The best camping near Pine Knoll Shores with wildlife watching

·
98% (809)

Top-rated campgrounds

Drone shot overlooking tent sites and farmed fields.

1. JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

100%
(494)
48mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Chinquapin, NC
Finalist for Top Hipcamp in 2023 and 2024! This is a Family Venue! No Parties and/or drunknesses allowed. We strive to create an environment for nature viewing, stargazing, fishing, and unwinding in nature as camping should be. Quiet time enforced 10pm-6am. Check in strictly 2-8pm. We do not allow late check ins. We meet and greet all guests.the historic pond was originally much smaller. We have records that date back to our 6th Great-Grandfather, Joab Fountain, who received a royal grant from the crown in 1773 for the property and then just a grist mill, blacksmith shop and old general store. The property was passed down through the Fountain family until the late 1910's. Originally a creek dammed up for the purpose of the mill it was later dug out in the late 1940's by Lee Baysden. The property also features 2 smaller ponds and surrounded by woods, swamp, and farmed fields, a total of 84 acres. Divided by Duplin and Onslow County line making it very unique! Chinquapin, NC The store/office is the original detached kitchen from his homeplace, which is the white house just up the street. We still use this today and it has Mr. Lee Baysden's handwriting in the store that states opened June 1956. The pond was owned and fished until the late 1990's. A hurricane damaged the dam and land was sold sometime after. The next owner dug the pond into the lake it is today and fixed the dam. In 2020 My husband Tyler, and I decided to buy the Pond Our camp office/store is opened most weekends or by check-in requests and fishing passes available 7 days a week online from sunrise-dark. Our lake features fishing for Bass, Crappie, Bream, Catfish, Bowfin, varieties of Panfish, and more. Check out our Facebook page (JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond) for all the latest news and catches! We have tagged bass that have been released back into the lake. Let us know if you catch one so we can record it! We are continually trying to make JCO and Lee Baysden Pond a great place in our community for friends and families! Enjoy the great outdoors unplugging from all the daily devices of reality. Enjoy bird watching for ducks, geese, heron, osprey or occasional eagle, owls, turkey, deer, and more. We now have a lake Kitty that adopted us and is now part of the team. Her name is "Tail".
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
Escape near Cape Lookout

2. Escape near Cape Lookout

95%
(206)
23mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 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 close to the water (site 5). Enjoy swimming in the sound, fishing, wind surfing, paddle boarding, kayaks and your canoes!!!! Enjoy it all and only share the space with 4 other sites. No waste dump on site. Core Creek Campground will allow you to dump for $39. 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.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Crockett Landing

3. Crockett Landing

96%
(71)
16mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Beaufort, NC
15 beautiful acres on the North River in Beaufort, NC. Just off Highway 70 which is an Outer Banks Scenic Byway. Trails and private campsites throughout the property as well as a large communal deck (The Landing) by the river for gatherings and multiple observations areas to observe and enjoy the wildlife throughout the property. Bathhouses for guests and well water throughout property. Fishing, hiking, boating, kayaking, etc on the property. Atlantic Beach and Morehead City only 20 minutes away. Close to several stores and gas stations as well as countless fishing spots and about 7 miles to the end of Hawkers Island Rd where you can catch the ferry to Cape Lookout. Crockett Landing is a haven and sanctuary for wildlife and those who want to connect with nature and have a good time. There is a tote at the Cafe Blue full of games like badminton, volleyball, frisbees, wiffle ball, corn hole, paddle ball etc. The Cafe is an outdoor kitchen for guests to use as they like. Propane grill and stove available including dishware and pots and pans.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Lake Linda

