South Core Banks -- Beach Camping, near Cape Lookout National Seashore, is a prime spot for those who crave a true escape into nature. This area offers a unique opportunity for primitive beach camping, where you can set up right on the sand and enjoy the sound of the waves lapping at your feet.

Visitors rave about the wide, open beaches that stretch for miles, allowing you to find your perfect spot without the hassle of crowds. As one camper put it, “What could be better than camping on the beach?” Just remember, this isn’t your typical campground—there are no electric hookups, picnic tables, or showers, so come prepared with everything you need for a self-sufficient stay.

Getting here is part of the adventure, as access is only by ferry or boat. Campers recommend booking your ferry spot in advance since they fill up quickly. Once you arrive, you can explore the stunning scenery, including the iconic Cape Lookout lighthouse and the wild horses that roam nearby. 

The area is a favorite for fishing, and many campers appreciate the chance to drive right onto the beach with the proper permits. Just be sure to pack out what you pack in and respect the natural surroundings. With breathtaking sunrises and the chance to see bioluminescent plankton in the water, South Core Banks is a fantastic choice for those looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy a little peace and quiet.

Dispersed camping along the ocean beach of this 20 mile long barrier island -- this is backcountry-style camping -- all camping is done directly on the ocean beach, there are no camp sites. This area is reached only by ferry. Both tent camping and vehicle camping is allowed. Vehicles -- 4x4 highly recommended -- must be able to drive on the soft sand of the beach and the sand trail behind the dunes known as the \"back road\". There are no hard surfaces on the island. Practice Leave No Trace principles.

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

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Marshallberg

The Best Camping Near Marshallberg, North Carolina

Only accesible by boat Cape Lookout is the perfect getaway.

Whether you rent the ferry to take you over, or take the Kayak the beach here is one of the best places to really get back to nature.

The wildhorses live on the islands between mainland and the OBX, taking the time to stop and see them is a must.

The campsite is the entire beach, you can camp sound side, but I don't suggest it. The constant breeze on the beach side keeps the mosquitos at bay, and you will get eaten alive on the sound side. Plus the morning view to waking up to watching the sun rise over the ocean can be beat.

Show up late in April, early may and you will get to see the bioluminesent plankton wash up sound side, and a hike will leave glow in the dark foot frints.

Show up in October and you may get to help the rangers protect the sea turtles as they hatch.

Watersouts are extremely common here, so use sandbags with your tent and make sure the tent can handle heavy winds if the storms blow in over night

If you use the ferry you have to schedule your pickup time when you go.

there is a water pump at the lighthouse, and an outside shower, but you are not allowed to use soap at it. There are restrooms at the lighthouse, and one restroom at the end of the alkay that crosses the dunes to the beach.

There are no "sites" just find a place you want to set up camp, just stay off the dunes.

Fires are allowed as long as you build them below high tide, plenty of driftwood out there to find to burn.

The Perfect Getaway

Short ferry ride from Harker’s Island. Prettiest water I’ve seen in NC, can be compared to the Caribbean! Fresh water and restrooms on island. Camp anywhere 100ft from buildings. Trees for shade, privacy, protection from wind more central on the island. The light house is beautiful! Wild horses just across the water on Shackleford Banks, which can also be camped- minus all the amenities.

Nothing short of AMAZING 

No power, water or hookups. Bath house decent, and on the ocean. Take plenty of bug spray. View is stunning. Just be sure you know it’s on an island, and read the tide tables so you aren’t surprised. Enjoy!

State park, clean and in the ocean 

We had an awesome trip. The ferry operators were great, they answered all our questions and helped us load and unload our gear. The island is almost completely absent of anything man made, just sand dunes and horses. We found a site with a beautiful view of Cape Lookout lighthouse. We had three young male horses that were always roaming within sight. They even walked close by our campsite. The last night had the most amazing sunset that lit up the lighthouse and the clouds above with beautiful pinks, purple and blues.  

Primitive camping on Shackleford Island

One of my favorite trips to date. Everything was amazing. 



This was an amazing trip. 

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

Wow! 

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!

Camp on the sand - ORV Permit Required!

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.

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

Real photos from real campers