About Oregon Inlet Campground — Cape Hatteras NS
Camp directly on the Outer Banks barrier islands with Atlantic Ocean access from your doorstep. Cape Hatteras
is one of the world's great surf spots, a birding paradise during spring and fall migration, and home to the
iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse — the tallest brick lighthouse in the US.
Highlights
- Ocean surf fishing and swimming access
- World-class kiteboarding at Canadian Hole
- Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (7 mi south)
- Spring and fall shorebird migration viewing
- Wild ponies of Ocracoke Island (ferry access)
Directions & How to Get There
From Norfolk, VA: Take US-158 E to US-64 E, cross to Roanoke Island, then US-64 E to NC-12 S on Bodie Island,
approximately 2 hours. From Raleigh, NC: Take US-64 E to Roanoke Island, then south on NC-12, approximately 3.5
hours.
Nearby Attractions
- Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (7 mi)
- Bodie Island Lighthouse (2 mi)
- Pea Island NWR (9 mi)
- Canadian Hole kiteboarding (20 mi)
- Ocracoke Island by ferry (50+ mi south)
Insider Tips
- 4WD vehicles can drive on the beach south of Ramp 27 with a free permit
- Outer Banks weather changes rapidly — check forecasts before arriving
- Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be brutal in summer evenings
- Cape Hatteras Lighthouse climb is a must-do (limited capacity tickets)
Best Time to Visit
Best months: April–June, September–October
Season: April–October
Access difficulty: Easy access
What to Pack for North Carolina Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route