Ebb & F low
Barrier Island Camping By Trey Leggett
T
here’s nothing quite like waking up in the morning to the sound of waves crashing against the shoreline and the squawks of seagulls flying overhead. The morning is crisp and cool, and the new day is waking up to the brightness of the rising sun. These are just a few wonders you’ll experience when you camp overnight on one of the many barrier islands in the south. There are a few particulars to consider before venturing off to camp on a coastal barrier island, such as your method of travel, equipment and must haves, rules and regulations, and how to stay safe. First off let’s talk about how you can get to the island. Preferably you can take your own boat. This allows for an easy out in case of emergency or re-supply. Depending on the size of your boat you can take camping items and campers in one trip. I prefer to have my own boat there, for peace of mind. Anchor your boat in a protected area near your camp and check on it periodically due to the changing tides. Getting dropped off by a friend and his boat is another option. Just realize you are probably stuck there until your pre-planned pickup day and time. Another option is to kayak over. Although a fun and adventurous method, it does present some setbacks like the amount of supplies you take. That isn’t a big deal if you like to sort of rough it. I’ve done it myself and only took minimal food, but plenty of water. I cooked and ate mainly fish and crabs that I caught while camping. It was a great experience. The amount and type of equipment you take is dependent on
the camper. You can have a tent and a whole camp kitchen setup or have a tarp over a limb and a fire grate, or anything in between. While camping on our barrier islands, I like to be minimal, but not rough it. If the weather is cool and the bugs aren’t present, I’ll usually opt for the tarp to make a half shelter and have a self-inflating air pad with plenty of blankets. A cooking/fire grate is a must. There’s no sense in roughing it completely! You may just want to enjoy your food so bring your seasonings and food sides like potatoes and veggies to make that fresh caught fish fillet or crab boil something to smile about. Don’t forget other necessities like a lighter, flashlight with extra batteries, first aid kit, hand held VHF radio, charged cellphone for emergencies, eating utensils, personal hygiene requirements, a means of carrying away your trash, and plenty of water per person. Some of our coastal barrier islands in the southeast are protected federal or state lands, though some do allow camping with registration. Check with your Department of Natural Resources for a list of camping-friendly islands and their regulations. A fun camping trip on a barrier island is not worth it if you don’t think of safety and take a few items to prepare yourself for a favorable outcome. Just like fishing trips, make a float plan – make sure someone knows where you’re going and when you should return. Take a full first aid kit to be able to treat a multitude of mishaps. Have a way to call for help via VHF radio or cellphone. Pack an extra tarp, rope, and dry clothes for those oops moments. Check the weather forecasts and tides to make sure you don’t get caught off guard. Completely put out camp fires – because things can happen, just ask Murphy. Leave the island wildlife alone. Most islands have snakes, hogs, raccoons, and other varmints that may check out your camp site at some point. In most cases if you leave them be, they’ll leave you be. Give coastal barrier island camping a try with your friends, family, and kids. Stay safe and tight lines.
Trey fishes for Hobie Polarized Sunglasses, and ENGEL Coolers.
Email: info@southerntidesmagazine.com
Camping is allowed on several barrier islands, just be sure to check online for regulations, and be sure to stay out of dunes and other protected areas. Leave no trace! Photo by Amy Thurman
