Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Review of Camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness with RVshare

Welcome to the Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort Sign

The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort offers guests a unique camping experience in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort. The resort compromises 700 wooded acres of cypress and pine forest and features around 800 campsites, each equipped with picnic tables, charcoal grills, and access to water and electrical hookups. The campsites available for guests are spread out on 21 camping loops and includes sites designed for tents, popup campers, full hookup sites and preferred or premium sites giving more room and a closer location to the amenities. In addition to these options Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort also, has rental cabins on property.

Using RV Share
Over all it was a dream come true to go camping at Walt Disney World and you can have it too even if you don’t own a RV by using RV Share. No matter what type of RV you choose camping at Walt Disney World will be memorable and fun.

Using RVshare at Disney

It has been a dream to camp at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, but even after buying my own RV I really didn’t want the expense or hassle of traveling with it over 1,500 miles to Walt Disney World. Then I was introduced to RVshare. You can think of RVshare as an AirBnB, but for camping where you can rent someone else’s RV. There are many different RV choices to pick from including towable, drivable or delivery. For this trip I opted for delivery directly to the Campground at Disney’s Fort Wilderness so I didn’t have to worry with moving the unit around or setting anything up. I just wanted to arrive and checkin.

Booking with RVshare was a breeze and each listing had so much information to help me make the right decision. RVshare also, has live agents that can help you book your trip and give you ideas if you need it. For the price of one night at some the Walt Disney World Resorts during the same dates I booked three nights at the Fort Wilderness Campground with a RVshare rental including setup/breakdown and delivery!

The choices I made with RVshare allowed me to have a RV that was walk-in ready. All I needed was to bring my luggage and necessities.

When booking a RV with RVshare you will need to decide on a few things for example if you want the owner to furnish the linens or to deliver the RV to a certain location or set/breakdown the RV for you. Each owners may offer different options and prices with their unit. The choices I made allowed me to have a RV that was walk-in ready. All I needed was to bring my luggage and necessities. This experience was like checking into a hotel and how I had hoped it would be. You may have different requirements for your needs and vacation making your cost different than mine.

Checking Into the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

The RV owner I worked with advised me to select early checkin to the Campgrounds at Disney’s Fort Wilderness. I prepaid my Walt Disney World Resort reservation and completed checkin on the My Disney Experience app requesting a before 7:30am checkin weeks prior to arrival. On the day of arrival the RV owner had also, instructed me to call the campground for a campsite number at 7am. Getting a campsite assigned that early isn’t guaranteed and in my case I wasn’t assigned a campsite until around 2:30pm.

map of the campground at Walt Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort
The map of the campground at Walt Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort is accurate in the fact that the area is HUGE and laid out.

After being assigned a campsite number in the 1800s loop I conveyed it to the RV owner and he brought over the RV and got it setup by 5pm. If you are planning to explore the campground while you wait for your RV delivery or plan to use the amenities you are going to want to rent a golf cart either from your RV owner if they offer one or the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. I like to walk, but the campground is HUGE and without some sort of transportation (golf cart, bikes ect) you won’t be able to get around to everything. Using a personal vehicle is limited because of where you can drive them vs a golf cart and bike path access.

Golf Carts Fort Wilderness Resort Disney WorldTIP: without some sort of transportation (golf cart, bikes ect) you won’t be able to get around to everything at the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

Don’t expect to get to your campsite early and make a plan of what you will do while you wait at the campground or make plans to go to Disney Springs or the parks the day of your arrival. You can always go to the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and park your vehicle at the campground and use Disney transportation. You could even hop a boat from the dock and go check out some of the other resorts around Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon or make a dinning reservation for one of the resort’s restaurants. There is plenty to keep you and your family occupied while you wait to get into your RV. If you are flying and didn’t rent a vehicle at the airport you can also, easily get the campground to store your luggage for you while you go explore.

Amenities at the Campground at Disney’s Fort Wilderness

The 50th Anniversary Walt Disney World Electrical Water Pageant made its way to the campground around at 9:45pm and was a highlight of my stay!

