Best Campgrounds on Hatteras Island, NC

Hatteras Island Campground Comparison

Hatteras Island is a barrier island off the coast of North Carolina. It is known for its beautiful beaches, Outer Banks lighthouses, and fishing. There are many campgrounds on Hatteras Island, offering a variety of amenities and activities.

The amenities offered by campgrounds on Hatteras Island vary. Some campgrounds have basic amenities, such as flush toilets and showers, while others have more luxurious amenities, such as pools and laundry facilities. Some campgrounds also have dump stations for RVs.

For novice or experienced RV'ers, make sure to have an RV checklist ready to make the most of your trip.

Cost of Renting a Vacation Home vs RV/Motorhome

While it sounds counter-intuitive, using RV camp sites with your own RV will actually cost you more than renting a private vacation home.  Here's an example comparing the cost of a motorhome at Cape Hatteras KOA to a 10BR beach home for 1 week in peak season, excluding taxes.

This would require multiple motorhomes to sleep as many people as the vacation home, so costs are shown per person.

Purchasing an RV

We'll assume the RV sleeps 6 and gets used at least 3 times per year:

• Cape Hatteras KOA site up to 6 people: $1,365/week ($227/person)
• Insurance ($1,500/yr), Maintenance ($4,000/yr), Storage ($1,200/yr): $6,700/yr ($372/person per trip)
• Financing a $70k RV: $687/mo or $8,244/yr ($458/person per trip)

Total cost to own an RV: $1,057/person

Renting a Vacation Home

Renting a vacation home is typically all-inclusive.  Lodging in a 10BR Vacation Home that sleeps 24 people in peak season will cost about $15,000 per week. This includes cleaning, linens, towels, etc.

• Vacation Home: $15,000/wk ($625/person)

Total cost to rent a vacation home: $625/person

Renting an RV

Renting an RV big enough to sleep 6 people in peak season costs about $250/night, or $1,750/week.

• Cape Hatteras KOA site up to 6 people: $1,365/week ($227/person)
• Rented RV: $1,750/wk ($291/person)

Total cost to rent an RV: $518/person

Cost Comparison

As you can see, owning an RV is more expensive than renting a private vacation home.  Even if you use the RV 6 weeks every year, owning an RV is still more expensive.

You could spend a little less by renting an RV, but then you'd have to consider the premium amenities included with a vacation home which you won't get with an RV, such as private pool, private hot tub, large group friendly dining, private game room, private theater room, private bathrooms, tiki bar, etc.

If fewer amenities are okay with you, then read on for a comparison of campgrounds on Hatteras Island and nearby.

Pet Friendly Campgrounds Near Outer Banks

The table below lists all pet friendly campgrounds in the Outer Banks on Hatteras Island.  Some campgrounds even have designated pet areas.

Remember to compare the cost of a pet friendly vacation home as you will often spend a similar amount of money sharing a pet friendly vacation home with with family and/or friends.  You'll also get better quality and private amenities with a vacation home.

Hatteras Island Campground Comparison

Here is a list of campgrounds in the Outer Banks and the amenities they offer:

Is Camping Right for You?

The best option for you will depend on your budget, your needs, and your preferences. While camping isn't a bad choice. If you are looking for more privacy and space, a vacation home is a better option. If you are traveling with a large group, a vacation home is usually the better option.  If the lowest price is most important, then consider tent camping.

Advantages of Renting an Outer Banks Vacation Home

There are many advantages to renting a vacation home instead of camping. Vacation homes offer more privacy and space than campgrounds. They also have more amenities, such as private bathrooms, private pools, private hot tubs, private game rooms, private theater rooms, and private washer and dryers. Vacation homes are also a good option for large groups, as they can accommodate more people than a campground and give your group much more privacy.

Crowded campground in Rodanthe, NC

Conclusion

There are many great campgrounds on Hatteras Island, NC. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or a higher end stay, there is a campground for everyone. When choosing a campground, be sure to factor in the amenities that are important to you, such as beach access, pool, and hot tub.

I hope this blog post has helped you plan your camping trip to Hatteras Island, NC. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Additional Information

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when planning your camping trip to Hatteras Island:

• Make your reservations early, especially if you are traveling during the peak season (May-September).
• Be sure to bring bug spray, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Pack for all types of weather, as the Outer Banks can experience both hot and cold weather.
• Be aware of the tides and currents, and never swim alone.
• Follow the traditional boy scout rule and leave things how you found them so there's no trace of your camping.

I hope you have a wonderful trip to Hatteras Island!