Onslow Beach facts for kids
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Onslow Beach is a long, undeveloped beach located in Onslow County, North Carolina, in the United States. It stretches for about 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles). This special beach is part of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, which is a large military training base.
Because of its location and features, Onslow Beach has been used for important military training exercises, especially for practicing how to land troops and vehicles from the sea onto the shore. Today, it also serves as a fun place for families and individuals connected to Camp Lejeune to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
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What is Onslow Beach?
Onslow Beach is a natural sandy area along the coast of North Carolina. It's not like a typical public beach with lots of shops or hotels. Instead, it's kept mostly natural and undeveloped. This makes it a unique spot for both military training and quiet recreation.
Where is Onslow Beach located?
Onslow Beach is found within Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. This base is a huge military facility that covers a large area in Onslow County. The beach itself faces the Atlantic Ocean, offering wide views of the sea. Its location inside a military base means that access is controlled, and it's primarily used by military personnel and their families.
How long is Onslow Beach?
The beach stretches for approximately 12 kilometers (which is about 7.5 miles). This long length makes it suitable for various activities, from large-scale military exercises to long walks on the sand.
How is Onslow Beach used?
Onslow Beach has two main purposes: it's a vital training ground for the military and a recreational spot for the Camp Lejeune community.
Military Training at Onslow Beach
For many years, Onslow Beach has been a key location for the United States Navy and United States Marine Corps to practice what are called amphibious landings. An amphibious landing is when military forces move from ships in the water to land, often using special vehicles. This type of training is very important for preparing troops for real-world situations where they might need to land on a coastline.
What are amphibious landings?
Imagine soldiers and their vehicles, like Amphibious Assault Vehicles (AAVs), coming directly from the ocean onto the beach. This is what an amphibious landing is. It requires careful planning and practice to make sure everyone knows their role. Onslow Beach provides the perfect environment for these drills because it's a long, open stretch of coastline that can handle many troops and heavy equipment. These exercises help the military stay ready for any mission.
Recreation at Onslow Beach
When it's not being used for military training, Onslow Beach becomes a popular place for recreation. Families and individuals who live or work at Camp Lejeune can visit the beach for fun activities.
What can you do for fun at Onslow Beach?
People enjoy many different activities at Onslow Beach. They can go swimming in the ocean, build sandcastles, or simply relax on the sand. It's also a great spot for fishing, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the coast. The undeveloped nature of the beach means it's often quieter and more peaceful than crowded public beaches. It offers a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh sea air.