Guests of the Campgrounds at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including horseback riding, fishing, and archery for a fee. Plus, the resort is just a short boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom entrance. I didn’t partake in any of the amenities during this trip, but have gone on a carriage ride during Halloween from the stables and I would recommend it or horseback riding if you and your family like horses. A visit to the stables might be something fun to do during your stay at the Campgrounds at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

child on horse with helmet
A visit to the stables might be something fun to do during your stay at the Campgrounds at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

There is a lot to explore around the campground itself including two pool areas and a private beach. One of my favorite things about this Walt Disney World Resort property was the private beach that over looked the Seven Seas Lagoon. Putting my feet in the sand and soaking in the warm Florida sunshine was a vacation in itself. In the evening from my same lounge chair I was able to watch the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom and see the 50th Anniversary Walt Disney World Electrical Water Pageant as it made its way to the campground around at 9:45pm.

Watching the 50th Anniversary Walt Disney World Electrical Water Pageant from the beach was truly a magical experience and I always find so much nostalgia in the Disney Electric Water Parade. The campground even has food trucks that come out to the area giving more food options than just P and J’s Southern Take Out. P and J’s does offer mobile ordering from the My Disney Experience App and has many food options. If you’re a Disney adult without children it is so much fun to grab some snacks and enjoy a quiet evening on the beach while waiting for the evening fireworks. Likewise, the area is also, fun for children to dig in the sand and play while waiting.

The campground also, has the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue which you can make reservations for. I have been to the revue on a previous trip to Disney and thought it was really entertaining as an adult and was glad to see they offered meatless food options. Another fun feature of staying at the campground is the free Campfire Singalongs and Movies Under the Stars. You will need to check with guest services to see what is offered during your stay.

Saving Money Camping at Disney

One of the most commonly posted topics posted related to camping at Disney is cost effectiveness. Having now camped at Disney I can say that camping is a great way to stay on Walt Disney World Resort property, enjoy all the resort options available and also, have a unique cost effective experience. Camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness even with the cost of renting a RV was dramatically cheaper than many of the other Walt Disney World Resort options for the same time period.

One of the most commonly posted topics posted related to camping at Disney is cost effectiveness. Having now camped at Disney I can say that camping is a great way to stay on Walt Disney World Resort property, enjoy all the resort options available and also, have a unique cost effective experience.

The amenities at the Campground at Fort Wilderness as mentioned are wonderful. Typically a Walt Disney World Resort with access to the Seven Seas Lagoon and multiple transportation outlets can be pricy. The campground also, allows one to stay on property, but have a campground experience giving the best of both options. If you are not a seasoned camper this campground has all the bells and whistles that you might not find at other campgrounds along with staff to help you along the way.

The campsites are well laid out, the grounds are well manicured, the comfort stations are clean and spacious with apparent Walt Disney World Resort special touches. While at the Campgrounds at Disney’s Fort Wilderness I didn’t even realize sometimes I was in central Florida at Walt Disney World. The area really gives such a rustic feel and is vastly different from the bustle of the Walt Disney World parks. The campground even had quiet spots for example to watch nature and I saw several deer and turkey.

Turkey at Fort Wilderness Campground Disney World
Vastly different from the bustle of the Walt Disney World parks the campground had quiet spots where I could watch nature and I saw several deer and turkey.

Another thing to consider is that hotel rooms don’t typically give one access to a full kitchen. With RVshare you can have your choice of renting a RV with a full kitchen. This can add up to cost savings in itself by getting groceries and cooking your own food while at Walt Disney World. If you have dietary restrictions this may also, be a comfort knowing you have a space to prepare meals.

Disney Parks are very welcoming of dietary issues and try their best to accommodate guests. There are many options for vegan, gluten free and vegetarian options at the restaurants within the campground at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, other Disney resorts and in the parks. If you choose you can even bring in your own food to the parks (within reason) if you need special foods. I have had no problem bringing in medicine or food while I have visited the parks and always alert security to what’s in my bag.

What was it like to camp at Walt Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort?

If you are on are the fence about trying out camping I would recommend booking for just a few days. Give enough time to have a day to check in and get settled and then a couple days to enjoy the experience. You can then book a second Walt Disney World Resort for the other half of your trip and not commit the entire trip to camping. Which in my opinion this experience is more like glam-ping thank camping because you are at a Walt Disney World Resort.

Stanley Cup and Florida bird in sand
One of my favorite things about this Disney property was the private beach that over looked the Seven Seas Lagoon. Putting my feet in the sand and soaking in the warm Florida sunshine was a vacation in itself.

