Cape Point Campground is the National Park Service campground closest to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the legendary surf-fishing waters of Cape Point itself. With 202 sites, it’s the largest NPS campground on the OBX and the most coveted base for serious anglers and lighthouse pilgrims.
Quick Facts
- Type: NPS, no hookups
- Location: Buxton, NC (Hatteras Island)
- Sites: 202
- Open: Seasonal (typically late spring through fall)
- Reservations: Recreation.gov, 6-month rolling window
Why Stay at Cape Point
Cape Point Campground is the gateway to two of the most iconic locations on the East Coast: the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (the tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S.) and Cape Point itself, where the Labrador Current meets the Gulf Stream and creates one of the world’s premier surf-fishing destinations. The campground is a short bike ride from the lighthouse and a 4×4 drive from the Point.
Sites and Hookups
No hookups. Sites are dry — bring your fresh water full and your gray/black tanks empty. There’s a dump station on site and potable water spigots. Sites accommodate a wide range of rig sizes; check Recreation.gov for individual site dimensions before booking.
What’s Nearby
- Cape Hatteras Lighthouse — bike or short drive
- Cape Point — 4×4 access only, world-class surf fishing
- Buxton village — restaurants, grocery, propane, gas
- Buxton Woods Coastal Reserve — hiking trails through maritime forest
Booking Strategy
Reservations open 6 months in advance at 10:00 a.m. ET on Recreation.gov. Cape Point books fast in summer — set a calendar alert for the day your target dates open. Shoulder season (May, September, October) is much more flexible. The campground is generally seasonal; check current operating dates before planning a winter trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there hookups at Cape Point?
No — all sites are dry. Use the on-site dump station and potable water spigots.
Can I drive to Cape Point from the campground?
Cape Point itself is 4×4-only — you’ll need an NPS ORV permit and a 4WD vehicle. RVs cannot drive on the beach. See our beach driving guide.
Is the lighthouse open to climb?
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse climbs are seasonal and have undergone restoration in recent years. Check current NPS schedules before planning a climb.
How is cell service at Cape Point?
Workable but weak. Bring a hotspot if you need reliable data, and don’t count on streaming.