Carolina Beach State Park offers diverse camping options with several trails winding through maritime forest habitats. Located between the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean, the park provides camping experiences where temperatures range from 37°F in winter to 90°F in summer. The surrounding Southport region combines coastal access with forest environments, creating distinctive settings for tent, RV, and yurt camping.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Carolina Beach State Park Campground provides excellent fishing along the Cape Fear River. "We spent 9 days and really didn't want to leave. There were a variety of things to do. The pool, the winery, a couple of trips to the beach and surrounding area," notes a visitor to CarrollWoods RV Park at Grapefull Sisters Vineyard.
Off-season hiking: The winter months offer less crowded trails with comfortable temperatures. "I've been here at different times of the year. I really enjoy camping here in December and January. Less people and the park is so nice," shares a camper at Carolina Beach State Park.
Beach driving: Access beach areas with appropriate vehicles at certain locations. "You can drive onto the beach - it makes it SO easy!!!" explains a visitor to Carolina Beach State Park Campground, providing a convenient option for families with beach gear.
Wine tasting: Several campgrounds integrate vineyard experiences with camping. "The winery and the two women who own it are helpful and lively. If you visit, you must get one of their wine floats," recommends a camper at CarrollWoods RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated camping areas. "The sites are well-spaced with a picnic table, fire pit and grill at each site," notes a visitor to CarrollWoods RV Park, appreciating the privacy between campsites.
Dog-friendly facilities: Several parks feature designated pet areas. "It has one of the best dog parks that I have ever been to. It is very spacious, fully shaded by lots of trees and even has a few man-made hills for the pooches to climb," shares a camper at CarrollWoods RV Park.
Off-peak camping: The shoulder seasons provide more availability and quieter experiences. "I have camped at Carolina Beach State Park 1-2 times a year for the past five years. The campsites at this park are some of the cleanest sites I have camped at," explains a regular visitor to Holden Beach RV Campground.
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathhouses and campsites rank high with visitors. "The bath house is always clean and stocked even in the winter. The bathhouse is also heated during the winter months and there are quit a few outlets available which we used to charge our phones," notes a Carolina Beach camper.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak periods. "This campground is packed on holiday weekends. There were only 2 campsites available when we visited for memorial day weekend," warns a visitor to Carolina Beach State Park.
Beach proximity varies: Not all campgrounds provide direct beach access. "It's a 5 minute drive to the beach which is very convenient," notes a camper at Wilmington KOA, highlighting the importance of transportation planning.
Wi-Fi limitations: Don't count on reliable internet at all locations. "I wish businesses would not promote poor quality products as 'free'. I probably could access their WiFi no more than for 3 times in all the time I was there and would last no more than 10 minutes," cautions a CarrollWoods RV Park visitor.
Yurt camping options: Yurt accommodations vary widely in quality and amenities. "We stayed in site 5 for 11 days. The Yurt had been removed but the platform stayed. We were able to get up our large tent on the platform and have enough space for our chairs," explains a visitor to Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Family-oriented campgrounds offer scheduled programs. "Great place for the family! Plenty of stuff to do and the ability to relax when needed! My son loves it and we go here regularly!" shares a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Daddy Joe's.
Beach alternatives: Campground pools provide swimming options when beach conditions aren't ideal. "Great place for family entertainment. Kids of 10, 8, and 5 and all had a blast. We stayed during a storm and the camp staff adjusted their events to focus on indoor entertainment for the families," notes a Jellystone Park visitor.
Winter camping with kids: Heated facilities make off-season camping comfortable for families. "The bath house is always clean and stocked even in the winter. The bathhouse is also heated during the winter months," explains a Carolina Beach camper, making winter yurt camping near Southport, North Carolina feasible even with children.
Bug preparation: Coastal camping requires insect management. "Bring mosquito netting or pop up to keep the horse flies away!" advises a Lake Waccamaw camper, highlighting an often overlooked necessity when planning yurt or tent camping in the region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on access to facilities. "Our sites were easy to access. 30/50 is solid, sewer easy access and water pressure is good," shares a visitor to Holden Beach RV Campground.
Check-in support: Staff assistance varies between locations. "The lady at check-in led me to my site and even helped direct me backing in," notes a visitor to S & W RV Park, appreciating the hands-on assistance.
Seasonal RV considerations: Off-season camping offers different advantages. "We were looking for a last minute place, close to the coast. Found this campground by chance. Reasonably priced during peak season," shares an S & W RV Park visitor, noting the value even during busy periods.
