Summer is in full swing. With the weather and water getting warmer, there are lots of great beach days ahead of us — but what about beach nights?
It can be an attractive idea to pitch a tent, set up a bonfire, and camp on the beach, falling asleep to the sound of the waves. But as tempting as it might sound, you can’t do it just anywhere.
Whether or not you’re allowed to camp depends entirely on which beach you’re at, and local governments decide where people can and cannot sleep on the beach.
If you’re thinking of giving beach camping a try this summer, here’s what you need to know about doing it in North Carolina.
Is it illegal to camp on the beach in NC?
There isn’t one specific state law that governs camping on the beach in North Carolina. Instead, many beaches are managed by the local municipality, which can set rules about what is and is not allowed, including camping and fires.
Unfortunately for beach campers, the vast majority of beaches around Wilmington don’t let you sleep overnight on the beach and have ordinances prohibiting it. This also generally extends to a ban on open fires and cooking on the beach.
For instance, Surf City does not allow any camping directly on the beach. However, the Surf City Family Campground does offer tent and RV camping. While not directly on the beachfront, it’s still a good option if you’re looking to scratch the beach-camping itch.
Meanwhile, Freeman Park in Carolina Beach typically allows overnight camping from Labor Day to Memorial Day, though it’s prohibited in the summer due to crowds.
Even off-season camping has been suspended due to the beach nourishment taking place. Carolina Beach is currently waiting to see if beach camping can be reopened at Freeman Park after Labor Day.
When camping is available at Freeman Park, you must have a four-wheel-drive vehicle to drive on the beach. There are also regulations around campfires and dogs. There is a $50-per-night fee for a campsite permit.
Where are you allowed to beach camp around Wilmington?
Located off the south end of Wrightsville Beach, Masonboro Island Reserve is a pristine barrier island that is completely undeveloped. It’s also only reachable by boat. If you can get there, it’s one of the best places to hike, explore and beach camp.
Tents and campfires are allowed on Masonboro Island, though visitors must stay off the dunes, keep noise down, and attend their campfires while burning.
Carolina Beach State Park Campground
Carolina Beach State Park has campsites designated for recreational use. But the state park borders the Intracoastal Waterway, not the Atlantic Ocean, and the campsites don’t have direct water access. Still, it’s a great and affordable alternative to camping directly on the beach.
Campers can book a site through the park’s website. Campers should also be sure to pack out all trash, leftover food and litter as well as bring all wood and coal to the ash and put out campfires completely.
Reporting by Charlie Kingree, Wilmington StarNews / Wilmington StarNews
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
