Ocracoke Campground

Star4.35
1.0K reviews
4352 Irvin Garrish Hwy
Scenic Views

Quick Facts

3 ft

Price

$28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

136 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Ocracoke Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The daily rate for a standard nonelectric campsite is $28. Additional fees may apply for reservations, modifications, and cancellations as per the...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
252-928-6671
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What Campers Say

4.35

Recommended

Based on 1.0K reviews

368 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulcleanlocation

"Ocracoke Campground is beloved for its stunning beachfront location and tranquility, but campers frequently noted issues such as biting insects, lack of hot water, and generator noise. The bugs were often described as "relentless" during summer months, while the cold showers were termed "character-building." Nevertheless, many campers praised the "amazing stars at night" and the proximity to the ocean."

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Campground Map

4352 Irvin Garrish Hwy

Ocracoke Campground

4352 Irvin Garrish Hwy

Driving directionsThe campground is located off North Carolina Route 12, three miles east of Ocracoke Village and ten miles west of Hatteras inlet ferry terminal.
Road access to the campground is limited as it is located on an island and only accessible by ferry or aircraft. Ferry reservations may be required during peak season.
Nearby places
Ocracoke Village (3 miles), Hatteras Ferry Terminal (10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Ocracoke Village offers groceries, camping supplies, fuel, restaurants, gift shops, and a tackle shop, located about 3 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Ocracoke Campground

Ocracoke's weather tells the story of coastal living in all its moods. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for beach adventures, though afternoon sea breezes can whip up sand and bring occasional thunderstorms rolling across the water. Pack insect repellent for summer evenings when no-see-ums make their presence known. As autumn arrives, crowds thin and temperatures mellow into perfect camping weather. Winter transforms the campground into a peaceful retreat for hardy souls seeking solitude, with crisp air and dramatic skies rewarding those who brave the cooler months.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Warm beach days but 'relentless' mosquitoes and no-see-ums reported in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall (and spring) praised as best seasons: milder temps and fewer bugs.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring is highlighted as one of the best seasons with milder weather and fewer bugs.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round; winter offers solitude but limited amenities and colder water.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: January 1 - December 31 (as per listed rates for 2025 and 2026). Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round. A peak season runs from January 1 to December 31, with different booking windows for individual sites.
  • Current Alerts: No specific alerts or advisories reported.

About Ocracoke Campground

Escape to Ocracoke Campground, where 136 pristine campsites nestle among windswept dunes and maritime forests on one of the Outer Banks' most enchanting barrier islands. Here, the rhythm of Atlantic waves sets the pace for unforgettable camping adventures, while modern amenities ensure comfort amid the raw coastal beauty. Wake to salt-tinged breezes and the calls of shorebirds, then spend your days exploring endless beaches, historic villages, and the untamed landscapes that make this corner of Cape Hatteras National Seashore truly special.
Ocracoke Campground accommodates primitive camping, primarily for tents and small RVs, with no hookups available. It also supports group camping and is pet-friendly.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to a total of 14 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Ocracoke Campground is ideal for beach-centered activities. Campers enjoy direct access to the beach for swimming, fishing, shell hunting, and kayaking. Wildlife viewing, including birdwatching, is another highlight. "Chasing ghost crabs on the beach" and admiring the "amazing bioluminescence in the water" were among the unique experiences reported.
HikingHiking is available with trails like Hammock Hills nature trail located nearby. However, parts of the trail are reportedly in "dire need of maintenance," with some bridges and walkways failing.
FishingFishing is a popular activity with opportunities for surfcasting. One camper noted: "If you are patient, you will catch fish on the surf."
SwimmingSwimming is a major draw due to the campground's proximity to the beach. The water was described as "warm, even late at night," and ideal for family-friendly activities. Safety measures and lifeguard services are not mentioned in the provided data.
BikingA paved bike path connects the campground to Ocracoke Village, allowing easy access to local attractions. Campers frequently recommended bringing bikes for convenience.
Wildlife viewingBird and wildlife viewing are popular, with campers spotting ghost crabs and other coastal species. The beach is described as "a home and habitat for creatures large and small, on land and in the water."
Beach activitiesThe beach provides a venue for shell hunting, kiteboarding, and relaxing walks. Campers also reported unique experiences such as observing "amazing bioluminescence in the water."
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBiting insects (e.g., mosquitoes and no-see-ums) are prevalent, especially in summer. Weather extremes and occasional flooding can occur after heavy rains. Sand spurs and prickly pear plants are common in some areas.
Active AlertsNo specific alerts or advisories reported.

Weather at Ocracoke Campground

Reviews

4.4
1.0K reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Ocracoke Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Ocracoke Campground is beloved for its stunning beachfront location and tranquility, but campers frequently noted issues such as biting insects, lack of hot water, and generator noise. The bugs were often described as "relentless" during summer months, while the cold showers were termed "character-building." Nevertheless, many campers praised the "amazing stars at night" and the proximity to the ocean.
Review Summaries
Based on 1018 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers repeatedly praised the clean, well-maintained facilities and the unique, peaceful atmosphere. The campground's location next to the beach was a standout feature, offering easy access to...
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Based on 1018 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common complaints included the abundance of biting bugs, particularly mosquitoes and no-see-ums, noisy generators, and the lack of hot water in the showers. Flooding after rainfall and the...
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Based on 1018 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing extra-long stakes for sandy soil, effective bug repellent, and a canopy for shade. Bikes were often cited as essential for exploring the island. Avoid camping during peak...
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Based on 1018 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are considered the best seasons due to fewer bugs and milder temperatures. Summer brings high insect activity and heat, while winter offers solitude but limited amenities due to...
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Based on 1018 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The stars are amazing when it is the dark of the moon," "Chasing ghost crabs on the beach was fun," "Showers were disgusting, but the beach made up for it."
Based on 1018 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsites along the dunes are preferred for their direct beach access, while inner sites are more exposed and susceptible to flooding. Loop D is appreciated for its generator-free policy.
Based on 1018 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible facilities are available, but uneven terrain and the distance to some amenities may pose challenges.
Based on 1018 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet owners appreciated the campground's pet-friendly policy but noted the importance of controlling pets and cleaning up after them.
Based on 1018 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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