Camping by the beach is a perfect way to combine the best of both worlds- the natural beauty of the great outdoors and the fun of beach activities. The United States has no shortage of stunning beach campgrounds, offering everything from scenic views to exciting outdoor activities. From the East Coast to the West Coast, there are numerous beach camping spots to choose from. Whether you prefer a peaceful escape or an action-packed adventure, beach campgrounds in the United States have something for everyone.

In this guide, we'll explore the 25 best beach campgrounds in the US, each with its unique features and attractions. So, grab your tent, pack your swimsuit, and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience by the beach!

Can you Beach Camp Anywhere in US?

No, you cannot beach camp anywhere in the United States. Beach camping is only allowed in designated camping areas or campgrounds. These areas are typically managed by federal or state agencies and require permits or reservations. Additionally, some beaches may have restrictions on camping, such as limited camping seasons, maximum number of nights allowed, or specific camping locations. It's important to research the rules and regulations of the beach or campground you plan to visit before making any arrangements or reservations.

In some cases, local ordinances may also prohibit camping on beaches. Therefore, it's always best to check with the relevant authorities to ensure you are following the rules and regulations and are camping in a legal and safe location.

Top 25 Beautiful Beach Camping Spots in the U.S:

01. Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina:

If you're looking for the ultimate beach camping experience in the USA, Hunting Island State Park in South Carolina should be at the top of your list. With five miles of pristine beaches, this state park is a haven for loggerhead sea turtles and a variety of shorebirds during the summer nesting season. Camping at Hunting Island is made easy thanks to amenities like paved roads, restrooms with hot showers, water and electrical hookups, and a dump station.

Whether you're a novice camper or an experienced outdoors enthusiast, Hunting Island's beachfront campground has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Each campsite can accommodate recreational vehicles, and pets are welcome in all camping areas. With campsite fees ranging from $40 to $65 per night, depending on the day, season, and site chosen, you can enjoy beach camping without breaking the bank.

02. Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina:

For a unique beach camping experience in the USA, head to the Cape Lookout National Seashore in North Carolina. Accessible only by passenger or vehicular ferry, this collection of North Carolina beaches offers a quieter atmosphere compared to other local beach havens in the Outer Banks. With 56 miles of beaches, visitors can camp directly on the sand without a permit, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.

While the lack of facilities may deter some campers, the seashore's primitive camping offers a chance to reconnect with nature. It's best to travel light without an RV since there are no roads or hookups available. Campers will need to come prepared with all necessary equipment and supplies. However, restrooms can be found in some areas during the warmer months.

03. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland and Virginia:

For beach camping with a unique twist, head to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin. This stretch of Lake Superior shoreline boasts 21 islands and 12 miles of mainland, each packed with small white sand beaches. Several of the islands offer campsites on or near a beach, including Outer Island, York Island, and Manitou Island.

While most of the campsites are only accessible by boat, the lakeshore offers amenities like fire rings, bear-proof food storage lockers, picnic tables, tent pads, and vault toilets or stump privies. However, campers should come prepared with all necessary equipment and supplies, as there are no facilities like camp stores available.

04. Gulf Islands National Seashore, Florida and Mississippi:

Beach camping is a popular activity in the USA, and Gulf Islands National Seashore, located along the coast of Florida and Mississippi, offers an exciting opportunity for adventure seekers. With its 160 miles of pristine coastline, 12 historical forts, hiking trails, and white sand beaches, Gulf Islands National Seashore is a paradise for beach camping enthusiasts. While the main campgrounds are not located directly on the sand, visitors can opt for backcountry camping in undeveloped areas with no facilities.

Florida's Perdido Key Area offers the perfect spot for beach camping, while the Mississippi side of the seashore offers four islands - Petit Bois, West Petit Bois, Horn, and Cat - for campers to choose from. However, visitors must arrive by boat, and campsites must be at least 300 yards away from bird nests and established on flat sections away from dunes and vegetation.

05. Padre Island National Seashore, Texas:

Beach camping is a quintessential American pastime, and Padre Island National Seashore in Texas offers an incredible opportunity for beach camping enthusiasts. The seashore spans over 130,000 acres of pristine beaches, trails, and campsites, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking adventure. While South Padre Island may be a more popular spot, North Padre Island boasts the stunning Padre Island National Seashore.

The Bird Island Basin Campground offers panoramic views of Laguna Madre and plenty of activities, including fishing, kayaking, and windsurfing. Both RV and tent sites are available, but there are no on-site amenities other than covered picnic tables and chemical toilets. Campsites are first come, first served and cost $8 per day for most campers. Primitive camping options are also available at North Beach or South Beach for those seeking a more rugged experience.