8. Lake Linda

98%
(54)
47mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Hampstead, NC
Lake Linda is a private 6 acre lake that's located on our family's 40 acre property. We are just 5 minutes from Surf City, Topsail Island, and 20 minutes from both Wilmington and Jacksonville. You'll often see ducks and geese on the lake. Lake Linda is a peaceful place, but conveniently located within a few minutes of food, entertainment, and of course some beautiful beaches. On the back half of the property, we also have a small family farm. Pasture raised pigs, chickens, cows, sheep, goats and we even a have a couple of turkeys! We sell farm fresh eggs as well as poultry, beef, and pork, all raised right here on our farm. Our pork & beef is USDA inspected and processed! We try to help our farm animals have a great life while they’re with us. We have two sites available by the lake! One site is on the corner of the lake by the dock. This lakeside site has a 30 amp service. This site does not have water or sewer, however we have 2 full bathrooms in our bathhouse, one even has a pet wash station! The bathhouse is only about 1000 feet away, and you’re welcome to walk or drive down to it! We can also help you fill your water tank and you’re welcome to dump in the full hook up site as long as there isn’t someone camping there. The second lake site has a beautiful view. This lake view site has 110 outlets as well as water. It does not have sewer hookup, but we have 2 full bathrooms in our bathhouse, one even has a pet wash station! The bathhouse is only about 1000 feet away, and you’re welcome to walk or drive down to it! You’re also welcome to dump in the full hook up site as long as there isn’t someone camping there. We also have 2 camper sites available on the farm, as well as a few tent sites. The farm is just a short walk from the lake, so no matter which you choose, you can enjoy the best of both! This is a working farm, we have cows, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, & turkeys! You’re welcome to meet & enjoy them! We even have a calf that was born here, and we have baby pigs regularly as well! We’ve also recently added a bath house, with two bathrooms. Both have stand up showers, and one even has a pet wash station! We have 2 gas grills on the property for your use as well! One is by the lake, the other is on the farm. We also place picnic tables at all sites before check in! You can also see what Lake Linda looks like in the winter by watching Season 8 Episode 6 of ABC's The Great Christmas Light Fight! During the holiday season, Lake Linda becomes a winter wonderland for all to enjoy! Lake Linda's Christmas Lights is a light display surrounding the Lake and synchronized to music. You can also see more of what we do with lights by searching facebook for Lake Linda's Christmas Lights or Surf City-Hampstead Christmas Lights.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

12. Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

98%
(50)
32mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bridgeton, NC
Need to recharge, reconnect and truly escape it all? This is your place. Our property is a unique, healing place to unplug surrounded by the beauty of eastern North Carolina. Nestled along the Neuse River with mature trees draped with Spanish moss ,we have 1000ft of riverfront as well as a peaceful pond, dock and prayer/mediation labyrinth. You will experience the most unforgettable sunsets, overwhelming peace, tranquility and a supreme connection back to nature. With only a 10 minute drive to historic downtown New Bern and a 30-40 minute drive to the beach, you can experience the best of both worlds. Many people tell us, and we know it true ourselves, there is something truly healing about our property. Come find out! Our personal home is located on the property, but we give our campers space and privacy during their visit. A few notes: -Our campsite is located on a peninsula surrounded by the river, because of the nature of the property, we do not allow children under 10 to visit. -Firewood is not provided but can be purchased at KOA just down the highway. -Fishing licenses are required for those wishing to fish -On your ride down our dirt road you will pass mobile homes about a 1/4 of a mile from us. These are our friendly neighbors that keep to themselves and do not interact with our property. If you are not comfortable driving past that, this might not be the campsite for you. This is very common in rural North Carolina. -Our campsite is for 5 people and 2 tents max. If you have more than 5 people coming please request to add additional people to your reservation. -Our bathroom has a sink, toilet and electricity. There is no shower available. -This is eastern NC, and there are plenty of wildlife and bugs. -Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times. -The campsite is located on the peninsula of our property but if you are more comfortable camping away from the riverfront you are able to move over to the pond as well (there is also a fire pit there).
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Islands Choice RV Park

