Community Forums

JFXG · 09-23-2014, 08:57 PM

I need some advice from those in the know.....

I'm thinking of spending the winter workamping at a campground south of Nags Head. What would be your opinion of a winter on the island? I don't think temp is an issue. On paper the weather averages are very similar to Raleigh, where I used to live. We like to have a taste of winter-- I just don't want to see the ocean freeze again. But I'm also thinking of the wind. Lots of wind on the Outer Banks in winter? Wilbur and Orville went there for a reason! Will my coach get sandblasted?

Thanks!

DLaddy · 09-24-2014, 08:11 PM

Don't know about your coach, but the cloudy damp cold wind will make for a long stay and can set in for several weeks at a time, with some strong Winter storms. You'll see some cold, dry windy days as well. On the other hand, maybe 20% of the days will be very nice days for Winter. Just know that the bad days are really bad and go into it knowing that. JMHO

acstokes · 09-24-2014, 08:41 PM

I've never RV'd there in the winter, but I grew up in eastern NC and used to go there a lot duck hunting. My advice is don't do it. Not only is it very windy, but the weather is what I would describe as raw much of the time. Cold, damp, blustery, and overcast. Also, the wind carries salt spray and sand with it and unless you're inland a few miles corrosion will become a problem.

If your time and budget will allow, go farther south. My wife and I spend the winter in Florida and we consider the winter weather there to be ideal.

PushedAround · 09-24-2014, 08:50 PM

Lots of wind down there. And it can be quite chilling too. My neighbor camps down there regularly and what really takes a pounding is the slide toppers. He changed his to mesh ones and they seem to hold up much better.

hogdriver · 09-24-2014, 09:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PushedAround

Lots of wind down there. And it can be quite chilling too. My neighbor camps down there regularly and what really takes a pounding is the slide toppers. He changed his to mesh ones and they seem to hold up much better.

What does a mesh topper look like? Who sells those? Any pics?

JFXG · 09-25-2014, 07:48 PM

Thanks for the tips! Sounds like a whole winter's worth of March in Boston. But it's the salt and sand in the wind that worry me. Have to think about this.

PushedAround · 09-26-2014, 04:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hogdriver

What does a mesh topper look like? Who sells those? Any pics?

They look like the awnings that cover the slides when they are out, but are made from a coarse mesh that prevents debris from falling on top of the slides, but allows the wind to blow through. I can find out more if you want.

Usroverdrive · 10-09-2014, 05:55 PM

I used to brew beer on the OBX back in the day, in Jarvisburg, went back a few times after, and am planning a week or so in January-ish of 2015.

In the off season, the sidewalks roll up and only the hard core locals are around. The beach is wonderful if you like the cold minus people (like I do).

You'll get to meet the real people of the OBX, as opposed to the tourists. Not bashing the summer crowd, but they are what they are.

A lot of the fancy food places will be closed, but the ones that are still open are fantastic. The people that you meet will be fun as hell, and you'll make some great memories.

Just go for it, take it a day at a time, and have a blast. I may even see you at the Radish...
DS