Carolina Beach State Park Campground sits about five miles from Winnabow, North Carolina, and offers camping options near the southeastern coast of the state. The region features sandy soil and significant pine forests, with summer temperatures averaging around 90°F and winter temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Glamping accommodations in the area provide alternatives to traditional camping with varying levels of comfort while maintaining proximity to natural features.
What to do
Drive on the beach: Carolina Beach allows four-wheel drive vehicles on designated areas. "You can drive onto the beach - it makes it SO easy!!!" reports Kimberly S. from Carolina Beach State Park Campground.
Fish in multiple locations: The region offers both freshwater and saltwater fishing options. At Lake Waccamaw, visitors can enjoy fishing in the shallow waters. "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. There is also a marina which offers a public boat ramp," notes Caroline G. about the Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground.
Visit nearby beaches: Multiple beach options exist within short driving distance. "Carolina Beach State Park is one of my favorite places to go in North Carolina. Not only does it have an awesome campground, but it's right near one of the best beaches I've ever been to," writes Sam M., adding "I like it because it's not really touristy like the outer banks or myrtle beach. Not a whole lot of people come to it, so it's always pretty secluded and clean."
What campers like
Offseason camping opportunities: Winter camping provides a different experience with fewer crowds. "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.
Clean, maintained facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high in visitor satisfaction. "Had a wonderful time. The people are amazing there. Campsites were great and the price was the best around. Great showers and clean campgrounds," mentions Amanda S.
Proximity to shopping: Many campgrounds offer convenient access to stores. "This Campground is also located next to a Food Lion. It is also only 5 minutes from the beach and Freeman Park where you can drive directly onto the beach if you have 4WD," notes a visitor about Carolina Beach State Park.
Vineyard access: Some glamping options near Winnabow offer unique amenities. "Beautiful, family owned campground. Large spacious and clean well organized sites... Winery with taste testing hours and wine to purchase," says Robert M. about CarrollWoods RV Park, where glamping accommodations are available alongside traditional camping.
What you should know
Beach transportation options: Some locations offer shuttle services to beaches. "And a free trolly takes you to the beach and some restaurants," notes Taissa K. about Holden Beach RV Campground, which offers glamping options near Winnabow.
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds have better spacing than others. "We had a site next to 'permanent bathroom' and trash area. So the smell wasn't the best towards pickup time. The spots were nicely landscaped and we felt cozy. Lots of long term campers which gave it an odd mobile home vibe though," reports Katie C.
Walking distances to facilities: Some sites require significant walks to facilities. "The only warning I'd give is you are permitted to drive to your campsite to set up, but sites 2-5 are a quarter mile plus from the parking area... especially sites 4 and 5 (we were in 4) are very far from the bathroom. Don't forget anything in the car," advises Kristin T. about Lake Waccamaw State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Multiple options exist for water-based recreation. "Yogi Bear's was awesome for the kids. Laser Tag. Splash pad. Water slides. Indoor and outdoor pool. Playgrounds. Dog parks. Putt-Putt. Ice Cream. Fishing. Basketball. Volleyball. Horse shoes...and our kids did it all," shares E G. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Seasonal planning matters: Visiting in off-peak times provides a different experience. "We took a day trip to the park during winter months. The campground had very few campers. The bath house is also heated during the winter months and there are quit a few outlets available which we used to charge our phones," notes a visitor.
Check schedules for activities: Many glamping locations near Winnabow organize planned events. "The campground did an excellent job adding activities for kids and adults. Booked for next Memorial Day before leaving," says Thomas C. about Willow Tree RV Resort, which offers glamping accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Diverse site types: RVers appreciate campgrounds with varied offerings. "We were delighted to find beautiful scenery, friendly staff and a comfortable campsite that included a picnic table and fire pit. Daddy Joe's is an awesome place to bring the kiddos," says Barbara S. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Extended stay options: Some locations accommodate longer stays. "Spent the week before Memorial Day and Memorial Weekend at Carrollwoods. This is really a nice campground. The sites are well-spaced with a picnic table, fire pit and grill at each site," reports Nancy C., adding "I visited the winery and the two women who own it are helpful and lively. If you visit, you must get one of their wine floats."
Pull-through availability: Many RVers prefer easy access sites. "Large lots with nice long pull through, clean and quiet with a friendly staff. Amenities included nice swimming pool and hot tub. Volleyball net and basketball hoop on each end of pool," explains Ramona K.
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