Whipoorwill Campground stands as one of the premier horse campgrounds near Swansboro, North Carolina, situated in a region characterized by coastal plains and pine forests. The property spans approximately 400 acres with diverse terrain including wooded areas, open fields, and multiple fishing ponds. Summer temperatures typically range from 80-90°F with high humidity, while winter months remain relatively mild with occasional frost.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Equestrians visiting Whipoorwill Campground can take advantage of numerous walking paths throughout the 400-acre property. According to Mathew G., there are "plenty of paths and areas to walk around and stretch your legs, along side multiple ponds with catch and release only fishing."
Swimming and water recreation: White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort offers swimming pool facilities for campers seeking relief from summer heat. The resort maintains these areas with exceptional care, as noted by Huggins G.: "The whole place is so very clean: the bathrooms, camping areas, swimming pool area, even the dumpsters area."
Fishing opportunities: Both campgrounds provide fishing options for visitors. Whipoorwill features multiple catch-and-release ponds across the property, while White Oak Shores offers access to nearby waterways for anglers. The maintained grounds at both locations create accessible fishing environments for campers of all experience levels.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at area campgrounds. At White Oak Shores, Huggins G. notes, "The grass is very well kept, the roads and signage, well maintained." This attention to detail extends throughout all common areas and facilities.
Southern hospitality: The welcoming atmosphere stands out to visitors at equestrian campgrounds near Swansboro. Mathew G. experienced this firsthand at Whipoorwill: "Owners that we spoke with to reserve our area and take care of us was just the southern hospitality you always hear about. Super nice and welcoming and always has a smile on their face."
Peaceful environment: The remote setting of these properties creates a tranquil camping experience. Whipoorwill's location "well off the main road" means "you hardly hear any traffic," according to Mathew G., allowing campers to fully appreciate the natural surroundings and equestrian activities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Contact campgrounds directly to secure your spot, especially during peak horse event periods. Owners at Whipoorwill live on-site and handle reservations personally, ensuring responsive service for campers planning their stay.
On-site management: Having property owners present provides added security and assistance. Mathew G. appreciated that "the owners live on the property in the house, which I thought was awesome in case we needed anything."
Campground community: Expect friendly interactions with fellow campers and neighbors at equestrian facilities. Visitors at Whipoorwill found that "everyone else that either drives by or lives by us always waving and stopping for conversations, just as polite as can be."
Tips for camping with families
Horse viewing opportunities: Children can observe horses in their natural environment at equestrian campgrounds. Mathew G. reports that at Whipoorwill, families "love the horse atmosphere and watching them do their thing from day to day."
Weekly events: Plan your family visit around scheduled horse events for added entertainment. The on-site arena at Whipoorwill "holds events weekly," providing structured activities for families to enjoy during their stay.
Fishing with kids: The catch-and-release ponds at horse facilities near Swansboro offer safe, accessible fishing opportunities for children. Multiple small ponds scattered throughout the properties provide convenient locations for introducing young anglers to fishing.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers should confirm utility connections before arrival. Most equestrian campgrounds provide electric hookups, water access, and sewer connections for extended stays.
Site positioning: Request specific information about trailer parking and camping area layout. At Whipoorwill, sites allow campers to "park horse trailers at their sites with ample room for both camping equipment and equine transportation."
Dump station access: Verify sanitary dump station locations and procedures during check-in. These facilities support longer stays for self-contained RVs at horse campgrounds throughout the Swansboro region.