06. Bahia Honda State Park, Florida:

Beach camping in the USA is a popular activity, and Bahia Honda State Park on Big Pine Key, Florida, is one of the best places to experience it. The park is located just 35 miles northeast of Key West, offering a remote island setting with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. With swaying palm trees, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets, Bahia Honda provides a quintessential Florida backdrop for a beach camping vacation.

Travelers can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as snorkeling, bird-watching, fishing, and biking. Bahia Honda campgrounds offer waterfront sites, including Buttonwood and Bayside. Buttonwood is perfect for RV travelers, with gravel sites that come with electricity hookups and access to a bathhouse and dump station. On the other hand, Bayside appeals to campers who prefer to rough it, as it only has picnic tables, grills, and water.

07. Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware:

Cape Henlopen State Park is a must-visit destination for those who love beach camping in the USA. The park, situated in southern Delaware, is home to beautiful beaches, dunes, and coastal forests, which provide a natural habitat for a wide range of wildlife. Camping enthusiasts can pitch their tents in one of the park's many campsites and enjoy the natural beauty around them.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, and biking in the park. The Cape Henlopen Lighthouse, which is one of the oldest lighthouses in the country, is a must-visit attraction in the park. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

08. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan:

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan is a perfect destination for beach camping in the USA. This beautiful national park boasts over 35 miles of shoreline, where visitors can set up their tents and enjoy the sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

The park offers several beach camping options, including the Platte River Campground, which is located near the beach and features modern amenities such as showers and restrooms. Visitors can also camp at the dispersed campsites along the shoreline, which offer a more rustic camping experience.

09. Homer Spit Campground, Homer, Alaska:

Experience the raw beauty of Alaska with a stay at Homer Spit Campground, a true gem for beach camping in the USA. Located on the Kenai Peninsula, this stunning campground overlooks Kachemak Bay, glaciers and snow-capped mountains, offering breathtaking views and the chance to spot wildlife like black bears and moose while exploring the great outdoors. With 115 campsites to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and soak in the natural beauty of this rugged wilderness.

For an unforgettable experience, book one of the Beach Front sites and wake up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore. Though lacking in electric, water and sewer hookups, these sites offer Wi-Fi access and use of a dump station for your convenience. Amenities such as restrooms with hot showers, laundry facilities, and a gift shop are also available.

At just $35 per night, Homer Spit Campground is a great value for those looking to enjoy beach camping in the USA without breaking the bank. Whether you're an experienced camper or a first-timer, this stunning destination is sure to leave you in awe and create memories to last a lifetime.

10. Napali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kapaa, Hawaii:

For nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, beach camping in the USA is an experience not to be missed. The Napali Coast State Wilderness Park in Kapaa, Hawaii, is one such destination that offers an unforgettable camping experience. Located on the north shore of Kauai, the park boasts stunning sea cliffs, and visitors can choose to camp at one of three beaches - Hanakoa, Kalalau, or Miloli'i.

If you're looking for a quieter and more secluded camping experience, Miloli'i is the way to go. Accessible only by boat or kayak, this beach is a haven for wildlife, including monk seals and sea turtles. With covered picnic tables, fire rings, and an outhouse, Miloli'i has all the necessary amenities for a comfortable camping trip.

However, keep in mind that camping is only permitted from May 15 to Sept. 7, and a camping permit is required. The permit costs $15 per person, per night for Hawaiians and $20 per person, per night for out-of-state visitors and is valid for a maximum of three consecutive nights.

11. Kalaloch Campground, Olympic National Park, Washington:

The Kalaloch Campground in Olympic National Park is a prime example, with its breathtaking views, range of amenities, and easy access to the beach and hiking trails.  Situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this campground boasts nearly 170 campsites, all equipped with fire pits and picnic tables.

Campers have access to a range of amenities, including drinking water, restrooms, and food lockers. Some campsites even offer stunning views of the ocean. A short walk from the campground leads to a beach that is perfect for exploring, with plenty of tide pools to discover. The beach is accessible by a steep trail, but the views are well worth the effort.

12. Hither Hills State Park, New York:

Hither Hills State Park, located in Montauk, NY, is a perfect destination for those seeking an adventurous and relaxing beach camping experience in the USA. This beautiful park features over 190 campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. Some of the sites offer electric hookups for RVs, while others are designated for tent camping only.