RVshare takes all the work out of camping and lets a renter truly enjoy the experience even if you are a novice at camping. A seasoned camper can find exactly what they need too with RVshare. Over all it was a dream come true to go camping at Walt Disney World and you can have it too even if you don’t own a RV by using RVshare. No matter what type of RV you choose camping at Walt Disney World will be memorable and fun. Book your RV/tent spot or cabin at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground today!

If you enjoyed this article please share it with your friends, pin it to your Disney or vacation boards on Pinterest and leave me a comment ☺️ If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

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Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Virginia Holiday Pop Up Bars

(UPDATED 2025) The holiday season is the perfect time to embrace festive cheer, and what better way to do that than by visiting a holiday pop-up bar? I recently enjoyed two incredible experiences in Virginia that truly captured the magic of the season. First, I explored the Miracle Pop-Up at Waterside in Norfolk, part of an exciting national themed pop up collection, and then I delighted in the tropical charm of Rum and Reindeer at Island Shrimp Company in Rockett’s Landing, Richmond. Both venues offered vibrant décor, unique cocktails, and an atmosphere brimming with joyful celebration and ideal for creating unforgettable memories this holiday season!

Miracle at Waterside Drive Pop Up Holiday Bar

Miracle on Waterside Drive Pop Up Bar

Miracle on Waterside Dr. Holiday Pop Up bar is located in the Waterside District in Norfolk, Virginia and is packed with festive decor. They had a whole menu of speciality holiday themed cocktails (mocktails) and small bites. I liked the photo opps that were offered too. During the experience I chose to prepay to building a gingerbread house. The gingerbread house was in a kit and had everything I needed to build it during my visit.

Miracle on Waterside Dr Pop Up Norfolk, Va

This Pop Up experience would make for the perfect girls night out or a date night. If you’re local to or visiting Virginia and want to go you’ll need reservations to check this out at Waterside in Norfolk, Virginia before it ends Jan 1. If you’re not local check online because there may be a Miracle Popup bar near you.

Reindeer and Rum Bar+ Igloo Experience Island Shrimp Co.

Rum and Reindeer Bar and Igloo Experience is located at Island Shrimp Co. Rockett’s Landing in Richmond, Virginia. During my experience we enjoyed tropical drinks with holiday themed names at the holiday decorated bar and then were led outside on the restaurant’s deck to our private igloo.

Inside Rum and Reindeer Bar + Igloo Dinning Richmond, Va

The igloo is reserved for two hours and seats four people. The igloo included a personal faux fireplace heater, blankets, a faux fur loveseat and a table. We enjoyed drinks and a delicious dinner with dessert followed by adult milk and cookies. All this while being cozy inside our igloo and looking at views of the illuminated Richmond, Virginia skyline. This experience was very unique and memorable!

5 Reasons You Should Visit a Holiday Pop Up Bar this Season

1. Festive atmosphere: Holiday pop-up bars are often decorated with cheerful and festive themes, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. This can help people get into the holiday spirit and feel the joy and excitement of the season.

2. Novelty and experience: Pop-up bars offer a temporary and limited-time experience that adds an element of novelty. People enjoy the idea of visiting a place that is only available for a short period, making it a special and memorable occasion.

3. Socializing and gathering: Holiday pop-up bars attract friends, families, and even strangers who come together to enjoy the festivities. It provides a communal space for people to connect, socialize, and celebrate the holidays with loved ones or meet new people who share similar interests.

4. Unique drinks and offerings: Many holiday pop-up bars feature specialty cocktails, seasonal beverages, and creative menu items that are not typically found in regular bars. These unique offerings can be a draw for people seeking new flavors and experiences.

5. Escape from everyday life: Holiday pop-up bars allow individuals to escape the daily routine and immerse themselves in a whimsical and magical setting. It can provide a temporary reprieve from the usual stresses and responsibilities, offering a chance to relax and have fun.

Ultimately, visiting a holiday pop-up bar can be a delightful way to embrace the holiday season, create lasting memories, and enjoy a festive and joyful atmosphere with others.

Experiencing a Pop Up Bar

Overall I think these themed pop up bar experiences are really cool. Both of the pop up bars I visited added to my celebration of the holidays and making new memories. For someone that loves taking pictures both of these locations offered plenty of photo opportunities too. If you’re looking for something unique to do this holiday season I would recommend checking out a pop up bar near you!

