Carteret County

morehead city nc rv parks

For North Carolina residents, the allure of the coast is undeniable, and within its vast stretches of shoreline, Carteret County shines as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and campers. This beautiful county, nestled along the southern Outer Banks and encompassing the renowned Crystal Coast, offers an incredible diversity of camping experiences, from serene beachfront sites to well-appointed RV resorts and secluded spots within national forests. It's a region where the whispers of the Atlantic meet the calm of the Intracoastal Waterway, providing a backdrop for unforgettable adventures. Whether you're a seasoned RVer, a tent camping purist, or a family looking for a memorable getaway, Carteret County provides a wealth of options to connect with nature and explore the best of coastal North Carolina. This guide aims to illuminate the rich camping landscape within Carteret County, helping you discover your perfect home away from home.

Carteret County is located on the central coast of North Carolina, encompassing prominent towns and areas like Morehead City, Beaufort, Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, Newport, Cedar Point, and Harkers Island. Its strategic position offers exceptional accessibility for North Carolina locals. Major highways and well-maintained state roads lead directly into the county, ensuring a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and those towing trailers.

The county serves as a gateway to the southern Outer Banks and boasts direct access to the beautiful barrier islands, including Bogue Banks, Shackleford Banks, and Cape Lookout National Seashore. This means campers have convenient routes to world-class beaches, historic towns, and prime fishing and boating locations. Whether you're coming from the Triangle, the Triad, or other parts of Eastern North Carolina, Carteret County is within a reasonable driving distance, making it an ideal choice for weekend escapes or extended vacations. The varying landscapes, from the maritime forests to the expansive sounds and oceanfront, provide a rich tapestry of environments to explore, all easily reachable within this vibrant coastal county.

Given the broad scope of "Carteret County" as a camping destination, the services offered will vary significantly depending on whether you choose a private RV resort, a state park campground, or a national forest site. However, generally, you can expect to find a wide array of amenities catering to diverse camping needs.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: Many private RV parks throughout Carteret County (such as those in Cedar Point, Newport, or Emerald Isle) offer full hookup sites with 20, 30, and 50 amp electric, water, and sewer connections. These are ideal for those seeking the comforts of home on the road.
• Water and Electric Hookups: Many public and private campgrounds offer sites with water and electric hookups, providing essential amenities for both RVs and tent campers who prefer a powered site.
• Primitive / Tent Sites: Numerous state parks and national forest campgrounds (like those in Croatan National Forest or on Cape Lookout National Seashore, with specific regulations) provide primitive or basic tent-only sites for those who prefer a more rustic experience.
• Restrooms and Showers: Most established campgrounds, especially private RV parks and state parks, offer clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities.
• Laundry Facilities: Many larger RV resorts and some campgrounds provide on-site coin laundry facilities, a significant convenience for longer stays.
• Dump Stations: RV dump stations are commonly found at most full-service RV parks and state park campgrounds for guests' convenience.
• Wi-Fi and Cable TV: Many private RV resorts in Carteret County offer Wi-Fi access and cable TV hookups at their sites, enhancing connectivity and entertainment options.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Almost all campsites, regardless of type, will feature a picnic table and a fire ring or grill, essential for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Pet-Friendly Options: A large number of campgrounds in Carteret County are pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along (always confirm specific rules and leash policies).
• Boat Ramps and Docks: Given the county's coastal nature, many campgrounds, particularly those on the Intracoastal Waterway or sounds, offer direct access to boat ramps, fishing piers, and sometimes even marina services.

For specific service details, it is crucial to consult the individual campground's website or contact them directly, as amenities can vary widely.

Camping in Carteret County offers a diverse range of features and highlights that cater to every type of outdoor enthusiast:

• Stunning Coastal Access: The primary draw is unparalleled access to the Atlantic Ocean beaches, the serene sounds, and the Intracoastal Waterway. This means opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, shelling, fishing, and boating are always just moments away.
• Proximity to Charming Coastal Towns: Campers can easily explore the historic charm of Beaufort, the lively atmosphere of Morehead City, and the family-friendly beaches of Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach, all offering unique dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
• Gateway to the Outer Banks: Carteret County is a key access point to the southern Outer Banks, including ferry services to Ocracoke Island and access to the undeveloped beauty of Cape Lookout National Seashore.
• Abundant Water Activities: From deep-sea fishing charters to kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing in the calm waters of the sounds, the opportunities for water-based recreation are endless.
• Nature and Wildlife Viewing: The county is rich in natural beauty, offering chances to spot wild horses on Shackleford Banks, diverse bird species, and marine life. Croatan National Forest, partly within Carteret County, provides extensive hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Variety of Camping Styles: Whether you prefer a luxurious RV resort with all the amenities, a rustic tent site under the stars, or even unique cabin or lodge rentals available at some campgrounds, Carteret County caters to all preferences.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Many campgrounds and local attractions are geared towards families, offering playgrounds, organized activities, and safe environments for children to enjoy.
• Fishing and Hunting Hotspot: The region is renowned for its excellent fishing, both inshore and offshore, and offers opportunities for hunting in designated areas of the national forest.

Given the multitude of campgrounds within Carteret County, promotions and special offers will vary by individual establishment. However, North Carolina locals should always:

• Check Individual Campground Websites: The most up-to-date promotions, seasonal discounts, and package deals are typically found directly on the websites of private RV parks and campgrounds.
• Look for Off-Season Rates: Camping during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or weekdays often yields lower rates and fewer crowds compared to peak summer weekends.
• Inquire About Extended Stay Discounts: Many campgrounds, especially those catering to RVs, offer significantly reduced weekly or monthly rates for longer visits.
• Explore State Park Passes: For state park campgrounds, consider purchasing an annual pass or checking for resident-specific discounts offered by the North Carolina State Parks system.
• Subscribe to Newsletters: Signing up for email newsletters from specific campgrounds or the Carteret County tourism board can provide alerts about exclusive offers.

It's always recommended to call the campground directly to inquire about any unadvertised specials or to discuss your specific needs and find the best possible rate.

Since "Carteret County" itself is a region and not a single campground, there isn't one universal address or phone number for camping. To find specific contact information for campgrounds within Carteret County, North Carolina locals should utilize the following resources:

• Online Search: Perform targeted searches for "RV parks Carteret County NC," "campgrounds Emerald Isle NC," "camping Morehead City NC," etc., to find individual campground websites.
• Carteret County Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber often maintains a directory of local businesses, including campgrounds and RV parks, with their contact details.
• North Carolina State Parks Website: For public campgrounds within state parks (e.g., Hammocks Beach State Park, which has ferry-access camping), visit the official NC State Parks website for reservation information and contact details.
• National Forest Service Websites: For campgrounds within the Croatan National Forest, consult the USDA Forest Service website or Recreation.gov.

Once you identify a specific campground, their individual website will provide the most accurate address, phone number, and online reservation portal.

For residents of North Carolina, Carteret County stands as an unparalleled camping destination, offering an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and charming coastal communities. Its diverse range of campgrounds, from full-service RV resorts to tranquil primitive sites, ensures that every type of camper can find their ideal spot. The convenience of its location, providing easy access to pristine beaches, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the cultural richness of towns like Beaufort and Morehead City, makes it a highly suitable choice for both spontaneous weekend getaways and extended family vacations. Whether you're drawn by the promise of world-class fishing, the serenity of a campfire under starry skies, or the excitement of exploring historic maritime towns, Carteret County delivers. It's a place where outdoor adventure meets coastal charm, inviting North Carolina locals to discover and rediscover the magic of their own backyard, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Carteret County

North Carolina, USA