Camping in Greenville, NC, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
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North Carolina
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Greenville

99% (327 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Greenville

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Carolina Beach State Park

221 campgrounds

Kayaking on the pond! It actually goes down to a depth of about 30 feet in the middle. Super refreshing for an afternoon or morning dip.

Appomattox

104 campgrounds

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

667 campgrounds

Pelicans, seagulls, and cormorants at First Landing

First Landing State Park

255 campgrounds

Uwharrie National Forest

911 campgrounds

Dillwyn

106 campgrounds

Dog-friendly getaways

98%

(96)

Bright Star Farm

1 site · RV, Tent25 acres · Trenton, NC

Bright Star Farm has been in our family for over a century. The land, which is home to horses, chickens, peacocks, two little pigs, and various farm cats, is a restful, healing haven for both tired and adventurous souls who want to escape for a while. Learn more about this land: Hook up your RV or pitch your tent to camp with miniature horses, a couple of pot belly pigs, birds, and more in Jones County's charming countryside. Enjoy our 100-year-old family farm and receive half-a-dozen complementary farm-fresh eggs on your first morning with us. We are a short drive from some of North Carolina's best amenities, including historic New Bern and the Crystal Coast. Get ready to spend the night down on the farm!

Evans Family Farm

15 sites · RVs, Tents700 acres · Plymouth, NC

A small family farm with lots of wildlife and adventure. 700 acres located on the Roanoke River and Conaby Creek. We have 3 ponds great for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. On your stay you are likely to see black bears, deer, and more! We are 5 minutes away from a grocery store and gas station. Join us at our piece of heaven in the middle of nowhere.

100%

(9)

Big Cypress Farm

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · New Bern, NC

We are a family farm. Established in the 1970s we have lots of local wildlife and water fowl. We have chickens. A lake that is stocked with catfish,brim and bass The sunsets are incredible. And when the full moon is over the pond it is an amazing sight. You can relax here by the pond or venture out to explore historic down town New Bern ,or head the the beach located in Morehead, Swansboro, and the surrounding areas. Check the local Restaurants and the local shops as well. Throughout the year we are surrounded by many different festivals as well. You can listen to the crickets and the birds chirping, and watch the squirrel as they jump and run from tree to tree.we are close to the beaches and are in close proximity of the national Forrest as well. And there are quite a few golf courses near to us as well. We are a work in progress and would be considered primitive Campground. So if what you are looking for is a place to escape to from every day hustle and daily grind we are you kind of place. So check us out on Facebook and have a blessed day.

The Hammock

4 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Stonewall, NC

Secluded 6 acres of lush pine and hardwood. 6 Large camping/RV sites. A fire pit at every site. Walking path to the Bay River with a private beach. Kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, swimming, fishing, bird watching, walking and hiking. Public boat ramp just 5 miles away. Personal hot tub, available upon request for Maple Grove at booking with advance notice. Kayaks, and Paddle Board limited availability for additional fee per day or 4 hours. 10 minutes to the town of Bayboro. 20 minutes to Oriental, the sailing capitol of NC.

Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

3 sites · RVs, Tents17 acres · Bridgeton, NC

Need to recharge, reconnect and truly escape it all? This is your place. Our property is a unique, healing place to unplug surrounded by the beauty of eastern North Carolina. Nestled along the Neuse River with mature trees draped with Spanish moss ,we have 1000ft of riverfront as well as a peaceful pond, dock and prayer/mediation labyrinth. You will experience the most unforgettable sunsets, overwhelming peace, tranquility and a supreme connection back to nature. With only a 10 minute drive to historic downtown New Bern and a 30-40 minute drive to the beach, you can experience the best of both worlds. Many people tell us, and we know it true ourselves, there is something truly healing about our property. Come find out! Our personal home is located on the property, but we give our campers space and privacy during their visit. A few notes: -Our campsite is located on a peninsula surrounded by the river, because of the nature of the property, we do not allow children under 10 to visit. -Firewood is not provided but can be purchased at KOA just down the highway. -Fishing licenses are required for those wishing to fish -On your ride down our dirt road you will pass mobile homes about a 1/4 of a mile from us. These are our friendly neighbors that keep to themselves and do not interact with our property. If you are not comfortable driving past that, this might not be the campsite for you. This is very common in rural North Carolina. -Our campsite is for 5 people and 2 tents max. If you have more than 5 people coming please request to add additional people to your reservation. -Our bathroom has a sink, toilet and electricity. There is no shower available. -This is eastern NC, and there are plenty of wildlife and bugs. -Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times. -The campsite is located on the peninsula of our property but if you are more comfortable camping away from the riverfront you are able to move over to the pond as well (there is also a fire pit there).