The park's main attraction is the stunning 2-mile-long beach that provides an ideal spot for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the park's scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty.

The Hither Hills State Park offers many other recreational activities such as biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, including music concerts, nature walks, and guided tours.

With its pristine beaches, beautiful natural surroundings, and plenty of recreational activities, Hither Hills State Park is an ideal destination for beach camping in the USA.

13. Horseneck Beach State Reservation, Westport, Massachusetts:

14. Jalama Beach County Park, Lompoc, California:

For those seeking a peaceful beach camping experience in the USA, Jalama Beach County Park in Lompoc, California is an excellent option. Unlike the bustling beaches found in nearby Santa Barbara, Jalama Beach offers a serene and relaxed environment for visitors to enjoy. The park offers a range of activities such as surfing, fishing, whale watching, and birding, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

The park boasts 107 campsites, each with stunning views of the beach or the ocean. Basic amenities such as picnic tables, barbecue pits, restrooms with hot showers, and a convenience store selling grocery staples and fishing equipment are also available. Campsites can accommodate up to eight people and two vehicles, making it a great spot for families and groups of friends.

Camping fees vary depending on the site chosen and the time of year, with beachfront locations considered premium sites costing $50 per night year-round. Online booking is recommended, though 16 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

15. Sandy Neck Beach Park, West Barnstable, Massachusetts:

One popular spot Beach Camping in the US is Sandy Neck Beach Park, located on Cape Cod in Massachusetts. This highly-regarded beach offers the opportunity to camp overnight in either an off-road vehicle or a tent. While camping in an off-road vehicle can be pricey, you can save money by staying in the primitive tent area, although be prepared for a hike with your gear. Note that you must start your hike before 7 p.m.

Once you arrive, you'll find amenities like portable toilets and drinking water. Each campsite can accommodate up to five people and two tents, and permits cost just $20 per night, available on a first-come, first-served basis at the gatehouse. Keep in mind that you can only stay for a maximum of two consecutive nights.

Beach camping at Sandy Neck Beach Park is an excellent way to extend your day at the beach and immerse yourself in nature. You'll be able to fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to a beautiful sunrise over the ocean.

16. Siuslaw National Forest, Yachats, Oregon:

The Siuslaw National Forest in Yachats, Oregon, the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation, then beach camping in the USA is an excellent option. With its location near popular vacation destinations like Newport and Florence, this forest provides a unique opportunity to combine a beach outing with a forest trip.

Tillicum Beach Campground is one of the most popular camping spots in the area, offering a variety of activities such as surfing, swimming, and whale watching. The campground has 61 campsites, most of which have a breathtaking view of the beach. Each campsite can accommodate up to eight people and provides basic amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings, as well as access to flush toilets and drinking water. However, there are no shower facilities available on-site.

The campground is open year-round, but it fills up quickly, especially during summer, so it's best to reserve your campsite online or by phone ahead of time. Waterfront campsites start at $26 per night, making it an affordable camping option for families and friends.

17. Sonoma Coast State Park, Bodega Bay, California:

Sonoma Coast State Park offers an unforgettable beach camping experience, with Wright's Beach Campground providing a comfortable base to explore this beautiful coastline. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, this park is an ideal destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Located just 60 miles northwest of Sonoma and Napa, this 17-mile-long protected coastline offers stunning ocean vistas and an opportunity to add a beach experience to your wine vacation.

Wright's Beach Campground, with its 27 campsites, is the ideal place to wake up to the sound of crashing waves and the smell of salt air. While on-site amenities are limited to picnic tables, fire rings, and bathrooms with flush toilets, registered campers can take advantage of the nearby Bodega Dunes Campground, which offers hot showers and a potable water fill station. All Wright's Beach campsites accommodate up to eight people and two vehicles and cost $35 per night. 

18. Malibu Creek State Park, California:

If you're looking for a unique beach camping experience in the USA, consider Malibu Creek State Park in California. This stunning park is located in the Santa Monica Mountains and offers a variety of camping options, including beach camping.

At Malibu Creek State Park, you can pitch your tent right on the beach and fall asleep to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore. You'll wake up to breathtaking ocean views and the opportunity to spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the park's hiking trails.

One of the best things about beach camping at Malibu Creek State Park is the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends and family, this park offers a peaceful and rejuvenating escape.

