1. Explore
    /
  2. United States
    /
  3. North Carolina
    /
  4. Outer Banks

The best forest camping in Outer Banks

·
88% (40)

Top-rated campgrounds

Gator Creek Private Retreat

1. Gator Creek Private Retreat

96%
(23)
1 site · Tent · Columbia, NC
Gator Creek, a secluded natural getaway located near Alligator River on Little Alligator Creek. This is a quiet property surrounded by wetlands and state hunting preserves-perfect for campers who love true wilderness. Fishing is available all around the area ,and the creek can be reached with a short walk through the woods or by going down the road. There is no clear-cut trail, as I keep the land as natural as possible. A public boat ramp is within walking distance. With minimal light pollution, Gator Creek offers excellent stargazing and a peaceful wildlife-rich environment. You may spot dragonflies, birds, squirrels ,bears and more, though wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Hunting in nearby game lands(in season) Fishing, Boating via the public ramp, Wildlife viewing, and stargazing. No hunting is allowed on Gator Creek property itself. Bucket toilet located at the host's cabin ( guest may use it anytime) Space to pitch a tent near the cabin if preferred. City water available Car campers and camper vans welcome Small self contained RV's also welcome I do not stay on site while campers are present. Each guest has the entire property to themselves- only one booking at a time. Please dispose of all trash properly. Because of the area's wildlife, leaving food or garbage out can attract animals. Gator Creek is ideal for campers who enjoy rustic, wild, natural spaces, want solitude and privacy, appreciate wetlands, wildlife, and quiet forests, love fishing, stargazing, and exploring nature. We are only ten miles from Alligator River National Wildlife Preserve. If you are looking for a peaceful outdoor experience surrounded by untouched nature, Gator Creek is the perfect spot.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Lot

2. The marsh property

90%
(10)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Wanchese, NC
Small grassy area surrounded by trees on Roanoke island. 8 minutes from the beach this little lot is perfect for a spot to stay while visiting the outer banks. We don't provide any services or hookups. It really is just a patch of grass to set up a tent or 2.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Gretchen’s Big Pine Carolina Estate

3. Gretchen’s Big Pine Carolina Estate

69%
(13)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Columbia, NC
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape in a truly beautiful and unique place. World class fishing, bird/wildlife watching, hiking, water sports, visit the famous OBX beaches, restaurants, grocery store, and so much more is located nearby! You will be surrounded by 9000+ acres of the Palmetto Pear Tree Nature Preserve. You never know what wildlife you may be able to observe. There has never been a more peaceful and tranquil place to relax I can promise you that. Hello, Things you should know about staying at my private campsite are listed below. Please read to its entirety before booking. The very small, very private campground is located in Columbia, NC 27925 Distance to things nearby- (These are pictured on my listing) 0 miles to peace, and tranquility 1 mile to Albemarle sound 2 miles to nearest boat ramp 12 Miles to Food Lion and nearest Gas Station 27 Miles to the beach -There is no bathroom or shower house on the property. -Check in and out time is 12 noon. -This listing is for 1 campsite only, so you must bring your own tent, or camper. -You will have access to full hook up water, sewer and electric. -Cell phone service is very limited, so if you’re looking to unplug but be able to text somewhat this is the place for you! -No refunds will be given for inclement weather. -You will be surrounded by 9000 acres of the Palmetto Pear Tree Nature Preserve so there are plenty of wild animals. Including but not limited to deer, turkey, raccoons, possums, squirrels, coyote, endangered Red Wolfs, Bear, snakes, eagles, otters, birds galore and so much more. You truly never know what wildlife you may encounter. -Pets are allowed, you will be in the wilderness so keep an eye on them. -There are a total of 3 campsites on the property. If there happen to be other campers on the property please leave space for them to hook up and be respectful of their space and privacy. If you’d like to book another site for friends and/or family together please see my other listings. -World class fishing, hunting of all kinds, bird/wildlife watching, hiking, kayaking, boating, water sports, beach sitting, restaurants, grocery store, the beach and so much more is located nearby. -I am not responsible for accidents! -Hunting the property for deer, bear, squirrel, etc is available at additional costs. Please message for Hunting rates.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
88% (40)

