Beach camping offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor excitement that’s
hard to match. It’s like having your slice of paradise – if only for a few nights
From the rugged coastlines of the Pacific Northwest to the tropical shores of Florida,
we’ve scoured the country’s 25 best beaches to bring you a diverse array of seaside
camping options.
Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland/Virginia
Wild ponies roam free, and pristine beaches stretch for miles; Assateague Island is a
camper’s dream come true. The island’s 37 miles of unspoiled shoreline offer a unique
opportunity to wake up to the sight of wild horses galloping along the beach.
It’s like stepping into a living postcard!
Bahia Honda State Park, Florida Keys
If you’ve ever dreamed of camping in a tropical paradise without leaving the mainland,
Bahia Honda is your ticket to nirvana. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and palm-
lined beaches, you might think you’ve somehow teleported to the Caribbean.
The park’s campgrounds offer tent and RV sites with jaw-dropping ocean views.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina
For those seeking solitude and untamed beauty, Cape Lookout is a hidden gem off the
beaten path. Accessible only by ferry, this 56-mile stretch of undeveloped shoreline
feels like your own private island.
It’s the perfect spot for shell collectors – you might find that elusive Scotch bonnet, North Carolina’s state shell!
Padre Island National Seashore, Texas
Everything’s bigger in Texas, and Padre Island is no exception. As the world’s longest
undeveloped barrier island, it offers 70 miles of coastline to drive right onto the beach to find your perfect camping spot.
It’s almost like being in a real-life version of ‘Mad Max.’
Olympic National Park, Washington
For a dramatic change of scenery, head to the rugged beaches of Olympic National
Park. Camping here is like being on a moody Pacific Northwest film – misty mornings,
driftwood-strewn shores, and the occasional bald eagle soaring overhead.
Don’t forget your rain gear; it’s all part of the authentic PNW experience!
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Imagine camping on a remote island surrounded by turquoise waters, with a 19th-
century fort as your backdrop. That’s the Dry Tortugas experience in a nutshell.
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, it’s the ultimate ‘get away from it al’” destination.
The name ‘Dry’ Tortugas is a bit ironic given the abundance of water, so pack
accordingly!
Jalama Beach County Park, California
Tucked away along the central California coast, Jalama Beach is where locals like to
keep secrets. Known for its strong winds (kitesurfers, rejoice!), beautiful sunsets, and
the famous Jalama Burger, this spot offers a quintessential California beach camping
experience.
It’s like stepping back to a simpler era of coastal living.
Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia
Step into a world where wild horses roam free and ancient maritime forests meet
pristine beaches. Cumberland Island is like the love child of a nature documentary and
a historical drama.
With limited visitors allowed, you’ll have plenty of space to explore the island’s diverse ecosystems and ponder the ruins of long-gone Gilded Age
mansions.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
Who says great beach camping is limited to the coasts? The Apostle Islands in Lake
Superior offer stunning sand beaches, sea caves, and historic lighthouses. It’s like the
ocean, but without the sharks – and with more cheese options nearby.
Camp on the mainland or take a water taxi to one of the islands for a more secluded experience.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina
Part of the famed Outer Banks, Cape Hatteras is a water sports enthusiast’s paradise.
With some of the best surfing on the East Coast and excellent windsurfing conditions, it’s an active camper’s dream.
The iconic black-and-white striped lighthouse stands sentinel over the area, like a maritime version of a referee overseeing the ocean
playground.
Sonoma Coast State Park, California
Sonoma Coast State Park is ideal for those who want to combine beach camping with
wine-country adventures. Rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and breathtaking views
characterize this stretch of the Pacific.
After a day of hiking or beach climbing, you’re just a short drive from world-class wineries.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia offers a unique blend of rocky coastlines, pine forests, and pristine lakes. While
you can’t camp directly on the beach, sites like Seawall Campground put you just steps
from the shore.
Enjoy tide-pooling, sea kayaking, and some of the best stargazing on the East Coast. It’s New England coastal charm turned up to eleven.
Perdido Key State Park, Florida
Perdido Key is a slice of paradise on the Gulf Coast with its sugar-white sands and
emerald waters. While there’s no camping in the state park, nearby Big Lagoon State
Park offers excellent campsites with easy access to Perdido’s beaches.
