Best NJ Shore Campgrounds: Top Spots for Your Family Vacation

Best NJ Shore Campgrounds: Top Spots for Your Family Vacation

Readers, are you looking for the perfect place to pitch your tent and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Do you dream of waking up to the sound of crashing waves and the smell of salt air? If so, then you need to consider a family vacation to one of the many amazing NJ shore campgrounds.

There are so many different NJ shore campgrounds to choose from, each with its own unique charm and amenities. You’ll find everything from rustic campgrounds with basic facilities to luxury resorts with all the bells and whistles. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, there’s a perfect NJ shore campground out there for you. From the bustling beaches of Point Pleasant to the quiet shores of Cape May, we’ve scoured the state to bring you the best NJ shore campgrounds for your family vacation.

As an experienced travel writer and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve explored countless campsites and analyzed numerous factors to create this comprehensive guide to the top NJ shore campgrounds. It covers everything from the best campgrounds for families with young children to the most secluded spots for those seeking peace and quiet. Let’s dive in and discover the perfect NJ shore campground for your next unforgettable family vacation.

Finding the Perfect NJ Shore Campground for Your Family

Choosing the right NJ shore campground for your family vacation depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Location: Beach Proximity and Activities

The proximity of the campground to the beach is a top priority for many families. Some campgrounds offer direct beach access, while others are a short drive or walk away. Consider the types of beach activities you’re interested in, such as swimming, surfing, sunbathing, or fishing.

Amenities: Comfort and Convenience

Look for campgrounds with amenities that suit your family’s needs. Some campgrounds offer basic amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, while others have more luxurious features like swimming pools, playgrounds, game rooms, and even laundry facilities.

Campsite Size and Type: Space for Your Group

Consider the size of your family and the type of camping equipment you plan to use. Some campgrounds offer spacious, wooded campsites with room for tents, RVs, and even trailers, while others have smaller, more compact sites.

Activities and Entertainment: Beyond the Beach

Look for campgrounds that offer activities and entertainment beyond the beach. Some campgrounds have organized events like bonfires, movie nights, and craft classes, while others have hiking trails, bike paths, and nature trails.

Reservations and Booking: Plan Ahead

Remember that popular NJ shore campgrounds often book up quickly, especially during peak season. It’s essential to make reservations well in advance, especially during spring or summer.

Best NJ Shore Campgrounds for Families

Now that you have a better understanding of what to look for in a NJ shore campground, let’s explore some of the top options for family vacations.

(H3) Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Campground

Located in Ocean Grove, New Jersey, the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Campground is a unique and charming destination for families seeking a traditional camping experience. Established in 1869, this campground boasts a rich history and offers a peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere. The campground features well-maintained campsites with modern amenities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Families can enjoy various activities within the campground, such as swimming in the nearby ocean, playing at the playground, or attending the many community events held throughout the season. Ocean Grove is also conveniently located near the beautiful Asbury Park boardwalk, offering additional entertainment and dining options.

(H3) Sunset Lake Campground

Nestled in the heart of the Pine Barrens in New Jersey, Sunset Lake Campground offers a peaceful and secluded camping experience for families seeking to escape the hustle and bustle. The campground boasts a picturesque setting with a tranquil lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Families can enjoy hiking on the scenic trails surrounding the lake and gather around the campfire at night. Sunset Lake Campground also provides a range of amenities, including restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and a playground. The campground’s location offers easy access to nearby attractions, such as the historic town of Barnegat Light and the beautiful beaches of Long Beach Island.

(H3) Island Beach State Park

Island Beach State Park is a haven for nature lovers and families seeking a pristine beach experience. Situated on a barrier island along the Atlantic Ocean, the park offers miles of sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and diverse wildlife. Families can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, and birdwatching. The park also features hiking trails, a playground, and a nature center. While camping is not directly on the beach, it is a short walk to the beautiful shoreline, providing a truly immersive experience. Island Beach State Park offers a variety of campsite options, including RV hookups and tent sites, catering to different preferences and needs.

