Outer Banks Camping
What To Expect

I have found Outer Banks camping to be one of my favorite ways to do a beach vacation. Some of my best teenage memories are camping at the Oregon Inlet campground.

Over the years I have camped at both the private and national campgrounds here on the Outer Banks.

What's the best way to camp, private or national campground?

They both are a great way to enjoy a beach vacation. The one you think is the best Outer Banks camping experience may depend on what comforts you would like to have.

Don't you just love a great sunset?

What to Expect at a National Campground:

• Cheap rates
• No reservations most of the time
• Ample distance between campsites
• Grills
• Picnic tables
• Modern toilets
• Cold showers
• Tent sites
• RV sites
• Both sand and grass sites
• Hook-ups are seldom available
• Dumping station

What to Expect at a Private Campground:

• Moderate rates
• Reservations accepted
• Campstore
• Grills
• Picnic tables
• Bathhouse
• RV sites
• Full hook-ups
• Tent sites
• Dumping station

My camping experience at the Outer Banks has been with both a tent and also a travel trailer. I like to tent camp, but the older I get, a camper is becoming my favorite. I have as much fun tent camping as I do if I have a camper trailer or RV. With the RV it is really nice to have some of the conveniences from home. I find that a soft bed, stove, refrigerator and air conditioning can make my stay more comfortable. I guess I've gotten a little soft the last couple of years.

If you're considering buying a small RV you may want to compare the different types to decide which would best suit you.



Some Tips for Camping at the Outer Banks

• Plan for the weather
• Plan for the season you will be camping
• Make reservations if possible
• Make a "what to take" list
• Make sure your camping supplies are in good repair
• Choose the right camping equipment
• Choose the right camping gas grill

Click here for a camping list to pack for your next vacation

Camping with our friends

My personal preference for Outer Banks camping are the National Campgrounds. I say this as only my opinion. Even though the national campgrounds have less to offer in conveniences, there is something I like about them that I can't always point at and say "that's why".

I guess it could be the atmosphere that comes from the way the camp sites have more distance between them. Maybe I have just met more people and made more friends there. Then it could be just the memories of beach camping as a kid which was usually at a national campground or sometimes primitive camping.

I must say that the private campgrounds have far more conveniences that really add to making your Outer Banks camping experience more comfortable and an awesome family beach vacation.

Should we go in?

My Favorite Times Of The Year To Camp Outer Banks

I suppose if you have an RV it's always a good time of the year to pull into one of the campgrounds you have found to be open and enjoy some fun at the Outer Banks.

For me, the best time to come to the Outer Banks and camp would be mid May to the end of June and the second week of September to the middle of October.

I have found the weather to be more pleasant for camping outdoors during those months. If I have a choice, I like to come during the month of September. I find the campgounds and beaches to be less crowded. The temperatures are milder than the heat of July or August, but the water temperatures are still warm.

During this time you should know that there is the chance of a hurricane coming ashore. If you make reservations, you should ask what their refund policy is concerning a hurricane evacuation.

I must tell you not to miss the sunsets. The late summer and early fall can have some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen. My favorite location to view a sunset is the top of Jockey Ridge.

Our home away from home

Be sure to consider Outer Banks camping and check out some of the great campgounds while you explore your options for the ultimate family beach vacation.



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