10 Best Island Camping Destinations in the US
Discover the ultimate island camping getaways across the US—from wild Atlantic coasts to pristine Great Lakes, with tips for unforgettable outdoor escapes.
Ready to trade city lights for star-strewn skies, and highways for sandy trails? The United States is home to some of the world’s most unforgettable island camping destinations, offering outdoor enthusiasts a way to escape crowds, encounter unique wildlife, and soak up nature’s purest beauty. Whether you’re drawn to dramatic Pacific shores, tranquil Midwest lakes, or barrier islands sheltering wild horses, these camping spots promise adventure, serenity, and memories that linger long after the tent is packed away.
Why Camp on an Island?
Island camping in the US offers a sense of seclusion—far from traffic and tourist hotspots. Many of these locations are only accessible by boat, kayak, or ferry, which means fewer crowds and a richer connection with nature. Expect to discover:
- Pristine beaches ideal for swimming, fishing, and relaxing
- Incredible wildlife: from wild horses and dolphins to bald eagles and sea turtles
- Activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, and snorkeling
- Stargazing without light pollution
- Unique ecosystems, including mangroves, sea caves, and maritime forests
1. Jekyll Island, Georgia
Best for campers who like to bike
Jekyll Island proves Georgia isn’t just about mountain forests—it’s also about sun-drenched coasts. This state-park-protected barrier island is a favorite for campers, especially those who love to explore on two wheels. With over 25 miles of paved biking trails circling the island, it’s easy to pedal between historic ruins, golden beaches, and marshy oaks dripping with Spanish moss. Jekyll Island Campground features tent and RV sites shaded by towering live oak canopies, and it’s only a ten-minute stroll to Driftwood Beach, a hauntingly beautiful stretch famed for giant weathered logs and Instagram-worthy photo ops.
- Tip: After checking out Driftwood Beach, head further south for quieter sands at St. Andrews Beach Park, a haven for birdwatchers and sunset seekers.
- Facilities: Full-service campground with both RV and tent sites, bike rentals available.
2. Spoil Islands, Indian River Lagoon, Florida
Best for BYO boat camping
If classic campgrounds are booked out, Florida’s Spoil Islands offer a unique solution—just bring your own boat or kayak. Dotted along the Indian River Lagoon (one of North America’s most biodiverse estuaries), these small, sandy isles have been reclaimed by mangroves and wild grasses over decades. Camping is free on designated islands, first-come, first-served. Watch manatees and dolphins cruise by during the day and, after sunset, enjoy some of the state’s clearest stargazing.
- Access: Reachable only by boat or kayak. Day trip and overnight charters available from Fort Pierce.
- Tip: Stock up on supplies at the Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers Market before setting out.
- Wildlife: Frequent manatee, dolphin, and native bird sightings.
3. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
Best for campers who love kayaking
Set on the northern edge of Wisconsin, the Apostle Islands comprise 21 wild isles scattered across Lake Superior. Accessible mostly by sea kayak or boat shuttle, these islands feature red sandstone cliffs, mysterious sea caves, and thick forests teeming with bald eagles and black bears. Stockton Island, in particular, is famous for one of the highest concentrations of black bears in North America—make sure to store your food in secure lockers! Campers can pitch tents on dozens of islands. Outfitters in nearby Bayfield offer guided kayaking and camping trips for both beginners and experienced adventurers.
- Tip: Hike the Lakeshore Trail for panoramic lake views and a close-up look at the spectacular sea caves.
- Access: Reachable by kayak, private boat, or shuttle ferry. Advance reservations recommended.
4. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland & Virginia
Best for wild horse encounters
Best known for its famous wild horses, Assateague stretches across Maryland and Virginia and delivers a camping experience unlike anywhere else. Set up your tent among the dunes, watch herds of wild ponies roam, and wake up to sunrise over the Atlantic. The Maryland side allows both drive-in and walk-in sites with access to both the ocean and the quieter Bayside. Backcountry camping is also permitted—but only in Maryland. No camping is allowed in the Virginia section.
- Facilities: Well-equipped campgrounds with toilets, showers, and picnic areas.
- Tip: Book early—peak seasons fill fast. Group and horse camping sections available from October to April.
- Activities: Explore by kayak, look for snowy egrets, and keep food secured from curious wildlife.
5. Channel Islands National Park, California
Best for marine wildlife and hiking
The Channel Islands off southern California are often called “North America’s Galapagos” for their extraordinary biodiversity. Five remote islands protect over 2,000 plant and animal species, nearly 150 of which are found nowhere else on earth. Boats from Ventura or Oxnard transport campers to Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Anacapa Islands, where rustic campgrounds blend hiking, sea cave kayaking, whale watching, and tide pooling. There are no shops or potable water—come prepared, and relish the dark skies and sound of barking sea lions at night.
- Facilities: Primitive campgrounds; no water or supplies available on the islands.
- Tip: Plan for self-sufficiency—a must for comfortable Channel Islands trips.
6. Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia
Best for solitude and wild horses
Cumberland Island, the largest and southernmost barrier island in Georgia, offers an enchanting mix of maritime forests, wild horses, historical ruins, and quiet beaches. Five campgrounds, ranging from developed sites with amenities to wilderness-only zones, allow visitors to choose their adventure. Access to the island is solely via ferry from St. Marys, and motor vehicles are prohibited, preserving the sense of peace and isolation. Wander beneath live oaks, climb sand dunes, or spot armadillos, stop for the ruins of Dungeness Mansion, and fall asleep to the sound of Atlantic waves.
