How much does camping cost at Oregon Inlet Campground?

Camping fees at Oregon Inlet Campground range from $28-$70/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Oregon Inlet Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Oregon Inlet Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Oregon Inlet Campground before I book?

Yes! Oregon Inlet Campground has 18 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Oregon Inlet Campground?

Oregon Inlet Campground is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Oregon Inlet Campground?

Yes, Oregon Inlet Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Oregon Inlet Campground?

Cell phone service at Oregon Inlet Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Oregon Inlet Campground have?

Oregon Inlet Campground has 99 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Oregon Inlet Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Oregon Inlet Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Oregon Inlet Campground?

Oregon Inlet Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Oregon Inlet Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Oregon Inlet Campground?

Fire policies at Oregon Inlet Campground: Wood fires are not permitted in the campground. Only charcoal cooking fires are permitted in a grill, stove, or other self-contained unit.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.31

738 reviews

12001 NC HWY 12

Fishing

Featured in:Boating Camping North Carolina Best Campgrounds North Carolina

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

10 ft

Price

$28 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

99 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

10 ft

Price

$28 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

99 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Oregon Inlet Campground

$28.00 - $70.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $70.00; RV Electric: $35.00; RV NONELECTRIC: $28.00; RV or Tent nonelectric: $28.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $28.00; Tent...

Group Site Fee$70.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

252-441-6246rodney_lapp@nps.gov

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Campground Map

12001 NC HWY 12

Oregon Inlet Campground

12001 NC HWY 12

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).

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.

Weather at Oregon Inlet Campground

Current alerts(8)

A fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood.
All campsites are exposed and subject to weather extremes. There are no shaded sites in the campground.
All equipment must fit on the site pad; large RVs over 25 feet may have to park second vehicles in auxiliary parking away from the campground, or purchase an additional campsite. Vehicles cannot park on the grass.
Biting insects are prevalent in the summer months, therefore netting and repellent are recommended.

Best Time to Camp at Oregon Inlet Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best balance of mild weather, thinner crowds after Labor Day, and excellent fishing and wildlife viewing — daytime highs are typically in the mid-60s to low-70s°F (≈18–23°C) with crisp nights in the 40s–50s°F (≈5–12°C). Surf and inlet fishing are often at their peak as migratory fish move along the coast, and migrating shorebirds and waterfowl pass through the area, boosting wildlife-viewing opportunities. With calmer summer humidity gone and many summer visitors departed, fall's Peak months: October, September, May, April

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring favored for fewer bugs, cooler weather and migratory fish; good birding and beach use.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Oregon Inlet Campground

Oregon Inlet Campground sits on the Outer Banks at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, managed by the National Park Service. This large seasonal campground offers tent and RV sites with electric and water hookups, showers, and a dump station, drawing visitors for boating access and fall migratory fishing. Reviewers praise the clean facilities, helpful hosts, and wildlife viewing, though some note tight site spacing and occasional road noise.

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.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best balance of mild weather, thinner crowds after Labor Day, and excellent fishing and wildlife viewing — daytime highs are typically in the mid-60s to low-70s°F (≈18–23°C) with crisp nights in the 40s–50s°F (≈5–12°C). Surf and inlet fishing are often at their peak as migratory fish move along the coast, and migrating shorebirds and waterfowl pass through the area, boosting wildlife-viewing opportunities. With calmer summer humidity gone and many summer visitors departed, fall's Peak months: October, September, May, April

Elevation10 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryWind-sculpted dunes crowned with sea oats define the landscape here at 10 feet elevation. The campground occupies a narrow barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the sound, giving you a front-row seat to the forces that constantly reshape this coast. Golden sand stretches in both directions. Wildflowers dot the dunes in season. On clear nights, the lack of light pollution reveals the Milky Way stretching horizon to horizon above the surf. The trade-off for this exposure: wind. The Atlantic's breath is constant, from gentle sea breezes to the powerful gusts that carve the dunes. Summer thunderstorms roll across the water with little warning. During nor'easters and hurricane season, the weather reminds you exactly how dynamic this landscape is.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Camping is limited to a total of 14 days of camping between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Guests Allowed Per Site

There is a limit of 6 persons per site.

Groups

Group sites include multiple standard-sized sites and are near two bathroom locations. No hookups are available at these sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessible campsites, flush toilets, drinking water, grills, and walkways are available.

Site SizeSites are described as paved pads. Some are noted to be tight, especially for larger RVs.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site and loop. Several campers complained about paths running through campsites and tight spacing between sites.

Total Campsites99 campsites

Recommended SitesFor better privacy and scenic views, consider sites closer to the dunes in loops B and C. Avoid sites in the 40s within B loop due to overgrown vegetation and parking challenges.

Best CampsitesSites A21 and B12 get mentions in reviews: A21 for sunrise views, B12 for proximity to the dunes and beach access. That said, several campers complained about paths running through campsites and tight spacing between sites. Scout your site on arrival if privacy matters to you, and avoid spots near the main paths if possible.

Need help booking Oregon Inlet Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Oregon Inlet Campground offers a range of amenities that cater to both tent and RV campers. Each campsite is equipped with a paved parking pad, picnic table, and charcoal grill. Three loops are serviced by bathhouses that include flush toilets, potable water, and unheated outdoor showers. There are a limited number of RV sites with hookups, and a dump and water station is available across Highway 12 at the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center. "Showers were more like an outside beach shower," noted user Jessica D., who also mentioned the "partial doors" and "the chain you pull to keep the water flowing." While some campers appreciated the clean facilities, others criticized the lack of hot water and the need for improved signage in bathrooms urging campers to clean up after themselves.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

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.

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Fire PolicyWood fires are not permitted in the campground. Only charcoal cooking fires are permitted in a grill, stove, or other self-contained unit.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 pm to 6:00 am

Trash & RecyclingLimited information on trash and recycling facilities. Campers have requested recycling bins be added.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception is generally good, with Verizon coverage noted as strong by Harold H.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.3

738 reviews

Satisfactory

Oregon Inlet Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 738 reviews.

Site 35Loved
Site 35 in Loop C is frequently praised for its proximity to the bathroom and spaciousness.
Loop AMentioned
Loop A sites are noted for being cramped and less private.

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 reviews

Common 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 reviews

Pro 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 reviews

Seasonal 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 reviews

Camper 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 reviews

Accessibility 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 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but sand burrs can be painful for their paws. Bring protective footwear for pets.

Based on 738 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want National Park Service camping on the Outer Banks with electric hookups and boating access during peak season.

Skip if

You need spacious, private sites or guaranteed hot showers and quiet surroundings away from road noise.

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Campgrounds

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Oregon Inlet Campground

About Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Context for the broader area surrounding Oregon Inlet Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

The sound of ocean waves, the starry night sky, or the calm of the salt marshes, you can experience it all. Shaped by the forces of water, wind, and storms these islands are ever changing. The plants, wildlife, and people who live here adapt continually. Whether you are enjoying the beach, kayaking the sound, or climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse there is something for everyone to explore!

Directions

Cape Hatteras National Seashore is located along NC-12 in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. You can reach the seashore from the north by following US 158 to Nag Heads, NC and the turn-off to NC-12 and Cape Hatteras National Seashore. From the south, you can take NCDOT ferries from Swanquarter, NC and Cedar Island, NC to the village of Ocracoke on Ocracoke Island. The provided physical address is the location of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, roughly in the middle of the park.