Combine your love for the great outdoors with a beach camping vacation when you choose a coastal campground for your next getaway.
There are several picturesque beaches across the U.S. where you can set up camp. The West Coast, from California to Washington, is a treasure trove of campground gems that give you excellent access to the Pacific Ocean. Back east, states along the Eastern Seaboard like Maryland, North and South Carolina, Florida, and Massachusetts have dozens of grounds that cater to campers of all experience levels.
1.Homer Spit Campground: Homer, Alaska
You can't find more picturesque views of mountains and ocean than in Homer. Located along Kachemak Bay, this campground is large enough to fit more than 100 RVs and at least 25 tents. Even though it's Alaska, you won't be roughing it because the campground is very close to restaurants, shops, and bars. Beachfront campsite rates begin at $35, but there are far more sites to explore if you don't want to be right on the water. The season for beach camping runs from May to September.
2.Wright's Beach, Sonoma Coast State Park: Sonoma County, California
There are tons of Instagram-worthy sites along this coastal beach park located on Highway 1. Wright's Beach hosts 27 campsites and even allows dogs as long as they stay on leash. Rates start at $35 per night, and reservations can be made 48 hours to six months in advance.
3.Kalaloch Campground, Olympic National Park: Washington
This is by far the most popular beach campground in Washington state, and it's easy to see why once you visit. The rocky terrain is different from your typical beach experience, and it's home to several types of wildlife including gulls, whales, and even bald eagles. Rates can vary between $24 and $48 per night and early reservations are encouraged.
4.Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Lake Superior, Wisconsin
There are 21 islands that make up Wisconsin's Apostle Islands, and beach camping is available on 18 of them. Fifteen of the islands also have backcountry camping options for people who don't mind fending for themselves or just want a more secluded experience. Individual campsites are $15 per night, and reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance.
5.Ocracoke Campground: Ocracoke, North Carolina
Ocracoke Island is one of the loveliest areas on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, boasting 16 miles of undeveloped coastline that can only be reached by ferry, private boat, or plane. Located next to the dunes, this pet-friendly campground has 136 sites with amenities like grills, flush toilets, cold showers, and drinking water. It's open year round and welcomes RVs under 40 feet, although there aren't any electric hookups. Camp fees start at $28 per night and include a paved parking pad, picnic table, and charcoal grill.
6.Sea Camp Campground: Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia
You can only get to this remote island by ferry or private boat, but the trip is well worth it. Visitors can explore the freshwater wetlands and spot scores of fascinating wildlife while hiking to this campground. Plus, it has several modern amenities like treated drinking water, showers, and toilets. One drawback: Campfires are allowed only when using a designated fire ring at Sea Camp and Stafford beaches. Reservations may be made up to six months in advance, and fees begin at $22 per night.
7.Hunting Island State Park: Hunting Island, South Carolina
This stunning campground is located between the cities of Charleston and Savannah. The beautiful beach camping ground offers a quiet, secluded getaway where you can bring your canine friend along, too. Its 100 campsites can cater to tents and RVs with electric and water hookups, and there's plenty to do once you've settled in, including fishing, crabbing, hiking, and biking.
8.Bahia Honda State Park: Big Pine Key, Florida
If you've ever dreamed of camping under palm trees, this campground located in the Florida Keys is the perfect place for you. Here, visitors love to go snorkeling while exploring Bahia Honda's pristine sands and emerald waters. Reservation rates begin around $36 per night.
