Beach camping in North Carolina

From the mountains to the Outer Banks, North Carolina offers plenty of camping on sandy shores.

97% (1623 reviews)
97% (1623 reviews)

Popular camping styles for North Carolina

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top beach campgrounds in North Carolina

99%
(261)

Waterfall camping close to CLT

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Bessemer City, NC
My Neighbor has started his own Campsite, "The Swimming Hole". If mine is booked up and you still want to camp, look him up. His is better suited for small groups but has much more privacy. We have a new road to the campsite; you can now drive down with two-wheel drive vehicle or RV down and park near your tent! There is plenty of soft sand to set up one tent or ten tents; large groups are welcome for an extra fee. A Porta-Potty is available at the campsite. Swimming is usually possible at the base of the falls; however, large amounts of rain can change conditions and make it unusable. I should also add, this is not a completely private campsite deep in the woods. The camp is visible from a shared driveway, and my residence is up a hill that overlooks the area. Also, I do not own the land on the other side of the stream. Occasionally, the owners of that land will spend a weekend afternoon enjoying the waterfall view also. Still much quieter and more private than a regular campground. Glamping tents and additional camping tents are available through a local company. Look in the pictures for the tent with red, white, and blue balloons. Message me for details. Close to US National Whitewater Center (mountain biking, whitewater rafting, kayaking), Kings Mountain National Military Park (Horseback riding and history), Crowders Mountain (Hiking), 3 miles off of I-85 and US-321 for people passing through.
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$72
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100%
(81)