Top-rated campgrounds

Gator Creek Private Retreat

1. Gator Creek Private Retreat

96%
(23)
1 site · Tent · Columbia, NC
Gator Creek, a secluded natural getaway located near Alligator River on Little Alligator Creek. This is a quiet property surrounded by wetlands and state hunting preserves-perfect for campers who love true wilderness. Fishing is available all around the area ,and the creek can be reached with a short walk through the woods or by going down the road. There is no clear-cut trail, as I keep the land as natural as possible. A public boat ramp is within walking distance. With minimal light pollution, Gator Creek offers excellent stargazing and a peaceful wildlife-rich environment. You may spot dragonflies, birds, squirrels ,bears and more, though wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Hunting in nearby game lands(in season) Fishing, Boating via the public ramp, Wildlife viewing, and stargazing. No hunting is allowed on Gator Creek property itself. Bucket toilet located at the host's cabin ( guest may use it anytime) Space to pitch a tent near the cabin if preferred. City water available Car campers and camper vans welcome Small self contained RV's also welcome I do not stay on site while campers are present. Each guest has the entire property to themselves- only one booking at a time. Please dispose of all trash properly. Because of the area's wildlife, leaving food or garbage out can attract animals. Gator Creek is ideal for campers who enjoy rustic, wild, natural spaces, want solitude and privacy, appreciate wetlands, wildlife, and quiet forests, love fishing, stargazing, and exploring nature. We are only ten miles from Alligator River National Wildlife Preserve. If you are looking for a peaceful outdoor experience surrounded by untouched nature, Gator Creek is the perfect spot.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Lot

2. The marsh property

90%
(10)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Wanchese, NC
Small grassy area surrounded by trees on Roanoke island. 8 minutes from the beach this little lot is perfect for a spot to stay while visiting the outer banks. We don't provide any services or hookups. It really is just a patch of grass to set up a tent or 2.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Gretchen’s Big Pine Carolina Estate

3. Gretchen’s Big Pine Carolina Estate

69%
(13)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Columbia, NC
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape in a truly beautiful and unique place. World class fishing, bird/wildlife watching, hiking, water sports, visit the famous OBX beaches, restaurants, grocery store, and so much more is located nearby! You will be surrounded by 9000+ acres of the Palmetto Pear Tree Nature Preserve. You never know what wildlife you may be able to observe. There has never been a more peaceful and tranquil place to relax I can promise you that. Hello, Things you should know about staying at my private campsite are listed below. Please read to its entirety before booking. The very small, very private campground is located in Columbia, NC 27925 Distance to things nearby- (These are pictured on my listing) 0 miles to peace, and tranquility 1 mile to Albemarle sound 2 miles to nearest boat ramp 12 Miles to Food Lion and nearest Gas Station 27 Miles to the beach -There is no bathroom or shower house on the property. -Check in and out time is 12 noon. -This listing is for 1 campsite only, so you must bring your own tent, or camper. -You will have access to full hook up water, sewer and electric. -Cell phone service is very limited, so if you’re looking to unplug but be able to text somewhat this is the place for you! -No refunds will be given for inclement weather. -You will be surrounded by 9000 acres of the Palmetto Pear Tree Nature Preserve so there are plenty of wild animals. Including but not limited to deer, turkey, raccoons, possums, squirrels, coyote, endangered Red Wolfs, Bear, snakes, eagles, otters, birds galore and so much more. You truly never know what wildlife you may encounter. -Pets are allowed, you will be in the wilderness so keep an eye on them. -There are a total of 3 campsites on the property. If there happen to be other campers on the property please leave space for them to hook up and be respectful of their space and privacy. If you’d like to book another site for friends and/or family together please see my other listings. -World class fishing, hunting of all kinds, bird/wildlife watching, hiking, kayaking, boating, water sports, beach sitting, restaurants, grocery store, the beach and so much more is located nearby. -I am not responsible for accidents! -Hunting the property for deer, bear, squirrel, etc is available at additional costs. Please message for Hunting rates.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night

