Carolina Beach State Park
00 review1010 State Park Rd., Carolina Beach, North Carolina, 28428, United States
Carolina Beach State Park
$5.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
A dump station fee of $20 was reported by a user review, previously noted as $5 in the past.
About this campground
Where ancient maritime forests meet tidal waters, Carolina Beach State Park beckons adventurers with its extraordinary tapestry of ecosystems. Home to the carnivorous Venus flytrap in its native habitat, this coastal sanctuary invites you to explore winding trails through diverse landscapes, cast a line from the full-service marina, or navigate the scenic Cape Fear River and Intracoastal Waterway. Whether you're seeking a peaceful paddle through cypress-lined creeks or hoping to glimpse rare plants found nowhere else on Earth, this remarkable park offers an unforgettable escape into one of North Carolina's most biodiverse treasures.
Carolina Beach State Park offers a variety of camping accommodations, including tent sites, RV sites with full hookups, and cabins. The park also provides group camping options.
Historical SignificanceRising majestically from the surrounding landscape, the iconic Sugarloaf Dune has guided river pilots along the Cape Fear for centuries, serving as a natural lighthouse for maritime navigation. This sandy sentinel stands as a testament to the park's rich nautical heritage, while the surrounding lands tell an even older story—one of rare botanical wonders and ecological marvels that have captivated naturalists and scientists for generations. The presence of endemic species like the Venus flytrap connects visitors to a prehistoric world, making every trail a journey through both natural and cultural history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Carolina Beach State Park's inviting climate year-round, where mild winters averaging 55°F give way to warm, vibrant summers reaching into the mid-80s. Summer afternoon thunderstorms bring dramatic skies and refreshing relief from the heat, nourishing the park's lush vegetation. The cooler, drier winter months offer crisp mornings perfect for hiking and exceptional wildlife viewing, while spring and fall deliver ideal conditions for camping under star-filled skies and exploring without the summer crowds.
ElevationThe park's crown jewel, Sugarloaf Dune, towers 50 feet above the surrounding terrain, offering adventurous hikers a rewarding climb to panoramic views of the Cape Fear River basin. This rare inland dune formation creates a dramatic contrast to the park's wetlands and forests below, providing a unique vantage point that reveals the stunning diversity of coastal Carolina habitats stretching to the horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living museum of coastal wonders where towering longleaf pines shelter secretive Venus flytraps, and mysterious limesink ponds reflect ancient cypresses draped in Spanish moss. Morning mists reveal white-tailed deer grazing in maritime meadows, while afternoons bring spectacular displays of pelicans and egrets fishing the tidal creeks. The park's three rare limesink ponds—Carolina bays formed by ancient geological processes—create windows into unique aquatic ecosystems, each supporting communities of plants and animals found in few other places on Earth.
Geological RegionNestled within North Carolina's fascinating South District, Carolina Beach State Park showcases a geological wonderland where ancient forces shaped today's stunning landscapes. The park's three enigmatic limesink ponds represent rare geological formations that support incredibly diverse plant communities, including the world-famous Venus flytrap. Combined with the remarkable Sugarloaf Dune—a testament to thousands of years of wind and water sculpting the land—these features create a outdoor classroom where visitors can witness the powerful forces that continue to shape our coastal environment.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described, but some users have noted that campsites are level and that the park rangers were attentive and helpful.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and well-shaded. "The sites are spacious and clean, and they all have a fire ring and table," said one user.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites provide a high level of privacy due to shrubbery and trees separating them. "Campsites are large and very private, surrounded by woods," noted a reviewer.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid Site #32 for privacy concerns and mosquito issues; consider Site #28 or cabins for more secluded options.
Best CampsitesSite #10 is described as long and private, while Site #28 is noted for its privacy. User reviews generally praise the layout and spacing of sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time is 4:00 PM, although exceptions are sometimes granted.
Check-out
Official check-out time is 10:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Users reported varying lengths of stays, but specifics about maximum consecutive nights were not detailed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- User reviews frequently described spacious sites with privacy
- however, exact guest limits were not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spacious, private, and surrounded by vegetation, as noted in user reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonThe park is operational year-round, as indicated by the combination of reviews across all seasons.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via the park's website or by calling the listed contact numbers.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews indicate that reservations are commonly used but do not specify the number of walk-up sites or fill patterns.