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Western Front Hotel- St. Paul, Virginia

Western Front Hotel St. Paul, Virginia

Searching for somewhere to go on an adventure? Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia, St. Paul is a charming town that attracts visitors for its natural beauty, historic significance, and unique attractions. Surrounded by the Jefferson National Forest, St. Paul provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Hikers can traverse miles of scenic trails, passing breathtaking vistas and lush forests along the way. The Clinch River runs through town, offering fishing, kayaking, and tubing adventures. The nearby Channels State Forest features majestic sandstone formations carved by water and wind erosion over the eons.

History buffs will enjoy learning about St. Paul’s origins as an early frontier settlement. The town contains well-preserved 19th century buildings and homes that provide a window into the past. In addition to its natural splendor and historical significance, St. Paul hosts a variety of unique attractions.

Check out the various festivals and events held in St. Paul throughout the year, from music festivals to holiday celebrations. The town comes alive during community events like the Clinch River Days. With such diverse offerings, it’s easy to understand why so many make the scenic mountain drive to experience the charms of St. Paul, Virginia.

Everyone I met while visiting was so friendly. If you’re an adventurer or atv lover like me you’ll enjoy this area. The Western Front Hotel is the perfect lodging and a great, “mancation”, spot, or a great hotel to surprise your guy with a trip to.

Mountain View/Spearhead Trails St. Paul

Cross off your bucket list being able to take an ATV tour of historic trails and old logging roads winding through the mountains. The Western Front Hotel has the option to book atv packages that include an atv rental during your stay making the booking process easy. The convenience of having the atv rental at the hotel was perfect. The Western Front Hotel provided trail maps and the staff was very helpful to answer any questions we had.

We were able to walk out the back door of the hotel, get in our rental and from the parking lot drive up to the trails. In addition to atv rentals the hotel sells passes for the trail if you choose to bring your own atv, utv, quad or dirt bike. The trails were well kept and were labeled by their level of difficulty as well as what type of atv was allowed on them.

Some of the area trails allowed for Jeeps and 4×4 vehicles and other spots were only accessible by mountain bike or hiking. Our favorite spot was an overlook of the surrounding mountains. While on our adventure we saw deer, turkey and a beer with her cub. The area was very peaceful and a great place to connect with nature.

Mountain View Spearhead Trail St. Paul, Virginia

Dining in St. Paul, Virginia

Sample delicious Southern cuisine at one of the many eateries in St. Paul, from homestyle cooking to fine dining options. The town of St. Paul, Virginia is quaint and offers several restaurants, grocery, a pharmacy and other shopping. I really loved that we could walk from the Western Front Hotel to food options. Make sure to check for local activities during your stay.

The Fat Boys BBQ across the street from the Western Front Hotel, has the sweetest proprietors and they encourage everyone to try the Heart Attack which is a baked potato with cheese and butter topped with BBQ chicken (seen below). Locals like to add baked beans and even coleslaw on top of this creation. This restaurant also, has plenty of other options and cooks all their own BBQ in town.

Things to do in St. Paul, Virginia

The area behind the Western Front Hotel has a stage for live music, a fire pit for s’mores and plenty of room for relaxing. The Western Front hotel is pet friendly as well though we didn’t bring ours dogs on the trip. The hotel has a small gift shop that had some cute merchandise including their pillows, bath products from the hotel, doggie treats and other items.

One of the cutest souvenirs from the Western Front Hotel is a green ceramic rabbit that holds cotton balls (seen below). For more shopping take a stroll through the charming streets of downtown St. Paul and admire the historic architecture and charming shops.

The St. Paul, Virginia area is also close to many other activities including rafting, kayaking and hiking. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Appalachian mountains with various hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Take a bike ride and discover the beauty of Southwest Virginia by biking along world-class trails that offer breathtaking views and exciting challenges.

Enjoy scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains. Drive through rolling hills and lush forests along the scenic byways in the area. Spend a relaxing day on the water fishing for trout or paddling along the scenic river. Go fishing or kayaking on the Clinch River. The choice is yours and there is truly something for everyone to do in the area surrounding the Western Front Hotel. I can’t recommend this hotel enough especially for ATV lovers. This adventure is waiting for you and it’s only in beautiful Virginia at the Western Front Hotel.

Riding on Mountain View Spearhead Trail Virginia

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If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com thank you.


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Visit to Appomattox Courthouse National Historical Park

Appomattox, Virginia

With the continued rise in fuel cost many people may be looking for alternative destinations for summer vacations this year. Staycations have become more popular recently as people look for things to do within driving distance of their home to save on fuel and entertainment costs. Living in the Old Dominion there is no shortage of things to go do for a day trip as our state offers both beaches and mountain fun.

