Frisco Campground
4.54116 reviews53415 Billy Mitchell Road
Frisco Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for standard nonelectric sites is $28. Payments must be made through Recreation.gov, and a reservation service fee applies: $8 online, $9 via the contact center, and $3 in person. Change fees are $10, and cancellation fees include a $10 charge and withholding of reservation fees.
About this campground
Perched atop windswept dunes along the legendary Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Frisco Campground beckons adventurers to a coastal paradise where Atlantic breezes whisper through maritime forests. Here, campers wake to panoramic ocean vistas from elevated sites tucked among dense coastal vegetation, creating intimate retreats just steps from world-class surf breaks. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, riding the waves at midday, or watching the sun paint the sky from your dune-top perch, this cherished campground weaves together the raw beauty of the Outer Banks with the comfort of thoughtfully designed camping spaces.
Frisco Campground accommodates both tent and RV campers, with designated sites for each. Group camping options are not mentioned, and no cabin or glamping facilities are available.
Historical SignificanceCamping at Frisco means becoming part of a storied maritime legacy that has shaped the Outer Banks for centuries. Just north stands the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, America's tallest brick beacon, whose remarkable 2,900-foot journey inland in 1999 captured the world's imagination. The campground itself embodies the enduring spirit of this seafaring coast, where generations of families have gathered to celebrate the unique culture born from the meeting of land and sea—a heritage of lighthouse keepers, surfcasters, and coastal wanderers who understand the magnetic pull of these barrier islands.
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythm of seasons at Frisco brings its own rewards for the discerning camper. Summer days arrive with warm sunshine and refreshing ocean breezes, though savvy visitors come prepared for the seasonal appearance of coastal insects. As autumn unfolds, the campground transforms into a haven of perfect camping weather—October emerges as the crown jewel of the camping calendar, when crisp air replaces summer's humidity, bothersome bugs retreat, and the Atlantic's moods create dramatic seascapes under crystal-clear skies.
ElevationRising from the shifting sands, Frisco's elevated dune system creates a natural amphitheater of camping experiences. These gentle heights not only frame breathtaking ocean panoramas but also craft secluded pockets of privacy, where each campsite feels like its own coastal sanctuary wrapped in the embrace of protective dunes.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has sculpted Frisco Campground into a masterpiece of coastal camping, where undulating dunes create a dynamic landscape of discovery. Dense thickets of wax myrtle, yaupon holly, and sea oats form natural privacy screens between sites, while breaks in the vegetation reveal the endless blue horizon of the Atlantic. This tapestry of rolling hills dressed in coastal flora creates an ever-changing canvas—morning light filtering through maritime forest canopies, afternoon shadows dancing across sandy paths, and evening skies reflecting off the nearby ocean waters.
Geological RegionFrisco Campground occupies a privileged position on the dynamic barrier islands of North Carolina's Outer Banks, where the relentless Atlantic has sculpted a landscape of remarkable beauty and ecological importance. This slender ribbon of sand, part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, showcases nature's architectural prowess through its system of rolling dunes stabilized by tenacious coastal vegetation. Here, the ancient dance between wind, water, and sand continues to shape a geological wonder that serves as both playground and classroom for those who venture to this edge of the continent.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible campsites, restrooms, and water facilities. Boardwalks facilitate beach access for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally spacious, accommodating tents and RVs up to 27 feet. Specific site dimensions may vary, with some sites described as "a bit tight for larger setups."
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy due to dense vegetation and dune placement. "The tent spots in the shade, the well-appointed facilities, and the helpful hosts make Frisco the perfect spot."
Total Campsites99 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOcean-view sites and shaded areas are highly recommended. Campers should avoid sites near vehicle traffic loops for quieter experiences.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated sites include P068 for its ocean views, P060 for privacy, and B007 for proximity to facilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to a total of 14 days during peak summer season (Memorial Day through Labor Day). A maximum of 99 nights can be booked annually.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of 6 guests are allowed per site, which may include up to 2 cars or 1 car and 1 trailer, and a maximum of 2 tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops (e.g., A, P, F), with sites varying in privacy and elevation. Some loops are close to facilities, while others offer ocean views.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates from March 29, 2025, to November 30, 2025, with reservations available starting June 21, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made exclusively through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up reservations are allowed on a same-day basis depending on site availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed before the scheduled arrival date, subject to a $10 fee and withholding of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. Modifications to reservations incur a $10 fee for date changes.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Frisco Campground offers a variety of activities tailored to nature and beach enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and beachcombing. Off-road vehicle (ORV) access ramps are also available for beach driving, with permits. "Beach access is a highlight of the campground," and some campers also appreciated stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution.