19. Kiptopeke State Park, Virginia:

Kiptopeke State Park in Virginia offers a unique beach camping experience in a beautiful coastal setting. Located on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, the park features 107 campsites, most of which are just a short walk from the beach. Campsites offer amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and access to restrooms and showers. The park also offers several recreational activities, including fishing, crabbing, hiking, and swimming. Visitors can take a stroll on the beach or watch for dolphins playing in the Chesapeake Bay.

The park also features a fishing pier and a boat ramp for those who want to explore the bay. Kiptopeke State Park is a popular destination for birdwatchers, with more than 300 species of birds spotted in the area. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made up to a year in advance. Whether you're a nature lover, beachgoer, or avid camper, Kiptopeke State Park is a great place to experience beach camping in the USA.

20. Fort De Soto Park, Florida:

Fort De Soto Park is one of Florida's most beautiful parks and campgrounds. It features many activities for the entire family to enjoy including: camping & beach access, picnics and barbecues, playgrounds, white-sand beaches and more. You can enjoy it any time of year with 70 miles of nature trails in the park.

Fort De Soto Park has two campgrounds, including one right on the beach. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities, including showers, restrooms, picnic tables, and grills. Plus, with easy access to the beach, you can enjoy a sunrise walk or a nighttime bonfire on the sand.

21. Huntington Beach State Park, California:

Huntington Beach State Park is a popular destination for beach camping in the USA. Located in Southern California, the park features 121 campsites that are just steps away from the beach. The campsites range from primitive tent camping to RV hookups, so there's an option for every type of camper.

Camping at Huntington Beach State Park is an ideal way to enjoy the stunning beauty of the Pacific Ocean. The park has over two miles of pristine beachfront, where visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. In addition to the beach, the park also has a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

22. Doheny State Beach, California:

Doheny State Beach is a popular beach camping destination located in Southern California. Beach camping in the USA is a unique experience, allowing visitors to sleep under the stars with the sound of the ocean waves as their lullaby.

At Doheny State Beach, campers can choose from over 100 campsites, all of which are located just a short walk from the beach. The campgrounds are equipped with amenities such as showers, restrooms, and picnic tables, making it easy for visitors to enjoy their stay.

One of the highlights of beach camping at Doheny State Beach is the opportunity to enjoy a variety of water activities, such as swimming, surfing, and kayaking. The beach is also home to a popular tide pool area, where visitors can explore the fascinating marine life that lives in the tide pools.

23. Myrtle Beach State Park, South Carolina:

Myrtle Beach State Park in South Carolina is an excellent choice for beach camping in the USA. With over a mile of pristine coastline, this state park offers visitors the chance to enjoy the beautiful Atlantic Ocean while camping in a peaceful, natural setting.

The park has a range of campsites to choose from, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot in the woods or a site right on the beach, you're sure to find something that suits your needs.

Of course, the main attraction here is the beach itself. With its soft sand, gentle waves, and warm sun, Myrtle Beach State Park is the perfect place to relax and soak up some rays. So why not pack up your tent or RV and head to South Carolina for a beach camping adventure?

24. Pismo State Beach, California:

Pismo State Beach is a stunning destination for beach camping in the USA. This California state park is located along the central coast and offers visitors breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, sandy beaches, and an abundance of outdoor activities.

Camping at Pismo State Beach is a popular option for those looking to explore the great outdoors. The park has over 200 campsites available for tents, RVs, and trailers, making it a perfect spot for a family vacation or a weekend getaway with friends.

Pismo State Beach is a great place to relax and unwind, with its tranquil beaches and peaceful surroundings. Whether you're looking to enjoy a romantic sunset or a fun-filled day in the sun, Pismo State Beach is the perfect destination for beach camping in the USA.

25. Jekyll Island Campground, Georgia:

If you're looking for an unforgettable beach camping experience in the USA, Jekyll Island Campground in Georgia is an excellent option. Located on a barrier island along the Atlantic coast, Jekyll Island boasts miles of pristine beaches, towering oak trees, and a wide array of outdoor activities.

At the campground, visitors can choose from over 200 campsites, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabin rentals. Many sites offer stunning views of the ocean, while others are nestled in the shade of the island's beautiful forests.

During the day, visitors can explore the island's beaches, go fishing or kayaking, take a bike ride through the island's scenic trails, or even go horseback riding along the shore. And at night, guests can gather around a campfire and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the ocean.