12 top campgrounds near Greenville

99%

(46)

Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

3 sites · RVs, Tents17 acres · Bridgeton, NC

Need to recharge, reconnect and truly escape it all? This is your place. Our property is a unique, healing place to unplug surrounded by the beauty of eastern North Carolina. Nestled along the Neuse River with mature trees draped with Spanish moss ,we have 1000ft of riverfront as well as a peaceful pond, dock and prayer/mediation labyrinth. You will experience the most unforgettable sunsets, overwhelming peace, tranquility and a supreme connection back to nature. With only a 10 minute drive to historic downtown New Bern and a 30-40 minute drive to the beach, you can experience the best of both worlds. Many people tell us, and we know it true ourselves, there is something truly healing about our property. Come find out! Our personal home is located on the property, but we give our campers space and privacy during their visit. A few notes: -Our campsite is located on a peninsula surrounded by the river, because of the nature of the property, we do not allow children under 10 to visit. -Firewood is not provided but can be purchased at KOA just down the highway. -Fishing licenses are required for those wishing to fish -On your ride down our dirt road you will pass mobile homes about a 1/4 of a mile from us. These are our friendly neighbors that keep to themselves and do not interact with our property. If you are not comfortable driving past that, this might not be the campsite for you. This is very common in rural North Carolina. -Our campsite is for 5 people and 2 tents max. If you have more than 5 people coming please request to add additional people to your reservation. -Our bathroom has a sink, toilet and electricity. There is no shower available. -This is eastern NC, and there are plenty of wildlife and bugs. -Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times. -The campsite is located on the peninsula of our property but if you are more comfortable camping away from the riverfront you are able to move over to the pond as well (there is also a fire pit there).

Evans Family Farm

15 sites · RVs, Tents700 acres · Plymouth, NC

A small family farm with lots of wildlife and adventure. 700 acres located on the Roanoke River and Conaby Creek. We have 3 ponds great for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. On your stay you are likely to see black bears, deer, and more! We are 5 minutes away from a grocery store and gas station. Join us at our piece of heaven in the middle of nowhere.

Oak Grove Retreat

9 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Tarboro, NC

Saint Anne's Chapel and Oak Grove Retreat Center is a unique historical venue for your next camp site in the Tarboro area of North Carolina. The farm was originally established in 1832 by the Pender Family. On the current 25 acres is a restored 1920s Episcopal Mission Church with parklike grounds that is maintained year-round and has a rich and interesting history. We have host a wide variety of events over the years, including weddings, receptions, meetings, retreats, drum circles, sound healing's, festivals and more. Camping is available in the field or in the 17 acre woods. Learn more about this land: Welcome to Oak Grove - a property with a 100 year old de-consecrated Episcopal church, beautiful woods, and amazing grandfather oaks. A common site for weddings, drum circles, and other metaphysical and spiritual happenings, the property has a labyrinth, a free expression chalkboard, a Zen sand box that are free to use. A short walk down the wooded trail brings you to a small clearing with a central fire pit and several areas suitable for a tent. Situated close to a road, traffic can be heard but easily tuned out, particularly as the road gets much quieter at night. The woods are next to a large open field that is great for star gazing. Bring your hammock!

The Hammock

4 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Stonewall, NC

Secluded 6 acres of lush pine and hardwood. 6 Large camping/RV sites. A fire pit at every site. Walking path to the Bay River with a private beach. Kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, swimming, fishing, bird watching, walking and hiking. Public boat ramp just 5 miles away. Personal hot tub, available upon request for Maple Grove at booking with advance notice. Kayaks, and Paddle Board limited availability for additional fee per day or 4 hours. 10 minutes to the town of Bayboro. 20 minutes to Oriental, the sailing capitol of NC.