I was born in and have lived in Virginia for 35 years and there is still much I have not seen. I am always finding new places to see and explore that are unique to my state. With the first permanent settlement in 1607 at Jamestown being close by I grew up surrounded by history. So many historical places are in Virginia it’s hard to decide where to visit first. I always tell people a visit to the historical triangle including Williamsburg and Yorktown are wonderful places to have a day trip, a weekend stay or staycation.

Appomattox, Virginia

I enjoy traveling and sharing my travels with others. I feel history, especially comes alive when you are immersed in it. Recently I traveled to Appomattox, Virginia for work. I had not been prior and during my stay I made time to explore the Appomattox Courthouse village and Historical Park areas. Appomattox, Virginia is a beautiful area with a small town feel and a history buff’s dream. The downtown has multiple shops and restaurants to visit. In addition the town also, is home to several food trucks and stands. Consider supporting these small businesses while you’re in town.

Appomattox Inn and Suites

While in Appomattox, Virginia I stayed at the Appomattox Inn and Suites . I found the hotel to be very clean, comfortable and economical. The lobby had some nods to the Civil War as do the hotel rooms which are decorated with pictures from the nearby battlefield and grounds. The hotel has a bar area that was open till 10pm for drinks and a restaurant named Cannonball for appetizers and small bites.

If you’re into history or Civil War sites this hotel is perfect because it is very close to the Appomattox battlefield and Appomattox Courthouse village where the American Civil War came to an end in April of 1865. The American Civil War museum is a close by area attraction to this hotel as well. If you’re unfamiliar with the American Civil War or what the area has to offer the hotel staff are very friendly and the hotel has available maps and information on local attractions.

The Appomattox Courthouse village and Historical Park areas are very well laid out and it is easy to follow the information trail to understand what took place here in April 1865. Even someone unfamiliar with the American Civil War will feel educated on the topics after visiting thanks to the labels, maps and informative signage. The area can be explored at one’s own pace or one can choose to join an on-site tour. The grounds also, include trails to walk and there are maps and signs available to follow for them.

The buildings that make up the village grounds of the Appomattox Court House (some seen above) are well preserved and maintained. There were multiple guides dressed in period costume to explain the layout of the grounds and to answer any questions. The courthouse itself has a museum in it with a 17 minute video I would suggest watching it during your visit as it explains what took place on the grounds and leading up to the end of the American Civil war.

For me seeing the markers for the last shot fired during the American Civil War and the marker for the spot where Grant and Lee met was very humbling and thought provoking. No matter a person’s views about the America Civil War I believe we can all agree that the people who fought in it were American and it is a travesty the lives that were lost on either side. The American Civil War is part of our history and I believe it is important that people educate themselves about it and preserve these hollowed grounds.

The layout and information provided at the Appomattox Courthouse village is very thorough and attention to detail is given inside the buildings. The Clover Hill Tavern for example, is set up to show what it must have looked like when one of its rooms was made into a makeshift printing press. It was here during the surrender Federal officers printed over 30,000 parole for surrender documents to be signed by Confederate soldiers. To be able to stand within the walls of this building is especially memorable for someone that loves history.

Besides the buildings the story of the people involved in the battle comes to life on the grounds. There is a small family style graveyard on the grounds, a single grave under an old cedar tree belonging to Lafayette Meeks an area resident and a 19 grave cemetery a short walk away which has several unknown confederate soldiers, plus one unknown union soldier. It is interesting to read the documented history of these individuals and it helps to bridge the human connection to these past lives lost.

A short walk from the Appomattox Courthouse village one can also, follow signage and learn more about the events leading up to the surrender. There is an area with information about Grant’s Headquarters, open fields to walk and a small monument to see as well. Following signage by car the battlefield continues into the town of Appomattox, but wasn’t open when I visited (June 2022). The gate was locked and the area didn’t look maintained, but hopefully will open back soon to the public.

There was plenty to see and explore on the ground of the Appomattox Courthouse village, the surrounding areas and the town. I think a day trip or weekend staycation in Appomattox, Virginia would be perfect for a history lover or someone wanting to learn more about the American Civil War. I enjoyed my visit to Appomattox, Virginia and learning more about American history.