Best NJ Shore Campgrounds for RVs

For those traveling with an RV, the NJ shore offers a wide selection of campgrounds that cater specifically to RV enthusiasts. Here are some of the top choices:

(H3) Gateway RV Resort

Gateway RV Resort, located in Ocean County, New Jersey, offers a luxurious and modern RV camping experience for families and couples seeking a comfortable and convenient getaway. This campground features spacious, full-hookup RV sites with wide concrete pads, ensuring a comfortable stay. Amenities include a large swimming pool, a hot tub, a game room, a laundry facility, and a clubhouse. The location of Gateway RV Resort provides easy access to nearby beaches, attractions, and shopping centers, making it an ideal base for exploring the NJ shore. The campground also offers various activities and events, including movie nights, karaoke nights, and themed weekends.

(H3) Leisuretown RV Resort

Located in Jackson, New Jersey, Leisuretown RV Resort offers a family-friendly and active RV camping experience for those seeking a mix of relaxation and entertainment. This campground provides a range of amenities, including a large pool, a hot tub, a playground, a game room, and a clubhouse. Leisuretown RV Resort also features a full-service restaurant and a convenience store, making it easy for campers to grab a quick bite or essential supplies. The campground’s location provides easy access to nearby beaches, attractions, and shopping centers, offering a wide range of activities for families to enjoy.

(H3) Cape May RV Resort

Located in Cape May, New Jersey, Cape May RV Resort provides a tranquil and picturesque RV camping experience for those seeking a relaxing and scenic getaway. This campground boasts spacious, full-hookup RV sites with lush landscaping and a serene atmosphere. Amenities include a heated pool, a hot tub, a playground, a game room, and a clubhouse. The location of Cape May RV Resort offers easy access to the beautiful beaches of Cape May, the historic Cape May Lighthouse, and the charming downtown area. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including biking, fishing, and birdwatching.

Best NJ Shore Campgrounds for Seclusion

For those seeking a tranquil and secluded camping experience away from the crowds, the NJ shore offers a few hidden gems. Here are some top choices for a peaceful getaway:

(H3) Bass River State Forest Campground

Located in Bass River State Forest in New Jersey, the Bass River State Forest Campground offers a unique and secluded camping experience for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle. The campground boasts a picturesque setting with towering trees, a tranquil river, and abundant wildlife. Campers can enjoy hiking on the scenic trails, fishing in the Bass River, and exploring the surrounding forest. The campground features a variety of campsite options, including RV hookups and tent sites, offering a secluded and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts.

(H3) Wharton State Forest Campground

Situated in the vast and pristine Wharton State Forest, the Wharton State Forest Campground offers a secluded and adventurous camping experience for families seeking a deep connection with nature. The campground boasts a diverse landscape with towering pines, serene lakes, and abundant wildlife. Campers can enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and exploring the various trails and waterways that wind through the forest. The campground features rustic campsites with basic amenities, providing a truly immersive and off-the-grid experience.

(H3) Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge Campground

Located in Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in New Jersey, the Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge Campground offers a unique and peaceful camping experience for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. The campground boasts a prime location on the edge of a vast refuge home to a diverse array of migratory birds and other wildlife. Campers can enjoy hiking on the scenic trails, birdwatching, and exploring the refuge’s diverse habitats. The campground features spacious campsites with basic amenities, offering a secluded and tranquil experience for those seeking a connection with nature.

Best NJ Shore Campgrounds for Amenities and Activities

For those seeking a campground with a wide range of amenities and activities, the NJ shore offers several luxurious and well-equipped options for families and individuals.

(H3) Lazy River Campground

Located in Manahawkin, New Jersey, Lazy River Campground offers a luxurious and family-friendly camping experience with a wide range of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained. This campground features spacious RV sites with full hookups, as well as tent sites for those seeking a more traditional camping experience. Lazy River Campground boasts a large swimming pool, a lazy river, a playground, a game room, a fitness center, and a clubhouse. The campground also offers a variety of activities, including scheduled events, nature programs, and live entertainment. Lazy River Campground’s location provides easy access to nearby beaches, attractions, and shopping centers.

(H3) Ocean Acres Campground

Located in Ocean Acres, New Jersey, Ocean Acres Campground offers a relaxed and family-friendly camping experience with a focus on outdoor recreation. This campground features spacious RV sites with full hookups, as well as tent sites for those seeking a more traditional camping experience. Ocean Acres Campground boasts a large swimming pool, a playground, a game room, and a clubhouse. The campground also features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, bike paths, fishing ponds, and a miniature golf course. Ocean Acres Campground’s location provides easy access to the nearby beaches and attractions of Long Beach Island.

