Do you want to feel the sand between your toes or hear the call of a sea gull? Or the relaxing sound of waves crashing up on the seashore?  Camping on the beach can be a great alternative to mountains or parks.

The trick is to get back to basics. Make your own shade, swim if you get too hot, drink plenty of water and pitch your tent where you can feel the sea breeze.  The temperature near the water drops substantially at night, so even if it is very hot during the day, pack warmer clothes for night time. Be aware of tides and set up camp so that you have plenty of room between your site and the water. Nothing can ruin a camping experience faster then getting awakened by the tide entering your tent or washing away your belongings.  It is also important to have proper sand management. 

If you are a camping newbie, you might want to venture out into your backyard first.  All of the creature comforts will be just a few steps away.

Some campsites can be reserved online.  Here are some great beaches that offer camping:

• Watch Hill, Fire Island National Seashore Reserve online
• Ottis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness Reserve online
• Cupsogue Beach County Park, Westhampton Reserve online
• Shinnecock East County Park , Southampton Reserve online
• Smith Point County Park , Fire Island, Shirley Reserve online
• Montauk County Park, Montauk Reserve online
• Smithtown Callahan's Beach and Short Beach Apply for permit in-person
• Wildwood State Park , Wading River Reserve online
• Nickerson Beach Park Campground, Lido Beach Leisure Pass required
• Hither Hills State Park Campground, Montauk Reserve onine
   

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