If you enjoyed my article please share/pin it and if you know someone planning a trip to Virginia please share my article with them ☺️ If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!


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Camping on the Outer Banks: Refuge Campground Roanoke Island, North Carolina

Camping on the Outer Banks: Refuge Campground Roanoke Island, North Carolina

If you’re looking for a waterfront campsite close to the action in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, but still quiet enough to relax I recommend checking out the Refuge Campground in Wanchese, North Carolina on Roanoke Island. The 15 back-in style campsites at Refuge are located directly on water. These nightly rentals are part of a larger campground community that has yearly residents/owners. This was our first trip of the year camping and we were at Refuge during the off season (March) so there were not a lot of people moving about.

The campground at Refuge has beautiful walkways around the water, areas to fish (catch and release), a seasonal pool, picnic area and a climate controlled bathhouse. Next door to Refuge is a convenience store with fuel, basic foods and camping essentials. The campground and facilities were very clean and the camp host was friendly.

Rainbow over Refuge Campground in Manteo, North Carolina

The wifi was pretty slow, so if that is important bring your own hotspot. The tv channels we picked up from our antenna were also, limited in this area so bring a dish or a DVD player. Most importantly though for us there were many things within a short drive from the campground to do and see. Refuge also, had a sister campground Beechland in Manteo if Refuge is full during your dates or you can also, look into camping at the local National Park.

This location offers a peaceful retreat amidst the coastal beauty of North Carolina. Nestled away from the bustling tourist areas, Refuge Campground provides a perfect setting for those seeking tranquility and a closer connection to nature. The campsites are set among the maritime forests, providing a secluded and serene atmosphere for campers. Each site is equipped with basic amenities such as picnic tables and fire pits, encouraging cozy evenings spent under the starry skies. The gentle rustling of leaves and occasional calls of local bird species create a soothing backdrop, enhancing the camping experience.

Nature enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of wildlife that inhabits the refuge. The area is home to a variety of bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Binoculars in hand, visitors can observe migratory birds and resident species in their natural habitat. The tranquil waters surrounding the area also attract kayakers and canoeists, offering a serene way to explore the coastal marshlands and waterways.

When planning a camping trip to the Manteo Refuge Campground, packing essentials such as camping gear, insect repellent, and comfortable hiking shoes is recommended. While the campground provides basic amenities, including restroom facilities, campers should be prepared with food and water supplies. Reservations are advisable, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a spot in this peaceful oasis on the Outer Banks.

Camping in the Manteo at Refuge Campground offers a serene and enriching experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From exploring the coastal marshlands, birdwatching from your campsite, or immersing yourself in the local history and culture, this hidden gem on the Outer Banks promises a memorable escape into the heart of nature. Embrace the tranquility and natural beauty of Manteo Refuge Campground on your next camping adventure in North Carolina’s coastal paradise.

Things to Do in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

Festival Park, Roanoke Island, North Carolina
History is alive in Manteo, North Carolina

For those interested in history and culture, nearby attractions provide opportunities to delve into the area’s rich heritage. The historic town of Manteo itself offers charming shops, galleries, and waterfront dining, making it a delightful destination for a day trip from the campground. Not far up the road to the right from the campground is the quaint town of Manteo, North Carolina famous for the wonderful outdoor drama the Lost Colony. If you’re a nature lover definitely take time to visit the beautiful Elizabethan Gardens on the picturesque sound of Roanoke Island while you’re in town. There is plenty for the history buffs too like visiting Festival Park to see a replica Elizabeth II ship and historical artifacts from the area.

While you’re in the area consider a visit the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island to see some cool ocean life and a ship wreck where an immersed model of the the SS Monitor is in one of their exhibits. The North Carolina Aquariums are one of my favorite places to visit and two are on the Outer Banks area.

Bodie Lighthouse girl in Lilly Pulitzer
Bodie Lighthouse

The Bodie Lighthouse is nearby over the Washington Baum Bridge and then right on rt12 toward the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Here you’ll find one of my favorite North Carolina beaches Coquina beach and another camping spot Oregon Inlet Campground. If you’re into fishing you can book a fishing charter out of Oregon Inlet (across from the OI campground).

Tour the Outer Banks by Plane

Flying over the OBX in a small plane
Flying over the OBX in a small plane with just your family is a vacation memory you’ll be sure to treasure!

