Camping in Wilmington and Island Beaches
A unique way to experience the coast is by spending time at area campgrounds, or by pitching your tent on the beach. If beach camping is on your bucket list, a few areas nearby are accessible by four-wheel-drive. For the true adventurer, pack up and head out on kayak to camp on an uninhabited island. From cabins in the state park to pampered glamping experiences, even the unskilled outdoorsman can enjoy a camping adventure in Wilmington and our Island Beaches.
Beach Camping
Head to the shore of Carolina Beach to camp in Freeman Park. You’ll need a permit, four-wheel-drive vehicle and tent since no RV’s or camping trailers are allowed on the shore. Freeman Park is known for great swimming and fishing and is home to a variety of wildlife. Overnight reservations are required. If you’re staying in a hotel and just want to visit for the day, you can drive your four-wheel vehicle to the gate and purchase a day pass.
Overnight Kayaking Adventure
Rent a kayak and head out on a camping trip like no other. Book an overnight Masonboro Island camping package from Wrightsville Kayak Company. Each package comes with a tent, lanterns, comfy bedding, fire kits, coolers and more. The short jaunt to Masonboro Island from the mainland leaves plenty of time to explore for shells, fish, hike and more. For the more advanced outdoorsman, Mahanaim Adventures provides the gear for primitive kayak camping adventures along the Cape Fear River and Intracoastal Waterway.
CAMPING AT CAROLINA BEACH STATE PARK
If traditional camping is more your style, visit the campgrounds at Carolina Beach State Park. The park's family campground is in a wooded area near Snow's Cut waterway and has sites for traditional camping, RV and even wheelchair-accessible sites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and grill or fire ring. The campground features a nearby drinking water station and restroom facilities with hot showers. The park also has four camper cabins that can sleep six people. Spoil yourselves with the convenience of electrical outlets and heating and air-conditioning units.
If part of your camping party is looking for more traditional lodging options, check out the full list of the area’s full-service hotels, vacation rentals, boutique inns or bed and breakfasts found in Wilmington and our Island Beaches.
