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

Top-rated campgrounds near Carolina Beach State Park

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Black River Camping Ventures

13 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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(18)

Canter Lakes Farm

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

Canter Lakes Farm offers waterfront camping on 47 acres. We are a private horse farm with beautiful swimming lakes and river access on site via “Sand Hill Creek” At canter lakes farm you can explore over 10 acres of water without ever leaving our property, and hike almost 3 miles of manicured trails. The sunset and sunrise is always beautiful here! If you’re an early riser you can witness the magnificent steam rolling in over the lakes, creek and cypress swamp 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. Holly Shelter boat ramp is literally 2 minutes away, Shelter Creek boat ramp is 10 minutes away. Both ramps have a fishing area and allow kayaks/paddle boards. Fishing is good on our ponds and the river year round, (bass, catfish, crappie, bowfin, gar, 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 Holly Shelter game lands entrance where you’ll find thousands of acres for 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. Stargazing galore! Surrounding the property is privately owned country land- this is a phenomenal place to be amazed by the stars. Photography lovers will be in heaven from the sunrises and sunsets golden hour is magical here! And with the diverse landscape there’s always something to capture. Tent camping or dry rv camping only at this time. Hot Shower, sink and full size 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. If you’re looking for a yummy bite to eat we recommend chilitos, about 10 minutes away, for some authentic Mexican food! •Nearest gas station, grocery store and restaurants are in Rocky Point, just 12 minutes from us. •Wrightsville Beach - 30-40 minutes depending on traffic •Surf City/Topsail - 35 minutes •Hampstead- 15 minutes •Jacksonville - 38 minutes •Downtown Wilmington - 30 minutes (riverfront/live oak bank pavilion) •urgent care address: 7910 US hwy 117, Rocky point. (10 minutes from our farm) “novant health express care”.

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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

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Green Acres Private Campground

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

Primitive Tent and Boondock Camping NO ELECTRIC or NO 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. 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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(10)

The Secret Sanctuary Farm

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Castle Hayne, NC

The Secret Sanctuary Farm is a co/op located on a portion of Prince George Creek that has a double Oxbow or hairpin turns in the creek. This unique feature prevented loggers from logging the property. As a result, there are many huge old-growth trees on the property as well as a variety of fauna and flora. A truly unique blend of farmland. Including an assortment of friendly animals to interact with. Woodland, wetlands, and a deep spring fed fresh water creek that connects to the Cape Fear River. This is a working farm. Please do not Open any gates to the animals. The fruits and vegetables on the farm are for the members of the farm. Eggs from our chickens will be provided for you to use for breakfast. If you happen to choose a campsite with a kitchen. There is a coffee pot and all cooking utensils. There are four permanent 4 shelters on the property. Composting toilets. Showers are still in the works. All of the shelters have their own composting toilets. Small propane heaters are available for each shelter. The first 1gallon bottle off propane is free with your stay. it will last 5-7 hrs. each additional bottles will cast $6.00 per bottle. There is also solar, powered lights, usb charging stations, fans, and air coolers. each Conestego hut has a locking front door to keep your belongings safe Campfires, hiking, canoeing and kayaking. Kayaks, canoes and lifejackets are available. All the Wilmington beaches are within 30 minutes.

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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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(18)

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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The Pine Tree Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent104 acres · Whiteville, NC

Learn more about this land: 104 acres of private land for your enjoyment. This site would be best suited for tent campers at the moment due to no bath houses or electricity for the time being. Come enjoy your stay bring a kayak or canoe and float around the 6 acres of ponds and catch some of the many bass, bream or crappie that occupy the waters. The property is located 7 miles off highway 74/76 in Whiteville and 10 miles to Lake Waccamaw, 32 miles to Ocean Isle Beach, 45 miles to Wilmington, 36 miles to North Myrtle Beach. The road is grassy/dirt I would recommend a suv or truck for your stay. When there’s no burn ban in place or lack of rain i do try to keep firewood on-site but I recommend checking with me before your stay. Reserve your spot and experience the peace and quiet of the outdoors and listen to the turkeys and watch the deer feed in early mornings while the sun rises. If you have any questions feel free to message me! There is only one spot if you book you will have the entire property for you and your party.

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(12)

The Mill Creek Spread

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, 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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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.

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Star Fall Station

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Shallotte, NC

Once a three car garage now converted into a working artists studio, this property is a creative and peaceful home. The owner, a former contractor and artist Martha McKinley Murphy and Shane have changed this into a place where sculpture, art and harmony blend into a haven and retreat enjoyed by many. Learn more about this land: Our four acres is an open view for the wonders of star gazing. Come enjoy a place where the artist in all of us can be peacefully camping or take a drive less than 4.5 miles away to Ocean Isle Beach. Be a shell collector or enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing at some very close places to enjoy the waters. A screened outdoor living room overlooks our half acre pond with a wooded backdrop. Under our giant magnolia tree, one can see gorgeous sunsets and enjoy a picnic dinner. Our private outdoor shower is spacious and is next door to an outdoor kitchen. Campers can enjoy our raised bed garden areas when in season or collect organic eggs from our free range hens. Attached to our home is a workshop/studio area where families and friends can gather for a small event, class or meal.

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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.

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.