204
Total Campsites
Campground
202
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
4
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Cape Point Campground
Overview Cape Point Campground sites have a shortened reservation window. Due to the ground saturation and potential for flooding we encourage you to check the sites prior to paying. Cape Point Campground is centrally located to all of the attractions on Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The campground puts you within walking distance of arguably the best fishing and surfing on the east coast. Recreation A short walk through the dunes leads you to the beach at the infamous Cape Hatteras. Many trophy fish have been landed from the point, and it has been a surfing destination for decades. If you prefer to drive to the beach you can access one of the many off-road vehicle ramps within a short distance of the campground. Exploration of the barrier islands beyond their beaches is possible on a hike through the nearby maritime forest. The Buxton Woods Trail is a 3/4 mile loop that can be accessed just north of the campground at the Buxton Woods Picnic Area on Lighthouse Road. Facilities A short walk through the dunes leads you to the beach at the infamous Cape Hatteras. Many trophy fish have been landed from the point, and it has been a surfing destination for decades. If you prefer to drive to the beach you can access one of the many off-road vehicle ramps within a short distance of the campground. Exploration of the barrier islands beyond their beaches is possible on a hike through the nearby maritime forest. The Buxton Woods Trail is a 3/4 mile loop that can be accessed just north of the campground at the Buxton Woods Picnic Area on Lighthouse Road. Natural Features The campground is nestled between rolling dunes to the south and the largest remaining tract of maritime forest on the North Carolina coast to the north. The environment is naturally suited to accommodate many bird and mammal species. A large heard of white tail deer frequent the area. Nearby Attractions The iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is located just north of Cape Point Campground on Lighthouse Road next to the Visitor Center. Standing at 198 feet, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States. It has undoubtedly saved the lives of many mariners navigating around the treacherous Diamond Shoals. The Museum of the Sea is also located near the Visitor Center within the shadow of the lighthouse. The museum's operating hours vary with the season. Buxton Beach is a family friendly swimming destination staffed with lifeguards from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It is a short walk or bike ride from the campground. Parking is available at the old lighthouse site adjacent to the current location of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. contact_info For facility specific information, please call (252) 475-9054.
- 204 total campsites listed.
- 202 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- 4 accessible campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (153).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes Cape Point Campground special
Few campgrounds in America place you so directly in the path of wild, untamed coastline as Cape Point Campground. Perched on the elbow of Cape Hatteras National Seashore in Buxton, North Carolina, this 204-site campground sits where the Atlantic Ocean and the warmer Gulf Stream waters collide, creating some of the best surf fishing on the East Coast. The landscape is raw and elemental — low dunes, salt spray, and wide-open skies that deliver legendary sunrises and sunsets in equal measure. Cape Point is a seasonal campground, and its reservation window is notably shorter than most National Park Service sites due to the ever-present reality of ground saturation and coastal flooding. This is barrier island camping at its most honest: plan for wind, pack your sand stakes, and embrace the elements. Sites are open and unshaded, so bring sun protection and be prepared for the occasional nor'easter that reminds you nature is in charge here. Beyond fishing, the Outer Banks offer the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, excellent birding, and kayaking through the Pamlico Sound. Book early when reservations open — Cape Point fills fast among anglers and beach campers who know the magic of sleeping steps from the Atlantic. Late spring and early fall offer the best balance of weather and availability.
Campsite Inventory
204 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
153
Reservable
4
Accessible
TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC
49
Reservable
0
Accessible
MANAGEMENT
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
ACCESSIBLE CAMPSITES
Accessible Campsites
ACCESSIBLE DRINKING WATER
Accessible Drinking Water
ACCESSIBLE FLUSH TOILETS
Accessible Flush Toilets
ACCESSIBLE GRILLS
Accessible Grills
ACCESSIBLE PARKING
Accessible Parking
ACCESSIBLE PICNIC AREA
Accessible Picnic Area
ACCESSIBLE SHOWERS
Accessible Showers
ACCESSIBLE SITES
Accessible Sites
Accessibility
Yes
BBQ
Yes
BEACH ACCESS
Beach Access
CELL PHONE SERVICE
Cell Phone Service
Campfire Allowed
No
Check-in time
03:00 PM, 0:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM
Check-out time
0:00 PM, 12:00 PM
Condition Rating
Good
Driveway entry
Parallel
Driveway Grade
N/A, Slight
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
252-465-9602 OR 252-475-9616
Getting There
North (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 until you reach the village of Buxton. Signs for Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and Cape Point Campground will be on your left. Follow Lighthouse Road until you reach Cape Point Campground on your right. 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 until you reach the village of Buxton. Signs for Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and Cape Point Campground will be on your left. Follow Lighthouse Road until you reach Cape Point Campground on your right. 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 until you reach the village of Buxton. Signs for Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and Cape Point Campground will be on your left. Follow Lighthouse Road until you reach Cape Point Campground on your right.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Cape Point Campground.
How do reservations work for Cape Point Campground?
Reservation availability for Cape Point Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Cape Point Campground?
Cape Point Campground currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (153), TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC (49), MANAGEMENT (2).
Where is Cape Point Campground located?
Cape Point Campground is in North Carolina near Buxton. Coordinates: 35.2362, -75.9225.
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