If you’re looking to explore I highly suggest booking a flight over the islands through OBX Airplanes which is at the Manteo Airport right behind the North Carolina Aquarium. You’ll definitely get a better appreciation for how the beautiful outer banks is laid out and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to see a few shipwrecks and maybe even some dolphins. There is just something extra special about flying over the Wright Brother’s memorial area knowing it is the site of the birth of flight itself! If flying isn’t your thing you can also, choose to drive to the Wright Brother’s Memorial and walk the grounds on foot.

Ride the Dunes or See Wild Horses in Corolla

go 4x4 in the obx
Renting a 4×4 vehicle or brining your own to drive on the beach is definitely a memorable experience.

For a day trip I suggest visiting the quaint town of Duck, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse or even go see the wild horses of Corolla on a horse adventure or hop on an atv and ride the dunes. Some areas of the Outer Banks allow you to get an off road permit to drive your own 4×4 vehicle on the beach or you can rent one while you’re at the beach and have a unique driving experience you’ll never forget. Don’t forget to bring your GoPro!

Cool off at H2OBX Waterpark

H2OBX
H2OBX has so much to offer no matter your preference for water fun.

Not that you will, but if you get tired of the beach and like water fun you can also, drive north to check out the new H2OBX water park too while you’re in town. H2OBX has plenty to offer for the whole family from a huge lazy river, water rides the whole family can fit on, single and double tubing rides, delicious food and fun apparel shopping. From sitting back in a lounge chair and watching everyone else, to speeding down tubes into the warm blue water or eating fish tacos and enjoying a watermelon milkshake you’ll find it all at H2OBX. Spending a day at H2OBX definitely is a great addition to any trip to the beach.

Go for a Walk or Run

Besides the tourist attractions get out and go for a run or walk on the beach or the many other places to venture. Walking on the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge is a local favorite. Visiting the Nags Head Woods Preserve is another great place to go for a run or walk. There are several well marked trails to follow including one that goes out to the Roanoke Sound and a picture perfect skeleton tree beach.

Trails 4/5 goes by small ruins of an old homestead and has a family graveyard with some graves dating back to the 1800s. The area seemed safe and we saw both families and single runners out on the trails. The area was very peaceful and filled with birds and wildlife. The visitor center had trail maps and area information and I would recommend going there first.

Where to Eat in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

The area near the campground Wanchese, North Carolina is known for seafood and has several areas in season to buy fresh fish and seafood. Fresh North Carolina shrimp are hard to beat! Cooking up fresh, local seafood at your campsite makes a wonderful addition to any beach camping experience. There are too many great restaurants in the area to name here. I suggest exploring the area and trying new places. Avoid chain restaurants while on vacation and get something you can’t get at home.

sugar shack outer banks, north carolina

In the near by towns of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills you will also, find many stores and restaurants to choose from as well as plenty of shopping. If you’re looking for some of the freshest all you can eat seafood in the OBX give Captain George’s a try. This is a local favorite for all you can eat seafood and includes crab legs on the buffet.

If you like sushi you’ll want to try Single Fin OBX in Nags Head. It is the best in the OBX and has a huge menu. There are plenty of specialty restaurants as well in the Outer Banks that cater to specific dietary needs. Nags Head pizza has a great gluten free, vegan and vegetarian menu for example.

Another one of my favorites located in Kill Devil, North Carolina is Mama Kwan’s Tiki Bar & Grill. I love the island vibe and all the tropical inspired dishes. They have a excellent drink menu too with many of their drinks coming in unique take home cups (they can make non alcoholic too). Visiting here always gets me in a vacation mood.

Back on Roanoke Island you will find that it is home to many restaurants and shops too. I recommend a stop at Vineyards on the Scuppernong in the shops of Downtown Manteo. The scuppernong grape is native to NC and has a delicious sweet taste and fragrance. If you love wine do yourself a favor and go try some scuppernong wine while you are in the area.

Scuppernong Vineyards in the shops of Downtown Manteo, North Carolina
Scuppernong Vineyards in the shops of Downtown Manteo, North Carolina

From wild horses, the birth of flight, fresh seafood and breathtaking beaches the the area surrounding the Refuge Campground doesn’t disappoint. Camping near the water was a big perk of this campground and the close proximity to everything we wanted to see. I would highly recommend camping here on a trip to the OBX.

Beautiful sunset in the Outer Banks, North Carolina
Beautiful sunset in the Outer Banks, North Carolina

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