The best camping near Carolina Beach State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Carolina Beach State Park adventure.

100% (17 reviews)

This state park has an obvious name with not-so-obvious sights.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Carolina Beach State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Carolina Beach State Park

Relaxing during sunset in an Eno hammock at the group campsite off of the swamp trail.

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Carolina Beach Campground

81 sites · RVs, Tents In Carolina Beach State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Carolina Beach State Park

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Black River Camping Ventures

12 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Ivanhoe, NC

Voted "2023's 3rd BEST HIPCAMP IN NORTH CAROLINA". Nestled in the heart of southeast North Carolina and conveniently located an hour from Wilmington, Jacksonville and Fayetteville — our 40+ acre family land is situated directly on historic Black River. Well known for its beautiful trees, wildlife and fisheries, Black River is also home to the oldest bald cypress forest in the world, many being alive hundreds of years before Jesus walked the earth. We are the only riverfront camping experience on Black River so we aim to provide you the best views, the most exceptional hospitality (from hosts Lisa and Eric), with hopes that you leave completely happy with our little piece of heaven and wanting to return year after year!

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(9)

Brunswick Beaches Campground

106 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Sunset Beach, NC

Brunswick Beaches RV campground Looking for the best campgrounds in North Carolina? You’re in the right place! Brunswick Beaches Campground in Sunset Beach is one of the top RV campgrounds on the NC coast. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, fresh seafood, and outdoor activities the NC coastal region is famous for, all just minutes from your campsite. Our dog-friendly RV campground is open year-round, perfect for your summer vacation destination or your winter retreat! Brunswick Beaches Campground offers the modern amenities you expect to make your stay more comfortable, along with a host of family-friendly activities. Of course, you might also feel like doing a little exploring outside the campground. If so, camping in Sunset Beach has its advantages. The Brunswick Islands area offers a host of attractions, entertainment, and restaurants. You can take a short drive and explore one of Brunswick County’s nearby beaches, tour a lighthouse, play a round at one of 35 nearby championship golf courses, go birding or fishing, and much more.

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Green Acres Private Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Ocean Isle Beach, NC

Primitive Tent and Boondock Camping NO Electrical or Water HOOKUPS Portable Pottie Available To Rent. Primitive Tent and Boondock Camping NO ELECTRICAL OR WATER HOOKUPS Portable Pottie Available To Rent. Primitive Tent and Boondock Camping NO HOOKUPS Portable Pottie Available To Rent 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 and Complementary Citronella Oil Lamp. 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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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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Lake Linda

7 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · 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.

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Castle Hayne Jane's Family Farm

30 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Castle Hayne, NC

We have undeveloped farmland with small clearings for camping across from Riverside Park on the Northeast Cape Fear River. Our land is located in Castle Hayne, NC, an equestrian community just north of Wilmington. Swimming, fishing, kayaking, and sunbathing are available on the river. Down the road in Castle Hayne you'll find mountain biking, horseback riding, disc golf, restaurants and socialization (try Luck's Tavern for great live music and karaoke!) We're also located just a short trip away from unique area attractions, including Masonboro Island, Screen Gems Film and TV Studios, The USS North Carolina Battleship, Fort Fisher, Wrightsville Beach, and Historic Downtown Wilmington. Enjoy your stay with us! Here are links to fun activities nearby: Luck's Tavern Karaoke Bar: https://www.facebook.com/Luckstavern/ Castle Hayne Disc Golf Course: https://www.newhanoverdgc.com/ Hanover Stables Horseback Riding: http://hanoverstables.net Blue Clay Mountain Biking Park: http://nhcparksconservancy.org/our-parks/blue-clay/ Castle Hayne Boat Ramp: https://castlehaynewatertours.com Food Scene: Buen Dia Authentic Mexican Breakfast: https://www.buendiarestaurant.com Highway 55 Burgers: https://hwy55.com Domino's Pizza: https://www.dominos.com Paul's Place Famous Hotdogs: https://www.yelp.com/biz/pauls-place-famous-hotdogs-rocky-point Jung's Egg Roll Express: https://www.yelp.com/biz/jungs-egg-roll-express-castle-hayne Uncle Louie's: https://www.unclelouiespizzerialounge.com Nigori Sushi: http://nigorigourmet.com The Sawmill Cafe: https://sawmillcafeandcatering.com Historic Sites, Venues, & Beaches: https://www.wilmingtonandbeaches.com/events/ https://www.wrightsvillebeach.com/events.html https://simplelifefishing.com/classes https://www.southendsurf.com/about

Booked 2 times

Park by the Sea- Private Camp Site

1 site · RV25 acres · Wilmington, NC

This is a completley fenced in, gate lot that has water, sewer, and power. Very close to UNCW, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Atlantic Ocean, shopping etc. The lot has a cement pad, fully gated, dog/pet friendly, and partially shaded. Surfing, fishing, beach going, dining are all close by. However you have total privacy. There is a live oak with lights in it that hangs over the fence from an adjacent Airbnb (8' Privacy Fence in between). The lights turn on for a few hours each night. The gate can be easily closed for total privacy or to let a pet run around.

