Dispersed Camping in New Hanover County, North Carolina
Showing 11 locations in New Hanover County.
Carolina Beach Municipal Area
Overnight parking and vehicle camping are strictly prohibited within the municipal limits of Carolina Beach on all public streets, rights-of-way, and public parking lots. While some private lots or church properties may exist, they are subject to strict local trespass laws and city-wide enforcement.
Carolina Beach State Park Campground
Carolina Beach State Park Campground offers well-shaded, secluded campsites with both hookup and non-hookup options along the Intracoastal Waterway. The park features scenic hiking trails, clean bathhouses, and convenient marina access.
Cracker Barrel - Wilmington
A quiet Cracker Barrel parking lot that is highly level and located near local stores. Popular among travelers, the lot accommodates several rigs overnight, though there are no dedicated RV spaces. Standard highway noise is present but manageable, and parking is generally permitted for a single night with manager authorization.
First Baptist Church Parking
Overnight parking may be available in the lot behind the church. Permission must be requested in advance from the church administration. Suitable for smaller campervans and passenger vehicles only.
Freeman Park Beach Camping
A popular drive-on beach camping area managed by the local municipality. Access is strictly limited to 4WD vehicles due to very soft sand, and camper trailers are not permitted on the beach. Permits must be secured in advance via the official park portal.
Planet Fitness - Kings Grant
Paved parking lot in a commercial district. Overnight parking is subject to local business policies and manager discretion.
Planet Fitness - Wilmington
A quiet commercial parking lot option for travelers in campervans or low-profile rigs. Gym members can access the clean restroom and shower facilities inside during regular business hours.
Rucker Johns Parking
A quiet paved parking area located behind a local restaurant. Suitable for an unobtrusive overnight stay, though patronage and advance manager consent are highly recommended.
Walmart
Overnight parking is permitted at this Walmart location on the far right side of the parking lot near the access road. No dedicated security is present, making it a straightforward, self-directed overnight stop.
Wilmington River Walk Urban Area
Unmetered street parking located along the northern section of Wilmington's River Walk, near Nutt Street and Brunswick Street. Suitable for self-contained rigs seeking short overnight stays near the downtown waterfront.
Wilmington Riverwalk Street Parking
Urban parallel street parking along the Wilmington Riverfront. Best suited for smaller campervans seeking overnight convenience in the downtown area, but subject to daytime parking limits.