South Core Banks -- Beach Camping — Cape Lookout National Seashore

Love this island! No crowds, lots of open beach, and plenty of fish! If you’re looking to camp on the beach and escape the crowds, you’ve found your spot. You need 4WD to get around the island but most of the ferry places have atv rentals. Only accessible by ferry/boat, call a few weeks ahead to reserve a spot on the ferry cause they fill up quickly.

Yea, there's definitely no better way to camp. Start your adventure on a ferry, cross an inlet watching all the wildlife play right in front of you, then get off and drive immediately to endless stretches of white sandy beaches. See someone nearby, cool, whatever. Drive somewhere else and set camp. Just don't forget to pack it in, AND pack it out. While i'm at it, you should also prepare everything in advance - food, water, essentials. There ain't no corner market here. That includes 4x4 AND recovery equipment. Tow service ain't nowhere to be found. So, sorry 2WD Chevy Tahoe with aggressive tires - stay home.  

The South Core banks are the only location in NC where you're allowed (with a $25 permit - 2021 rules) to drive right on the beach and camp overnight without the caveat of having the be actively fishing. Just make sure to stay off the dunes and keep fires below the high tide line. Other than that, don't litter, don't break glass and definitely don't burn pallets with nails. This is a gem that's been used by fisher-people for decades, so don't be that guy who forces the state to tighten restrictions. 

Other than that, enjoy!

Camping on the beach? What could be better! From driving up and down the beach to just parking and relaxing. This place is amazing.