bdjtbenson

We've recently moved from the West. We have done a lot of camping in the mountains and national parks of the Northwest and Canada but this will be our first experience at the outer banks. We're camping on Okracoke for one week in early August.

Everyone seems to have an OBX sticker on their car so tell me -
- what activities should we look forward to?
- is it worth bringing the four-wheel drive truck?
- how much and what type of food do you bring?
- techniques for keeping the ice chest cold for a week?
- are there any stores or do we need to pack everything?
- what amenities will the campsite have and what should I be sure to bring?

Thanks for any help!

HKP

Haven't camped there so can only mention that yes, there are stores there, one sort of "general store" in particular that you'll probably use. The little town has a few motels/B&Bs, cafes, and gift shops, too.

I do know that there are stiff regulations about where on the beach itself you can go, with or without a vehicle, but I'm sure you'll get that information along the way.

Here's from one of the basic websites http://www.ocracokevillage.com/ :

--Variety Store, E-6, groceries, fresh meats, produce, T-shirts, souvenirs & hardware, also fishing, camping, auto, marine & beach supplies. ATM. Your one-stop store. 928-4911

--Zillie’s Island Pantry, D-5, over 200 wines, cheeses, gourmet foods, international & microbrew beers ( mix your own 6-pack ), premium cigars. Weekly wine tastings - call to reserve your spot www.zilliespantry.com 928-9036

--Black Beard's ICE CHEST, 20lb bag and 24lb bulk, ICE anytime....OPEN 24 Hours. ICE CHEST is located at 45 Trent Road, on the corner of Trent and O'Neal Rd.

starrs

Flip flop flasks

Gretchen

We have done a LOT of camping everywhere--and it is a testament to my "staying power" that we did. Our first camping trip was to the beach in Assateague National Seashore--with 2 little boys,4 and 2 and me 7 months pregnant. After dealing with the sand, no showers,breeze blowing sand, and bugs, I promised I would indeed go camping again, but NEVER at the beach!! LOL
But I might think of camping at the beach almost any other time than summer.
In general I'd suggest a large "gazebo" for shelter.

Liz5959

SUN SCREEN (got the worst burn of my life on Okracoke)