Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of waves and spending your days basking in the sun on a pristine beach.
Ocracoke Campground, set on the stunning Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, offers just that—a perfect escape to the simplicity and beauty of beachside camping.
While North Carolina offers several awesome beach camping options, it’s hard to beat a stay at Ocracoke Island. Here’s why…
Your Ideal Beach Camping Experience
Nestled just behind the protective barrier dunes of Ocracoke Island, the National Park Service’s Ocracoke Campground is the jewel of the island’s camping options.
With 136 spacious, level sites, this campground welcomes both RV enthusiasts and tent campers alike, offering an authentic, unadulterated outdoor experience without the clutter of hookups.
Each site includes a grill and picnic table, and amenities like restrooms with unheated showers ensure a comfortable stay.
Pets are welcome in designated areas, making it a perfect spot for the whole family, including your four-legged members.
The absence of trees and the presence of sandy soil might bring a few mosquitoes, but generally, the ocean breeze keeps them at bay, especially during the spring and fall seasons.
A short walk over the dunes reveals miles of beautiful beachfront, reserved exclusively for campers and far from the more crowded day-use beaches.
The nearby dump station is conveniently located at the park entrance, adding to the practical features of this idyllic camping location.
Adventures and Relaxation Await
Ocracoke Campground isn’t just about stunning ocean views; it’s a gateway to a plethora of activities.
From leisurely beach walks that promise solitude during sunrise or sunset to the thrill of spotting dolphins from the shore, the island caters to all types of adventurers.
The dark skies of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore offer some of the best stargazing on the East Coast.
With apps like Sky Tracker, you can gaze up from your campsite to discover constellations and celestial bodies.
For those who love the outdoors, there’s no shortage of activities. Fishing, biking, exploring the trails of the nearby nature preserve, or simply bird-watching add to the day’s itinerary.
The village of Ocracoke, a short drive from the campground, provides a quaint but eclectic shopping and dining experience, where you can pick up unique artisan gifts or indulge in local cuisine.
Other Camping Options on Ocracoke Island
While Ocracoke Campground offers a serene beachside setting, the island has more to explore for those seeking different amenities.
Jerniman’s Campground and Teeter’s Campground, both located near the village, offer utilities like electrical and water hookups, along with additional comforts such as bathhouses, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi.
These sites are ideal for visitors who prefer a more conventional camping setup while still enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility of Ocracoke.
Getting to Ocracoke
Reaching this secluded paradise is part of the adventure.
Ocracoke Island is accessible only by ferry, with routes from Hatteras Island, Cedar Island, and Swan Quarter.
The Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, while reservations are recommended for the toll ferries from Cedar Island and Swan Quarter.
Once on the island, a single two-lane road, Highway 12, stretches along its 16-mile length, making navigation simple.
Be Sure To Make Reservations
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time visitor, Ocracoke Campground offers an unforgettable beachside experience that blends adventure with tranquility.
It is highly recommended to reserve a spot at any of these campgrounds in advance, which you can make here.