Bright Star Farm

1 site · RV, Tent25 acres · Trenton, NC

Bright Star Farm has been in our family for over a century. The land, which is home to horses, chickens, peacocks, two little pigs, and various farm cats, is a restful, healing haven for both tired and adventurous souls who want to escape for a while. Learn more about this land: Hook up your RV or pitch your tent to camp with miniature horses, a couple of pot belly pigs, birds, and more in Jones County's charming countryside. Enjoy our 100-year-old family farm and receive half-a-dozen complementary farm-fresh eggs on your first morning with us. We are a short drive from some of North Carolina's best amenities, including historic New Bern and the Crystal Coast. Get ready to spend the night down on the farm!

Big Cypress Farm

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · New Bern, NC

We are a family farm. Established in the 1970s we have lots of local wildlife and water fowl. We have chickens. A lake that is stocked with catfish,brim and bass The sunsets are incredible. And when the full moon is over the pond it is an amazing sight. You can relax here by the pond or venture out to explore historic down town New Bern ,or head the the beach located in Morehead, Swansboro, and the surrounding areas. Check the local Restaurants and the local shops as well. Throughout the year we are surrounded by many different festivals as well. You can listen to the crickets and the birds chirping, and watch the squirrel as they jump and run from tree to tree.we are close to the beaches and are in close proximity of the national Forrest as well. And there are quite a few golf courses near to us as well. We are a work in progress and would be considered primitive Campground. So if what you are looking for is a place to escape to from every day hustle and daily grind we are you kind of place. So check us out on Facebook and have a blessed day.

Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents39 acres · Trenton, NC

Wallace Meadows Farm is no doubt a special place. Established in 2012, Richard and Tisha built their home on the farm so they could run the everyday operations of Wallace Meadows Farm. They have since added an Airbnb, which is two bedrooms, two baths, living room, kitchen, with washer and dryer, They provide their guest with excellent customer service and go above and beyond to make every guest stay a memorable one. With booking of The Guest House at Wallace Meadows Farm you get to enjoy the newly built Sauna and Gym along with enjoying the firepit, horseshoes, and the table under the pergola. You can also help the farmer feed the cows, chickens and fish. Now we have recently added Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm on the Trent River. The Campsite is on the Trent River at the backside of Wallace Meadows Farm and is complete with fire pit, chairs, bench, picnic table, charcoal grill, and Dogi Pot (so you can kindly clean up after your dog). Firewood, Charcoal, S'mores kits and Fresh Eggs available for purchase at The Campsite. Kayaks are available for rent. Fishing and hiking on the 1.1mile trail around the farm. There is a 1.1 mile walking trail around the property, catch and release pond, and fishing by the river. You can also schedule visiting our Fodder Room and feeding the cows by emailing us. Fodder Room booking available from November thru February . Visit Wallace Meadows Farm website and contact us via email.

97%

(65)

Horse Ranch-a short drive from 95

8 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Elm City, NC

Pedro and Gracie Torres opened the 90+ acre ranch for lessons, clinics, horse shows, and more in December of 2017. Built by Mr. Goff many moons ago, Cavvietta Quarter Horse & Cattle Co. is carrying on his tradition of helping the community and providing entertainment for those of all ages who enjoy horses and/or the great outdoors! Learn more about this land: Cavvietta Quarter Horse & Cattle Co. is 90+ acres of livestock paradise and we’d love for you to enjoy it with us!! rolling green pastures are surrounded by woods, but all makes for beautiful scenery. Riding lessons can be arranged for an additional fee. Check our event schedule prior to booking if you’re looking for a quiet stay. We look forward to having you!

94%

(18)

Ross’ Paradise Park

25 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Windsor, NC

Passed down from previous generations, my father used his landowning opportunity to create a space of refuge for family and friends. Now that my brother and I are continuing his legacy, we wish to expand the definition of Family and Friends to You! Proudly black owned and family operated, Ross’ is a space for refocusing, re-centering, and grounding your thoughts about life. Come take part in an opportunity to support local and grow small. Take part in you!

