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For Insiders who enjoy camping, the Crystal Coast is almost heaven. The area offers excellent camping opportunities, from rent-a-space RV sites with all the conveniences of home to tent camping with no conveniences at all.

Camping along the coast is popular almost year round because of the mild climate. Summer campers may need to create shade with tarps or overhangs to protect themselves from the hot sun.

Campers will find beach camping a little different from mainland camping. You will probably need longer tent stakes to hold things down in the sandy soil. Netting is almost a must, except in the dead of winter, to protect against the late-afternoon and early morning mosquitoes and no-see-ums, those barely visible flying insects that only make themselves known when they bite. A roaring fire and a good insect repellent also help. If you aren't fond of plastering yourself with pesticides, try mixing Avon's Skin-So-Soft with water and spraying it on. This mixture will fend off most insects, and it smells good too.

Primitive camping is available at Cape Lookout National Seashore, Bear Island and in the Croatan National Forest (see our Attractions chapter for more about the National Forest). There are no designated camping sites on Cape Lookout National Seashore, but camping is allowed everywhere except on a small amount of well-marked, privately owned land. Bear Island has quiet, secluded campsites. Croatan National Forest, which includes land in Carteret and Craven counties, offers two options. You can stay in one of the planned campgrounds or pitch a tent anywhere on National Forest land that isn't marked for private use.

Overnight fees vary and usually depend on the location (whether oceanfront or off the beaten path) and the facilities offered. Almost all the commercial campgrounds charge extra for more than two people at one site. Reservations are suggested. Full hookups typically include water, sewer and electricity. There is no charge to camp at Cape Lookout National Seashore or at some sites in Croatan National Forest.

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