Stories from the community

Gator Creek Private Retreat
K
Kelly
October 2025
18 ft campervan
With pets
Weekend Trip to Gator Creek Private Retreat
We wanted a quiet place off the beaten path to boondock with our dogs while driving through the area. This was perfect! Joyce has a lovely set up for herself and it is so kind of her to share it with others when not in use. We will definitely consider it again if in the area.
See more
Gator Creek Private Retreat
B
Brian
September 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Gator Creek Private Retreat
Very nice, secluded getaway only a short drive from OBX. Convenient for me as I just needed a cheap place to set up my hammock for the night. Note: If you're here in the warm months, insect repellent is a must.
See more
The marsh property
B
Braxton
September 2025
Tent
4 nights at The marsh property
This is the perfect choice for those looking for simplicity when camping. The area was spacious and well maintained making it perfect for tents, or in my case, a small 15ft off grid camper. The driveway leads back to an area surrounded by trees giving it a sense of privacy despite not being out in the middle of no where. Given the convenience of the location.... you're not going to find a better deal for miles around if you're looking for something simple.
See more
The marsh property
G
Grace
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
2 nights at The marsh property
What a beautiful spot! I recommend this to anyone looking for a beautiful place to sleep in the Outer Banks area. The fire pit was perfect and the site was so private.
See more
The marsh property
K
Kelly
August 2025
Tent
With kids
Weekend Trip to The marsh property
Levi was incredibly helpful with great communication and tips about the area. The property was beautiful -- very few bugs for the location and time of year! Will stay again when I'm in the area.
See more
Gator Creek Private Retreat
K
Kent
July 2025
16 ft campervan
With pets
2 nights at Gator Creek Private Retreat
Camp is very secluded and quiet. Great for star gazing.
See more
Gator Creek Private Retreat
O
Olivia
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Gator Creek Private Retreat
We had such a wonderful time camping at Gator Creek! Very nicely kept with ample wildlife.
See more
Gretchen’s Big Pine Carolina Estate
Avatar
Joan
May 2025
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
2 nights at Gretchen’s Big Pine Carolina Estate
It was very lovely. Quiet and everything as described.
See more
Gator Creek Private Retreat
Avatar
Ted
May 2025
12 ft pop-up camper
3 nights at Gator Creek Private Retreat
This was my second time staying at Gator Creek and it certainly won't be my last. It's very private, secure, quiet and beautiful. What more could you ask for?! It's also close to the ARNWR (see pictures) and it's just a little farther to the OBX for those so inclined. Stop by the local country store and say hello to Mr. Baily while you're there. Watch for the muskrats in the water near the entrance. They're fun to watch!
See more
The marsh property
J
Joshua
May 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to The marsh property
This is a great spot right near the beach (8-10 minutes away). It was a little buggy but I expected that since it was in some of the reviews. Overall a great stay!
See more
Gator Creek Private Retreat
C
Christmas
May 2025
Tent
4 nights at Gator Creek Private Retreat
We enjoyed it!! it rained the last couple of days, but we made it work:)
See more
Gretchen’s Big Pine Carolina Estate
J
Justin
April 2025
33 ft travel trailer
With pets
4 nights at Gretchen’s Big Pine Carolina Estate
Secluded and quiet. Our pups enjoyed being off leash. Perfect weather for time we were here.
See more
Gator Creek Private Retreat
Avatar
Tres
April 2025
15 ft campervan
1 night at Gator Creek Private Retreat
Quiet, private, secluded camp spot - exactly what I was looking for! Several, level spots to choose from. Good, fast communication with camp host, thank you Joyce. Also, it’s no surprise, you’re in the coastal plains of NC, bring bug spray.
See more
Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Outer Banks trips

All
Camping with showers
Glamping
Camping with hiking
River, stream, or creek camping
Camping with wifi provided
Cabins
Camping with fishing

Top parks in and near Outer Banks

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Cape Lookout National Seashore
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Wright Brothers National Memorial
Fort Macon State Park
Jockey's Ridge State Park
First Landing State Park

Top regions near Outer Banks

New York City
Washington, DC
Hudson Valley
Lehigh Valley

Top cities in and near Outer Banks

Kitty Hawk
Kill Devil Hills
Ocracoke

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me
Best RV camping near me
Best glamping near me