100%

(14)

Turkey Trot Trails

1 site · RV3 acres · Washington, NC

Learn more about this land:Come enjoy a stay at Turkey Trot trails! Located quite/secluded farm just 10 minutes from downtown Washington, Goose Creek State Park and many more attractions around “Little” Washington. The campsite is convenient for campers, and Rv’s located on 2.5 acres (wooded and cleared) with amenities provided (Water, sewer and electricity).

100%

(4)

Harts Hidden gem

4 sites · Tents5 acres · Snow Hill, NC

Absolutely beautiful camping property located in Snow Hill North Carolina you can tent camp have a fire beautiful wildlife birds to hear very quiet all sorts of trees natural grapevines muscadine grapes bring friends that’s fine animals are fine You can stay for one night for a week or even a month it’s up to you

100%

(6)

Potters Marine & Campsites

1 site · RV1 acre · Bath, NC

1 acre of vacant land with full access of our Marina, bring a boat and launch it for free at our boat ramp, keep it in the water tied to our dock for the duration of your stay, Very quite family friendly, laid back family owned marina, at the end of a private road with plenty of open space. Convenience of a bath house at the marine, available for you to also. use.

Under $50

100%

(9)

Big Cypress Farm

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · New Bern, NC

We are a family farm. Established in the 1970s we have lots of local wildlife and water fowl. We have chickens. A lake that is stocked with catfish,brim and bass The sunsets are incredible. And when the full moon is over the pond it is an amazing sight. You can relax here by the pond or venture out to explore historic down town New Bern ,or head the the beach located in Morehead, Swansboro, and the surrounding areas. Check the local Restaurants and the local shops as well. Throughout the year we are surrounded by many different festivals as well. You can listen to the crickets and the birds chirping, and watch the squirrel as they jump and run from tree to tree.we are close to the beaches and are in close proximity of the national Forrest as well. And there are quite a few golf courses near to us as well. We are a work in progress and would be considered primitive Campground. So if what you are looking for is a place to escape to from every day hustle and daily grind we are you kind of place. So check us out on Facebook and have a blessed day.

The Hammock

4 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Stonewall, NC

Secluded 6 acres of lush pine and hardwood. 6 Large camping/RV sites. A fire pit at every site. Walking path to the Bay River with a private beach. Kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, swimming, fishing, bird watching, walking and hiking. Public boat ramp just 5 miles away. Personal hot tub, available upon request for Maple Grove at booking with advance notice. Kayaks, and Paddle Board limited availability for additional fee per day or 4 hours. 10 minutes to the town of Bayboro. 20 minutes to Oriental, the sailing capitol of NC.

Evans Family Farm

15 sites · RVs, Tents700 acres · Plymouth, NC

A small family farm with lots of wildlife and adventure. 700 acres located on the Roanoke River and Conaby Creek. We have 3 ponds great for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. On your stay you are likely to see black bears, deer, and more! We are 5 minutes away from a grocery store and gas station. Join us at our piece of heaven in the middle of nowhere.

Oak Grove Retreat

9 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Tarboro, NC

Saint Anne's Chapel and Oak Grove Retreat Center is a unique historical venue for your next camp site in the Tarboro area of North Carolina. The farm was originally established in 1832 by the Pender Family. On the current 25 acres is a restored 1920s Episcopal Mission Church with parklike grounds that is maintained year-round and has a rich and interesting history. We have host a wide variety of events over the years, including weddings, receptions, meetings, retreats, drum circles, sound healing's, festivals and more. Camping is available in the field or in the 17 acre woods. Learn more about this land: Welcome to Oak Grove - a property with a 100 year old de-consecrated Episcopal church, beautiful woods, and amazing grandfather oaks. A common site for weddings, drum circles, and other metaphysical and spiritual happenings, the property has a labyrinth, a free expression chalkboard, a Zen sand box that are free to use. A short walk down the wooded trail brings you to a small clearing with a central fire pit and several areas suitable for a tent. Situated close to a road, traffic can be heard but easily tuned out, particularly as the road gets much quieter at night. The woods are next to a large open field that is great for star gazing. Bring your hammock!