Cancellation PolicyThe park allows cancellations, but details and deadlines for penalty-free cancellations were not provided.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Carolina Beach State Park is bustling with activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the marina. "Tons of trails, kayaking, the beach is just a few miles away, and the marina is very close by," shared a user.
Hiking
Hiking trails are a highlight of the park. Trails are described as amazing, with opportunities to see Venus flytraps and pitcher plants. "The trails are amazing! Saw a Venus flytrap and beautiful pitcher plants," said one reviewer.Fishing
The marina provides excellent fishing opportunities. One user noted, "Nice fishing area."Biking
The park's proximity to beaches and town makes it accessible for bicycle rides. "Close proximity to Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, a short drive or bicycle ride," shared a user.Boating
The marina offers boating opportunities with access to the Cape Fear River and Intracoastal Waterway. "Has a full-service marina," noted a reviewer.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, egrets, and pelicans. "Lots of lovely trees and wildlife. We saw deer, egrets, pelicans," mentioned one user.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding rentals are available at the marina.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings with grills are provided. User reviews recommend morning fires due to bee activity.
- Quiet hours are 11:00 PM onward.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and large spiders are frequently noted in user reviews as discomforts, particularly during summer. Sewer system issues were highlighted in Site #10.
Active alertsThere were no current closures or advisories noted in the data.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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 were not explicitly detailed in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Good to know
Peak season datesExact peak season dates were not provided but user reviews suggest high traffic during summer months.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available on-site. "Accessible & regularly emptied recycling/trash," mentioned one review.
Proximity to water featuresThe park is adjacent to the Cape Fear River and the Intracoastal Waterway, featuring a marina.
Common complaintsLow water pressure at hookup sites, noise from generators, and mosquito prevalence were recurring themes in user reviews.
HostUsers found park staff to be friendly and helpful, although there were complaints about marina personnel being rude during check-in.
Campground Map
1010 State Park Rd., Carolina Beach, North Carolina, 28428, United States
Driving directionsCarolina Beach State Park is located off US 421 in New Hanover County on Dow Road, 10 miles south of Wilmington. From Raleigh, take Interstate 40 east. After approximately 122 miles, the interstate turns into NC 132. Continue south on NC 132, driving through Wilmington. US 421 will join NC 132; continue south on US 421. After driving across Snow's Cut Bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway, turn right at the second stoplight onto Dow Road, and follow the signs to the park entrance, which is on the right on State Park Road. Intracoastal Waterway, just past where Snow's Cut meets the Cape Fear River between Channel Marker 163 & 165.
The park is accessible via paved roads and is located close to major highways such as US 421 and Interstate 40. Snow's Cut Bridge provides access over the Intracoastal Waterway. No specific mention of seasonal closures or rough terrain was noted in authoritative sources.Nearby places
Wilmington: 12 miles south, approximately a 20-minute drive. Carolina Beach: Local amenities are within a few blocks.
Nearby supplies
The marina store within the park provides basic camping supplies such as wood and ice. User reviews also note proximity to grocery stores and restaurants a few blocks away in Carolina Beach.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Carolina Beach State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is highly praised for its privacy, cleanliness, and access to outdoor activities. Complaints include issues with low water pressure, bugs, and road noise.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the private, shaded campsites, clean facilities, and friendly staff. "We are staying in the Flytrap cabin which feels new with its pine interior," and "Campsites are large and very...
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Common Concerns
Complaints included low water pressure at some sites, generator noise, bugs (mosquitoes and spiders), and issues with the early gate-locking policy. "The mosquitoes are HANGRY!" noted one user, while...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray to combat the mosquitoes. Visit the marina for beautiful sunsets, and try to secure campsites away from potential generator noise.
Seasonal Insights
In summer, mosquitoes and humidity are significant issues. Winter offers a quieter experience but with less vegetation.
Camper Quotes
"The mosquitoes are HANGRY!" "Venus flytrap and beautiful pitcher plants." "The worst part of this is the early gate locking."
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #10 is described as long and private, but with very low water pressure. Site #28 is noted for its privacy, while Site #32 lacked privacy and had layout issues.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is not explicitly reviewed, but campsites are generally level, and staff are helpful.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are accommodating, and the campground is described as pet-friendly. "Supper dog friendly," noted one reviewer.
Last updated August 10, 2025