Cruising the North Carolina Coast on an RV Road Trip

With 301 miles of coastline, North Carolina is an RVer’s dream destination. It offers seemingly endless scenic byways, beachfront campsites, fresh seafood, and maritime adventures. From the northern tip of the Outer Banks all the way to the quiet harbors of Southport, you’ll discover historic seaside towns, wild natural beauty, and laid-back Southern hospitality as you cruise the North Carolina coast.

Nine Quintessential Stops for Your North Carolina Coastal Road Trip

1. Corolla

Your North Carolina coast adventure kicks off in the northern Outer Banks, where Corolla sets the tone with wide beaches and wild mustangs. These mustangs have freely roamed the dunes for centuries and are best seen via a guided 4×4 tour.

Outer Banks West/Currituck Sound KOA offers full hookups, beach access, and complimentary boat and van shuttles.

2. Kitty Hawk & Nags Head

As you head south along the North Carolina coast to Kitty Hawk and Nags Head, history rises from the dunes. Stand on the very ground where aviation took flight when you visit the Wright Brothers National Monument. At Jockey’s Ridge State Park, you can see the tallest natural sand dune on the East Coast.

Ocean Waves Campground provides full hookup sites with ocean views and is just one mile from the fishing pier.

3. Roanoke Island

Home to the lost colony, Roanoke Island combines a rich history with a cozy small-town vibe. Stroll Manteo’s waterfront downtown and explore the Elizabethan Gardens for a glimpse of Old World elegance alongside Southern blooms.

The Refuge on Roanoke Island offers full hookups, a pool, and waterfront views.

4. Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Back on the Outer Banks Scenic Byway, your journey along the North Carolina coast continues south to Cape Hatteras. The national seashore here is wild and windswept, with beaches perfect for kiteboarding, fishing, and beachcombing. The iconic black-and-white Cape Hatteras Lighthouse stands as a beacon of the seafaring heritage that defines the region.

Cape Point Campground offers same-day reservations and a location that puts you within walking distance of the East Coast’s best fishing and surfing.

5. Ocracoke Island

This remote barrier island is accessible only by ferry and is well worth the detour. Its quaint village atmosphere is home to several local art galleries and local seafood that rivals any fine dining experience.

Managed by the National Park Service, Ocracoke Campground offers rustic sites close to the water and stars.

6. Beaufort

One of North Carolina’s oldest towns, Beaufort, is consistently named one of America’s Coolest Small Towns.” With colonial-era homes and a scenic harbor that once welcomed pirates, it’s the perfect place to slow down and take in the local history. Be sure to take a boat tour to see the wild horses of nearby Shackleford Banks.

Nearby Goose Creek Resort offers full hookups with a relaxing atmosphere minutes from the ocean.

7. Morehead City & Atlantic Beach

Just a bit further south along the North Carolina coast are Morehead City and Atlantic Beach. These twin towns offer a lively coastal vibe with fishing piers, beach bars, and festivals. It’s an ideal location to enjoy long afternoons in the surf followed by delicious crab cakes.

Emerald Isle RV Resort provides direct beach access and RV sites with full hookups.

8. Wilmington

As you continue even further south, the landscape becomes more lush and the towns more tranquil. The historic port city of Wilmington features charming cobblestone streets and a vibrant riverfront filled with breweries, shops, and Southern cuisine. Visit the USS North Carolina battleship or enjoy a sunset cruise along the Cape Fear River.

With full hookups, Wilmington KOA Holiday provides stunning outdoor views in close proximity to the lively downtown area.

9. Southport

Your journey along the North Carolina coast ends in Southport, a sleepy harbor town known for its oak-lined streets, friendly residents, and ferry access to Bald Head Island. It’s an ideal place to slow down and relax before heading home.

Woodside RV Park offers full hookups in a serene atmosphere just minutes from the beach.

Tips Before You Go

Coastal campgrounds fill quickly – especially during the summer – so be sure to book early. RV space can also be limited on ferry crossings, so plan ahead. And be sure to check local weather forecasts, especially during hurricane season. Spring and early fall offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and a truly relaxed coastal experience.

Travel the North Carolina Coast with DuraFlap

An RV road trip along the North Carolina coast invites you to slow down and savor every mile. Keep your RV or tow rig protected along every one of those miles with DuraFlap.

Designed to offer the most protection, our custom mud flaps are made right here in the USA to your specifications. Whether you choose our Classic Line mud flaps or our newer BlackLine, you’ll know your vehicle is getting the most protection from the dents and dings that can come from the road. Visit our website to learn more, then get ready to discover new shores as you cruise the North Carolina coast.