(H3) Atlantic City KOA

Located in the heart of Atlantic City, New Jersey, Atlantic City KOA offers a convenient and exciting camping experience with a range of amenities and activities within walking distance of the famous boardwalk. This campground features spacious RV sites with full hookups, as well as a variety of tent sites for those seeking a more traditional camping experience. Atlantic City KOA boasts a swimming pool, a playground, a game room, and a clubhouse. The campground’s prime location offers easy access to all the attractions and entertainment that Atlantic City has to offer, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.

Best NJ Shore Campgrounds for Groups

For larger groups or reunions, the NJ shore offers several campgrounds with spacious campsites and group facilities that can accommodate larger gatherings.

(H3) Seaside Heights Campground

Located in Seaside Heights, New Jersey, Seaside Heights Campground offers a convenient and fun-filled camping experience for groups seeking a vibrant and exciting getaway. This campground features large group campsites that can comfortably accommodate a variety of RV and tent setups. Seaside Heights Campground provides a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a playground, a game room, and a clubhouse. The campground’s proximity to the famous Seaside Heights boardwalk and beach offers easy access to a plethora of attractions, entertainment, and dining options, making it an ideal choice for groups seeking a memorable experience.

(H3) Toms River Campground

Located in Toms River, New Jersey, Toms River Campground offers a spacious and comfortable camping experience for groups seeking a relaxing and family-friendly getaway. This campground features large group campsites with full hookups, allowing for a comfortable and convenient stay. Toms River Campground provides a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a playground, a game room, and a clubhouse. The campground’s location offers easy access to the beautiful beaches and attractions of Ocean County, making it a great choice for groups seeking a mix of relaxation and entertainment.

(H3) Point Pleasant Beach Campground

Located in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, Point Pleasant Beach Campground offers a convenient and beach-centric camping experience for groups seeking a fun and vibrant getaway. This campground features large group campsites with easy access to the beautiful beaches of Point Pleasant Beach. Point Pleasant Beach Campground provides a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a playground, a game room, and a clubhouse. The campground’s proximity to the famous Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk and the bustling downtown area offers easy access to a plethora of attractions, entertainment, and dining options, making it an ideal choice for groups seeking a memorable experience.

NJ Shore Campground Table Breakdown

Here is a breakdown of some popular NJ shore campgrounds, their amenities, and their key features:

Campground Name	Location	Amenities	Key Features
Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Campground	Ocean Grove, NJ	Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, playground	Traditional camping experience, peaceful atmosphere, proximity to Asbury Park boardwalk
Sunset Lake Campground	Barnegat, NJ	Restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, playground, lake access	Secluded setting, tranquil lake, hiking trails, proximity to Barnegat Light
Island Beach State Park	Seaside Park, NJ	Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, hiking trails, playground, nature center	Pristine beach access, diverse wildlife, rolling dunes, scenic hiking trails
Gateway RV Resort	Waretown, NJ	Full hookups, swimming pool, hot tub, game room, laundry facility, clubhouse	Luxurious and modern RV camping, spacious sites, convenient location
Leisuretown RV Resort	Jackson, NJ	Full hookups, swimming pool, hot tub, playground, game room, clubhouse, restaurant, convenience store	Family-friendly and active RV camping, wide range of amenities, convenient location
Cape May RV Resort	Cape May, NJ	Full hookups, heated pool, hot tub, playground, game room, clubhouse	Tranquil and picturesque RV camping, spacious sites, proximity to Cape May attractions
Bass River State Forest Campground	New Gretna, NJ	Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, hiking trails, fishing access	Secluded and immersive camping, towering trees, tranquil river, abundant wildlife
Wharton State Forest Campground	Hammonton, NJ	Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, hiking trails, fishing access	Secluded and adventurous camping, diverse landscape, towering pines, serene lakes
Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge Campground	Oceanville, NJ	Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities	Peaceful and unique camping, diverse wildlife, prime location on the refuge
Lazy River Campground	Manahawkin, NJ	Full hookups, swimming pool, lazy river, playground, game room, fitness center, clubhouse	Luxurious and family-friendly camping, wide range of amenities and activities
Ocean Acres Campground	Ocean Acres, NJ	Full hookups, swimming pool, playground, game room, clubhouse, hiking trails, bike paths, fishing ponds	Relaxed and family-friendly camping, focus on outdoor recreation
Atlantic City KOA	Atlantic City, NJ	Full hookups, swimming pool, playground, game room, clubhouse	Convenient and exciting camping, walking distance to Atlantic City attractions
Seaside Heights Campground	Seaside Heights, NJ	Swimming pool, playground, game room, clubhouse	Convenient and vibrant group camping, proximity to Seaside Heights boardwalk
Toms River Campground	Toms River, NJ	Full hookups, swimming pool, playground, game room, clubhouse	Spacious and comfortable group camping, proximity to Ocean County beaches
Point Pleasant Beach Campground	Point Pleasant Beach, NJ	Swimming pool, playground, game room, clubhouse	Convenient and beach-centric group camping, proximity to Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk

FAQ Section: Common Questions about NJ Shore Campgrounds

(H3) What are some popular NJ shore campgrounds for families with young children?

Some popular NJ shore campgrounds for families with young children include Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Campground, Sunset Lake Campground, Island Beach State Park, and Lazy River Campground. These campgrounds offer a variety of amenities and activities specifically designed for kids, such as playgrounds, swimming pools, and kid-friendly events.

(H3) Do NJ shore campgrounds allow pets?

Many NJ shore campgrounds allow pets, but it’s crucial to check the specific campground’s pet policy before making a reservation. Some campgrounds have restrictions on pet size or breed, while others may have designated pet-friendly campsites. It’s also essential to bring your pet’s vaccination records and to keep them on a leash while on campground property.

(H3) What are the best NJ shore campgrounds for seclusion and peace and quiet?

For those seeking a secluded and peaceful camping experience, the NJ shore offers several options, including Bass River State Forest Campground, Wharton State Forest Campground, and Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge Campground. These campgrounds are located in remote areas with limited crowds, providing a tranquil and immersive experience for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect NJ shore campground for your family vacation can be a fun and exciting experience. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with helpful information and insights into some of the top options available. Whether you’re seeking a traditional camping experience, a luxurious getaway, or a secluded retreat, there’s a perfect NJ shoreline campground waiting to be discovered. So pack your bags, grab your camping gear, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure at the beautiful NJ shore. Don’t forget to check out our other articles on travel and outdoor recreation for more tips and inspiration!

As you plan your next family vacation, consider the serene beauty and endless opportunities for adventure that New Jersey’s shore campgrounds offer. From the vibrant energy of Seaside Heights to the tranquil charm of Cape May, each campground provides a unique experience, catering to diverse preferences and interests. Each campground offers various amenities, including modern restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, and even playgrounds for little ones. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway, an opportunity for outdoor recreation, or simply a chance to connect with nature, these top-rated campgrounds promise an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Beyond the basic amenities, many campgrounds boast exceptional recreational facilities. Picture yourselves exploring hiking trails that wind through lush forests, challenging yourselves on challenging bike paths, or testing your aquatic skills at the on-site swimming pools and lakes. Some campgrounds even offer boat rentals, allowing you to explore the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Imagine casting your line into the water, hoping for a rewarding catch, or simply enjoying the soothing sound of the waves crashing against the shore. The options are endless, ensuring that every member of your family finds something to spark their interest and create lasting memories.

Ultimately, choosing the perfect campground for your family vacation comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Do you prefer a campground with bustling activities and a social atmosphere, or one that prioritizes peace and quiet? Consider the age of your children and their interests, as well as your own desire to immerse yourselves in nature or indulge in recreational pursuits. Once you’ve determined the key factors for your ideal camping experience, you can easily find the perfect spot among New Jersey’s diverse array of campgrounds. So, grab your camping gear, awaken your adventurous spirit, and prepare for an unforgettable journey to the picturesque shores of New Jersey, where unforgettable family memories are waiting to be made.

Escape to the Jersey Shore! Discover the best campgrounds for family fun, stunning beaches, and unforgettable memories. Find your perfect spot now!