Bright Star Farm

1 site · RV, Tent25 acres · Trenton, NC

Bright Star Farm has been in our family for over a century. The land, which is home to horses, chickens, peacocks, two little pigs, and various farm cats, is a restful, healing haven for both tired and adventurous souls who want to escape for a while. Learn more about this land: Hook up your RV or pitch your tent to camp with miniature horses, a couple of pot belly pigs, birds, and more in Jones County's charming countryside. Enjoy our 100-year-old family farm and receive half-a-dozen complementary farm-fresh eggs on your first morning with us. We are a short drive from some of North Carolina's best amenities, including historic New Bern and the Crystal Coast. Get ready to spend the night down on the farm!

Star Hosts in Greenville

100%

(37)

Oak Grove Retreat

9 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Tarboro, NC

Saint Anne's Chapel and Oak Grove Retreat Center is a unique historical venue for your next camp site in the Tarboro area of North Carolina. The farm was originally established in 1832 by the Pender Family. On the current 25 acres is a restored 1920s Episcopal Mission Church with parklike grounds that is maintained year-round and has a rich and interesting history. We have host a wide variety of events over the years, including weddings, receptions, meetings, retreats, drum circles, sound healing's, festivals and more. Camping is available in the field or in the 17 acre woods. Learn more about this land: Welcome to Oak Grove - a property with a 100 year old de-consecrated Episcopal church, beautiful woods, and amazing grandfather oaks. A common site for weddings, drum circles, and other metaphysical and spiritual happenings, the property has a labyrinth, a free expression chalkboard, a Zen sand box that are free to use. A short walk down the wooded trail brings you to a small clearing with a central fire pit and several areas suitable for a tent. Situated close to a road, traffic can be heard but easily tuned out, particularly as the road gets much quieter at night. The woods are next to a large open field that is great for star gazing. Bring your hammock!

Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents39 acres · Trenton, NC

Wallace Meadows Farm is no doubt a special place. Established in 2012, Richard and Tisha built their home on the farm so they could run the everyday operations of Wallace Meadows Farm. They have since added an Airbnb, which is two bedrooms, two baths, living room, kitchen, with washer and dryer, They provide their guest with excellent customer service and go above and beyond to make every guest stay a memorable one. With booking of The Guest House at Wallace Meadows Farm you get to enjoy the newly built Sauna and Gym along with enjoying the firepit, horseshoes, and the table under the pergola. You can also help the farmer feed the cows, chickens and fish. Now we have recently added Campsite at Wallace Meadows Farm on the Trent River. The Campsite is on the Trent River at the backside of Wallace Meadows Farm and is complete with fire pit, chairs, bench, picnic table, charcoal grill, and Dogi Pot (so you can kindly clean up after your dog). Firewood, Charcoal, S'mores kits and Fresh Eggs available for purchase at The Campsite. Kayaks are available for rent. Fishing and hiking on the 1.1mile trail around the farm. There is a 1.1 mile walking trail around the property, catch and release pond, and fishing by the river. You can also schedule visiting our Fodder Room and feeding the cows by emailing us. Fodder Room booking available from November thru February . Visit Wallace Meadows Farm website and contact us via email.

Evans Family Farm

15 sites · RVs, Tents700 acres · Plymouth, NC

A small family farm with lots of wildlife and adventure. 700 acres located on the Roanoke River and Conaby Creek. We have 3 ponds great for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. On your stay you are likely to see black bears, deer, and more! We are 5 minutes away from a grocery store and gas station. Join us at our piece of heaven in the middle of nowhere.