Black Barn Farm

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Newport, NC
Welcome to our little piece of heaven! Our property offers a variety of activities for you to enjoy and a variety of camping options. Set up camp in a tent, car, bus or RV, or stay in one of our primitive dry camping cabins. All camp areas are private from our home, with a porta potty and well water available. Please be aware-we are a working farm. There is sometimes noise and if you are sensitive bring earplugs, headphones, etc... The ducks chatter and talk the night away, the dogs do bark if Bambi-Baloo-Thumper or their chicken siblings hang too close to the pens. We have wildlife here! Owls, coyotes, bear and deer some are more musical than others. Please be aware! Never put your hands where you can't see! North Carolina has several poisonous snakes and although we don't see them often, we are playing in their playground-the great outdoors. It's Spring! Eggs are getting laid, and chicks will be hatching. If you are interested in coming to see chicks send me a message and I might be able to give you a timeline for your camp dates. There are MANY things to do in our area that are low cost to free, which is an added plus for any families coming to visit! Just ask me and I'll give you suggestions depending on your budget. Plenty of stuff for grown-ups too! If you love the ocean, the beach is just a short distance away. Hikers will love the nearby trails and abundant hiking options from pocosin (bogs) swamps to the Mountain to Sea Trail. Our property is perfect for outdoor adventure and exploration. If you prefer a more relaxing stay, you can stay on our property and enjoy a refreshing swim in our pond or cozy up by a campfire. Bring your s'mores gear to belly up to a picnic table. Birdwatching is a popular activity here as we are a family-run bird farm with a variety of feathered friends including ducks, chickens, guineas, geese, and even an emu or two! We have recently added baby goats and also have cows. Napoleon and Rosie are Dwarf pygmies and Brielle is a New Zealand Kiko. Napoleon, Elle and Rosie love children and kids are welcome to come visit them under the supervision of Miss Jennifer. Fresh eggs are available for breakfast, straight from our farm to your plate. We offer mini tours of the animals when we feed up and kids like to help gather eggs. Just reserve the "Feeding time" and a head count. We are passionate about birds and love to share our knowledge with our guests. The porta toilet is located at the end of the emu pen and well water is available in front of the barn. Any vehicle over 6' will have to enter/exit on West (left) side of the pond due to low clearance. Cold water shower available. (Let me define...high tech redneck style; a hose with multi option spigot.) Our property is also conveniently located near the historic towns of Beaufort and New Bern, perfect for a day trip. There are nearby stores and farmers markets where you can get fresh veggies, and we are always willing to suggest places to go. You can also visit Fort Macon, Hammocks Beach, Carteret County Speedway, the NC Aquarium, local farms, live music at The Gardens and more. Go see a local mud bog on Saturday nights or check out the local Bogue Sound distillery and fabulous seafood restaurants, which is just a short drive away. Bring your boat because we have plenty of space to park and can direct you to whichever type of waterway you want to be on. There are nearby private fishing charters, horseback riding and ferry adventures to go see the ponies. Better yet go visit the NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort and get inspired to sign up to build your own boat. They offer excellent sea themed classes for the children during the summer. Sign up early because they fill up fast. Just one of our neat local treasures. Come have an assisted outdoor oyster roast! You go pick up your fresh local oysters (in season) from people we can recommend, and we can help walk you thru the "how to". We will have all you need: pot, burner, knives, new condiments and table ready to go so all you have to do is cook eat and enjoy! Go clamming! We can provide you with all you need to go get your dinner! (in season) Rake, floating bucket, a hat and the knowledge of where and when to go. A boat or kayak is recommended. We do have a kayaks available with a deposit to take it offsite. This is bookable through the extras. We know people/locations to get you going for beach fishing, kayaking, hunting, and tons more. Don't forget there are many festivals, parades and floatillas nearby to enjoy. Mumfest in New Bern is always awesome and don't forget the NC Seafood Festival. During Winter carriage rides can be arranged through historical New Bern. We are open year-round, and Wintertime is a delight at the beach. Come visit us during the holiday season to enjoy the lights and cuddle up to a cozy campfire. The cabins are heated by propane, and we can have a tank ready for you when you arrive for an extra charge. A single 20 lb tank typically lasts four days. Light a luminary to float on the pond to make your New Year begin just right even just for a special occasion! We ask that no one smokes inside the cabins for the safety of yourself and allergies to other campers. Thank you in advance and please police your butts. We try to keep the area tidy. There are trash cans by #4 and #5 also the large dumpster behind the barn. Please do not feed anything to our birds! Each species has a specialized diet and just one food item wrong could kill them. We love sharing our pets with you and Miss Jennifer is always willing to answer questions. Make sure to get the coupon codes for the active military, vets, repeat campers, Fall/Winter discounts! So come unwind, unplug, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life in nature. Remember how to play and have fun like in your childhood. We look forward to hosting you! Please be sure to plug in our discount codes for the best pricing! Only one discount can be used at a time /per stay. Repeat campers! $5 OFF YOUR STAY We appreciate you! C9MOQGQH We LOVE OUR VETS-30% off your stay. Active duty/Enlisted/Veterans...Thank you for you service and sacrifice! This can also apply to EMTs, Nurses, Doctors and firefighters! EFHEXJEJ Fall/Winter Season Discounts 10% off...It's just cool. DBN6PKIY Discount not applicable for week of Thanksgiving (11/19-11/26) and Christmas (12/17-12/26). Bookings are for a total of seven days max per site. We have a zero-drug policy, and we love our 2nd amendment but cannot allow firearms (this includes BB guns), fireworks or ATV's due to insurance. We are a family run, family-oriented camp. Please be respectful to your fellow campers. You can always ask questions and we are here to help you have the best camp experience available. Please be respectful of others while here and learn to be a kid again.
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$20
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100%
(81)

