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Planning an RV trip to the beach for some seaside camping and fun in the sun? From the Atlantic to the Pacific, America boasts some fabulous beach destinations where RVs are welcome. Here are 5 top picks for beach camping and RV access across the US, ideal for a memorable coastal getaway on wheels.
1. Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina
Stretching 70 miles along the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers plenty of wide-open beachfront for memorable seaside RV camping. The off-road area along the beach is open for vehicles, so you can drive your RV right onto the sand for oceanfront camping. There are also campgrounds in Buxton and Oregon Inlet with electric hookups. Enjoy beachcombing, swimming, fishing, or just relaxing oceanside. Don't miss climbing the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse for panoramic views too.
2. Gulf Islands National Seashore, Florida and Mississippi
For sparkling white sand beaches edging the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, head to Gulf Islands National Seashore. The Florida district has several campgrounds where RVs and trailers are allowed, like Fort Pickens Campground with electric and water hookups nestled behind the dunes. Or try the quiet woodland Davis Bayou Campground in Mississippi. Spend sunny days lounging on the beach, fishing, dolphin spotting, or trail walking to explore the diverse coastal habitat.
3. Jamaica Beach RV Park, Texas
Everything's bigger in Texas, including the fabulous beaches. One of the best for beachfront RV access is Jamaica Beach RV Park on Galveston Island. The sites are spacious and directly overlook the beach, so you can fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the sea. Spend the days swimming, jet skiing, fishing in the surf, or combing the beach for shells. The park is open year-round and features full hookups along with resort-style amenities like a pool, hot tub, and recreation room.
4. Beverly Beach State Park, Oregon
Oregon's spectacular coastline includes dozens of places to camp oceanside with your RV, but Beverly Beach State Park is one favorite. It sits on a seven-mile stretch of scenic beachscape in the Central Coast region, with 46 RV sites (electric only) and 6 yurts perched behind the dunes. Meander down the paths to comb rugged beaches, go agate hunting, try your hand at surf fishing, or hike to the Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Don't miss the chance for a Pacific Ocean sunset too!
5. El Capitan Canyon, California
Last on our list of top beach camping picks for RVs is the luxurious El Capitan Canyon, tucked away in the rolling hills just north of Santa Barbara. It may be expensive than your average RV park but offers an upscale glamping experience right next to the ocean.
The RV sites have 30 amp electric plus water and sewer hookups, set amidst lush nature. Your private site includes outdoor chairs and a fire ring with bundles of firewood available. When not relaxing at your camp, enjoy the stunning pool area, hiking and biking trails, yoga classes, and evening s'mores around the campfire under starry California skies.
If you are planning to park your RV under the hot sun, make sure to have a pet temperature monitor as well. It will assist you to ensure that there is no possibility of heat stroke in dogs to happen.
RV Camping Tips for Beach Destinations
Planning an RV trip to wild and wonderful beach destinations comes with its own unique set of considerations. From driving on sand to securing your rig in windy conditions, keep these tips in mind:
- Let some air out of your tires for better traction driving on soft sand - about 12-15 PSI. Carry a portable air compressor to reinflate when back on pavement.
- Invest in quality RV leveling blocks and stabilizers that can handle shifting sand and strong coastal winds.
- Check beach access hours and rules in advance. You may need to move your RV off the sand during certain times.
- Have a backup plan or alternate camp location in case wind or surf conditions make oceanfront camping unsafe.
- Plan your route to allow room for wide turns and larger vehicle sizes on narrow coastal roads.
So, gear up for adventure and hit the beach in your home on wheels! With endless miles of spectacular shoreline to explore, America's coastal parks and beaches make fantastic destinations for memorable seaside RV trips.