- Facilities: Designated campgrounds and wilderness backcountry sites, toilets at main areas.
- Tip: Carry all supplies and reserve ferry tickets and campsites well in advance.
7. Mustang Island State Park, Texas
Best for classic beach camping
Spanning 18 miles along Texas’s Gulf Coast, Mustang Island is a haven for sun and surf lovers. The state park’s beachfront camping offers direct access for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking, and shell hunting, with easy opportunities to spot migratory birds and dolphins. The sand dunes provide shelter for nests, and the waves cater to both surfers and waders. The drive-in campsites and primitive sites give options for both comfort and adventure, with daily beach bonfires a familiar sight as twilight falls.
- Facilities: Developed and primitive campsites, restrooms with showers.
- Tip: Arrive early for peak weekends; don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent.
8. Lake George Islands (Glen, Long, Narrow Islands), New York
Best for family boating and fishing
The idyllic Lake George, located in New York’s Adirondack Mountains, is famed for its sparkling waters and forested islands only accessible by boat. Choose from more than 380 waterfront campsites across Glen, Long, and Narrow Islands, each offering peace, privacy, and a dock. Spend days swimming, trout fishing, or exploring over 50 miles of hiking trails leading to stunning viewpoints and mountain ponds. The blend of aquatic adventure and woodland solitude makes these islands a beloved favorite among families and anglers alike.
- Facilities: Boat-in campsites provide picnic tables, fire pits, docks, and toilets.
- Tip: Reserve campsites well ahead; summer weekends sell out quickly.
9. Hammocks Beach State Park, North Carolina
Best for barrier island wilderness
Accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat, Bear Island in Hammocks Beach State Park is a pristine slice of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Its four-mile-long sand beach offers 14 primitive campsites with the soundtrack of crashing waves and the company of nesting sea turtles. You’ll hike in across sand, pitch a tent behind the dunes, and fall asleep to stars glimmering above. There are no roads, lights, or crowds—just nature, salt air, and ocean breezes.
- Facilities: Primitive campsites; limited restrooms, water spouts near the dock.
- Tip: Come self-sufficient; ferry rides subject to weather and tides.
10. Wellesley Island State Park, New York (Thousand Islands)
Best for freshwater adventures
Located in the heart of the St. Lawrence River, Wellesley Island is the largest in the Thousand Islands region. Its spacious campground, set amidst shady woods and overlooking clear waters, includes tent, trailer, and RV options as well as boat-in only sites for added privacy. Enjoy world-class fishing (walleye, northern pike, bass), or paddle through the gentle current exploring secret bays. A hike on the island’s trails brings you to dramatic river vistas and wildflower meadows.
- Facilities: Modern campsites, marina, rental cabins, nature center, and hiking/biking paths.
- Tip: Don’t miss the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center for wildlife exhibits and family programs.
Practical Tips for Island Camping
- Always check weather and tide conditions before traveling, especially for boat-access islands.
- Book campsites and transport (ferry, water taxi, kayak rentals) well in advance—spots fill fast during peak seasons.
- Be self-sufficient: Pack all essentials, especially water, fuel, and food.
- Practice responsible camping: Leave no trace, store food securely, and respect local wildlife.
- Consult official park or site websites for updates on fires, closures, and regulations.
Table: Quick Comparison of Top Island Camping Destinations
| Destination | Access Type | Main Attraction | Camping Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jekyll Island, GA | Car, bike | Paved bike trails, Driftwood Beach | Developed campground |
| Spoil Islands, FL | Boat/kayak | Wildlife, free primitive camping | Primitive, no amenities |
| Apostle Islands, WI | Kayak/boat/ferry | Sea caves, black bears | Primitive campsites, bear lockers |
| Assateague Island, MD/VA | Car to MD, none to VA | Wild horses | Full campgrounds |
| Channel Islands, CA | Boat/ferry | Biodiversity, sea caves | Primitive, pack in/out |
| Cumberland Island, GA | Ferry | Wild horses, Ruins | Developed & primitive sites |
| Mustang Island, TX | Car | Beach sports, birding | Developed & primitive |
| Lake George Islands, NY | Boat | Fishing, hiking | Boat-in, basic amenities |
| Bear Island (Hammocks Beach), NC | Ferry/boat/kayak | Wilderness, marine life | Primitive |
| Wellesley Island, NY | Car/Boat | Freshwater activities | Modern amenities |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do I need a reservation to camp on these islands?
A: Most state and national parks require advance reservations, especially in high season. Some primitive sites (like Florida’s Spoil Islands) are first-come, first-served, but it’s always wise to check ahead.
Q: What is the best time of year for island camping in the US?
A: Spring and fall typically offer milder weather, fewer bugs, and lighter crowds for most regions. In southern states, winter is also popular. Always check local climate and weather resources before booking.
Q: Can I bring my pet to island campgrounds?
A: Rules vary. Many developed campgrounds allow leashed pets, but sensitive wildlife areas (like some backcountry islands) often restrict pets for ecosystem protection. Confirm with the managing authority before you go.
Q: Are fires allowed on island campsites?
A: It depends—some areas permit fires in designated rings or pits, while others (especially drought-prone sites) restrict open flames. Always follow posted rules and use fire only where allowed.
Q: What gear should I bring island camping?
A: In addition to standard camping gear, pack extra water (potable supplies may be limited), a detailed map, weather-appropriate clothing, food storage for wildlife safety, and any required permits.