Spruill Farm Conservation Project

3 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Roper, NC
(Note: no fireworks, crackers, sparklers, or garbage burning are permitted) Tip: check out the 'Phases of the Moon' calendar in photos before booking! The Spruill Farm belonged to the Spruill Family for over a hundred years and has just been set up as conservation easement protected land. It includes hardwood forest, swamp, a beautiful swimming beach* on the Albemarle Sound - one of the largest freshwater sounds in the world-, acres of farmland, vegetable garden and perhaps the largest fig orchard for hundreds of miles around. The purpose of the Spruill Farm is to further environmental research, promote ecological education and sustainable practices, and provide access for the public to the ever-diminishing shoreline experience. Please enjoy the incredible sunsets and woodland views, while respecting the serenity of this unique gem on the inner-banks. Wildlife on the property include Red Fox, River Otter, and 95 species of birds, including Bald Eagles (2 nests on the farm), nesting Osprey, Wood Ducks. Visit the 'Spruill Farm Conservation Project' on inaturalist(dot)org to see all 95 species, and upload any images from your observations. Because it is a nature preserve, please read the guidelines and rules closely if you choose to book with us. *Note: the shoreline changes with the wave action and the seasons. This makes the Bobby Wilkins shoreline trail so beautiful- always changing. If your expertise and interests coincide with the mission of the Farm, feel free to propose collaborative projects to julia@thepeanutfactory.org
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$35
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97%
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Green Acres Private Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Ocean Isle Beach, NC
Primitive Tent and Boondock Camping NO HOOKUPS Primitive Tent and Boondock Camping NO HOOKUPS Primitive Tent and Boondock Camping NO HOOKUPS Located minutes from Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach and Calabash! Located Between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach! Minutes away from Beaches, Attractions, Shops and Dining! Private and secluded grass-covered fields perfect for Boondocking and Tent Camping. Each site has a Picnic Table, Umbrella, Firepit. Pets are welcome! 5 gal Camp Showers available to Rent. Trash Bins available at Fence. Communal BBQ Grills. (Charcoal Not Included) Portable Pottie Available To Rent. Goods and Supplies available for Purchase or Rent during booking checkout. LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!! For upcoming event schedules, specials and discounts! NEARBY DUMP STATIONS: *Brunswick Beaches Camping Resort 7200 KOA Drive Southwest Sunset Beach, North Carolina 28468 1-910-579-7562 M-Sat. 9am-4:30pm, Sun. 9am-2:30pm $20.00 Fee ____________ *Myrtle Beach State Park Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29575 1-843-238-5325 Water: Yes $5.00 Fee ____________ *Willow Tree Resort 520 Southern Sights Drive Longs, S.C. 29568 1-866-207-2267 $15.00 Fee ** Trailer Campers, Please Spray Your Undercarriages, Tires And Ground Supports With Outdoor Ant Spray Before and Upon Arriving.**
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$26
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Green Toe Ground

3 sites · Tents16 acres · Burnsville, NC
Our farm is named for its site on the South Toe river. This is a pristine river great for swimming. Our farm has a legendary local swimming hole with a rope swing. The river is stocked with trout for fishing. The road by the farm is great for walks or biking. We are nearby tons of hiking and outdoor activities.
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$45
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98%
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Ocean View Micro Farm

2 sites · Tents2 acres · Wilmington, NC
Whatever your saltwater pleasure, you can enjoy yourself with friends and family at Ocean View Micro Farm. Eat fresh, local meats, eggs, seafood and vegetables while you're here, all easily accessible at nearby farms, markets and eateries. Camp on the Intracoastal Waterway overlooking pristine marshlands and wild barrier islands on the Atlantic Ocean. We offer two spacious campsites. Enjoy fishing, exploring by kayak, SUP or canoe from our launch over to sandy white beaches of Lea and Hutaff Islands. Boat rental companies will come pick you up for a tour, or a daily rental. We grow microgreens, herbs, flowers, blueberries, grapes, pecans and seasonal vegetables here. Our land is a haven for birds and pollinators with the many trees and shrubs that bloom and fruit though out the year. Grocery store, pharmacies, restaurants and an emergency hospital are within 7 miles. Sailfish Restaurant is a short walk away if you'd like to dine out but not drive. Please message us with any questions or requests.
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$72
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96%
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Carl’s Campsites - Riverside

