We will answer the questions people have most often asked about beach camping.
Q: What do I need to bring when I go beach camping? A: Most of the supplies and gear that one would bring camping anywhere else can be used for beach camping as well. But there are some things you will want for the beach that you won’t use camping in the woods.
Q: Do I need to bring anything special for beach camping? A: At the beach, especially an ocean beach, you will want to make sure you have sunglasses, sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15, a beach umbrella, blanket and plenty of drinking water.
Q: How do I protect our food fro sand when we are dining outside? A: Go to the outdoor section of your home improvement or discount club store and get food tents preferably plastic ones. This will protect your dinner from blowing sand and/or insects.
Q: Can I drive my motor home on to the beach? A: Most beach campgrounds have designated areas for parking your RV where any utility hookups are located. It is probably not a good idea to drive a large motor home onto the beach. There will be little traction and you may have to be towed out.
Q: Is it safe to take my kids to a beach campground? A: As with any place you take your kids you must watch them carefully. Just to be safe, you may want to have the kids wear life jackets when they are near the water, this is no substitute for carefully watching them. If they are all very young, consider hiring a mother’s helper to help keep an eye on them.
Q: Will salt water damage the paint on my mobile home? A: It can, so you may want to hose your rig down every other day if possible. If that isn’t possible take it to a truck stop and wash it there as soon as possible.
Q: Why do some beach campgrounds, like at Cape Lookout, N.C., restrict RV’s access? A: Cape Lookout is part of the National Park system and access to some beaches is restricted to protect the environment and wildlife.
Q: What kind of sports and recreational equipment should we bring?A: Again, this depends on the particular park or campground. Volley ball is very popular with young people on the beaches of Florida and California. Fishing gear is appropriate for all ages. Jets skis and water skiing are also very popular. If you have a boat and the campground allows it, cruise the area at your leisure.
Q: Can I bring my dog to the beach campground? A: At most campgrounds you can, but it is best to check with each campground you plan to use. Your dog must be under your control at all times and you must clean up after her.
Q: How do I get rid of my trash? A: At most commercial campgrounds there will be a place to dispose of your garbage. However most state and national parks have a carry it in carry it out policy.
Q: Will there be utility hook ups at the beach campgrounds?A: Again it depends on the campground, check before you make a reservation. Most campgrounds do have water, electric and sewer hook-ups. Some even have wireless internet available.
We hope that you will find the answers to your questions about beach camping and that you will give this kind of exciting camping a try. Load up your gear and head to one of the more than 500 U.S. beach camping parks.