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The Mill Creek Spread

7 sites · Tents15 acres · Winnabow, NC

Over 15 acres of private forest with birds and wildlife galore. Close to Southport, NC beaches, and the Cape Fear River without the traffic and bustle. Dark skies allow for stargazing. On-site orchard, backyard chickens, and nature trails. Find peace and serenity in a natural setting with country vibes. * birdwatching * wildflowers * nearby beaches * dark skies * RV or primitive camping

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Canter Lakes Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents47 acres · Rocky Point, NC

30 minutes from wrightsville beach, or down town wilmington. Lake front with 47 acres of privacy, and very close to a public boat ramp! We are a private horse farm with beautiful swimming lakes and river access. Two miles away from hundreds of miles of gameland trails. At canter lakes farm you can hike manicured trails and watch both the sunrise and sunset. If you’re an early riser you can witness the magnificent steam rolling in over the lakes and rivers while you sip your coffee at sunrise. Bring your paddle boards and cruise, or warm up with sunny yoga on your private dock. Kayak or John boats can explore the river bends from our property, or even make it out to the big wide cape fear. We are also very close to two public boat ramps suitable for larger boats and jet skis. Fishing is good in the lakes and the river year round, (bass, catfish, etc) in June hundreds of wild blueberry plants you can pick and eat. We also have prickly pear cacti for harvesting which you can cook the fruit and paddles over the fire and enjoy. If our trails aren’t enough and you want more adventure, just two miles away is the game lands entrance for hundreds of miles of hunting, biking, hiking or horseback riding. And if you’re craving a beach day, Wrightsville beach is just a 30 minute drive away as well as is downtown Wilmington where you can enjoy walking the riverfront for shopping or dining. Tent camping or dry rv camping only at this time. Shower sink and toilet are provided in the bath house. No feeding of the horses allowed, or entering fencing. campers are welcome to visit or partake in farm experience with permission.

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Happy Haven

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Sneads Ferry, NC

I have approximately 2 acres partially wooded located off of a gravel road. Country feel close to the coast! North Topsail Beach is about a 5 minute drive and many other waterways with boat ramps . We are located 20 minutes south of Camp Lejeune and about 30 minutes north of Wilmington. I have a fenced in back yard for kids and or pets. A few playgrounds set up. Firepit available. Charcoal grill available. I will allow limited access to indoor bathroom. Limited access to use of kitchen depending on circumstances.

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Charlotte's Whispering Pine Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Atkinson, NC

If you enjoy the shade of tall pine trees, wild blackberries, and waking up to the scent of wild magnolia and jasmine, we invite you to Charlotte's Whispering Pine Farm. Here, you can take long strolls on our maintained trails, visit Gilbert the Mini Mule or Cupid and Scarlett the Nigerian Dwarf Goats, and maybe catch a glimpse of our natural wildlife, including over 25 species of migratory birds, deer, rabbits, and more! Or, simply enjoy the sounds of nature and take in the night sky on our off-the-beaten path property. Just across the street, you can partake in a historical nature walk through the Moore's Creek National Battlefield, where you can also launch your paddle board and kaiaks (or rent one from us). Enjoy paddling Black River and visit some of the oldest cypress trees in North Carolina. And just 30 minutes away, you will find some of North Carolina's most popular beaches, including Topsail, Wrightsville, and Carolina Beach. As well as the USS Battleship North Carolina and a slew of other fun kid and adult friendly activities. Just to name a few: Breweries and bars galore, Defy Gravity Bounce House, Jungle Rapid's Water Park (go-carts, mini-golf, and lazer tag), movie theatres, and several fantastic eateries. Less than 1 mile from our farm: 2 Convenience Stores (ice, beverages, snacks, eggs and bacon, frozen meals, and more), Tire Shop Within 5 miles: Dollar General, Johnson's Corner Store (made to order food)

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Live Oaks Farm

5 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Holly Ridge, NC

Live Oaks Farm is a mini farm full of beautiful 200 year old live oak trees, willow trees, azaleas, other plants, and a pond. We are a great oasis right off of Topsail Island that gets coastal breezes and plenty of sunshine. We are a small growing farm with chickens, dwarf Nigerian goats, and ducks. We also offer a seasonal pumpkin patch and Christmas tree farm. You will usually see Patrick working around the property or in the wood workshop building furniture. His beautiful wife Brittany and their gorgeous kids Maddox and Everlee enjoying the outdoors as well.

The best camping near Carolina Beach State Park guide

Overview

About

Welcome to the wild and scenic part of aptly named Pleasure Island. Enjoy nature or embark upon an adventure in this popular state park. This area is steeped in both history and nature.

Begin with the easy hiking trails, which total 9 miles. Fly Trap Trail is the most interesting because you can see the carnivorous plant along the path. If you're lucky, a bug will pester one of the fly traps when you're watching them.

Follow Oak Toe Trail to the marsh where you can find fiddler crabs, dwarf palmettos, and oak toe trees.

Rent a boat at the marina for a day of fun and sun on the water. Cast your line for some of the best fishing in North Carolina. Prepare for flounder, spot, sheepshead, and speckled trout. Fish on the Cape Fear River or in the Atlantic Ocean.

Around 79 campsites with no hook-ups accommodate RVs and tents. Four camper cabins have air conditioning and bunk beds.

Side note: Bring bug repellent for summer months as flying insects are plentiful.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Carolina Beach State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer brings warmth perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters are quieter but can be chilly, so pack accordingly.

Know before you go

Check the park's website for any alerts on closures or safety information before your visit.
Ensure you have all necessary permits for fishing or other regulated activities.
Accessibility options are available; contact the park office for specific needs.
Day-use areas are open from 8:30am to 5pm, but times can vary with the seasons.
Remember to pack out your trash and respect the park's wildlife and natural resources.