14. Islands Choice Rentals

36mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 5 sites · Cedar Island, NC
Island's Choice Rentals stands out as a unique destination in beautiful North Carolina, thanks to its locally owned and operated charm that prioritizes guest satisfaction. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this campground offers a perfect retreat for families, hunters, and fishing enthusiasts alike. Whether you're planning a memorable family vacation, embarking on an exciting hunting adventure, or seeking the thrill of a fishing trip, Island's Choice Rentals is designed to enhance your experience. The park features spacious sites that provide ample privacy, allowing you to unwind and connect with nature. In addition to its serene atmosphere, Island's Choice Rentals is conveniently located near a variety of attractions. Explore nearby natural wonders, enjoy refreshing swimming holes, or partake in outdoor activities that showcase the area's stunning landscapes. After a day of adventure, you can indulge in local dining options and browse charming shops, making your stay both enjoyable and convenient. Experience the best of North Carolina at Island's Choice Rentals, where every detail is crafted to help you create lasting memories.
Waters Edge RV Resort

15. Waters Edge RV Resort

3.2mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 11 sites · Newport, NC
Waters Edge RV Park stands out as a unique destination due to its serene waterfront location on Bogue Sound, offering guests a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty. Our newly restored pier invites you to relax and enjoy the stunning views during your stay. Conveniently situated on Highway 24 in Newport, North Carolina, we are just minutes away from Morehead City and a short drive from local beaches and charming towns such as Beaufort, Cape Carteret, Swansboro, Emerald Isle, and Atlantic Beach. Explore the vibrant dining scene, boutique shops, parks, nature trails, and various water access points that Carteret County has to offer. Experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from our pier, which overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway. Our park is perfect for relaxing, fishing, kayaking, and observing the diverse wildlife that calls this area home. With 89 spacious, full hook-up sites and a meticulously maintained bathhouse, Waters Edge RV Park is the ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil and beautiful getaway. For reservations or inquiries, please call (252) 247-0494 or submit an online reservation request today.
98% (809)

Top-rated campgrounds

Drone shot overlooking tent sites and farmed fields.

1. JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond

100%
(494)
48mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Chinquapin, NC
Finalist for Top Hipcamp in 2023 and 2024! This is a Family Venue! No Parties and/or drunknesses allowed. We strive to create an environment for nature viewing, stargazing, fishing, and unwinding in nature as camping should be. Quiet time enforced 10pm-6am. Check in strictly 2-8pm. We do not allow late check ins. We meet and greet all guests.the historic pond was originally much smaller. We have records that date back to our 6th Great-Grandfather, Joab Fountain, who received a royal grant from the crown in 1773 for the property and then just a grist mill, blacksmith shop and old general store. The property was passed down through the Fountain family until the late 1910's. Originally a creek dammed up for the purpose of the mill it was later dug out in the late 1940's by Lee Baysden. The property also features 2 smaller ponds and surrounded by woods, swamp, and farmed fields, a total of 84 acres. Divided by Duplin and Onslow County line making it very unique! Chinquapin, NC The store/office is the original detached kitchen from his homeplace, which is the white house just up the street. We still use this today and it has Mr. Lee Baysden's handwriting in the store that states opened June 1956. The pond was owned and fished until the late 1990's. A hurricane damaged the dam and land was sold sometime after. The next owner dug the pond into the lake it is today and fixed the dam. In 2020 My husband Tyler, and I decided to buy the Pond Our camp office/store is opened most weekends or by check-in requests and fishing passes available 7 days a week online from sunrise-dark. Our lake features fishing for Bass, Crappie, Bream, Catfish, Bowfin, varieties of Panfish, and more. Check out our Facebook page (JCO Campground at Lee Baysden Pond) for all the latest news and catches! We have tagged bass that have been released back into the lake. Let us know if you catch one so we can record it! We are continually trying to make JCO and Lee Baysden Pond a great place in our community for friends and families! Enjoy the great outdoors unplugging from all the daily devices of reality. Enjoy bird watching for ducks, geese, heron, osprey or occasional eagle, owls, turkey, deer, and more. We now have a lake Kitty that adopted us and is now part of the team. Her name is "Tail".
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
Escape near Cape Lookout