17 sites · RVs, Tents58 acres · Pilot Mountain, NC
BEST KEPT SECRET IN PILOT MOUNTAIN!! Select TENT SITES below to book specific campsite. Small wooded camping area on the Ararat river in beautiful Pilot Mountain on Private Land! 9 riverfront sites for tents with two access points into river. There is a 2-car limit parking at the sites, and four wheel drive absolute MUST when wet or rain expected! There is also availability to camp on total of 58 acres owned by Carl’s Campsites. Select a field or hike-in site, with 2 field sites which have rock firepits. Bring your own camp toilet and water containers. Take trash with you. Potable water available across from A-Frame. Riverside Sites includes private structure with rustic toilet, an E-series seat, and a place to hang a shower bag. Water and soap for hand washing provided. Separate trashcan for toilet bags. No ATVs. Campers expected to be environmentally respectful. Riverside sites have trash receptacles, Fire pit, hammock, and picnic table. Swimming, hiking of property permitted. Pilot Mountain State Park, Hanging Rock, and MANY wineries close by. Lots of hiking on property as well as State Parks close by. Hanging Rock is a great place to explore, with a lake and swimming for reasonable price and picnic areas in the park. We are also 20 minutes from Mt Airy, fictitious home of Mayberry.
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$45
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94%
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Hip Kite Camp! Hatteras Island, NC

1 site · RV1 acre · Waves, NC
A truly special property - one of the last of its kind on Hatteras Island. Wild wooded acreage spills down a shallow hill to reveal its very own private sandy soundfront beach. Total seclusion...Sunsets to die for...What more could you ask for? All centrally located in the middle of Hatteras Island within walking distance to several restaurants, ice-cream, surf shops, etc...
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$70
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99%
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Mountaintop Fantasy

4 sites · Lodging8 acres · Cullowhee, NC
Selected by Outside Magazine as their Favorite Hipcamp in North Carolina and a Hipcamp Finalist in N.C. 2020, 2021, and 2022 and runner up best treehouse in 2023, you can choose among three separate and memorable experiences in our 8 acre compound: 1) a woodsy, peaceful glamping experience with million dollar views in an 6 person tent;; 2) a glampingTreehouse with W/C; and 3) the newly built 2BR 1 1/2 BA private annex to our house. Each can be all yours - this is not a commercial campground. Explore the innumerable trails and waterfalls of the Smokies; fish in the Lake or numerous rivers and streams; swim in the Lake and at the sand beach down the road; rent a pontoon boat; travel the Blue Ridge Parkway; enjoy the shopping and restaurants of nearby Cashiers and Highlands. Or just chill out. These are truly unique high altitude sites with amenities you won't find elsewhere. Both are in a gated "subdivision" that has 60 lots but only 8 houses - the rest is woods and the only place in your vicinity is our cabin. With unmatched mountain and western views, if you like the great outdoors on the mountain and in the woods, This is the place for you and your family. If you like a more camping style with tent (provided), covered camp kitchen, table and firepit ( along with the uncovered ones) check out Smoky Mountain High. Don't like tents? No problem. Check out our Treehouse with kitchen, bunks, grill, cooktop, heaters, W/C and more. Prefer indoor rustic luxury? The Glenville Aerie (4100') is a fully furnished, annex we built for our family, guests and friends who value their privacy. Walkie-talkies to facilitate mountain communications. Board games too. Access to our dock, canoes and kayak? Yep. Adult life preservers provided. Secret nature trail to our kids playground and trampoline. Hammock, kid's swing, hanging chair and dining for 6. Visit with Jake the Cat and our chickens. This area is truly one of a kind spiritual respite. These mountains are justly known for hiking, fishing, water sports, chilling out and forgetting about the Virus, politics and the nuisances of the workaday world. Our goal is to provide you and your family with an unforgettable and magical N.C. mountain experience, while reducing your blood pressure.
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$120
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Raw Farms / Apple Orchard

5 sites · Tents10 acres · Black Mountain, NC
This land was once a busy organic farm and sat empty for years, We are raw vegans who love to grow food and eat lots of fruit! We fell in love with massive river on the land and the greenhouses. Its a very magical piece of land!
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$25
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Star Fall Station

