Beach Camping

The beach is a wonderful vacation spot for couples and families of all ages.  Warm summertime fun in every form can be found at the beach.  Camping has been a popular pastime for centuries, so it is no surprise that so many people enjoy beach camping.  Beach camping combines the fun of sleeping and cooking in the great outdoors with the splashing fun of the beach for an all around perfect vacation.

If you are planning a beach camping trip, the first thing to do is decide on a camping location.  Many beaches across the nation offer a range of state parks near or on the beach.  State park or state beach camping facilities often provide fire pits, picnic tables, and possibly charcoal grills.  Bath houses, some with hot showers, are also available at many state parks and beaches.

There are also commercial beach camping facilities at most beaches.  These types of campgrounds are great for those who want to enjoy the joys of camping, but still like to have access to modern conveniences like electricity.  Most commercial beach campgrounds are ideal for all sorts of RVs as well as tent camping.  Some are located within a few yards of the ocean, while others may offer campsites right by the beach.

If you are interested in camping directly on the beach, you should first check to be sure the beach you plan to visit allows beach camping.  Find out about an special regulations for beach camping in that particular area, like camping or campfire permits, pet rules, and other fees or rules.  Many beaches prohibit campfires on the beach.  If this is the case at the beach you plan to camp on, be sure to plan your meals accordingly.  A camp stove or grill is an option, or you may wish to stick with simple meals like sandwiches.

If you will be sleeping on the beach, bring alone some sort of shelter.  The Coleman Roadtrip Beach Shade is a comfortable and affordable tent for beach camping.  The added protection of a shelter can prevent bad sunburns and skin damage during the early hours while you are still sleeping.

Packing for your beach camping trip is not much different than preparing for any camping trip.  Plan your meals and pack any snacks, drinks, or ingredients you are bringing along in an appropriate sized cooler.  Blocked ice will keep things cool longer than crushed or cubed.  You may want to consider a cooler with wheels for more portability if you are not camping on the beach, but plan to spend a lot of time there.

Don’t forget to pack your beach towels, lounge chairs, and insect repellant.  Pack plenty of sunscreen, some beach toys, and a few good books to read by the water.  A beach umbrella may be an accessory to consider as well.  Remember to check with the campground or state camping facility you plan to stay at ahead of time.  You may want to make reservations if you plan your beach camping trip during peak seasons at a heavily visited beach.