Hiking
The campground features boardwalks and trails that provide easy access to the beach and surrounding dunes. While not extensive, these paths offer scenic views of the ocean and dunes.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the adjacent beach. Campers frequently mentioned bringing fishing gear as part of their experience.Swimming
Swimming is available at the nearby beach, accessible via boardwalks from the campground. "The beach/boardwalk is about a 10-15 minute walk," one camper noted.Biking
Biking is feasible within the campground and along nearby roads, but some campers noted that biking on the beach itself can be challenging due to soft sand.Wildlife viewing
The campground's natural setting provides opportunities for spotting local wildlife, though no specific species were mentioned.Beach activities
Beach-related activities like surfing, sunbathing, and beachcombing are popular among visitors. "Boardwalks from the campground to the beach give pedestrians easy access to enjoy activities such as surfing, swimming, and fishing."Winter Activities
No winter recreation options were highlighted, as the campground operates seasonally from March to November.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like surfing and kayaking are available on the beach.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood fires are prohibited. Only charcoal cooking fires in grills or stoves are permitted.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards include biting insects like mosquitoes and sand spurs/cactus on grassy areas. Weather extremes such as strong coastal winds may impact camping conditions.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 13.3 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are located in Buxton (~4 miles away), which includes medical facilities, police stations, and ranger services.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is from March 29, 2025, to November 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingDumpsters and a recycling center are located at the entrance of the campground. However, some campers expressed disappointment in the lack of dedicated recycling bins at individual sites.
Proximity to water featuresFrisco Campground is directly connected to the beach, accessible via wooden boardwalks. Visitors can enjoy surfing, swimming, and fishing activities.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include cold showers, biting insects, sand spurs, and proximity to vehicle traffic in some campsites.
HostHosts are generally helpful and responsive, although some users reported hosts being unavailable during certain periods.
Campground Map
53415 Billy Mitchell Road
Driving directionsTo reach Frisco Campground, follow these directions: North (From Richmond, VA): Take I-95 South to Richmond, then I-64 East towards Norfolk/Virginia Beach. From I-64, take Exit 291B to Route 168, the Chesapeake Expressway (a toll-road costing $3.00-$6.00). Route 168 changes into US-158 East in North Carolina. Follow US-158 East, continue on NC-12 South through Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, and Buxton. Turn left on Billy Mitchell Road and proceed to the campground. West (From Rocky Mount, NC): Follow US-64 East through Tarboro, Williamston, Plymouth, Columbia, and Manteo. Continue on US-64 East to Nags Head, NC, then NC-12 South. Drive through Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, and Buxton. Turn left on Billy Mitchell Road to reach the campground. South (From Florence, SC): Take I-95 North to Wilson, NC, then US-264 East through Greenville and Washington, NC. Follow US-64 East through Manteo to NC-12 South. Continue through the villages of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, and Buxton. Turn left on Billy Mitchell Road to arrive at the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, including NC-12 South. Route 168 includes a toll road costing $3.00-$6.00 each way. Roads are well-marked and travel through scenic villages and coastal areas. Seasonal closures or extreme weather could impact accessibility.Nearby places
Nearby cities include Rodanthe (~20 miles), Waves (~22 miles), Salvo (~24 miles), Avon (~8 miles), Buxton (~4 miles), and Hatteras (~5 miles). Travel times vary based on road conditions and traffic.
Nearby supplies
Campers can find groceries and supplies at local stores in Buxton (~4 miles away) and Hatteras (~5 miles away). Fuel stations and camping goods are available in these villages.
Camper Reviews
4.5
116 reviews
Frisco Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Frisco Campground are largely positive, with an average sentiment of 4.39. Highlights include the campground's cleanliness, proximity to the beach, and natural beauty. Common complaints pertain to the lack of hot water in showers, sand spurs, and occasional loud or disruptive campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 116 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the privacy offered by dense vegetation, ocean views from select sites, and the accessibility of the beach via boardwalks. "This place is so nice, I never wanted to leave," reflects...
Based on 116 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include the prevalence of sand spurs and cacti, which can be painful for pets and humans alike, and the cold-only showers. "The sand spurs were out of control. My dog suffered several,"...
Based on 116 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing bug spray due to mosquitoes, and thick-soled shoes to navigate areas with sand spurs and cacti. Many recommend booking ocean-view sites well in advance.
Based on 116 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that mosquitoes and sand spurs are more problematic during summer months. October is highlighted as an ideal time due to fewer bugs and comfortable weather.
Based on 116 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This is a very well-kept campground in an ideal location on the Outer Banks." - Robert H. "Cold showers felt great after hot beach days." - Amy D.
Based on 116 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific campsites like P068 and A009 received negative feedback due to sand spurs and mosquito concentrations. Other sites like P065 were highly praised for privacy and scenic views.
Based on 116 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews from users with disabilities were noted.
Based on 116 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews highlight challenges for pet owners due to sand spurs and cacti. "If you have a dog, think twice about this campground," one camper advised.
Based on 116 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025