Introduction: Best Island Camping Spots in The United States
Camping on an island offers a unique escape into nature—one where the sound of waves replaces city noise, and where you’re surrounded by nothing but pristine views and wildlife. From oceanic isles to inland lake retreats, the United States offers diverse island camping experiences. Here are some of the best island camping destinations across the country, from rugged shores to tranquil lake islands.
Channel Islands National Park, California
The five islands that makeup Channel Islands National Park—Santa Cruz, Anacapa, Santa Rosa, Santa Barbara, and San Miguel—are often called the “Galápagos of North America” for their biodiversity. Located off the coast of Southern California, these islands offer some of the most secluded camping experiences in the state.
Best Campsites:
Scorpion Ranch Campground on Santa Cruz Island is the most popular, with scenic views, access to trails, and nearby sea caves for kayaking. Each island also offers its own primitive camping options.
What to Do:
Kayak through sea caves, hike the Scorpion Canyon Loop, or snorkel among kelp forests. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot dolphins, sea lions, and the endemic island fox.
Getting There:
Ferries from Ventura and Oxnard make regular trips to the islands, provided by Island Packers. Be sure to reserve tickets in advance and come prepared with all supplies, as there are no services on the islands.
Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina
Cape Lookout National Seashore, part of North Carolina’s barrier islands, offers primitive camping for those who want a raw and rugged experience. With 56 miles of undeveloped coastline, the park includes sandy beaches, grassy dunes, and wild horses that roam the shores.
Best Campsites:
While there are no formal campgrounds, campers can set up tents anywhere along the beach on North and South Core Banks. Shackleford Banks, a nearby island, also allows camping.
What to Do:
Take a boat tour to see the wild horses, fish from the shore, or explore the Cape Lookout Lighthouse. The remote setting provides exceptional stargazing opportunities.
Getting There:
Ferries depart from Harkers Island to reach Cape Lookout. Cape Lookout Cabins and Camps Ferry Service offers both vehicle and passenger ferries.
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
One of the least-visited national parks in the United States, Isle Royale offers a remote camping experience surrounded by Lake Superior’s frigid waters. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the island is an adventurer’s paradise, filled with rugged trails, dense forests, and views of the Great Lakes.
Best Campsites:
There are 36 campgrounds scattered across the island, with most requiring a bit of hiking or boating to reach. Three Mile and Rock Harbor Campgrounds are accessible to those arriving at Rock Harbor, the main entry point.
What to Do:
Hike along the Greenstone Ridge Trail, go fishing in inland lakes, or take a canoe out on the waters. The island is known for its wolf and moose populations, making it ideal for wildlife viewing.
Getting There:
Ferries run from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Grand Portage, Minnesota, but they operate only in summer. The trip can take several hours, so plan accordingly.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
A cluster of seven islands located 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is known for its clear turquoise waters, coral reefs, and the historic Fort Jefferson. This remote tropical paradise offers camping on Garden Key, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and exploring the park’s vibrant marine life.
Best Campsites:
Garden Key is the only island open to camping. There are no reservations, and campsites are first-come, first-served, so arrive early. All supplies must be packed in, as there are no services on the island.
What to Do:
Snorkel among coral reefs, visit Fort Jefferson, or take a kayak out to explore nearby islands. With no light pollution, the night skies here are some of the darkest and most beautiful in the country.
Getting There:
You’ll need to book a ferry with the Yankee Freedom Ferry out of Key West or take a seaplane. The ferry ride takes about 2.5 hours each way, and campers must bring all their supplies.
Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland and Virginia
Famous for its wild horses, Assateague Island stretches along the coasts of Maryland and Virginia, offering both ocean and bayside camping. With miles of sandy beaches and salt marshes, Assateague provides a peaceful camping experience and excellent wildlife viewing.
Best Campsites:
The Maryland section of the island has both drive-in and walk-in campsites. Bayside campsites offer a quieter experience with calmer waters, while oceanside sites allow campers to sleep to the sound of the surf.
What to Do:
Watch for wild ponies, kayak through salt marshes, or go crabbing along the shore. Assateague’s beaches are perfect for sunbathing and surf fishing.
Getting There:
You can reach the island by car via the bridge from Berlin, Maryland, or Chincoteague, Virginia. Reservations are required for camping on the Maryland side.
Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia
A barrier island off the coast of Georgia, Cumberland Island offers a lush landscape filled with maritime forests, pristine beaches, and historic ruins. The island is home to wild horses, armadillos, and diverse bird species.
Best Campsites:
Sea Camp is the most popular campsite, located near the ferry dock. For a more remote experience, hike out to Stafford Beach or one of the backcountry campsites.
What to Do:
Explore the Dungeness Ruins, hike through maritime forests, or take a bike ride along sandy trails. The island is also home to Loggerhead sea turtles, which nest on the beaches.
Getting There:
The island is accessible by ferry from St. Marys, Georgia, and advance reservations are recommended. There are no services on the island, so campers must bring all supplies.
Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota (Inland Island Camping)
Located on the border between Minnesota and Canada, Voyageurs National Park is known for its interconnected waterways and over 200 islands. Camping on one of Voyageurs’ many islands offers a unique freshwater experience among dense forests and calm waters.
Best Campsites:
Many islands within the park have designated campsites, which are accessible only by boat. Popular sites include those on Kabetogama Lake, Rainy Lake, and Namakan Lake.
What to Do:
Kayak or canoe through interconnected lakes, fish for walleye, or hike the park’s scenic trails. With little light pollution, this is also an excellent spot for stargazing and witnessing the northern lights.
Getting There:
There are multiple entry points to the park, and outfitters in nearby towns can provide rental boats or guided trips.
Lake George Islands, New York (Inland Island Camping)
Located in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake George is known for its clear blue waters and forested islands. The lake has over 50 islands with campsites, offering an ideal blend of lake scenery and mountain views.
Best Campsites:
Popular island camping spots include Glen Island, Long Island, and Narrows Island. Each offers unique views of the lake, and many sites have docks, making them perfect for boating enthusiasts.
What to Do:
Swim in the lake, explore the islands by kayak, or fish for bass and trout. Lake George is a popular spot for water sports, so bring gear for paddleboarding or tubing.
Getting There:
Most sites are accessible by boat only, and the nearby town of Lake George has several outfitters that rent boats and equipment.
Tips for Island Camping
1. Pack Accordingly: Most island campsites have limited or no services, so bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and shelter.
2. Respect Wildlife: Many island habitats are fragile ecosystems. Follow Leave No Trace principles and respect all wildlife to help protect these unique areas.
3. Plan Ahead: Ferries and permits often require advance reservations, especially in peak seasons. Be sure to check availability and make arrangements before you go.
4. Prepare for Weather: Island weather can be unpredictable. Bring extra layers, waterproof gear, and a sturdy tent, especially for coastal islands with strong winds.
Final Thoughts
Island camping in the United States offers a unique way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes. From the shores of the Great Lakes to the sandy beaches of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, these island campsites provide solitude, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to explore sea caves in Channel Islands, stargaze in Dry Tortugas, or kayak through Voyageurs, each island has something special to offer.
Comments