Cape Point Campground
4.25241 reviews46700 Lighthouse Road, Buxton, NC, 27920, USA
Cape Point Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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 $20. Reservations are required and can only be made through Recreation.gov. Additional fees include a $10 cancellation fee and any applicable reservation service fees ($8 online, $9 via call center).
About this campground
Where the Atlantic Ocean meets endless sky, Cape Point Campground reigns as the crown jewel of Cape Hatteras National Seashore. This expansive coastal haven weaves through a captivating landscape where windswept sand dunes give way to ancient maritime forests. Surfers chase perfect waves at dawn while anglers cast lines into the churning surf, all within steps of your campsite. Whether you choose a sun-drenched spot among the dunes or seek shelter in the forest's embrace, Cape Point offers an authentic Outer Banks experience where the rhythm of the tides sets the pace for unforgettable adventures.
Cape Point Campground offers a mix of standard non-electric campsites and tent-only non-electric sites. It is described as a primitive campground without modern hookups.
Historical SignificanceIn the shadow of America's tallest brick lighthouse, Cape Point Campground sits at the crossroads of maritime legend and history. The iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse has guided countless vessels through the treacherous Diamond Shoals, earning this stretch of coast its ominous nickname: the Graveyard of the Atlantic. Today, visitors can climb the lighthouse's spiraling stairs and explore the nearby Museum of the Sea, where centuries of nautical heritage come alive through shipwreck artifacts and tales of brave lighthouse keepers who once called this wild coast home.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature paints Cape Point with dramatic brushstrokes throughout the year. Summer arrives with sultry temperatures and ocean breezes that carry the salt-sweet scent of the sea, while autumn transforms the landscape into a windswept paradise perfect for kite flying and beachcombing. The maritime climate brings its share of drama—sudden afternoon thunderstorms can flood low-lying areas, turning sandy paths into temporary streams. Wise campers come prepared for nature's mood swings, knowing that each season offers its own coastal magic.
ElevationPerched at sea level where land barely rises above the waves, Cape Point Campground offers an intimate connection with the ocean's moods. This low-lying landscape means campers experience the raw power of coastal storms firsthand, as rainwater pools and flows across the sandy terrain, creating ephemeral wetlands that attract shorebirds and remind visitors of nature's constant reshaping of these barrier islands.
Natural Features and SceneryA natural amphitheater of rolling sand dunes and windswept maritime forest creates a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures at Cape Point. White-tailed deer emerge from the twisted live oaks at twilight, while cottontail rabbits dart between sea oats swaying in the ocean breeze. Overhead, brown pelicans glide in formation as ospreys circle their towering nests. This dynamic ecosystem shifts with each tide and season, offering campers front-row seats to one of the East Coast's most spectacular natural performances.
Geological RegionCape Point Campground occupies a remarkable position on the Outer Banks' ever-shifting barrier islands, where geological forces create a landscape in constant motion. These sandy ribbons of land, sculpted by millennia of wind and waves, protect the mainland while hosting the largest surviving maritime forest on the North Carolina coast. The campground's rolling dunes tell the story of an ancient battle between land and sea, where each grain of sand has traveled countless miles to create this extraordinary coastal wilderness that continues to evolve with every storm and tide.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, accessible drinking water, and accessible restrooms are available.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and flat. "The pads were flat and grassy, and it’s hard to beat the location."
Sites PrivacySites are not heavily shaded or secluded, as the campground is open with limited vegetation between sites. "The campground is basically a field with zero privacy."
Total Campsites200 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites prone to flooding after rain, particularly in Loops K and J. Opt for dry sites closer to the entrance during wet conditions.
Best CampsitesSites with views of Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, such as Loop K sites, are highly recommended.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in available after 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 10:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Campers may stay up to 14 consecutive nights between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Outside of this period, stays may extend up to 99 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates up to 6 people, a maximum of 2 cars, or 1 car and 1 trailer.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized into loops (D, E, F, G, etc.), offering tent-only sites in specific rows. Sites are paved with ample grassy areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 29, 2025 - November 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can only be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityCape Point Campground does not offer walk-up availability. Reservations must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before midnight on the day prior to check-in are subject to a $10 fee and loss of the first night's recreation fee. Late cancellations for one-night reservations forfeit the entire amount paid.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cape Point Campground offers beach access, fishing, surfing, and hiking opportunities nearby. "The beach was extensive and scenic," and visitors frequently highlight its appeal for fishing and wildlife viewing. The location is ideal for observing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and enjoying ocean-front activities.