Sunset Cove on the Neuse River

3 sites · RVs, Tents17 acres · Bridgeton, NC

Need to recharge, reconnect and truly escape it all? This is your place. Our property is a unique, healing place to unplug surrounded by the beauty of eastern North Carolina. Nestled along the Neuse River with mature trees draped with Spanish moss ,we have 1000ft of riverfront as well as a peaceful pond, dock and prayer/mediation labyrinth. You will experience the most unforgettable sunsets, overwhelming peace, tranquility and a supreme connection back to nature. With only a 10 minute drive to historic downtown New Bern and a 30-40 minute drive to the beach, you can experience the best of both worlds. Many people tell us, and we know it true ourselves, there is something truly healing about our property. Come find out! Our personal home is located on the property, but we give our campers space and privacy during their visit. A few notes: -Our campsite is located on a peninsula surrounded by the river, because of the nature of the property, we do not allow children under 10 to visit. -Firewood is not provided but can be purchased at KOA just down the highway. -Fishing licenses are required for those wishing to fish -On your ride down our dirt road you will pass mobile homes about a 1/4 of a mile from us. These are our friendly neighbors that keep to themselves and do not interact with our property. If you are not comfortable driving past that, this might not be the campsite for you. This is very common in rural North Carolina. -Our campsite is for 5 people and 2 tents max. If you have more than 5 people coming please request to add additional people to your reservation. -Our bathroom has a sink, toilet and electricity. There is no shower available. -This is eastern NC, and there are plenty of wildlife and bugs. -Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times. -The campsite is located on the peninsula of our property but if you are more comfortable camping away from the riverfront you are able to move over to the pond as well (there is also a fire pit there).

Bright Star Farm

1 site · RV, Tent25 acres · Trenton, NC

Bright Star Farm has been in our family for over a century. The land, which is home to horses, chickens, peacocks, two little pigs, and various farm cats, is a restful, healing haven for both tired and adventurous souls who want to escape for a while. Learn more about this land: Hook up your RV or pitch your tent to camp with miniature horses, a couple of pot belly pigs, birds, and more in Jones County's charming countryside. Enjoy our 100-year-old family farm and receive half-a-dozen complementary farm-fresh eggs on your first morning with us. We are a short drive from some of North Carolina's best amenities, including historic New Bern and the Crystal Coast. Get ready to spend the night down on the farm!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(2)

Goose Creek State Park

Bath, North Carolina

100%

(1)

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park

Seven Springs, North Carolina

67%

(6)

Croatan National Forest

Neuse Forest, North Carolina

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Greenville guide

Overview

Greenville, North Carolina (not to be confused with Greenville, South Carolina) is a leafy city close to the Pamlico Sound and Atlantic Coast. Surrounded by forest parks and seated on the banks of the Tar River, the town offers ample access to paddling, fishing, hiking, biking, and camping opportunities. It’s a 90-minute drive to Atlantic Ocean beach camping at Hammocks Beach State Park, and just a bit further to the barrier islands of the Crystal Coast and the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Whether you’re looking for a quick nature excursion from Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill or a scenic break from an I-95 road trip, Greenville makes for a great camping getaway.

Where to go

Greenville Surrounds

Drive-up camping can be found right at River Park North, where paddlers using the Pamlico-Tar River Water Trail can access camping along the route. Even better, Greenville has rental shops right in town for easy kayaking or standup paddleboarding on the Tar River. The Greenville Greenway and the Bicycle Post Trails mountain biking area are two much-loved local trail systems as well.

Goose Creek State Park

You can paddle the Pamlico River and cruise the boardwalk around a swamp of cypress trees and Spanish moss just 45 minutes east of Greenville at Goose Creek State Park. The Goose Creek campground has both tent camping and RV camping sites with picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and showers.

Hammocks Beach State Park

Hammocks Beach State Park is an awesome beach park comprising three barrier islands on the Atlantic coast. The islands are accessible by ferry or paddling and feature coveted car-free beach camping.

Cape Lookout National Seashore

The Cape Lookout National Seashore preserves 56 miles of Outer Banks islands with sandy beaches. Ferries to these islands launch out of Harkers Island and Beaufort, about two hours southeast of Greenville, and once on the stretch of sand, campers can pitch their tent in most island areas (with some exceptions). Surfing, swimming, shelling, fishing, crabbing, and clamming are popular activities—just don’t miss the park’s famous Shackleford Banks island, home to wild horses.

When to go

Greenville’s subtropical climate allows for camping year-round, though summer brings the warmest weather, biggest crowds, and most access. Many barrier island ferries do not operate in winter; for instance, the Cape Lookout National Seashore ferries tend to run from April to November only. Winter brings cold-weather camping anyway, with lows in the 30s and highs in the 50s.