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Want to wake up steps from the beach without leaving New Jersey? New Jersey shore camping blends ocean breezes, boardwalk fun, and peaceful seaside nights for a perfect coastal escape.

Highlights:

  • Beach camping near Cape May’s scenic shores
  • Family-friendly campgrounds with easy boardwalk access
  • Sunset views over Barnegat Bay
  • Kayaking and fishing right from your campsite
  • Rustic tent spots to full RV hookups near the Atlantic

Unique Camping Ideas

1. Atlantic Shore Pines Campground


I like: "Camp surrounded by pines, explore nearby trails, and relax in this peaceful coastal setting."

Atlantic Shore Pines Campground

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  • How far is the campground from Long Beach Island?
    • Only 15 minutes away from the beaches of Long Beach Island.
  • What types of campsites are available?
  • What amenities does the campground offer?
    • Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, a mini-golf course, a games room, and a basketball court.
  • Are there any special events at the campground?
    • The campground hosts theme nights every weekend in the summer.
  • Are beach passes provided?
    • Complimentary Long Island Beach passes are provided during beach season.
  • Are rental accommodations available?
    • Cabins and lodges with air conditioning and heat are available for rent.
  • What restroom facilities are available?
    • All guests have access to restroom facilities with free hot showers.

450 Ishmael Rd, Tuckerton, NJ 08087, Phone: 609-296-9163

2. Bass River State Forest


I recommend: "Explore scenic trails, enjoy fishing, and unwind in this beautiful, nature-filled forest."

Bass River State Forest

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  • How large is Bass River State Forest?
    • Encompassing more than 23,000 acres in Ocean County.
  • Where can I find more information about the forest?
  • What activities are popular in the park?
    • The most popular activities include fishing in the river, canoeing on the lake, and strolling along the walking trails.
  • How many walking trails are in the park?
    • The park features eight walking trails.
  • What camping options are available?
    • There are 176 campsites, all located within walking distance of restrooms and showers.
  • Are there other accommodation options besides campsites?
    • Visitors can also stay in cabins, lean-tos, and lakeside shelters equipped with cozy fireplaces.

762 Stage Rd, Tuckerton, NJ 08087, Phone: 609-296-1114

3. Beachcomber Camping Resort


I love: "Camp near the beach, enjoy water activities, and relax in this family-friendly coastal resort."

Beachcomber Camping Resort

© Beachcomber Camping Resort

  • When was Beachcomber Camping Resort established?
    • Family owned and operated since 1975.
  • Where can I find more information about the resort?
  • What is the size of the property?
    • The resort is located on a 100-acre forested property with two lakes and six pools.
  • What types of accommodations are available?
    • The campground offers tent and trailer sites, as well as trailers, teepees, and cabins for rent.
  • Are there special activities and events?
    • Special on-site activities are offered every day during summer, and theme nights are hosted almost every weekend in spring and fall.
  • Is fishing allowed?
    • Catch and release fishing is permitted in both lakes.
  • What recreational facilities are available?
    • Guests can enjoy volleyball and basketball courts, pool tables, and an arcade.

462 Seashore Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204, Phone: 609-886-6035

Romantic Camping Ideas

4. Big Timber Lake RV Camping Resort


I enjoy: "Enjoy outdoor activities, relax by the lake, and experience a peaceful retreat at this RV resort."

Big Timber Lake RV Camping Resort

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  • Where is Big Timber Lake RV Camping Resort located?
  • What activities are available at Big Timber Lake RV Camping Resort?
    • The on-site lake is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and swimming, but there is also a large pool for campers who prefer to splash around in a more contained environment.
  • Are there rentals available at the resort?
    • Kayaks are available for rent, and the property also boasts a mini golf course and a high ropes course with a zipline over the lake.
  • What modern conveniences does the resort offer?
    • Modern conveniences include complimentary Wi-Fi, computer access, and a TV lounge. Guests are also welcome to use the fitness center and laundry facilities.

116 Swainton Goshen Rd, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210, Phone: 609-465-4456

5. Butterfly Camping Resort


I like: "Explore nature trails, enjoy family-friendly activities, and relax in a peaceful campground setting."

Butterfly Camping Resort

© Butterfly Camping Resort

  • What makes Butterfly Camping Resort special?
    • Known for its friendly hospitality and large, shady campsites, Butterfly Camping Resort can be found only a few minutes away from Six Flags Great Adventure Theme Park and Safari.
  • What amenities are provided at each campsite?
    • The sites are all equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, water, and electric hookups, and some come with sewer hookups as well.
  • What communal facilities are available at the resort?
    • There are plenty of communal amenities, including a swimming pool, a mini-golf course, a children's playground, and a beach volleyball court.
  • Does the campground offer internet and entertainment options?
    • All campers are provided with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV.
  • Are there any special perks for visiting Six Flags?
    • The campground is proud to sell discounted admission tickets to the nearby Six Flags park.

