A Beginners Guide to Beach Camping
There are so many ways to Go RVing, and each one offers its own special adventure. In this episode of Let’s Go Camping with Go RVing, host Jeremy Puglisi takes us to one of the most iconic coastal destinations on the East Coast: Assateague Island National Seashore. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the bay on the other, it’s the perfect place to enjoy RV beach camping at its best.
Whether you’re a new RV owner planning your first beach camping trip or a seasoned camper looking to improve your setup, these eight expert tips will help you enjoy a safer, cleaner, and more comfortable experience.
RELATED: Oceanfront RVing: 14 Tips, Tricks, and Hacks for Camping on the Beach
1. Always Secure Your RV Awning
Beachside breezes can turn into strong winds in a matter of minutes, so Jeremy’s first piece of advice is critical: never leave your RV awning out unattended. Whether you’re headed down to the beach for the day or going into town, be sure to roll in your awning before you leave your campsite. This simple precaution can save you from returning to a damaged awning or worse.
2. Bring an Outdoor Rug and Broom to Manage Sand
While beach camping comes with beautiful views and ocean fun, it also means dealing with sand—lots of it. To minimize the mess, invest in a good outdoor RV rug to place just outside your rig. Jeremy also recommends bringing along a sturdy corn broom to keep your rug swept off and sand-free. This helps keep your outdoor space tidy and creates a comfortable spot for lounging or playing games.
3. Rinse Off Before Going Inside
Sand in the RV—especially in your bed—is a surefire way to ruin the beach vibe. Use your RV’s outdoor shower to rinse off feet, legs, and gear before heading inside. If your rig doesn’t have an outdoor shower, Jeremy suggests placing a small bucket of water at your stairs so everyone can rinse their feet. To go the extra mile, bring a small handheld vacuum to remove any sand that sneaks into your bedding.
4. Don’t Forget Beach Chairs
Camp chairs are great around the firepit or picnic table, but they don’t perform well on sand. Jeremy recommends bringing dedicated beach chairs in addition to your standard camp seating. Beach chairs have wide bars on the bottom to prevent sinking and are much more comfortable for long, lazy days by the water.
5. Respect the Ocean and Know Your Comfort Level
Jeremy, a lifelong surfer, reminds us of something his grandfather used to say: "Respect the ocean." The ocean isn’t a swimming pool. It can be unpredictable, with rip currents, waves, and shifting tides. If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsure about swimming conditions, skip it or swim near a lifeguard. Knowing your limits and watching the water carefully can keep your beach vacation safe.
6. Keep Cold Drinks Outside to Stay Hydrated and Sand-Free
The combination of saltwater and sun can dehydrate you fast. Jeremy suggests stocking your outdoor fridge (if your RV has one) with plenty of water and other drinks. If you don’t have an outdoor fridge, use a cooler with ice and keep it in the shade under your RV. This reduces trips in and out of your RV and helps prevent tracking in more sand.
7. Block the Sun and Beat the Heat
Beach campgrounds often lack tree cover, which means your RV may sit in direct sunlight all day. To keep your interior cool and comfortable, pull down your window shades during the hottest parts of the day. This reduces solar heat gain, helps your RV air conditioner run more efficiently, and can make a big difference in overall comfort.
RELATED: Hot Weather Tips To Keep Your RV Cool
8. Store Food and Cooking Gear to Protect Wildlife
Even though you won’t find bears on the beach, other wildlife is still very much a concern. At Assateague Island, for example, wild horses roam freely throughout the campground. Leaving out food, even small crumbs, can attract animals and harm their health. Always store food, grills, griddles, and camp stoves securely at night. This is not only respectful of the animals but also helps maintain clean and safe campgrounds for everyone.
Why RV Beach Camping Is Worth It
There’s something truly special about camping steps away from the ocean. With the rhythmic sound of waves as your backdrop, endless sunrises and sunsets, and salty breezes filling your RV, beach camping can feel like a dream. But that dream is much sweeter when you're well-prepared.
So stock up on sunscreen, grab your favorite beach read, and pack those dedicated beach chairs—because with the right prep, your next RV beach camping trip could be your most memorable adventure yet.
To explore more tips and resources for RV travel, check out the rest of the Let’s Go Camping with Go RVing videos.