Hiking
Hiking options include a short walk to the beach and the nearby Buxton Woods Trail, a 3/4-mile loop trail that is accessible just north of the campground.Fishing
The campground is renowned for its proximity to some of the best fishing on the East Coast. "Best campground on the East Coast for surfing and fishing!" Many anglers visit to fish for trophy species such as red drum.Swimming
Swimming is possible at nearby Buxton Beach, a lifeguarded area during the summer season.Biking
The campground's flat terrain and proximity to local attractions make it suitable for biking. Visitors note: "Biking to the lighthouse or to the main road is easy."Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to deer, rabbits, and various bird species. "We enjoyed watching the deer and other wildlife that roam the campground freely."Beach activities
Beach-related activities include walking, sunbathing, and shell collecting. "Amazing shells on the beach."Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led programs are available, including stargazing and educational talks. "The stargazing stories by the Rangers on the beach at night were magical."Winter Activities
No specific winter activities noted.Water Sports
Surfing is a popular water sport at the nearby beach, which has been a surfing destination for decades.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood fires are prohibited; only charcoal fires are allowed in grills or stoves.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFlooding is a frequent issue, especially during heavy rainfall. Mosquitoes are prevalent in summer. Wildlife such as deer and snakes frequent the area.
Active alertsDuring heavy rain or high tides, flooding may close sections of the campground. Visitors are advised to check conditions before arrival.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 13.2 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 closest emergency services are located in the village of Buxton, NC, approximately 2 miles away. This includes medical clinics and local law enforcement.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 26, 2025 - September 6, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available and include large dumpsters conveniently located around the campground.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Atlantic Ocean with easy access to Cape Hatteras beaches and nearby Buxton Woods trails.
Common complaintsFrequent flooding, lack of hot water in showers, and limited staff availability are recurring issues in user reviews. Many also note poor reservation systems.
HostHosts or rangers are not always available at the campground, leading to limited on-site assistance.
Campground Map
46700 Lighthouse Road, Buxton, NC, 27920, USA
Driving directionsNorth (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.
Road access to Cape Point Campground is fully paved and accessible year-round, but visitors should note the campground is in a low-lying area prone to flooding after heavy rains. Seasonal factors, such as hurricanes or high tides, may temporarily affect accessibility.Nearby places
Buxton, NC (2 miles, 5 minutes)
Avon, NC (10 miles, 15 minutes)
Nags Head, NC (53 miles, 1 hour)
Manteo, NC (55 miles, 1 hour, 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be purchased in Buxton, NC, which is 2 miles from the campground. Larger stores and additional resources are available in Avon, NC, 10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
241 reviews
Cape Point Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Visitor reviews are highly polarized, with some praising the campground's proximity to the beach and affordability, while others criticize the frequent flooding and lack of amenities such as hot water and hookups. "It’s a beautiful and quiet location, especially at night, with a view of the stars and the Cape Hatteras lighthouse."
Review Summaries
Based on 241 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean and spacious sites, proximity to the beach and lighthouse, and peaceful surroundings. Many visitors also appreciated the affordable pricing at $20 per night.
Based on 241 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent flooding, mosquito infestations, lack of hot water, and minimal shade are common complaints. "The campground is in a low-lying area prone to flooding after rains."
Based on 241 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and be prepared for standing water in some sites. Early reservations or checking site conditions in person is recommended due to flooding tendencies.
Based on 241 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Visitors in the summer appreciate the cool ocean breeze and clean facilities but report bugs and high heat. Fall and winter visitors enjoy quietness and fewer bugs, but flooding remains an issue...
Based on 241 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Bathrooms and showers were clean. Camping area was well maintained." "Flooded. Awful online options to change or cancel reservations." "Great bang for the buck. Expectations set correctly by...
Based on 241 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loop K: Frequently reported as quieter; Loop J: Noted for proximity to the beach; Loop D: Some sites are prone to flooding.
Based on 241 reviewsAccessibility Features
Visitors with disabilities benefit from accessible facilities, but issues like flooding and lack of paths to restrooms from some sites are concerns.
Based on 241 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. "Dogs loved it!"
Based on 241 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025