360 Butterfly Rd, Jackson, NJ 08527, Phone: 732-928-2107

6. Adventure Bound Camping Resorts - Cape May


I Recommend: "Camp near the shore, enjoy outdoor adventures, and relax in this scenic, family-friendly resort."

Adventure Bound Camping Resorts - Cape May

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  • What is Adventure Bound Camping Resorts - Cape May?
    • One of more than a dozen Adventure Bound camping resorts, Adventure Bound Camping Resorts - Cape May is located on a beautiful property only a short drive away from some of the best beaches and boardwalks in New Jersey.
  • What accommodations are available at the campground?
    • In addition to campsites, the campground offers RV rentals and two types of camping cabins that can accommodate between 4 and 6 people.
  • What is the difference between the deluxe and rustic cabins?
    • The deluxe cabins have kitchens and bathrooms, while the rustic cabins do not.
  • What amenities does the campground offer?
    • All guests are welcome to use the campground's bathhouses, and other amenities include a children’s playground, a swimming pool, and an exciting fun zone with a water slide.

240 W Shell Bay Ave, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210, Phone: 609-465-4440

Family Camping Ideas

7. High Point State Park


I like: "Hike to breathtaking viewpoints, enjoy scenic trails, and relax in the serene mountain park."

High Point State Park

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  • What is High Point State Park?
    • Sitting in northwest New Jersey not far from the New York border, High Point State Park encompasses more than 15,000 acres of forest, farmland, and rolling hills.
  • What camping options are available at High Point State Park?
    • Campers can spend the night at one of the 50 rustic campsites found on the edge of Sawmill Lake; only tents can be accommodated.
  • Are there cabin rentals available?
    • There are also two furnished cabins on the shore of Steenykill Lake if you'd like to spend the night in more comfort.
  • What amenities do the campsites offer?
    • All sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire pits, and there are flush toilets within easy walking distance of every site.

1480 NJ-23, Sussex, NJ 07461, Phone: 973-875-4800

8. Holly Shores Camping Resort


I enjoy: "Camp in a tranquil setting, explore nearby trails, and enjoy a relaxing weekend getaway."

Holly Shores Camping Resort

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  • What is Holly Shores Camping Resort?
    • Occupying almost 40 acres of forested property only a few miles away from the beautiful beaches of Cape May, Holly Shores Camping Resort has been proudly family owned and operated since 1968.
  • What accommodations are available at the resort?
    • In addition to approximately 300 large campsites, the resort rents out deluxe cabins, tiny houses, and glamping tents.
  • What activities are available at Holly Shores Camping Resort?
    • Exciting activities are held every day during the summer; popular options include ceramics workshops, fun theme weekends, and live music played right next to the beautiful pool.
  • Are there rental options for recreation?
    • Bikes, kayaks, and golf carts are available for rent.
  • What amenities does the resort offer?
    • Guests are welcome to use the playground, pool, hot tub, and games room.

491 U.S. 9, Cape May, NJ 08204, Phone: 609-886-1234

I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:

  • How long is the New Jersey Shore?
    • The New Jersey Shore stretches for more than 140 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, offering a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • What types of camping options are available on the New Jersey Shore?
    • Options range from family-friendly campgrounds with swimming pools and busy activity calendars to rugged state parks dotted with lakes and rivers that boast excellent fishing and boating.
  • What outdoor activities can campers enjoy?
    • Whether you're interested in visiting the beaches, the boardwalks, or the peaceful pine forests, the New Jersey Shore offers a variety of outdoor experiences.
  • Where are the best campgrounds on the New Jersey Shore?
    • The best campgrounds can be found throughout the shore, providing access to beautiful natural landscapes and exciting recreational activities.

Best Time to Camp on the New Jersey Shore

  • May to June – Mild temps, blooming dunes, and lighter crowds—great for peaceful beach camping.
  • July & August – Peak season with warm water, sunny days, and full access to beachside activities.
  • September – Warm ocean, cooler air, and fewer crowds—ideal for a relaxed coastal escape.
  • Late April – Early spring camping with cool nights and quiet beach walks before the rush.
  • October to March – Off-season with chilly temps; some sites stay open for solitude and coastal birdwatching.

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