Begin your RV vacation in North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands, a perfect year-round destination for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts and those seeking a laid-back coastal experience. The islands and towns offer scenic RV campsites that allow you to explore each area’s unique charm while staying close to the shore. Whether you’re into fishing, hiking or beachcombing, RV island hopping is the ideal way to take in the beauty of this coastal gem.
Sunset Beach: A Peaceful Start
Where to Stay: Brunswick Beaches Camping Resort offers spacious RV sites and amenities like a pool, making it a great base for your Sunset Beach exploration. Nearby, Wishing Well Family Campground offers a pet-friendly, quiet stay close to the beach.
Activities: Stroll along the Sunset Beach Pier to take in stunning views or cast a line for a quiet fishing day. Nature enthusiasts can visit Bird Island, a short walk from the pier, for an untouched natural habitat on Sunset Beach. While at Bird Island, stop by the Kindred Spirit Mailbox for a unique, reflective experience where visitors leave letters and notes in mailbox hidden among the dunes.
Calabash: The “Seafood Capital of the World”
Where to Stay: Captain Andy’s Campground in Calabash is ideal for RVers looking to stay close to the town’s renowned seafood restaurants. Hughes Family Campground offers a family-friendly, pet-welcoming experience near the heart of Calabash.
Activities: Indulge in Calabash-style seafood at local restaurants, famous for its lightly battered fried seafood. For RVers wanting to cook their own meal in true camping fashion, bring home a fresh catch after a trip on the water with a local fishing charter.
Ocean Isle Beach: Quiet Beachside Getaway
Where to Stay: Waterway Family Campground and Sea Mist Camping Resort in nearby Shallotte offer easy access to Ocean Isle Beach with pet-friendly amenities.
Activities: Spend the day on the beach and return to your RV for a poolside cookout or relaxation in the campground’s shaded areas. Active explorers can rent a bike to cruise the streets of Ocean Isle Beach, stopping for beach picnics or fishing along the shore. For a rainy-day option, visit the Museum of Coastal Carolina, then enjoy a cozy evening at your RV with board games or an outdoor movie.
Holden Beach: Family Fun
Where to Stay: In Holden Beach, the campsites at Holden Beach Pier are perfect for those wanting to be right next to the ocean. Nearby on the mainland, Seabreeze RV Park offers access to golf cart rentals, allowing you to easily explore the island’s beaches and surroundings. Holden Beach RV Park, Ocean Breeze Family Campground, and Green Oaks Campground also give you easy access to this family-friendly island’s fun activities.
Activities: Set up your RV and enjoy beachside activities like swimming, surf fishing and shell hunting. Water lovers will enjoy renting a kayak or paddleboard to venture into the coastal waterways, or pedal along the paved bike paths through the island. After an adventurous day, head to Bridgeview Park, where you can enjoy local events or set up a picnic near the water.
Oak Island and Caswell Beach: Coastal Adventures and History
Where to Stay: Oak Island Campground in nearby Southport is a fantastic spot for RVers wanting a quiet getaway with proximity to the beach.
Activities: After setting up your RV, head to the Oak Island Nature Center for a walking trail through the maritime forest or spend time birdwatching from the comfort of your campsite. Be sure to check the website as the Nature Center is open seasonally. A favorite activity on Caswell Beach is a tour of the Oak Island Lighthouse, where a journey to the top leads to panoramic views of the surrounding coast and marshlands. Bring your bikes and explore Oak Island’s quiet roads, ideal for a cycling adventure, or enjoy a meal by your RV after a day on the beach.
Southport: Coastal History and Laid-Back Charm
Where to Stay: Woodside RV Park offers a pet-friendly stay just a short drive from Southport’s historical landmarks and fishing spots, providing a serene base for RV camping.
Activities: Explore the town of Southport with its antique shops, waterfront parks, local museums and historical homes, or take a walking tour of the many famous sites for film and television. Southport’s waterfront is perfect for RVers who enjoy fishing and boat watching, with plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the views. Park your RV and hop on a ferry to Bald Head Island for a day of biking and exploring the island’s lighthouse, nature trails and historical sites.
Year-Round RV Island Hopping Bliss
NC’s Brunswick Islands offers RVers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and natural beauty, with activities suitable for any season. So, pack your bags, hitch up the RV and explore this stunning part of the North Carolina coast at your own pace! To begin planning your trip, please visit www.ncbrunswick.com and see our camping page here for each individual campground's contact information.