Public Beach

If you’re looking to camp right on the Gulf without paying for the privilege, this stretch of Surfside Beach is hard to beat. You can pull up, pitch a tent or park an RV, and fall asleep to actual waves — no campground fee, no fuss. It’s a pretty no-frills setup, so don’t expect manicured facilities or a playground structure waiting for the kids. What you do get is direct coastal access and a lot of freedom to just exist on the beach, which honestly beats most paid options in the area.