Oregon Inlet Campground
4.32738 reviews12001 NC HWY 12
Fishing
Quick Facts
10 ftPrice
$28 - $35/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
99 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Very Pet Friendly
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
10 ftPrice
$28 - $35/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
99 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Very Pet Friendly
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsOregon Inlet Campground
$28.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates by season include Standard Electric sites at $35 per night, Standard Non-Electric and Tent Only Non-Electric sites at $28 per night,...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$70.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
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Provider252-441-6246susan_kowlok@nps.gov
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What Campers Say
4.32
Recommended
Based on 738 reviews
780 Google reviews
Most mentioned
peacefulcleanshowersbeach
Some mention
noisesmall
"The campground has a mixed reputation among users. While some appreciate the proximity to the beach, clean facilities, and natural beauty, others criticize the lack of hot showers, tight campsites, and infestation of sand burrs."
Campground Map
12001 NC HWY 12
Oregon Inlet Campground
12001 NC HWY 12
Driving directionsNorth (From Richmond, VA) Follow I-95 South to Richmond, VA. Take I-64 East toward Norfolk/Virginia Beach, VA. Take I-64 or I-664 to Chesapeake, VA. From I-64, take Exit 291B to Route 168, the Chesapeake Expressway (a toll-road costing $3.00-$6.00 each way). Once in North Carolina, Route 168 turns into US-158 East. Follow US-158 East through Nags Head, NC to the junction of NC-12 South. Continue on NC-12 South, and the campground will be on your left just before you reach Bonner Bridge over Oregon Inlet.
West (From Rocky Mount, NC) Follow US-64 East through Tarboro, Williamston, Plymouth, Columbia, and Manteo, crossing the Alligator River Bridge and the Virginia Dare Bridge. Keep going on US-64 East to Nags Head, NC, going over the Washington Baum Bridge, to the junction of NC-12 South. Turn right onto NC-12 South and you will be at the north entrance. Continue on NC-12 South, and the campground will be on your left just before you reach Bonner Bridge over Oregon Inlet.
South (From Florence, SC) Take I-95 North to Wilson, NC. Take US-264 East through Greenville, NC and Washington, NC. From Washington, NC, take US-17 to Williamston and follow US-64 East to Nags Head, NC and the junction of NC-12 South. Continue on NC-12 South, and the campground will be on your left just before you reach Bonner Bridge over Oregon Inlet.
The campground is accessible via NC-12 South, located near Bonner Bridge over Oregon Inlet. Roads leading to the campground are paved and accessible year-round. The Chesapeake Expressway (Route 168) is a toll road costing $3.00-$6.00 each way. Seasonal weather conditions such as high winds and storms may occasionally impact road access, particularly during hurricane season.Nearby places
Nags Head (approx. 12 miles, 20 minutes drive). Manteo (approx. 15 miles, 25 minutes drive). Kitty Hawk (approx. 20 miles, 30 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Nags Head, approximately 12 miles north of the campground. Basic amenities such as potable water and charcoal grills are available on-site.
Best Time to Camp at Oregon Inlet Campground
Experience the full drama of coastal weather as seasons paint the landscape in different moods. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and crisp evenings perfect for campfires, while summer transforms the campground into a sun-soaked paradise punctuated by spectacular afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the sea. Fall rewards visitors with golden days and comfortable temperatures ideal for long beach walks. Winter brings its own stark beauty, with powerful winds sculpting the dunes and creating perfect conditions for storm watching. The Atlantic's breath is ever-present here, from gentle sea breezes to the legendary Nor'easters that remind us of nature's magnificent power during hurricane season.
Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5
Peak season busy; reviewers cite heat, insects and overcrowding in summer months.
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5
Fall favored for fewer bugs, cooler weather and less crowding per seasonal notes and reviews.
Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Spring offers gentle warmth, crisp evenings and fewer crowds—preferred by many reviewers.
Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.5 / 5
Top 22% in NCOpen year-round; reviewers call it a 'beautiful winter camping spot' though some amenities are cold.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 25, 2025 - September 6, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open year-round. Peak season is Memorial Day through Labor Day.
- Current Alerts: No current alerts were provided.
About Oregon Inlet Campground
Where the wild Atlantic meets the tranquil sound waters, Oregon Inlet Campground stands as the northern gateway to Cape Hatteras National Seashore. This coastal haven beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of untamed natural beauty and easy access to both serene beaches and world-class fishing grounds. Just minutes from the vibrant town of Nags Head and the legendary Oregon Inlet, campers find themselves at the crossroads of relaxation and adventure, where each sunrise brings new possibilities for exploration along this ever-changing barrier island.
Oregon Inlet Campground accommodates a mix of camping styles, featuring tent, RV, and group camping sites. There are a limited number of sites with electrical and water hookups.
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Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to a total of 14 days of camping between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Oregon Inlet Campground offers a variety of activities, including direct access to the beach for swimming, fishing, surfing, and birding. The nearby Oregon Inlet Fishing Center provides opportunities for boating and crabbing. 'Catch the sunset at the end of the Oregon Inlet bridge pier and you will not be disappointed,' said Paul B. Hiking and shell hunting are also popular around the dunes.
HikingHiking opportunities include walks through the dunes and along the beach. Some trails are near campsites, though poorly marked in some areas.
FishingHighly rated for fishing. Oregon Inlet is described as a 'world-class fishing destination.'
SwimmingSwimming is available on the beach adjacent to the campground. Beach access requires a short walk over the dunes.
BoatingBoating is facilitated by a public boat launch at the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center. Activities include paddle-boarding and clamming.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include birding near the dunes and marshes. 'Lots of birds' noted Sheila E.
Beach activitiesBeach activities include sunbathing, shell hunting, and off-road driving (permit required). Some campers found the beach littered with seaweed and debris.
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Policies & Safety
Hazards & AlertsHigh winds, thorn bushes, and biting insects are common hazards. Sand spurs may cause discomfort for pets and campers. Coyotes were reported in some areas of the campground.
Active AlertsNo current alerts were provided.
Weather at Oregon Inlet Campground
Reviews
4.3
738 reviews
Oregon Inlet Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has a mixed reputation among users. While some appreciate the proximity to the beach, clean facilities, and natural beauty, others criticize the lack of hot showers, tight campsites, and infestation of sand burrs.
Review Summaries
Based on 738 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms and showers; proximity to the beach; friendly and helpful camp hosts; peaceful atmosphere; excellent wildlife viewing and stargazing opportunities.
Based on 738 reviewsCommon Concerns
Cold outdoor showers; sand burrs on campsites; lack of shade; narrow roads and tight campsites; issues with dump station's location.
Based on 738 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sandals or protective footwear due to sand burrs. Book early to secure sites with hookups. Avoid sites near paths for better privacy. Consider earplugs if camping near the highway.
Based on 738 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are preferred for fewer bugs, cooler weather, and less crowding. Summer is busy, with more complaints about heat, insects, and site overcrowding.
Based on 738 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The walk to the beach was a little further than expected.' - Tracy D. 2. 'Sand stakes saved the tent from blowing away.' - Jessica D. 3. 'Catch the sunset at the end of the Oregon Inlet bridge...
Based on 738 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 35 in Loop C is frequently praised for its proximity to the bathroom and spaciousness. Loop A sites are noted for being cramped and less private.
Based on 738 reviewsAccessibility Features
Mixed reviews about accessibility; some loops are closer to the beach than others, and paths can be uneven. Older campers may find the walk to the beach challenging.
Based on 738 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but sand burrs can be painful for their paws. Bring protective footwear for pets.
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Last updated February 17, 2026
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