winter camping remains viable with average lows rarely dropping below 30°F, though seasonal flooding affects low-lying campsites after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Water activities at Northwest River Park: Located within 15 miles of South Mills, this park offers kayak rentals for exploring the blackwater river system. "Canoes and paddle boats are available to rent for use in black water," notes one visitor, while another mentions the park has "lots to do for the active camper. Put put golf, kayak, hiking and much more."
Beach access from First Landing: First Landing State Park Campground provides easy access to both bay and ocean beaches. "The camp ground is beautiful and the people are friendly. Our game ground was surrounded by the forest but your in walking distance to the beach," explains a recent visitor. The park offers a more secluded beach experience compared to the main Virginia Beach oceanfront.
Fishing in protected waters: Sandy Point Resort Campground provides direct access to protected sound fishing with minimal boat traffic. "Not a whole lot of people. Pretty windy area being right on the water," reports one camper, making it ideal for both shoreline and small boat fishing. The campground store sells basic tackle and bait.
Historical exploration in Edenton: Located 40 minutes from South Mills, the town of Edenton offers colonial architecture and waterfront parks. Campers staying at Rocky Hock Campground can use it as a base for exploration. "Perfect location to go and explore Edenton NC. Please check out this beautiful, interesting, and historical town. Eat at 'Nothing Fancy'," suggests one visitor.
What campers like
Large, private sites: North Landing Beach receives consistent praise for spacious campsites. "We stayed at North Landing Beach for a week during the 4th of July holiday and while it was very busy, it was quiet and very family oriented," notes one camper. The campground maintains buffer zones between sites even during peak season.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain above-average bathroom cleanliness. "Very clean campground. The bathrooms are clean and well lit," reports a visitor to Northwest River Park. Another camper at North Bay Shore noted: "The bathhouse is clean, climate controlled, and never too busy."
Waterfront views: North Bayshore Campground offers sites with direct water views. "We went to VA Beach on a whim with no lodging reserved, and saw the sign for this campground on our way out to Sandbridge Beach," explains one visitor who enjoyed the waterfront location. Many campsites face small canals leading to larger waterways.
Entertainment options: Glamping close to South Mills, North Carolina often includes organized activities. "This place is amazing! The staff is so friendly. We have gone a handful of times and it is our families favorite place to camp. The view on the beach is breathtaking. They are always throwing special events," notes a North Landing Beach visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal insects: The coastal location means biting insects can be problematic, especially after rainfall. "This campground is full of bugs. It also lacks the basic cleaning of bathhouses. They are full of bugs and dirt in both the outside and inside showers," warns one camper about Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA.
Summer heat considerations: Tent camping during peak summer can be challenging. "I wouldn't recommend tent camping in the middle of summer - my husband and i both got sick," reports one First Landing visitor, referring to the intense humidity and heat that builds up in tents.
Flooding after rain: The low elevation means water drainage issues affect many campgrounds. "If rain a lot of rain is forecasted you may want to talk to one of the rangers about your particular site," advises a Northwest River Park visitor. Some sites remain underwater for days after heavy storms.
Limited winter services: While many campgrounds stay open year-round, amenities decrease substantially. "There are no amenities in the fall and winter but in the summer there is a lake with a swimming area and a snack bar. The fishing is year round," explains a Davis Lakes Resort visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Davis Lakes Resort offers child-focused amenities within a contained environment. "Nice clean family campgoung near home, lots to do for the kids," notes one visitor. The swimming area includes a gradual entry point designed specifically for younger children.
Protected swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer alternatives to ocean swimming. "The lakes are fun and we always have a great time. Some sites are amazing," mentions a Davis Lakes visitor. These contained water areas provide safer swimming options compared to ocean beaches with their strong currents.
Military noise awareness: Families sensitive to noise should note proximity to military installations. "You may hear occasional machine guns and artillery. You will also hear reveille in the morning," reports a First Landing camper. This can either be disturbing or fascinating depending on your children's interests.
Indoor recreation backup: "There's a game room for relaxing or playing air hockey, pool, and fussball," mentions a North Bayshore camper. These indoor options provide valuable alternatives during inclement weather when outdoor activities become impractical.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds have sites requiring additional leveling equipment. "The sites are gravel and mostly level but I did have to use a couple blocks of my levelers," notes a Northwest River Park visitor. First-time RVers should bring leveling blocks even at campgrounds advertising level sites.
Boat launch considerations: RVers should check site proximity to boat launches. "Only downfall was the boat launch was next to my sight, and I was woken up at 6:30 every morning with guys launching their bass boats," reports a North Bayshore camper. Request sites away from marine facilities if morning quiet is important.
Limited waste disposal: Some campgrounds have restricted trash facilities. "The only thing I have a problem with here, is that there are no garbage cans or dumpsters near the campsites. The only garbage containers I found were near the dump station," notes a Northwest River Park visitor. RVers should plan to transport trash rather than expecting convenient disposal.