It’s like having your private beach club, minus the exorbitant membership fees.
South Padre Island, Texas
Known for its spring break parties, South Padre Island is also a fantastic year-round
beach camping destination. With warm Gulf waters, excellent fishing, and opportunities
for dolphin watching, it’s a great family-friendly option.
Just be prepared for the occasional conga line of retirees doing their morning beach walk – it’s all part of the SPI charm!
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Homer Spit Campground, Alaska
For a truly unique beach camping experience, head north to Homer, Alaska. The
campground sits on a narrow strip of land jutting into Kachemak Bay, offering stunning
views of glaciers and mountains.
Keep an eye out for bald eagles and sea otters! It’s like camping at the world’s edge, with a side of halibut.
Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina
This 5,000-acre park offers a perfect mix of maritime forest, marsh, and beaches. Climb
the only publicly accessible lighthouse in South Carolina, fish from the pier, or simply
relax on the beautiful beach. The campground offers sites just steps from the shore.
It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, with more sand and fewer deadly endings.
Hammocks Beach State Park, North Carolina
Accessible only by ferry or kayak, Bear Island in Hammocks Beach State Park offers a
secluded beach camping experience. With 4 miles of unspoiled beach and primitive
camping facilities, it’s perfect for those looking to escape it all.
Remember – what happens on Bear Island stays on Bear Island.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Limekiln State Park, California
For a taste of Big Sur without the crowds, Limekiln State Park is hard to beat. With
campsites nestled in a redwood canyon just steps from a rocky beach, you get the best
of both forest and coast.
It’s like Mother Nature decided to show off and put all her best features in one spot.
Kalaloch Campground, Washington
In Olympic National Park, Kalaloch offers dramatic coastal scenery and excellent wildlife
viewing opportunities. Watch for whales from your campsite, explore tide pools teeming
with sea life, or drive to the nearby Hoh Rainforest.
It’s like being in a nature documentary but with s’mores.
Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area, Florida
This small park on Florida’s northeast coast offers a more intimate beach camping
experience. With sites directly on the beach, you can fall asleep to the sound of waves
and wake up to spectacular sunrises over the Atlantic.
It’s like having your private beach house minus the property taxes.
Horseneck Beach State Reservation, Massachusetts
For a taste of New England coastal charm, Horseneck Beach is hard to beat. Located at
the mouth of Buzzards Bay, the park offers excellent windsurfing, bird watching, and fishing.
The campground puts you right on the beach, with stunning water views. Just be prepared for the occasional nor’easter – it adds character!
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Tillicum Beach Campground, Oregon
Experience the rugged beauty of the Oregon coast at Tillicum Beach. With campsites
perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, you’ll enjoy unobstructed ocean views and
easy beach access.
It’s a great spot for beachcombing, whale watching, and spectacular sunsets. Just don’t expect to get a tan – this is the Oregon coast, after all.
Grand Isle State Park, Louisiana
Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island, Grand Isle, offers a unique coastal camping
experience. Known for its excellent fishing, the park also features a 2.5-mile beach
perfect for swimming, birding, and crabbing.
The campground offers both beach and bay views.
Kohanaiki Beach Park, Hawaii
We couldn’t leave out Hawaii! While beach camping options are limited on the islands,
Kohanaiki on the Big Island offers a fantastic experience. With a permit, you can camp
on this beautiful beach, known for its excellent surfing and snorkeling.
It’s about as close as sleeping in a tropical screensaver.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Your Beach Camping Adventure Awaits
From the misty shores of the Pacific Northwest to the sun-soaked beaches of Florida,
the United States offers an incredible tapestry of beach camping experiences. Whether
you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or family-friendly fun, there’s a perfect spot waiting
for you to pitch your tent and create lasting memories.
As you plan your beach camping adventure, remember to check local regulations, make
reservations where required, and practice Leave No Trace principles.
More from Travel Pug
- 20 Mind-Blowing Things You Probably Didn’t Know You Could Do in the U.S.
- The Best Cruise Ship Experiences for U.S. Citizens
- The Best U.S Travel Destinations for Golf Lovers
- The 25 Most Dangerous Cities in the World (Exercise Caution if Travelling There)
- The Best Fall Foliage Spots in New England (Must-See Places)
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.