1 site · RV, TentShallotte, NC
Once a three car garage now converted into a working artists studio, this property is a creative and peaceful home. The owner, a former contractor and artist Martha McKinley Murphy and Shane have changed this into a place where sculpture, art and harmony blend into a haven and retreat enjoyed by many.Learn more about this land:Our four acres is an open view for the wonders of star gazing. Come enjoy a place where the artist in all of us can be peacefully camping or take a drive less than 4.5 miles away to Ocean Isle Beach. Be a shell collector or enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing at some very close places to enjoy the waters. A screened outdoor living room overlooks our half acre pond with a wooded backdrop. Under our giant magnolia tree, one can see gorgeous sunsets and enjoy a picnic dinner. Our private outdoor shower is spacious and is next door to an outdoor kitchen. Campers can enjoy our raised bed garden areas when in season or collect organic eggs from our free range hens. Attached to our home is a workshop/studio area where families and friends can gather for a small event, class or meal.
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$35
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Escape near Cape Lookout

6 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Davis, NC
Secluded campsite with 4 RV spots, 3 electric and water, 1 water only (quiet generator allowed here) and 1 tent only site. All spots are waterfront, located on Core Sound. There is a dock to tie up your water crafts, such as kayaks and paddle boards. Boats are welcome to park in our overflow parking area and a public boat ramp is 0.25 miles away. Take the Davis ferry to the beautiful beaches of Cape Lookout just a few minutes away! 3 sites with 30 amp power (sites 1, 2 and 3) we welcome generators at the other sites, so long as they are quiet. All with water hookups except tent site 5. One can also pitch your tent right by the water (site 5). Enjoy swimming in the sound, fishing from the private dock, wind surfing, paddle boarding, kayaks and your canoes!!!! Enjoy it all and only share the space with 4 other sites. Personal boat parking available, public dock is 0.25 miles away. Or take the Davis ferry, a minute away, to the beautiful beaches of Cape Lookout! No waste dump on site, but one nearby, information available upon request. They charge $25. Enjoy the property’s sound access to Core Sound. Fish, kayak, canoe or paddle board in nature’s beauty. 20 minutes from shops and restaurants of Beaufort and Morehead city. There is also a ferry to Ocracoke Island from Cedar Island, a peaceful 20-minute drive away. Really great access to a quiet and beautiful part of the outer (inner) banks. Everything you’d ever want to do at the beach is within 30 minutes and the sunrise on the sound is gorgeous. Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially at dusk. Recommend spray or a bug light. Carteret County is now spraying our site for mosquitoes! With Cape Lookout National seashore and Fort Macon State Park under 20 minutes from us, you also have tons of outer-bank activities to choose from.
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$40
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Star Hosts in North Carolina

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Beach camping in North Carolina guide

Overview

Whether it’s sand dunes and seagrass on the Atlantic Ocean or a pristine mountain-rimmed lakeshore near Asheville, water lovers and campers rejoice over the many opportunities for beach camping in North Carolina. Summer is the best time to head to higher ground in the western North Carolina mountains, where campsites abound and campers can fish, swim, kayak, and boat on the many rivers and lakes. In spring and fall, the North Carolina coast becomes a quiet, cooler oasis, offering seemingly endless campsites and beach camping options in and around coastal state parks, both on barrier islands (some with wild horses) and inland on the estuarine waterways of the Pamlico Sound. From Carolina Beach State Park near Wilmington to Hammocks Beach State Park, Cape Lookout, and Topsail Beach and all the way up to the barrier islands and North Carolina beaches of the Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island, and Cape Hatteras National Seashore, you’ll find numerous beach campsites and RV parks (many with full hookups, grills, and wifi). Oceanfront tent camping is even possible on the beach at Freeman Park on Carolina Beach. And there’s no shortage of outfitters offering activities, tours, and rentals for all your water needs while beach camping in North Carolina.

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