2. Escape near Cape Lookout

95%
(206)
23mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 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 close to the water (site 5). Enjoy swimming in the sound, fishing, wind surfing, paddle boarding, kayaks and your canoes!!!! Enjoy it all and only share the space with 4 other sites. No waste dump on site. Core Creek Campground will allow you to dump for $39. 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.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Crockett Landing

3. Crockett Landing

96%
(71)
16mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Beaufort, NC
15 beautiful acres on the North River in Beaufort, NC. Just off Highway 70 which is an Outer Banks Scenic Byway. Trails and private campsites throughout the property as well as a large communal deck (The Landing) by the river for gatherings and multiple observations areas to observe and enjoy the wildlife throughout the property. Bathhouses for guests and well water throughout property. Fishing, hiking, boating, kayaking, etc on the property. Atlantic Beach and Morehead City only 20 minutes away. Close to several stores and gas stations as well as countless fishing spots and about 7 miles to the end of Hawkers Island Rd where you can catch the ferry to Cape Lookout. Crockett Landing is a haven and sanctuary for wildlife and those who want to connect with nature and have a good time. There is a tote at the Cafe Blue full of games like badminton, volleyball, frisbees, wiffle ball, corn hole, paddle ball etc. The Cafe is an outdoor kitchen for guests to use as they like. Propane grill and stove available including dishware and pots and pans.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Lake Linda

8. Lake Linda

98%
(54)
47mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Hampstead, NC
Lake Linda is a private 6 acre lake that's located on our family's 40 acre property. We are just 5 minutes from Surf City, Topsail Island, and 20 minutes from both Wilmington and Jacksonville. You'll often see ducks and geese on the lake. Lake Linda is a peaceful place, but conveniently located within a few minutes of food, entertainment, and of course some beautiful beaches. On the back half of the property, we also have a small family farm. Pasture raised pigs, chickens, cows, sheep, goats and we even a have a couple of turkeys! We sell farm fresh eggs as well as poultry, beef, and pork, all raised right here on our farm. Our pork & beef is USDA inspected and processed! We try to help our farm animals have a great life while they’re with us. We have two sites available by the lake! One site is on the corner of the lake by the dock. This lakeside site has a 30 amp service. This site does not have water or sewer, however we have 2 full bathrooms in our bathhouse, one even has a pet wash station! The bathhouse is only about 1000 feet away, and you’re welcome to walk or drive down to it! We can also help you fill your water tank and you’re welcome to dump in the full hook up site as long as there isn’t someone camping there. The second lake site has a beautiful view. This lake view site has 110 outlets as well as water. It does not have sewer hookup, but we have 2 full bathrooms in our bathhouse, one even has a pet wash station! The bathhouse is only about 1000 feet away, and you’re welcome to walk or drive down to it! You’re also welcome to dump in the full hook up site as long as there isn’t someone camping there. We also have 2 camper sites available on the farm, as well as a few tent sites. The farm is just a short walk from the lake, so no matter which you choose, you can enjoy the best of both! This is a working farm, we have cows, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, & turkeys! You’re welcome to meet & enjoy them! We even have a calf that was born here, and we have baby pigs regularly as well! We’ve also recently added a bath house, with two bathrooms. Both have stand up showers, and one even has a pet wash station! We have 2 gas grills on the property for your use as well! One is by the lake, the other is on the farm. We also place picnic tables at all sites before check in! You can also see what Lake Linda looks like in the winter by watching Season 8 Episode 6 of ABC's The Great Christmas Light Fight! During the holiday season, Lake Linda becomes a winter wonderland for all to enjoy! Lake Linda's Christmas Lights is a light display surrounding the Lake and synchronized to music. You can also see more of what we do with lights by searching facebook for Lake Linda's Christmas Lights or Surf City-Hampstead Christmas Lights.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

12. Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

98%
(50)
32mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Bridgeton, NC
Need to recharge, reconnect and truly escape it all? This is your place. Our property is a unique, healing place to unplug surrounded by the beauty of eastern North Carolina. Nestled along the Neuse River with mature trees draped with Spanish moss ,we have 1000ft of riverfront as well as a peaceful pond, dock and prayer/mediation labyrinth. You will experience the most unforgettable sunsets, overwhelming peace, tranquility and a supreme connection back to nature. With only a 10 minute drive to historic downtown New Bern and a 30-40 minute drive to the beach, you can experience the best of both worlds. Many people tell us, and we know it true ourselves, there is something truly healing about our property. Come find out! Our personal home is located on the property, but we give our campers space and privacy during their visit. A few notes: -Our campsite is located on a peninsula surrounded by the river, because of the nature of the property, we do not allow children under 10 to visit. -Firewood is not provided but can be purchased at KOA just down the highway. -Fishing licenses are required for those wishing to fish -On your ride down our dirt road you will pass mobile homes about a 1/4 of a mile from us. These are our friendly neighbors that keep to themselves and do not interact with our property. If you are not comfortable driving past that, this might not be the campsite for you. This is very common in rural North Carolina. -Our campsite is for 5 people and 2 tents max. If you have more than 5 people coming please request to add additional people to your reservation. -Our bathroom has a sink, toilet and electricity. There is no shower available. -This is eastern NC, and there are plenty of wildlife and bugs. -Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times. -The campsite is located on the peninsula of our property but if you are more comfortable camping away from the riverfront you are able to move over to the pond as well (there is also a fire pit there).
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Islands Choice RV Park

14. Islands Choice Rentals

36mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 5 sites · Cedar Island, NC
Island's Choice Rentals stands out as a unique destination in beautiful North Carolina, thanks to its locally owned and operated charm that prioritizes guest satisfaction. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this campground offers a perfect retreat for families, hunters, and fishing enthusiasts alike. Whether you're planning a memorable family vacation, embarking on an exciting hunting adventure, or seeking the thrill of a fishing trip, Island's Choice Rentals is designed to enhance your experience. The park features spacious sites that provide ample privacy, allowing you to unwind and connect with nature. In addition to its serene atmosphere, Island's Choice Rentals is conveniently located near a variety of attractions. Explore nearby natural wonders, enjoy refreshing swimming holes, or partake in outdoor activities that showcase the area's stunning landscapes. After a day of adventure, you can indulge in local dining options and browse charming shops, making your stay both enjoyable and convenient. Experience the best of North Carolina at Island's Choice Rentals, where every detail is crafted to help you create lasting memories.
Waters Edge RV Resort

15. Waters Edge RV Resort

3.2mi from Pine Knoll Shores · 11 sites · Newport, NC
Waters Edge RV Park stands out as a unique destination due to its serene waterfront location on Bogue Sound, offering guests a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty. Our newly restored pier invites you to relax and enjoy the stunning views during your stay. Conveniently situated on Highway 24 in Newport, North Carolina, we are just minutes away from Morehead City and a short drive from local beaches and charming towns such as Beaufort, Cape Carteret, Swansboro, Emerald Isle, and Atlantic Beach. Explore the vibrant dining scene, boutique shops, parks, nature trails, and various water access points that Carteret County has to offer. Experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from our pier, which overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway. Our park is perfect for relaxing, fishing, kayaking, and observing the diverse wildlife that calls this area home. With 89 spacious, full hook-up sites and a meticulously maintained bathhouse, Waters Edge RV Park is the ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil and beautiful getaway. For reservations or inquiries, please call (252) 247-0494 or submit an online reservation request today.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field