Did you know that plenty of island getaways off the coast of the U.S. to suit every kind of beachgoer. And the best news of all is that camping can make an island getaway both fun and affordable. We rounded up the a few great island camping destinations so all you have to do is pack your swimsuit, sunglasses, and camping gear — and go.
Add these island camping getaways to your bucket list.
Hammocks Beach State Park, North Carolina
A 3-mile long undeveloped barrier island off the coast of North Carolina, Bear Island is accessible only by ferry or personal watercraft (canoe or kayak). If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all, you won’t find a more relaxing and undisturbed stretch of coastline anywhere. Camping on Bear Island is primitive, but it’s that kind of basics-only vibe that makes the island so special.
Skidway Island State Park, Georgia
A small barrier island off the coast of Savannah, Georgia, Tybee Island is known for its wide, sandy beaches and still-functioning 18th-century lighthouse. Its close location to Savannah means that it’s an easy day trip into the city to check out all of Savannah’s historic sites. A camping trip to Tybee Island truly is a southern getaway that offers the best of the city and the sea.
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Wellesley Island State Park, New York
Located in the secluded wilderness of the St. Lawrence River, the park offers lots of activities including beach swimming, biking, boating, jet and water skiing, fishing, golfing and hiking, along with a marina which has motorboats available to rent. The campground features cabins, campsites, dumping stations, showers, a camp store, three playgrounds, and playing fields. Laundry facilities and an arcade are also available at the camp store. Plus the park has twelve beautiful fully outfitted cottages, with porches to enjoy the sunset.
Palmetto Island State Park, Louisiana
Located on the Vermilion River, the park offers a real south Louisiana outdoors experience. Surrounded by palmetto trees, outdoors lovers will find untouched beauty and no shortage of active adventures. Camping is plentiful at the park with 6 cabins and 96 RV campsites.
Fishermens Memorial State Park, Rhode Island
In the state of Rhode Island, Fishermen’s State Park has the feel of a seaside village atmosphere. Visitors will find neatly trimmed grass, tree lined paths, and activities for the whole family. Whether you are looking for a place to pitch a tent and enjoy a camp fire, or park your RV and play some basketball or tennis. Plus the campground has over 180 campsite to choose from.
Hammonasset Beach State Park, Connecticut
More than just another day at the beach, Connecticut’s largest shoreline park, Hammonasset Beach, offers over 2 miles of shoreline to enjoy swimming, strolling along the boardwalk, or just relaxing in the sun and surf. The park has over 550 grassy campsites, with many amenities, including restrooms, showers, a camp store, dump stations, and water. The nearby Meigs Point Nature Center also offers programs and activities for park visitors.
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Mustang Island State Park, Texas
An 18-mile long barrier island off of the gulf coast of Texas, Mustang Island is well-known as a great place to sunbathe, search for seashells, surf in the warm ocean water or explore in a kayak. For a “traditional” sun and surf camping experience, it doesn’t get any better than Mustang Island.
Glen Island Campground, New York
The Lake George Islands campsites is divided into three groups, Glen Island, Long Island, and Narrow Island offering several boat-in campsite options. Most sites are well-forested and private, offering a great getaway experience. All sites have a dock for at least one boat, a fireplace, a picnic table, and a toilet facility. All types of watercraft are welcome on the lake, and salmon and lake trout fishing is available. Back on land, make sure to explore over 50 miles of hiking trails leading to mountains overlooking the lake and to remote mountain ponds.
Three Island Crossing State Park, Idaho
While technically not an island, Three Island Crossing State Park is located on the Snake River and home to The Oregon Trail History & Education Center where visitors can learn about pioneer immigrants and Native American history, and see the three islands on the river. The park is a convenient rest stop for highway travelers looking for a place to camp as well as for golf enthusiasts looking to play a round or two at Carmela Winery & Golf Course located directly beside the park.
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Plan your camping trip!
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.