Beach Camping List:

• Tent or RV: You will need shelter for sleeping and protection from the elements. Choose a tent that is appropriate for the number of people in your party and the conditions you will encounter. If you prefer to camp in an RV, make sure you have a reservation and that the RV meets the requirements of the campground or beach.
• Sleeping bags and sleeping pads or air mattresses: These are essential for a comfortable night's sleep. Choose sleeping bags appropriate for the expected temperature range, and bring sleeping pads or air mattresses for added cushioning.
• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen regularly. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
• Insect repellent: Keep bugs at bay with insect repellent. Choose one that is effective against the specific pests you are likely to encounter.
• Beach towels: Bring towels for drying off after swimming or showering.
• Portable camping chairs: You'll want comfortable seating for relaxing around the campfire or on the beach.
• Coolers or ice chests: Keep food and drinks cool with a portable cooler or ice chest. Consider purchasing ice at a nearby store or bringing your own.
• Portable grill or camping stove: Prepare meals with a portable grill or camping stove. Make sure you have enough fuel to last for the duration of your trip.
• Cooking utensils and cookware: Bring utensils for cooking and serving, such as spatulas, tongs, and knives. Also, bring pots and pans appropriate for your cooking needs.
• Plates, bowls, and silverware: Bring plates, bowls, and silverware for eating your meals.
• Trash bags: Keep your campsite clean by bringing trash bags for your waste.
• Water containers or bottles: Bring plenty of water for drinking and cooking.
• First-aid kit: Be prepared for minor injuries with a basic first-aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
• Flashlights or lanterns: Bring lighting for navigating around the campsite at night.
• Maps and compass: Be prepared for outdoor adventures by bringing maps and a compass for navigation.
• Entertainment items such as books, games, and music: Bring items for entertainment during downtime, such as books, games, and music.
• Extra clothing and footwear: Bring extra clothing appropriate for the weather conditions and footwear for walking on the beach or hiking.
• Hats and sunglasses: Protect your eyes and face from the sun with hats and sunglasses.
• Personal hygiene items such as soap, toothbrush, and toilet paper: Bring personal hygiene items for maintaining cleanliness while camping.
• Camera or smartphone for taking pictures: Capture memories with a camera or smartphone.
• Beach toys, such as frisbees, volleyball, or paddleboards: Bring toys for playing on the beach, such as frisbees, volleyballs, or paddleboards.
• Life jackets or flotation devices if swimming or boating: If you plan on swimming or boating, bring appropriate safety gear such as life jackets or flotation devices.
• Portable shade structures or umbrellas: Bring portable shade structures or umbrellas for shade during the day.
• Fire starter or matches, if allowed and safe to have fires: If fires are allowed at the campground or beach, bring a fire starter or matches to start a fire. Be sure to follow the rules and regulations for fires, and make sure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving it.

Beach Camping Tips:

Here are some of our tips to make sure your camping trip is most enjoyable and memorable:

• Research the beach campground before you go: Check out the campground's website for information on facilities, rules and regulations, and reservation requirements. This will help you prepare for your trip and ensure a smooth camping experience.
• Make reservations early: Popular beach campgrounds fill up quickly, so make reservations as early as possible to secure your spot.
• Check the weather forecast: Be prepared for the weather conditions by checking the forecast before you go. Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the expected conditions.
• Pack light: Space is often limited at beach campgrounds, so pack only what you need and leave unnecessary items at home.
• Bring appropriate footwear: Sandals or flip-flops are great for walking on the beach, but bring closed-toe shoes or hiking boots for hiking or exploring the surrounding areas.
• Respect the environment: Leave the beach campground and surrounding areas cleaner than you found them. Follow all rules and regulations regarding fires, trash disposal, and wildlife interactions.
• Be mindful of wildlife: Beach campgrounds often have wildlife such as sea turtles or nesting birds. Observe wildlife from a distance and do not disturb them.
• Stay hydrated: It can be easy to become dehydrated when spending time in the sun and saltwater. Bring plenty of water and electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated.
• Protect yourself from the sun: Apply sunscreen regularly and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun.
• Store food properly: Keep food in a cooler or secure container to prevent wildlife from getting into it.
• Be prepared for insects: Bring insect repellent and consider setting up a mosquito net around your sleeping area.
• Learn about beach safety: Familiarize yourself with beach safety rules and regulations, such as swimming conditions and rip tides.
• Respect other campers: Keep noise levels down and be respectful of other campers' space and privacy.
• Bring a beach umbrella or portable shade structure: The sun can be intense at the beach, so bring shade for relief during the day.
• Have fun: Beach camping is a unique and enjoyable experience. Take advantage of all the activities the beach has to offer and create lasting memories with your family and friends.