Carolina Beach State Park Campground offers diverse camping options within a short drive of Wrightsville Beach. Located on a peninsula between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, the area features unique coastal ecosystems with Venus flytraps and other carnivorous plants native to the region. Campsites in the area typically range from primitive tent sites to full hookup RV spots, with winter camping offering significantly fewer crowds.
What to do
Explore marine life at nearby aquariums: Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area provides convenient access to educational attractions. "There is also an aquarium, and museum down the road if you need a history or education fix," notes Tony B. in his review of the area.
Drive on the beach: Freeman Park allows properly equipped vehicles on the sand. "You can drive onto the beach - it makes it SO easy!!!" shares Kimberly S. about Carolina Beach State Park Campground. Beach driving requires permits with rates varying seasonally.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Multiple water access points exist near camping areas. The marina at Carolina Beach State Park "offers kayaks and SUP tours and rentals ranging from 2hrs to a full-day," according to Caroline G., making it convenient for water activities without bringing your own equipment.
What campers like
Convenient beach access: Most campgrounds provide relatively easy beach access. At Surf City Family Campground, "You can not see ocean from the campground due to the dunes, but it is about 300 feet to the water," explains Christine, highlighting the proximity that makes beach trips straightforward.
Winter camping opportunities: Several campgrounds remain open year-round 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," reports Ms P. about Carolina Beach State Park Campground.
Shopping and dining proximity: Many campgrounds provide access to local businesses. Robert T. mentions that Wilmington KOA is "convenient to downtown Wilmington and a short drive to Wrightsville Beach. Plenty of shopping and other entertainment nearby if the weather doesn't cooperate."
What you should know
Bring proper beach driving equipment: For Freeman Park camping, preparation is essential. Greg T. cautions, "Make sure to air-down. Don't forget bug spray," and adds that beach conditions require knowledge: "Also CRITICAL to be educated about beach weather and TIDES!!!!" High tides can completely cover camping areas.
Seasonal crowds affect experience: Summer brings significant visitor increases. Caroline G. notes about Carolina Beach State Park Campground, "This campground is packed on holiday weekends. There were only 2 campsites available when we visited for memorial day weekend."
Military ID requirements: Some facilities have access restrictions. At Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area, "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," explains Lacey B., making this important knowledge for planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreational areas: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's spaces. At Wilmington KOA, "The playground was awesome and included a cool wooden pirate ship. The grandkids loved it!" shares Bridget H., noting family-friendly attractions beyond beach activities.
Educational nature opportunities: Local campgrounds provide learning experiences. Daniel P. mentions Carolina Beach State Park has "excellent facilities and only a drive to the beach. Cool marina near check-in area too," where families can learn about local ecosystems.
Quieter camping periods: For families seeking more peaceful experiences, timing matters. "We camped here when we went to Wilmington for a 5k. We stayed here for just one night and had a good time," says Bridget H. about Wilmington KOA, with many reviewers suggesting spring and fall visits for dog friendly campgrounds near Wrightsville Beach.
Tips from RVers
RV site positioning considerations: Some campgrounds have unique site layouts. At Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area, "The sites are back-in only and arranged on either side of a road that ends in a cul-de-sac that is too small to turn around in," warns Erin S., advising, "I recommend calling ahead to know your site, unhook, then drive to check-in."
Variable hookup placements: Utilities aren't always positioned conveniently. Erin S. also notes at Fort Fisher that "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," which affects how RVs must position.
Year-round RV accommodations: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Wrightsville Beach operate through winter. "Had a wonderful time. The people are amazing there. Campsites were great and the price was the best around. Great showers and clean campgrounds," says Amanda S. about Carolina Beach State Park Campground, which maintains facilities year-round.
