Carolina Beach State Park Campground offers a mix of camping options within a woodland setting 10 miles south of Wilmington. Sites accommodate both tent and RV campers with electric hookups at many locations. Primitive beach camping is available seasonally at Freeman Park for vehicles with 4WD capabilities, while KOA locations provide more developed amenities including cabins and full hookups. Winter camping draws visitors seeking fewer crowds and cooler temperatures at campgrounds near Wilmington, NC.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At The Inlet Campground, campers can fish directly from the property's pier. "Most incredible views with easy access to beaches, restaurants and groceries. Pier for fishing and water access for canoeing or kayaking!" notes visitor Paula C.
Beach activities: Visitors at Freeman Park enjoy direct beach access with their vehicles. "We were almost alone, only one other vehicle. Two nice guys just there to night fish. Wonderful to wake up to the sunrise over the ocean," reports Phillip C., highlighting the appeal of off-season visits.
Nature exploration: Carolina Beach State Park features hiking trails where visitors can observe unique carnivorous plants. "There are lots of short trails to hike on where you can enjoy bird watching and viewing the Venus flytraps and other carnivorous plants native to the area," explains a frequent visitor.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campers appreciate the secluded sites at Carolina Beach State Park Campground. One reviewer notes, "The sites are nice and secluded, just how I like them. Most of the sites are tent sites, but they have a few full hookup sites for RVs and some cabins to rent too."
Off-season experiences: Winter camping offers a different perspective. "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 Ms P. about Carolina Beach State Park.
Campground cleanliness: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "The campsites at this park are some of the cleanest sites I have camped at. We never see any trash on the ground or out on the trails. The bath house is always clean and stocked even in the winter," reports another visitor.
What you should know
Beach driving requirements: Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area requires a Department of Defense ID card for access. "You need a DOD ID card to stay here. It is affordable if you qualify to stay. They will check and make you leave if you are not a card holder," warns Lacey B.
Tidal awareness: Freeman Park campers must understand ocean patterns. "A high Queen tide came near the camp spots at night while a super high king tide COMPLETELY COVERED the camp sites in the morning!" reports one camper, emphasizing the importance of researching tide schedules.
Vehicle preparation: For beach camping at Freeman Park, proper vehicle setup is essential. "First and foremost, make sure you know how to drive in the sand and what to do when your car gets stuck. It happened to us, as well as to many vehicles on the beach," advises Katy S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Holden Beach RV Campground provides family-friendly amenities. "There is a playground for kids and I could see our kids riding their bikes around with no issues at all. It is very short ride to the beach," notes Caleb S.
Kid-friendly alternatives: The Inlet Campground offers options when beach conditions aren't ideal. "Great sites, fishing pier, playground great for kids, close to shopping and other stuff," shares Troy K., highlighting versatility for family activities.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide recreational amenities. "The Wilmington KOA was kept up to good KOA standards. The pool was big and warm, easy for swimming while maintaining social distancing. Our girls also enjoyed the smooth roads for skateboarding," reports one family.
Tips from RVers
Site configuration: At Wilmington KOA, RV sites offer convenience in an urban setting. "Level spacious sites, most with a good shade tree, allows for a quick set up. To find the campground you have to pay attention and this is both a blessing and a challenge," explains Robert T.
Hookup access: Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area presents some layout challenges. "The sites themselves are extremely long, but for some reason the hook-ups are all near the front of the site, so you can't take advantage of the length," cautions Erin S.
Check-in logistics: RVers should plan their arrival procedure. "Recommend parking at your site, then going to check in. Not much space to turn around at the office," advises E G. about Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area.
