31 Must-Visit Waterfront Campgrounds and the Essentials to Take With You
Start Planning Your Summer Escape Early with Our Comprehensive List of Campgrounds on the Water
For those keeping score at home, the groundhog did not see his shadow, so warmer weather should be just around the corner. But even if the folklore eludes us, it’s always nice to start thinking about that summertime escape.
To help with your preparation, we’ve prepared a list of waterfront essentials as well as a compilation of 31 campgrounds that are sure to make a splash.
Summertime Essentials
With all the targeted ads and viral fads making the rounds, sorting through the noise and finding the proper accouterments for an outdoor adventure can be challenging. So, without breaking the bank, here’s a quick curated rundown of highly-rated gear for use in, around, and on the water.
Water Bottle
Hydration is key, and a durable water bottle helps the environment while helping your wallet when you factor in the amount you’d spend on single-use bottles.
Portable Speaker
Whether you’re floating in the river, relaxing by the side of a pool, or just hanging around a campfire, music can really augment the experience. Carrying around a portable speaker can go a long way – especially if it’s waterproof.
Sunscreen
An obvious entry on the list? Sure. But still, it’s all too easy to forget the importance of sunscreen. If you will be hanging outside for any length of time, make sure you stock up.
First Aid Kit
The best offense is a good defense (so to speak). And while you can’t necessarily anticipate everything that could go wrong on a trip, you can be prepared at the very least. Take it upon yourself to research any potential hazards, wildlife, poisonous plants, or weather-related risks that could affect your vacation, and stock up with a first aid kit carrying the essentials.
Insect Repellent
How many times has a perfectly pleasant evening out on a patio or around a campfire been stymied by mosquitos? Stock up on some insect repellant for an uninterrupted good time.
Utility Wagon
If you’re traveling with a larger crew and hauling gear around, you would do well to invest in a collapsable wagon. These carts are easy to pop open and stow away with ease, and they will undoubtedly save you additional trips back and forth.
Waterproof Phone Case
It never hurts to play it safe if you’re going anywhere near the water. Quell unnecessary anxiety with a waterproof case. Your wallet will thank you in the long run.
Portable Charger
When you’re out and about, charging your phone can be an afterthought that could eventually become a big problem. Bringing a portable power bank might just stave off a bad situation.
Inflatable Paddleboard
Whether venturing out to the ocean or the lake, paddleboarding is a blast, and having an inflatable option makes packing easier. It’s a bit of an investment, but when you factor in that an hourly rental runs around $15, purchasing one will likely pay for itself by the end of summer.
Kindle e-Book Reader
Are you trying to catch up on some reading? If so, a Kindle is a great investment. These devices have a warm light that’s friendly to your eyes, hold a charge for ten weeks at a time, and give you access to over two million books.
Backpack Cooler
If you’re the one carrying the cooler, you’re pretty much the source of the party. You also have to inconveniently drag it around or find a buddy to help share the load. Fortunately, the backpack cooler makes transporting drinks way easier.
Waterfront Campgrounds
The TLDR is there are plenty of fantastic spots to camp near the water, and while this is by no means an exhaustive list, it’s a pretty helpful start.
Antelope Point Marina RV Park
Page, AZ
928-645-5900
[email protected]
Keller’s Kove Cabin and RV Resort
Elizabeth, AR
870-488-5360
[email protected]
Cachuma Lake Campground
Santa Barbara, CA
805-568-2460
[email protected]
Stateline Campresort & Cabins
East Killingly, CT
860-774-3016
[email protected]
Bay Bayou RV Resort
Tampa, FL
813-855-1000
[email protected]
Boardwalk RV Resort
Homestead, FL
305-248-2487
[email protected]
Chokoloskee Island Resort
Chokoloskee, FL
239-695-2414
[email protected]
Jolly Roger RV Resort
Marathon, FL
305-289-0404
[email protected]
Road Runner Travel Resort
Fort Pierce, FL
772-464-0969
[email protected]
Tamiami RV Park
North Fort Myers, FL
866-573-2041
[email protected]
Upriver RV Resort
North Fort Myers, FL
239-301-3551
[email protected]
Yacht Haven Park & Marina
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-583-2322
[email protected]
Black Bear Campground
Salisbury, MA
978-462-3183
[email protected]
Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground
Vineyard Haven, MA
508-693-3772
[email protected]
Indian Springs Ranch Golf & RV Resort
Eureka, MT
406-899-6912
[email protected]
West Glacier RV Park & Cabins
West Glacier, MT
844-868-7474
[email protected]
Camp Hatteras RV Resort & Campground
Rodanthe, NC
252-987-2777
[email protected]
Frisco Woods Campground
Frisco, NC
252-995-5208
[email protected]
Hatteras Sands Campground
Hatteras, NC
888-987-2225
[email protected]
Apache Family Campground & Pier
Myrtle Beach, SC
800-553-1749
[email protected]
Myrtle Beach Travel Park
Myrtle Beach, SC
800-255-3568
[email protected]
NMB RV Resort and Dry Dock Marina
Little River, SC
844-777-5727
[email protected]
Palmetto Shores RV Resort
Summerton, SC
803-478-6336
[email protected]
Chesapeake Campground
Chesapeake, VA
757-485-0149
[email protected]
Lake Gaston Americamps
Bracey, VA
434-636-2668
[email protected]
Monroe Bay Campground Paradise Lake Family Campground
Colonial Beach, VA
804-224-7418
[email protected]
Picture Lake Campground
Dinwiddie, VA
804-861-0174
[email protected]
Tom’s Cove Park
Chincoteague Island, VA
757-336-6498
[email protected]
Friends Landing RV Park
Montesano, WA
360-861-8864
[email protected]
Grant County Fairgrounds & RV Park
Moses Lake, WA
509-765-3581
[email protected]
MarDon Resort on Potholes Reservoir
Othello, WA
509-346-2651
[email protected]
Ready to Make the Most of Your Summer?
With over 2,000 campgrounds and RV parks across North America, Good Sam has plenty of summertime “hot spots” to get you out on the water. And don’t forget, members save 10% when they stay – helping you get the most out of your trip.