Glamping in Sunbury, North Carolina offers water-based recreation and comfortable accommodations near Chowan River. The region features a network of creeks and inlets connecting to larger waterways, creating extensive paddling opportunities. Most glamping sites in the area maintain elevation less than 20 feet above sea level, contributing to the wetland ecosystem and water-centric activities.
What to do
Kayaking direct to waterways: North Bayshore Campground provides water access through an on-site canal. "There's a cool little pavilion close to the tent sites with picnic tables. All in all a very good experience!" reports Amy F. The location allows campers to access Back Bay directly from the property.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Davis Lakes Resort maintains multiple fishing lakes throughout the property. "Fishing in the ponds was good," notes Scott S., who visited with friends for a weekend getaway in one of their cabin options.
Wildlife observation: Bird watching opportunities exist throughout the region's wetlands. "We had a great view of the water and we could see the Currituck lighthouse at night," shares Stephen B. about their stay at Outer Banks West - Currituck Sound KOA, highlighting the natural viewing opportunities.
Boat access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated boat launches for larger watercraft. "There is a very nice workout room and a bIllIards room adjacent," notes Teresa C. about North Landing Beach, describing additional indoor amenities for when you're not out on the water.
What campers like
Water proximity: Sandy Point Resort Campground offers waterfront sites with direct sound access. "We had a beautiful view from the back of my Mini-Van camper. Nice and windy! Kept the bugs away for sure," shares John R. about the natural ventilation waterfront sites provide.
Clean facilities: The region's glamping options maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. "The bathrooms are clean and well lit," reports Sheri K. about Northwest River Park, noting the quality of basic amenities that enhance comfort.
Multiple accommodation types: First Landing State Park Campground provides diverse lodging options. "Large, private sites among really cool, bent trees. Clean, up-to-date facilities. Large laundry room," explains Adam and Suzanne B., describing the mix of tent, RV, and cabin sites available.
Entertainment options: Many campgrounds include recreational facilities beyond water activities. "Drive through and back in sites with water views all around. We spent a week there and it was so relaxing," writes Harold E. about their extended stay at a local campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Low-lying terrain in the region means potential standing water. "This is a low lying area and standing water at some sites after heavy rains can be an issue," advises Tina C. about North Bayshore Campground, suggesting campers check forecasts before visits.
Reservation requirements: Peak seasons require advance booking at most glamping facilities. "We arrived around 4:30 ish but the office was closed. We were told to go to the kiosk for late self-checkin," shares Nita D., highlighting the importance of knowing check-in procedures.
Seasonal amenities: Northwest River Park & Campground operates with different offerings throughout the year. "We went on a sellout weekend but was still pretty quiet," notes Jeff B., indicating that even during busy periods, the atmosphere remains relatively calm.
Pricing variations: Costs vary significantly based on accommodation type and location. "The pricing is incorrect on The Dyrt and their website. The Dirt states $20-$60 then I went to their business website and the cheapest (tent no hookup) was $40," cautions Donna W., emphasizing the importance of confirming current rates directly.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "Our boys enjoyed kayaking around the sound and riding their bikes to the playground," shares Stephen B. about their family's experience at the KOA, noting multiple activities that kept children engaged.
Swimming options: North Landing Beach offers a pool and beach access for varied swimming opportunities. "Staff is friendly. Movie time in a drive in theatre atmosphere. Had a shrimp boil while we were there," reports Jason B., highlighting additional family-friendly programming.
Game rooms: Many locations maintain indoor recreation facilities. "There's a game room for relaxing or playing air hockey, pool, and fussball. The owners have corn hole available as well," writes Tina C., detailing entertainment options during inclement weather or evening hours.
Educational opportunities: The region's wetland ecosystem provides learning experiences. "The park was very quiet going into the night," notes Joseph H., making it conducive for families needing consistent sleep schedules.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request information about site drainage when booking. "Only stayed here one weekend, in the transient section. Nice enough place, just too far out of town for my needs at that time," advises Cliff M. about Davis Lakes Resort, suggesting RVers consider proximity to services.
Hookup verification: Confirm exact hookup specifications before arrival. "The site was half gravel and half grass. The grading wasn't great and the gravel was thin. Lots of water puddles and the grass was swampy," reports Rebecca E., illustrating the importance of site condition awareness.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat impacts comfort in RVs without adequate shade. "The campsites were ok. easy to get to. I wouldn't recommend tent camping in the middle of summer - my husband and i both got sick," cautions Grace M., a consideration that applies equally to RVs without sufficient cooling.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging internal road conditions. "The roads around the campground could use repair," notes another reviewer, highlighting the importance of checking access conditions for larger rigs.
